Tikal Mayan Ruins

“City of Echoes”

After a 6:30am “Tikal Breakfast” and prompt departure at 7am, you will enjoy an entertaining and interesting transition from Belize to Guatemala and experience the border crossing. Compare the border towns of Benque Viejo del Carmen in Belize and Melchor de Mencos in Guatemala. On the ride to the Tikal ruins in Guatemala you will already see the differences in the two countries. Don’t be surprised to see a number of animals meandering across the main road including wild pigs, cows, chickens, donkeys, exotic birds in flight, and Mayas dressed in typical clothing and carrying over sized water pots on their heads. You’ll make a brief stop at Lago Petenitza for a restroom break, pictures and a souvenir stop at La Caoba.

Tikal ruins comprise over 3,000 structures set in 55 square kilometers 21 sq miles and are situated in Guatemala’s largest protected area. Tikal is the largest known City from the ancient Maya civilization, which at one point counted as 130,000 people. Tikal went through a devastating depopulation in 1500 BC for reasons that are still largely unexplained, though famine and civil strife is widely regarded as a possible cause as the huge population ran out of locally obtainable food sources. Within the city are fine examples of temples, courtyards, residential complexes. According to National Geographic magazine (August 2007), Tikal was considered the greatest Maya Metropolis in Central America and was one of the most dominant cities in the Maya Kingdom.

Take a gentle amble through the rainforest primary growth with a chance to see Coatimundi, or Quash running around and hear the famous howler monkeys. Sightings of Spider monkeys are possible as well as Toucans and other exotic birds. Lunch is served in one of the local eateries and there is also a chance to shop for Tikal souvenirs before heading back to Belize.

It is a long day but the rewards of this “Phenomenal Spectacle” are absolutely worth the journey.  Weather you want to only go to Tikal or combine this with other tours, we can customize the experience to meet your needs. Contact us today to arrange for your Tikal Mayan ruins tour.