Flores Travel Guide

Flores Island, located in Petén just an hour south of Tikal, sits on the shores of Lake Petén Itzá, Guatemala’s third-largest lake. This charming town offers stunning landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and serves as the gateway to many nearby Mayan archaeological parks.

One of the 25 most colorful places in the world, Flores is full of restaurants, cafés, and pubs, making it the perfect spot to relax for a few days. From here, you can embark on exciting excursions to explore the Cradle of the Maya, one of history’s greatest civilizations.

Things to Do in Flores

Visiting Flores Island

The best way to explore Flores Island is on foot. Considered the safest town in northern Petén, it’s ideal for travelers who enjoy nature, water sports, and a relaxed atmosphere. Over the years, Flores has become the perfect base for expeditions into the hidden Mayan world of Guatemala’s jungle.

The region is rich in Mayan architectural treasures. Nearby Tikal is famous for its second-tallest pyramid of its kind and is one of three UNESCO World Heritage sites in Guatemala. Trek through the jungle, take a boat ride on Lake Petén Itzá, and immerse yourself in a civilization full of mystery and wonder.

Petén offers endless activities and sights for unforgettable experiences. In fact, research published in 2018 revealed another hidden Mayan city, and only about 10% of the Mayan Biosphere Reserve has been explored. With lush vegetation, stunning landscapes, and secrets of one of history’s oldest civilizations, northern Guatemala awaits your discovery.

Excursions from Flores to Other Destinations Nearby

Tikal
Tikal is one of the world’s travel wonders and is often described as one of the most spiritually powerful places on Earth. This monumental Mayan site rises from the dense jungle, with towering pyramids standing like stoic guardians of ancient mysteries, inviting visitors to step back into a lost civilization.

El Mirador/La Danta
At El Mirador, you’ll discover La Danta, the largest pyramid in the world, hidden deep within Guatemala’s lush jungle. Access is limited: you can reach it by helicopter or via a five-day guided trek through the tropical rainforest, immersing yourself in nature and history. Embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure and experience the Mayan civilization and the beauty of the jungle in its purest form.

Uaxactun
This ancient Maya city, a center of astronomy and writing, showcases remarkable advances in timekeeping and celestial observation. Its temples are aligned according to astronomical principles, and it is home to the oldest known Maya observatory, revealing the incredible knowledge and ingenuity of this civilization.

Yaxhá
This famous archaeological site in northeastern Guatemala is the third-largest Mayan city in ruins, spanning approximately 237 square kilometers (92 sq mi). Explore the area and soak in the atmosphere of ancient times, surrounded by lush flora and fauna. The calls of howler monkeys and the chance to spot crocodiles in the lagoon make visiting this site an unforgettable experience.

Shopping in Flores

Flores is full of shops offering souvenirs, jade, and handmade crafts, perfect for taking a piece of Guatemala home. The town also has a few malls, where you can find unique replicas of Mayan treasures.

Extensions from Flores/Tikal to Belize

Belize is a paradise for eco-tourism, offering pristine landscapes and unspoiled travel destinations. Explore bird sanctuaries, diverse wildlife, and the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. Easily combined with a Guatemalan itinerary, Belize promises unforgettable adventures and immersive experiences in nature that will awaken your senses.

San Ignacio
San Ignacio, the largest town in Belize’s Cayo District, is the perfect base for exploring the region. Adventure awaits with hiking, caving, zip-lining, and more. From here, you can visit ancient Mayan ruins and browse bustling local markets, making it a hub of culture, adventure, and discovery.

Mountain Pine Ridge
This natural reserve was created to protect Belize’s pine forests and is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including jaguars, crocodiles, toucans, and parrots. Barton Creek, a large river within the reserve, is accessible only by boat and has revealed numerous Mayan relics, suggesting that Mountain Pine Ridge was once a site for ancient rituals.

Dangriga
Dangriga, whose name means “Sweet Waters” in Garifuna, is known as Belize’s Cultural Capital. This vibrant town blends diverse cultures and traditions, offering visitors the chance to experience Belize’s most innovative music and enjoy a variety of unforgettable adventures.

Placencia
Placencia is ideal for lovers of water sports and outdoor adventures. Its lagoon to the west offers stunning views of the Mayan hills. Once a quiet fishing village, Placencia has grown into a vibrant destination, offering a wide range of attractions, activities, and entertainment for every taste.

Flores Island is included in our Guatemala Highlights Package—don’t miss the chance to explore this colorful island and book your adventure today!