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Once home to 100,000 Maya, Tikal was one of the most important cities in the Maya empire. It was abandoned when the empire collapsed and re-discovered relatively recently. Today it is one of the most important Maya sites, boasting over 4,000 structures, the oldest of which date back to around 800 B.C. The most important structures are the imposing Temple of the Giant Jaguar, which stands over 51 meters (170 feet) tall and was once the tomb of a high priest. Across the immense square from this structure is the Temple of Masks, which is an impressive 42 meters (139 feet) tall.
Tikal is also known for its impressive stelae, or intricately carved standing stones. There are over two hundred of them at the site, the oldest of which has been tentatively dated to 292 B.C. There is a museum at the site, which features ceramics, jade and wood carvings and other relics from the various digs that have taken place over the years at Tikal.
An added boon for the traveler are the natural surroundings. The archaeological site at Tikal is only part of a large national park, which is home to spider and howler monkeys, parrots, toucans, macaws, and other varied and spectacular wildlife. In fact, it is the only place on earth declared by UNESCO to be both a world culture and nature heritage site.
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Paseo de los Museos
Inside the grounds of Hotel Casa Santo Domingo is the beautifully presented Paseo de los Museos or Museums Promenade. The route allows access to the most significant areas of the convent ruins
...Antigua, Guatemala
El Mundo Perdido (The Lost World)
This sizable complex consists of 38 structures oriented in a traditional Mayan pattern serving as an astronomy observatory. The ancient Mayans observed solstices, equinoxes and planetary cycles with
...Guatemala
Plaza de los Siete Templos
Next to the Acrópolis del Sur is the complex comprised of seven little temples built in a row. Although the temples were assembled during the late Classic period, there are other structures in the
...Guatemala
Acrópolis del Sur & Templo V
South of Gran Plaza is Acrópolis del Sur, which is a massive area yet to be restored. This two-hectare mass of stonework is still covered by vines and trees. The palaces atop the masonry date back
...Guatemala
Acrópolis Central
This maze of residential palaces and small temples is found on the south side of Gran Plaza. Believed to be where the royal family and their relatives lived, some chambers still have remnants of low
...Guatemala
Gran Plaza
The heart of the ancient Mayan civilization lies in this plaza, the focal point of the king’s realm. Temple I, also known as the Pyramid of the Giant Jaguar, faces west toward the setting sun,
...Guatemala
Vivero Verapaz
A visit to this orchid haven is interesting whether you are a plant-lover or not. The nursery is home to more than 400 of the 770 orchid species found in Guatemala. The best time to visit is between
...Cobán, Guatemala
Parque Las Victorias
Further north of Templo El Calvario is a densely forested nature reserve that acts as a retreat from the city. This 84-hectare national park is close to the city center, and has extensive walking
...Cobán, Guatemala
Templo El Calvario
Built atop a hill overlooking Cobán, the temple is 137 steps away from the city center. At the start of the long stairway, visitors are greeted by a shrine where locals pray and leave offerings.
...Cobán, Guatemala
Parque Central
This relatively small triangular park represents the heart of the city, where major activities take place. The park is flanked by the cathedral, Palacio de Gobernacíon and Municipalidad (Town Hall).
...Cobán, Guatemala
ARCAS Center
The Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Association runs an animal habilitation center close to San Miguel. They take care of animals rescued from smugglers and illegal pet traders, like jaguars,
...Flores, Guatemala
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