From Flores: Tikal Plus Explore Yaxha at Sunset 1-Day Tour

Exploring the ancient Maya sites of Tikal and Yaxha on a single day tour from Flores promises an immersive cultural adventure. Travelers can explore the grandeur of Tikal’s towering temples and uncover the rich heritage of Yaxha, capped off by a stunning sunset over the jungle landscape. With transportation and an expert guide included, this 12-hour experience offers an accessible way to discover the remarkable archaeology and biodiversity of Guatemala’s Petén region. Whether seasoned adventurers or first-time visitors, those seeking to unravel the mysteries of the Maya civilization will find this tour an enticing prospect.

Key Points

• A 12-hour guided tour from Flores that visits the ancient Maya sites of Tikal and Yaxha, including a sunset view from Temple 216 in Yaxha.
• The tour is priced at K₲13,566 per group (up to 2 participants), with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The itinerary includes 3-hour guided tours of Tikal and Yaxha, with a lunch break at Tikal National Park.
• Tikal National Park is a vast protected area of 37,760 hectares that showcases the rich cultural heritage and biodiversity of the Maya civilization.
• The tour includes transportation, entrance tickets, and an expert guide, ensuring a comfortable and informative exploration of these iconic Maya ruins.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour is named "Tikal plus Explore Yaxha at Sunset 1-Day Tour" and is priced from K₡13,566 per group (up to 2 participants).

It lasts 12 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup locations include Flores Island and various hotels.

The itinerary covers a 3-hour guided tour of Tikal, 1-hour lunch, and a 3-hour guided tour of Yaxha, culminating in a sunset view from Temple 216.

Transportation is provided by van. The 37,760-hectare park is home to notable cities like Topoxte and Yaxha, and features pyramidal temples, ball game complexes, and diverse wildlife.

Participants should bring a camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Itinerary and Transportation

According to the tour details, the itinerary begins with a 7:30 am departure from the pickup locations, which include Flores Island, several hotels, and the Mundo Maya International Airport.

After a 1.5-hour drive, the group arrives at Tikal National Park for a 3-hour guided tour. They then enjoy a 1-hour lunch inside the park before departing for Yaxha.

The tour reaches Yaxha at 3:30 pm, where the group embarks on a 3-hour guided exploration. At 5:30 pm, they climb Temple 216 to witness the sunset.

Cultural and Natural Significance

Tikal National Park and its surrounding region encompass a remarkable 37,760 hectares, home to several notable ancient Maya cities including Topoxte, Nakum, Naranjo, and Yaxha.

This area was once the capital of a territory that dominated northeastern Petén, with strong links to other major Maya centers like Tikal, Caracol in Belize, and Calakmul in Mexico.

The sites feature an array of impressive architectural structures, including pyramidal temples, acropolises, twin pyramids, ball game complexes, palaces, and residential compounds.

Plus, the region is recognized as a Wetland of Global Importance (RAMSAR) and a critical migratory bird route, showcasing its immense biodiversity.

Experience Highlights

Embarking on this 1-day tour, visitors can look forward to an immersive morning exploring the iconic Tikal archaeological site.

Roaming the impressive pyramids, temples, and palaces of this once-powerful Maya capital, they’ll gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history and cultural significance.

In the afternoon, the group will venture to the lesser-known Yaxha site, where they’ll climb the 216th Temple to witness a stunning sunset over the lagoons and wetlands.

This unique landscape, with its migratory bird routes, provides a perfect backdrop for an unforgettable experience.

From the grand monuments of Tikal to the peaceful beauty of Yaxha, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Guatemala’s Maya heritage.

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Inclusions and Recommendations

The Tikal plus Explore Yaxha at Sunset 1-Day Tour includes transportation to and from Tikal and Yaxha, entrance tickets, a delicious lunch, an expert guide to provide insights, a cooler with drinks, tips, and drinks for lunch.

To make the most of the experience, visitors are recommended to bring a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and wear closed-toe shoes. This ensures they can capture the stunning scenery, protect themselves from the sun and bugs, and explore the ancient ruins comfortably.

With these inclusions and recommendations, travelers can fully enjoy the cultural and natural wonders of Tikal and Yaxha.

Pickup Locations

Pickup locations for the Tikal plus Explore Yaxha at Sunset 1-Day Tour span several popular accommodation options in the Flores and Tikal region.

Guests can be picked up from Flores Island, Hotel Camino Real Tikal, Hotel Villa Maya, El Remate, La Lancha, Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel, or Mundo Maya International Airport.

This flexibility ensures convenient access for travelers staying in various locations around the area.

The tour includes transportation via van for all transfers, allowing participants to sit back and enjoy the scenic journey between Tikal and Yaxha without the hassle of driving themselves.

Park Size and Notable Cities

The Tikal National Park covers an expansive 37,760 hectares, encompassing a wealth of notable ancient Mayan cities.

These include:

1. Topoxte – a once-thriving island metropolis located on the shores of Lake Yaxha.
2. Nakum – a significant ceremonial center featuring impressive architectural structures.
3. Naranjo – an important political and economic center with connections to the powerful city of Calakmul.
4. Yaxha – a prominent Maya city that served as the capital of a territory dominating northeastern Petén.

This vast archaeological zone is also linked to other major Mayan hubs, such as Tikal, Caracol in Belize, and Calakmul in Mexico, underscoring its historical significance.

Historical Importance and Features

This vast archaeological zone served as the capital of a territory dominating northeastern Petén. Linked to other major cities like Tikal, Caracol, and Calakmul, Yaxha was a center of power and trade during the Classic Maya period. The site features an impressive array of structures, including pyramidal temples, an expansive Acropolis, twin pyramids, ball game complexes, palaces, and residential areas.

Features	Details
Pyramidal Temples	Towering monuments showcasing Maya architectural prowess
Acropolis	Massive raised platform supporting palace complexes
Ball Game Complexes	Iconic ball courts for ritual Maya sports
Residential Areas	Remnants of thriving urban quarters and neighborhoods

The impressive ruins and landscapes of Yaxha provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and history of the Maya civilization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, though young children may require additional supervision. Participants should be able to walk and explore the archaeological sites.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?

The tour can be customized to include additional activities, though it may incur additional costs. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator to tailor the experience to their needs and interests.

What Languages Are the Tour Guides Proficient In?

The tour guides are proficient in English and Spanish. They can provide informative commentary in both languages during the tour of Tikal and Yaxha, ensuring an engaging experience for all participants.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

There are no specific discounts mentioned for students or seniors. The tour price is a flat rate per group of up to 2 participants, regardless of age or student status.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Larger Group Size?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a larger group size. The price starts from K₮13,566 per group for up to 2 participants, and the group size can be increased with additional costs per extra person.

Recap

The "From Flores: Tikal Plus Explore Yaxha at Sunset 1-Day Tour" offers an immersive experience into Guatemala’s rich Maya heritage. Exploring the impressive ruins of Tikal and the stunning sunset at Yaxha, this tour provides an opportunity to explore the region’s cultural and natural significance, making it an unforgettable adventure for history and nature enthusiasts alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: