Tikal National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Petén region of Guatemala. It is the largest archaeological site of the Maya civilization and is home to some of the most impressive ancient ruins in the world. The park is home to numerous temples, plazas, and palaces, as well as a variety of wildlife. Here are 10 things to do in Tikal National Park Guatemala.
1. Explore the Temples: The most iconic structures in the park are the towering temples, which were built by the ancient Maya. The tallest of the temples is Temple IV, which stands at a staggering 70 meters (230 feet) tall. Climb to the top of the temple for spectacular views of the surrounding jungle. Other notable temples include Temple V, Temple I, and Temple II.
2. Visit the Great Plaza: The Great Plaza is the largest of the plazas at Tikal and is home to some of the most impressive structures in the park. The plaza is surrounded by seven temples, the most impressive of which is Temple I. This is also the site of the famous Jaguar Throne, which is believed to have been used by the ancient Maya rulers.
3. Hike to the Lost World: The Lost World is a hidden area of the park that can only be accessed via a steep and difficult hike. This area is home to some of the oldest structures in the park, including the Great Pyramid and the Great Ballcourt. The hike is challenging but the views of the surrounding jungle are worth the effort.
4. Go Bird Watching: Tikal National Park is home to a wide variety of birds, including toucans, macaws, and parrots. The best time to go bird watching is early in the morning, when the birds are most active.
5. Spot Wildlife: In addition to birds, the park is home to a variety of other wildlife such as howler monkeys, spider monkeys, coatis, and jaguars. Keep your eyes peeled and you might just spot one of these animals in the wild.
6. Take a Night Tour: The park is open 24 hours a day, so you can take a night tour and experience the park in a completely different light. During the night tour you will be able to spot nocturnal animals such as owls and bats.
7. Visit the Museo Nacional de Arqueología y Etnología: This museum is located in the nearby town of Flores and is home to a variety of artifacts from the ancient Maya civilization. The museum also has a number of interactive exhibits, making it a great place to learn more about the history of the Maya.
8. Go Swimming: There are several swimming holes located within the park, so take a dip and cool off from the hot Guatemalan sun.
9. Enjoy the Sunset: The best way to end your day in the park is to watch the sunset from one of the temples. The views of the surrounding jungle and the setting sun are truly breathtaking.
10. Stay Overnight: If you want to really get the most out of your visit to Tikal National Park, consider staying overnight. There are several hotels and lodges located near the park, so you can wake up early and explore the ruins before the crowds arrive.
Tikal National Park is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world and is home to some of the most impressive Mayan ruins. Whether you are looking for adventure, culture, or wildlife, Tikal National Park has something for everyone. So if you are planning a trip to Guatemala, make sure to add Tikal National Park to your itinerary.