Petén Department

Guatemala's largest department in the north, covered in tropical rainforest and dotted with Maya ruins such as Tikal, a prime destination for jungle adventure.

Petén Department lies in northern Guatemala and covers about a third of the country, with vast lowland rainforest that forms part of the Maya Biosphere Reserve. Its best-known site is Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where towering pyramids rise from the jungle and you may spot howler monkeys, toucans and other wildlife; ruins such as Yaxhá and El Mirador are also well worth visiting. The capital, Flores, sits on an island in Lake Petén Itzá and is the main base for visitors. The dry season, November to April, is the better time to go, and you can reach the area by domestic flight to Mundo Maya International Airport or by long-distance bus.

Destinations

• Flores & Tikal
• San Ignacio

Itineraries

• Three Maya Countries: Copan, Tikal & the Caribbean – From Antigua via Copan, Rio Dulce, and Tikal, cross Belize to end at Caye Caulker.
• Belize, Tikal Maya Ruins & Cayes – Cross the border to see the pyramids of Tikal, linking the caves of San Ignacio with the reefs of Caye Caulker.
• Peten Maya Ancient Cities: Tikal & Yaxha – Based on Flores Island, experience the sunrise at Tikal, sunset at Yaxha, and the scenic Lake Peten Itza.
• Classic Trio: Antigua, Lake Atitlan & Tikal – A first-timer's route covering Antigua, Chichicastenango, Lake Atitlan, plus a flight to Flores for Tikal.
• Classic Belize Rainforest Ruins & Barrier Reef – Explore caves and ruins in San Ignacio during the first half, and snorkel on the islands during the second half, coveri…
• Central & Southern Belize Family Road Trip – From the zoo and cave tubing to the Garifuna coast and jaguar preserve, featuring short drives and easy planning.
• Guatemala Grand Loop: Volcanoes, Turquoise Pools & the Caribbean – A nationwide loop covering Antigua volcano camping, Lake Atitlan, Semuc Champey, Tikal, and Rio Dulce.
• Yucatan to Belize Overland & Sea Crossing – Travel from Tulum and Bacalar to Belize by boat, exploring the islands before heading inland to Maya caves.