Flores
A charming island town on Lake Petén Itzá — the gateway to Tikal and the only comfortable base in the remote Petén jungle.
Flores is a small colonial town built on an island in Lake Petén Itzá, connected to the mainland (and the larger town of Santa Elena) by a causeway. Despite its small size, it has a genuinely pleasant character — colourful lakeside restaurants, good hostels, and boat trips on the lake. It is the only comfortable base from which to visit Tikal, 65 km to the north, and for those on the overland route from Mexico it is the natural stopover after crossing the Usumacinta.
Nearby Maya Archaeological Sites
Sites most commonly visited from Flores
Town Highlights
- Colourful sunset over Lake Petén Itzá from the island malecón
- Boat trips to Tayasal — a small Maya site on the lake's far shore
- Lively restaurant and traveller scene on Calle Centroamérica
- Gateway to Tikal — the most spectacular Maya site
Getting to Flores
Small Mundo Maya airport (FRS) with daily flights from Guatemala City (45 min). Shuttle from Antigua (8–10 hr) or Belize City (5–6 hr via Melchor de Mencos). Overland from Mexico via the Usumacinta crossing (full day).
Getting to the Sites
Tikal: 1.5 hr by pre-dawn minibus (~US$10 return), departing 4:30 AM for sunrise. Yaxhá: 1.5 hr southeast by tour or rental vehicle. Both are within comfortable day-trip range.
Best base for
Only practical base for Tikal and Yaxhá in the remote Petén jungle
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