Tikal Mayan Ruins in Guatemala

Step Into Another World At The Tikal Mayan Ruins in Guatemala

For those of you wanting to experience a place of ancient times, visiting the Tikal Mayan Ruins in Guatemala is a must. 90 minutes away from the town of Flores, this ancient city (now a National park) boasts jungle, wildlife, ruined structures and dozens of temples. Of course, there are many that are not excavated and sits underneath the ground (see photos below). Well, more like little hills that hide these ancient buildings. It really is surreal when you’re up close. I have to wonder what really is underneath? 

In fact, “Archeologists estimate that the Maya settled in the area now known as Tikal in about 900 BC.”

That is seriously a long long time ago, it's hard to imagine. As you walk around this park, and explore these temples, the ambiance is pretty indescribable. The energy just oozes another world.

I do recommend going with a guide so you get the low down of the history of each site. Knowing those details add to the experience and learning of that time.

Some temples you can walk up the steep, stone stairs so you can get a great view and take your selfies. Be cautious coming down them as you can lose balance. I prefer to walk down ladder style.

Towards the end of our walk sits the highest temple. Wooden staircases, line the side of this temple so visitors can get up. For those afraid of heights, like myself, it is doable but expect some stomach butterflies. When you reach the top, the view is worth it.

Hundreds of square miles of jungle bathe what was once this ancient civilization. The sun starting its descend and the temples glowing from the sun’s angle is breathtaking. 

We were the one of 2 groups on this temple and no one seemed to notice that darkness isn’t that far away and we still have a long way back to the gate. By the time we all got to the bottom, it was dark. I pulled out my headlamp and focused on not tripping on something. The walk back was certainly a different vibe than during the day.

The quietness opens up your senses even more to the surroundings. The sounds of the jungle, the outlines of the ruins scream mystery, and the low rumbles of people talking.
To my right sits an oversize Toad with its back toward me. 

By the time we got back to our van, I was exhausted. But it was worth it.


Note: Expect to spend a few hours here as it is a long walk around the park. Also, bring a flashlight.
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Sidebar:
Adult admission tickets are $20 USD
There are plenty of souvenir shops at the entrance so bring extra cash

For more information, visit http://www.tikalnationalpark.org