1. Tikal National Park, located in the Petén department of Guatemala, is one of the most important archaeological sites of the ancient Mayan civilization. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979 and has been a popular tourist destination ever since.
The park covers an area of approximately 575 square kilometers (222 square miles) and encompasses the ruins of the ancient city of Tikal. These ruins date back to the Pre-Columbian era and are considered to be one of the largest and most impressive Mayan sites in existence. The city flourished between 200 and 900 AD, reaching its peak during the Classic Period.
The ruins of Tikal feature several temples, palaces, and other structures that provide valuable insights into the Mayan culture and architecture. The most iconic structures include the Temple of the Great Jaguar (Temple I), Temple of the Masks (Temple II), and the Lost World complex. The park also houses a wide variety of flora and fauna, including monkeys, jaguars, and toucans.
2. Tikal National Park is open every day from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The park’s administrative office can be contacted at +502 7950 8931.
3. To visit Tikal National Park, visitors need to purchase an entrance ticket. As of 2021, the entrance fee for foreigners is Q150 (approximately $20 USD) for adults and Q35 for children. There may be additional fees for guided tours and access to certain areas within the park.
Transportation to Tikal National Park is usually arranged through tour operators or hotels in the nearby town of Flores. Many visitors fly into the Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores and take a shuttle or taxi to the park, which is about an hour’s drive away. It is also possible to reach Tikal by public bus or by renting a car. Inside the park, visitors can explore on foot or rent bicycles for easier transportation between the different ruins and sites.
