No trip to Central America would be complete without a trip to Tikal – one of the centrepiece archeaological sites in Guatemala and indeed in the whole of Central America. Tikal is a ruined former city of the pre-columbian Mayan civilisation who ruled what used to be Mesoamerica before the Spanish arrived in 1500. Now a world heritage site, it is estimated Tikal has over 3000 temples, tombs and houses which used to make up this once bustling city, lost to tropical forest for hundreds of years. Following extensive excavation and restoration, only a fraction of the ruins have been found, yet the Tikal National park is a wonderous place to visit – especially through the early morning mist, atop one of the temples, where the city can be seen appearing amoungst the dense forest.
Tikal is near the city of Flores in Guatemala, about 60km away. There are many tour vans which leave each morning for the ruins – but you must be prepared. It’s an early wake up to ensure you get there before the heat of the day. There is a lot of walking involved – with various causeways through the forest leading you to temple complexes. Key sights within the National park are the lost world with the plaza of seven temples, the great plaza with a huge array of acropolis including North and Central Acropolis and various temples.
Tikal photos
Below are a selection of photos taken in Tikal, Guatemala.
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