At only two hours from San Ignacio, it is imperative that one visits the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal. This site is more than just a couple of structures, it is a huge collection of ruins that reveal a complex planned Mayan city. The area it covers is absolutely massive. Whilst many tourists opt for a day trip, it is impossible to see everything Tikal has to offer. Getting a guide is also highly recommended since not only is it easy to get lost, but also because there is a plethora of flora, fauna, and history here. The national park is very strict about certified guides and thoroughly check their credentials. So if you go with a tour, ensure that their guide has genuine credentials or simply get a guide at the entrance to the park itself. This national park is also very well looked after and guarded so make sure you adhere to the signs. If you’re not sure whether you can touch or climb something, its best not to as you risk being escorted and banned from the park.
Among its iconic towering pyramids, Tikal is home to the tallest pyramid in Central America identified as Temple IV. There are plenty of temples and plazas to see in Tikal and some have platforms you can walk up whilst others allow you to climb the pyramid itself. You will notice that there are mounds of grass and sometimes even trees fused with a Mayan ruin on its surface. This is because approximately only 15% of this archaeological site has been excavated. Thus there is constant work being done to explore and uncover more secrets of this Mayan city.
As this site is in the middle of a rainforest, you will encounter lots of wildlife as you explore Tikal. There are mostly monkeys and you’ll see them jumping between trees and one may even run across you. The rainforest is also home to many different species of birds. You’ll mainly hear them sing and when you do, look closely into the trees to see if you can catch a glimpse of a Tucan.
