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Tikal Tour from San Ignacio Belize with TikalGo

By 9/5/2025 3 minutes



Belizing Goes to Tikal: Our Unforgettable Adventure at Tikal National Park

Tikal National Park is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in all of Central America, and it’s easy to see why it’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a thriving city of the ancient Maya civilization, Tikal covers over 220 square miles of lush Guatemalan jungle, filled with towering temples, mysterious ruins, and exotic wildlife.

Recently, the Belizing team had the opportunity to explore this ancient wonder with one of our most trusted tour providers, TikalGo. What we experienced was more than just a tour; it was an unforgettable adventure through history, culture, and nature.

Who We Traveled With

We partnered with TikalGo, an experienced tour operator specializing in trips from Belize to Guatemala. Our guides, Omar and Mike, were knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about sharing the rich history of Tikal. Their expertise made the entire experience smooth, safe, and full of fascinating discoveries.

Where Is Tikal National Park?

Tikal is located in the Petén region of northern Guatemala, deep within a dense rainforest. It’s about a two-hour drive from the Belize-Guatemala Western Border and roughly two and a half hours from San Ignacio Town or five hours from Belize City. The park is surrounded by the Maya Biosphere Reserve, one of the largest protected areas in Central America.

How We Got There

Our journey began bright and early in San Ignacio, Belize, with transportation provided by Belize Ground Shuttle.

Crossing the Belize–Guatemala Border

Here are the key steps and tips for crossing the border smoothly:
  • Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date.
  • Belize Exit Tax: $20 USD per person (cash only).
  • Currency Exchange: Exchange USD to Guatemalan Quetzales near the border (about Q7 = $1 USD).
After crossing into Guatemala, we met our TikalGo guides, who handled the rest of the logistics, including border paperwork and van transportation to Tikal.

Before heading to the park, we made a quick stop at a local souvenir shop where we enjoyed fresh Guatemalan coffee, met other travelers, and chose our lunch options for the day. Watching local artisans carve wood and craft souvenirs was an inspiring cultural experience in itself!

The Journey to Tikal

The scenic two-hour drive from the border passed by the stunning Lake Petén Itzá, Guatemala’s third-largest lake. As we entered the park, the rainforest canopy thickened, and soon we were greeted by the sight of spider monkeys swinging through the trees, a perfect welcome to the jungle!

At the entrance of Tikal National Park, we stretched, grabbed cold water, and prepared to explore one of the most awe-inspiring archaeological sites in the world.

Exploring the Ancient Maya City

Our guided hike through the jungle trails was both educational and thrilling. Surrounded by the sounds of birds and the scent of the rainforest, we came across several smaller temples\, many still unexcavated to preserve the biodiversity of the region. One of the highlights of the tour was climbing the main temples.

Thanks to wooden stairways and railings, we made it to the top safely, and the panoramic view of the jungle canopy was breathtaking. From above, you can truly sense the vastness of the ancient Maya empire. After exploring, we rested under the shade between two of Tikal’s main temples, a peaceful moment surrounded by history and nature.

From here, we once again hiked under the canopy for a few minutes until we came across a bigger opening, where we saw the main temples and plazas. Many of us scattered in different directions and would then meet between two of the main temples. There, we sat down and took cover from the midday sun under the shade provided by the only tree between these two temples. I truly did not want to leave this spot. I was in complete Zen mode, almost taking a nap when our tour guide and my stomach reminded me that it was lunchtime!

Lunch Under the Jungle Canopy

Lunch was served in a charming cabin nestled within the rainforest. We were greeted with cool towels, friendly smiles, and a delicious meal featuring freshly made corn tortillas, refried beans, and vegetable soup. For the main course, we could choose from grilled chicken, pork chops, steak, or veggie kabobs, followed by a moist vanilla cake for dessert.

After lunch, we slowly made our way back toward the park exit, full, happy, and deeply inspired by everything we had seen and learned.



Why You Should Visit Tikal

Tikal is more than just a destination; it’s an immersive journey through history and nature. Whether you’re a history lover, adventure seeker, or wildlife enthusiast, Tikal offers something magical for everyone. 

We’re incredibly grateful to TikalGo for making this trip such an unforgettable experience for the Belizing team. If you’re looking to explore Tikal for yourself, book your Tikal adventure today through Belizing.com and experience the magic of Guatemala’s ancient Maya world.

#LetsGoBelizing in Guatemala with TikalGo!


Learn More
Destinations
Tours/Activities
Tikal & Flores 2 days 1 night
$
385
/ Person
Departs From:
San Ignacio Town
Provider:
Tikal Go
WHAT TO EXPECT Visit the most important Mayan site in Guatemala: Tikal. Come and learn about the Culture, Anthropology, and Archeology of the most important Maya Site in the country. ... moreDiscover the secrets and ways of living of one of the most enigmatic civilizations in the history of humanity.

TOUR PLAN
DAY 1

Tikal Tour
We'll pick you up at your hotel in San Ignacio and we'll go to the border where we'll help you with your customs procedures. Your Tikal Go Guide will be waiting for you at the Belize customs exit to start this adventure.

After an hour and a half on the way, we'll arrive at Tikal, the city of voices where we will visit the Grand Jaguar temple, Temple IV the tallest one, Temple II, Temple V, and the most hidden places of this incredible city. We will also discover the Rainforest, and see some of the more than 300 species of birds, monkeys, insects, and centenary trees that now live in the old Mayan city.

After Lunch, you will have free time before checking in at your hotel in Tikal National Park

Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal

DAY 2

Sunrise Tour
We will start really early at 4 am our tour guide will be at your hotel to start the Sunrise tour from the highest temple in Tikal: TEMPLE IV.
During our walk to the temple, we will have time to see the sky and understand how important was astrology for Mayas. We can’t promise to see the sun but we are sure this was the early morning of the Mayas so don’t be angry if is a bit foggy that is part of the adventure.

After Sunrise we will return to the hotel to have breakfast. You can choose to return to San Ignacio at 11:00 or after Lunch. We can also add a Stop in Flores for lunch (for an extra fee). Ask us about that option.
Tikal & Lake Bird Watching 2 days 1 night
$
475
/ Person
Departs From:
San Ignacio Town
Provider:
Tikal Go
Enjoy a close encounter with Guatemala’s vibrant wildlife on this full-day bird-watching tour in the Maya Biosphere Reserve. With the help of an expert private guide, visit bird-watching ... morehotspots like Ixpanpajul Nature Park, Tikal, or Yaxha, and have a chance to spot more than 400 different bird species, including the famous.

Your professional guide will take you across the border into Tikal National Park in Guatemala and lead you on a fascinating tour of the sprawling archaeological complex. Round-trip transport from your Belize hotel and all park fees are not included.

Highlights

Full-day bird-watching tour from Belize

Enjoy bird watching, at Tikal Park or Yaxha Park Spot and identify rare and native birds with an expert guide from the Perfect tour for nature lovers!

This private tour can be customized to your interests and ensures you’ll receive personalized attention from your guide

What You Can Expect

This tour offers round-trip transportation from your hotel or airport to the park.

The admissions are also included and you will be accompanied by a bird-specialized guide.

Lunch includes great grilled beef with rice, salad, tortillas, soup, and dessert.

Drinks are not included with lunch only 1 bottle of water per person during the tour.

Do not miss this great adventure and explore with us the wonders of the Mystery Green World.

Some destinations for sightings are Tikal, Ixpanpajul, Yaxha, and Lake Petén Itza.

ASK FOR MORE INFO THIS TOUR IS TOTALLY PERSONALIZED
Tikal & Yaxha 3 Days 2 Nights
$
650
/ Person
Departs From:
San Ignacio Town
 (1)
Provider:
Tikal Go
WHAT TO EXPECT Visit the most important Mayan sites in Guatemala: Tikal and Yaxhá. Come and learn about Culture, Anthropology, and Archaeology and live one of the best adventures of ... moreyour life.

Discover the rainforest and forget about everything else while you will walk in these incredible Maya Cities.

Take this tour and jump into the Maya Civilization to understand more about our history

TOUR PLAN DAY 1
We will meet you at 11 am at your place in San Ignacio and drive to the Guatemala and Belize Border. After the customs procedures, we will start the adventure heading to the city of Yaxhá. We will have lunch first and then full of energy we will start the tour. Yaxhá is a contemporary city to Tikal, smaller but no less important, in your tour you can visit the Central Plaza, the Ball Field, the Temple 216, and the Twin Pyramids Complex, and you can immerse yourself in the virgin forest that surrounds.

After the Tour, we will go to our hotel in Tikal National Park.

DAY 2

We will start really early at 4 am our tour guide will be at your hotel to start the Sunrise tour from the highest temple in Tikal: TEMPLE IV. During our walk to the temple, we will have time to see the sky and understand how important was astrology for Mayas. We can’t promise to see the sun but we are sure this was the early morning of the Mayas so don’t be angry if is a bit foggy that is part of the adventure.
After Sunrise we will have breakfast and continue with the archaeological tour that we will finish around 11 am.
You will have to relax and at 15.00 we will move to Flores Island

Overnight in Flores

DAY 3
We will give a free day in Flores to discover the island. Around noon we will be back in San Ignacio.
Tikal Family Shared Tour
$
140
/ Adult
Departs From:
San Ignacio Town
Provider:
Tikal Go
Day trip to Tikal from Belize Visit Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Tour the ruins of Tikal with a professional and informative guide Learn about the Mayans who built ... moreone of the largest archaeological sites of the pre-Columbian world Round-trip hotel transport by comfortable coach included

What You Can Expect to Explore Tikal on a day trip from Belize!

Visit one of the largest and most important Mayan sites in all of Central America. Your professional guide will pick you up at your San Ignacio hotel for the roughly 1.5-hour drive to Tikal National Park.

You will be assisted in all border crossing procedures to enter Guatemala safely and hassle-free. Be sure to bring your passport! Once inside the park, let your imagination run free as you explore highlights among more than 3,000 structures that archaeologists have excavated so far. Learn about the daily life and religious practices of the ancient Maya while wandering through the maze of the Central Acropolis, and envision the excitement of an elite sporting match on the ball courts. Tikal boasts an array of magnificent ceremonial temples. Climb the steep staircase of the 144-foot (44-meter) Temple of the Grand Jaguar, built to honor a Mayan king. A set of twin pyramids with altars will greet you at complexes Q and R. Marvel at the Temple of the Masks, which was once adorned with intricate ceremonial mask carvings. Perhaps most impressive is the oft-photographed Temple IV, also known as the Double Head Serpent. The tallest structure in Tikal at 212 feet (64 meters), this pyramid rises majestically above the jungle canopy.

After a refreshing lunch break inside the park, satisfy your inner archaeologist during your free time to explore the ruins independently.

Make this special and magic trip to the center of Tikal!
Tikal Private Tour from San Ignacio
Private Tour
$
160-
$
205
/ Person
$
150
/ Adult
Departs From:
San Ignacio Town
 (10)
Provider:
Tikal Go
Day trip to Tikal from Belize Visit Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site Tour the ruins of Tikal with a professional and informative guide Learn about the Mayans who built ... moreone of the largest archaeological sites of the pre-Columbian world Round-trip hotel transport by comfortable coach included

What You Can Expect to Explore Tikal on a day trip from Belize!

Visit one of the largest and most important Mayan sites in all of Central America. Your professional guide will pick you up at your San Ignacio hotel for the roughly 1.5-hour drive to Tikal National Park.

You will be assisted in all border crossing procedures to enter Guatemala safely and hassle-free. Be sure to bring your passport! After one hour we will stop at a souvenir shop where a part of our Tikal Go souvenirs you can see the best scale model of Tikal and a replica of the tomb found in temple 1 of the most important ruler of the city Jasaw Chan Kahuil.

Once inside the park, let your imagination run free as you explore highlights among more than 3,000 structures that archaeologists have excavated so far. Learn about the daily life and religious practices of the ancient Maya while wandering through the maze of the Central Acropolis, and envision the excitement of an elite sporting match on the ball courts. Tikal boasts an array of magnificent ceremonial temples. Climb the wooden steps of Temple 2 and admire the astonishing view of the main square facing Temple 1 Grand Jaguar Temple the simple of Guatemala, was built to honor Jasaw Chan Kahuil more easily known as Lord Chocolate for the number of beans of cacao they found in the tomb. A set of twin pyramids with altars will greet you at complexes Q and R. Marvel at the Temple of the Masks, which was once adorned with intricate ceremonial mask carvings. Perhaps most impressive is the oft-photographed Temple IV, also known as the Double Head Serpent. The tallest structure in Tikal at 212 feet (64 meters), this pyramid rises majestically above the jungle canopy.

There is a lot to see in Tikal a place where flora and fauna live together in harmony where you can learn a lot of history and see the deep of the Guatemalan rain forest. Ran out of monkeys and raccoons, turkeys, and more than 200 species of birds living in freedom. Forget for 4 hours about the civilization and understand why the Mayans live there…

Don´t miss Tikal while in Belize you will regret it
Sunset Yaxha
$
140-
$
200
/ Person
Departs From:
San Ignacio Town
Provider:
Tikal Go
Step back in time to explore the mysteries of the Maya during this 8-hour visit to Yaxha, one of the largest urban centers of this ancient culture.... more

Spend the day wandering through the fascinating ruins of this sprawling ceremonial complex on the shores of Lake Yaxha, occupying a total area of 92 square miles (237 square kilometers). During your exploration, you’ll check out the Big Astronomical Complex, Avenue of the Pilgrims, and Twin Pyramid Complex, plus much more.

Highlights:

Explore the Mayan archaeological site of Yaxha Visit the wealth of ancient structures like the Big Astronomical Complex situated on a 92 square mile (237 square kilometers) site Discover the different epochs of Mayan culture and buildings, including its early classic period from AD 250 – 600 Learn about Mayan ceremonial practices and building techniques What You Can Expect Yaxha View The city was located on a ridge overlooking Lake Yaxha. The name of the city derives from the Mayan for “blue-green water”. It is a notable survival of a Classic period place name into the modern day.

The Yaxha kingdom is estimated to have covered an area of 237 square kilometers (92 sq mi) and to have had a peak population of 42,000 in the Late Classic period. The Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo circle is considered the “best-kept secret of the Maya World”, it covers a total area of 37.160ha and is part of the Reserve Maya Biosphere. To the west is the Tikal National Park, and north is the Biological Corridor Tikal-Mirador-Rio Azul. Arrival at the Interpretation Centre Yaxhá.

The tour includes the visit of Astronomical Minor Complex, Avenue of the Pilgrims, Square Columns, Patio IV of the South Acropolis, Big Astronomical Complex, Residential Group, Watery Avenue, group Maler, North Acropolis, Plaza of The Birds, The Causeway, Twin Pyramid Complex and the Temple of the Red Hand (structure 216).
Things to do from Belize City : Cave Tubing and Maya Sites with Private Belize Adventures
 (2)
New
In this episode we speak with Dorian Rivero, owner of Private Belize Adventure and tour guide of over 20 years, to discuss what activities are available to visitors in and around Belize ... moreCity. Take a virtual walk-through of cave tubing destination Nohoch Che’en as well as the Mayan ruins of Altun Ha.
Guest Name:
Dorian Rivero

Belizing Staff

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