A trip to Guatemala to discover the archaeological site of Tikal

Anyone planning a trip to Guatemala cannot miss one of the most beautiful and evocative stops: the archaeological site of Tikal , the ancient Mayan city-state located in the north of the country. Located in the heart of the Petén jungle, this extraordinary archaeological site is one of the most important centers of the ancient Mayan civilization and today a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Between imposing pyramids rising above the forest and paths filled with the calls of howler monkeys and the songs of tropical birds , a visit to Tikal is an experience that uniquely blends nature and history. Although many of its structures have already been uncovered, much of the city remains hidden beneath vegetation, and excavations continue to reveal new details of its fascinating past.

The archaeological site of Tikal was also chosen by George Lucas , who set some scenes from Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope here. Temple IV, at 57 meters high, was used as an observation point for the rebel base. Climbing to its summit will give you not only a breathtaking view of the jungle, but also the feeling of being inside a movie scene !

The history of the ancient city-state of Tikal

It's no coincidence that Guatemala is called the beating heart of the Mayan world . Among its most extraordinary cities is Tikal , the largest of the pre-Columbian era and once one of the major political and economic powers in the region.

After centuries of prosperity, Tikal experienced a turbulent period: it was invaded by the Teotihuacans, a population from the area of ​​present-day Mexico City . The historical dynamics of that era remain partly shrouded in mystery, and archaeologists still try to reconstruct its events, weaving together legends, artifacts, and new discoveries .

What to see in Tikal

The archaeological site of Tikal is a true open-air museum , where every corner tells a fragment of Mayan history. The tour begins at the Gran Plaza , dominated by Temple I , or Temple of the Great Jaguar, built as the burial place of King Ah Cacao, and Temple II, known as Temple of the Masks, both symbols of the city's power.

Nearby are the Acrópolis del Norte , with its ancient structures dating back to 600 BC, and the Acrópolis Central , a labyrinth of courtyards and halls likely used by nobles. Moving west, you come across Temple III , dating back to 810 AD, which leads along the Calzada Tozzer to the majestic Temple IV: at 65 meters, it is the tallest building on the site and offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views of the jungle.

Also not to be missed is the 57-meter-high Temple V and the nearby Acrópolis del Sur , still under excavation. Not far away, the Plaza de los Siete Templos impresses with its ceremonial buildings and ball courts. Finally, the El Mundo Perdido complex, with its preclassic pyramid, and the evocative Temple VI of the Inscriptions , more isolated, are also worth a visit.

How to get to Tikal in Guatemala

Located in a remote area of ​​Guatemala, Tikal can only be reached by shuttle or tour bus . The ideal starting point is the city of Flores , and you can purchase a ticket for transportation alone or one that includes the entrance fee. The perfect season to visit Tikal is the dry season, from November to April , with February and March being the busiest months for tourists.