One Epic Day in Tikal: Exploring Guatemala’s Ancient Mayan City
In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you deep into the Guatemalan jungle for an unforgettable one-day adventure through Tikal National Park—one of the most breathtaking and mysterious Mayan archaeological sites in the world.
Join me as I travel from Lake Atitlán to Flores, flying from Guatemala City Airport (not part of the plan!). I take you on a journey into the heart of Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Guatemala’s must-see destinations. I share my real-time experiences, from booking the guide and finding accommodation to dealing with hostel mishaps and late-night boat rides on Lake Petén Itzá.
🎒 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
- How to visit Tikal in one day (and why it's totally worth it!)
- The best tips for booking your Tikal day tour
- Why staying on the island of Flores is essential
- What to bring to Tikal: cash, ponchos, and good shoes!
- Temple highlights: Temple I (Temple of the Great Jaguar), Temple II (Temple of the Masks), and the towering Temples IV and V
- Insights from my incredible guide, Georgino
- The mystery of Tikal’s collapse and what still lies hidden beneath the jungle
- My recommended hostels in Flores, Guatemala
- Whether you need a guide to explore the ruins (hint: it’s highly recommended!)
🌿 Why Tikal Is So Special:
Tikal was once a thriving Mayan city and holds deep historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. With only 10–20% of its ruins uncovered, this ancient city in the jungle offers visitors a rare and humbling glimpse into a civilization that mastered architecture, astronomy, and jungle living. It's an absolute bucket-list destination in Guatemala, and a highlight of my Central America backpacking trip.
📸 PRO TIP: Take your best camera—Tikal is a content creator’s dream with panoramic jungle views, ancient pyramids, and wildlife all around.
🧭 Essential Travel Info for Tikal, Guatemala:
- Location: Tikal National Park, Petén, northern Guatemala
- Entry Fee: 150 Quetzales (cash only)
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season (Nov–Apr), but bring a rain jacket regardless
- Tours: Easily booked through hostels like Los Amigos or Casa Maya Itza
✈️ After Tikal, I flew back to Guatemala City, en route to Mexico City and Oaxaca—coming up in future episodes!
Book Hostal Cada de Grethel on Booking.com
Timestamps
00:00 Welcome to the Winging It Travel Podcast
00:30 Journey to Tikal: Planning and Logistics
02:20 Experiencing Flores: Accommodation Insights
04:14 Exploring Tikal: The Guided Tour Begins
05:41 The Wonders of Tikal: History and Architecture
09:00 The Mysteries of Tikal: Collapse and Rediscovery
10:26 Final Thoughts on Tikal: Recommendations and Reflections
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