Tikal National Park & Mayan Ruins

Tikal National Park in Guatemala

Tikal National Park, the crown jewel of Mayan archaeological sites, has been fascinating visitors for over 100 years with its stunning beauty and sheer grandeur as it rises out of the lush jungle of Guatemala’s Petén district.

Once the sprawling capital of one of the greatest empires of the ancient Maya, Tikal National Park & Mayan Ruins was established well before the time of Christ.

It flourished during the Maya Classic period of 200 to 900 AD and was the most important city-state in the Maya region, bouncing back from defeat by rivals Calakmul and Caracol and ruling a vast realm before suddenly falling into decline in the late 800s.

At its height the city of Tikal had a population estimated to be as large as 90,000.

Earthworks and other defence systems surrounded an area of some 120 sq km supplied by ingenious irrigation and agricultural systems which can still be seen today.

The layout, beautiful architecture and scale of impressive buildings connected by wide causeways, the rich jungle life and the relaxed ambience make this an unforgettable experience.

Today, Tikal National Park is a UNESCO world heritage area and national park, with 222 sq mi (576 sq km) area of unspoiled natural beauty and home to many exotic animals, including tapir, jaguar, crocodile, cougars, monkeys, coatimundi and other species as well as a colourful assortment of birds.  

It is the largest excavated site in the American continent, containing over 3000 structures and massive, beautiful temples rising 70 meters (230 feet) out of the dense jungle.

Tikal presents a rare opportunity to explore one of the world’s most interesting ancient cities in a relaxed, breathtaking setting.

Tours to Tikal National Park from Chaa Creek include a lovely 2 ½ hour drive through rural Guatemala with knowledgeable guides on hand to point out interests and make history come alive.

Full day tours are available to give visitors a well-rounded, in-depth experience of this fascinating, enigmatic culture.