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Petén

Guatemala, Central America

Petén, a lush region in northern Guatemala, is renowned for its ancient Mayan ruins, particularly Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the dense jungles, teeming with wildlife, and encounter majestic temples that whisper tales of a once-thriving civilization. The area's vibrant culture and eco-tourism, alongside beautiful lakes like Lake Petén Itzá, create a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, appealing to nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Region

Vibe

History

Airport

Coban

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

9 Best Things to Do in Petén

1. Explore Tikal National Park

Discover ancient Mayan ruins in lush jungles.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

4 hrs

2. Visit Flores Island

Enjoy colorful streets and local markets by the lake.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

3. Go to Yaxhá National Park

Hike through ruins and nature trails overlooking lakes.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

4. Take a boat tour on Lake Petén Itzá

Experience stunning views and wildlife on the lake.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

5. Explore the archaeological site of Aguateca

Uncover Mayan history in a scenic, remote area.

Available all year

Adults only

No booking required

3 hrs

6. Visit the Ixpanpajul Natural Park

Enjoy canopy tours and zip-lining over the forest.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

2 hrs

7. Tour the Mayan Museum of Guatemalan Art

Discover artifacts and art from ancient Mayan civilization.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

8. Attend a cultural show in Flores

Experience local music and traditions in a lively setting.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

9. Visit the Petén Zoo

See native wildlife and learn about conservation efforts.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-9 (#137 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Quetzal

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Chicken Pepián

Spicy chicken stew with vegetables. (National dish)

Kak'ik

Traditional turkey soup with spices.

Hilachas

Shredded beef in tomato sauce.

Fiambre

Cold salad with meats and vegetables.

Rellenitos de Plátano

VE

Sweet plantain stuffed with beans.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)