Best Places to Visit in Peten | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Peten Travel Guide
Quick overview of Peten with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Peten, Guatemala! Located in the northern region of the country, Peten is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Known for its rich Mayan history and breathtaking natural beauty, this region offers a unique and immersive travel experience. From the ancient ruins of Tikal, one of the largest Mayan cities, to the lush jungles and diverse wildlife of the Tikal National Park, Peten is a paradise for history buffs and nature enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the region is home to the stunning Lake Peten Itza, where visitors can relax on pristine beaches or embark on a boat tour to discover hidden islands and ancient Mayan artifacts. With its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and fascinating history, Peten is a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking an unforgettable adventure in Guatemala.
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Best Places To Visit in Peten
1. Flores: Located in the heart of Peten, Flores is a charming island town that offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The town is known for its colorful colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, creating a picturesque setting for visitors to explore. One of the main attractions in Flores is the ancient Maya city of Tikal, which is just a short drive away. With its stunning temples and pyramids rising above the jungle canopy, Tikal is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
2. El Remate: Situated on the shores of Lake Peten Itza, El Remate is a tranquil village that provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. The town offers breathtaking views of the lake and is surrounded by lush green forests, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. El Remate is also home to the Cerro Cahui Nature Reserve, where visitors can spot a variety of wildlife species and explore well-maintained trails.
3. Yaxha: Nestled amidst the dense rainforests of Peten, Yaxha is an ancient Maya city that rivals the popularity of Tikal. However, what sets Yaxha apart is its serene and less crowded atmosphere, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural wonders of the site. The city boasts impressive temples, plazas, and ball courts, all surrounded by lush vegetation. Climbing to the top of the main pyramid offers panoramic views of the surrounding jungle, creating a truly awe-inspiring experience.
4. Sayaxche: Located on the banks of the majestic Rio de la Pasion, Sayaxche is a vibrant town that serves as a gateway to the Peten region. The town is known for its lively market, where visitors can find a variety of local crafts, fresh produce, and traditional cuisine. Sayaxche is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby Aguateca Archaeological Site, which can be reached by boat. This ancient Maya city is perched on a limestone bluff and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding jungle.
5. San Andres: Situated just a short distance from Flores, San Andres is a small village that offers a glimpse into the daily life of the local Maya communities. Visitors can explore traditional thatched-roof houses, interact with friendly locals, and learn about their customs and traditions. The village is also home to the San Andres Maya Site, an archaeological site that features well-preserved structures and artifacts from the ancient Maya civilization.
6. Tikal: No list of the best cities or towns to visit in Peten would be complete without mentioning Tikal. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most iconic and well-preserved ancient Maya cities in the world. The site is home to towering pyramids, grand plazas, and intricate stone carvings, all surrounded by a lush tropical rainforest. Exploring Tikal is like stepping back in time, as visitors can wander through the ancient ruins and imagine what life was like during the height of the Maya civilization.
7. Santa Elena: Located just across the causeway from Flores, Santa Elena is a bustling town that offers a range of amenities and services for visitors. The town is a great base for exploring the surrounding attractions, including Tikal and Lake Peten Itza. Santa Elena also boasts a vibrant market, where visitors can shop for souvenirs, sample local delicacies, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of a typical Guatemalan market.
8. El Zotz: For adventurous travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations, El Zotz is a hidden gem in Peten. This remote archaeological site is still being excavated and offers a unique opportunity to witness ongoing archaeological work. The site is known for its impressive pyramid, known as "El Diablo," which offers panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. Exploring El Zotz requires a bit of hiking and navigating through dense vegetation, but the reward is a truly immersive and authentic Maya experience.
9. San Jose: Situated on the outskirts of Flores, San Jose is a small village that offers a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere. The village is known for its traditional Maya culture and is home to the San Jose Maya Site, which features ancient structures and artifacts. Visitors can also enjoy boat rides on Lake Peten Itza, where they can spot wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the water.
10. Carmelita: For adventurous hikers and nature enthusiasts, Carmelita is the starting point for the challenging trek to the lost city of El Mirador. This ancient Maya site is one of the largest and most impressive in the region, but reaching it requires a multi-day hike through dense jungle and swampy terrain. The journey is not for the faint of heart, but those who make it to El Mirador are rewarded with breathtaking views and a sense of awe at the magnitude of this ancient civilization.
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Food & Drinks To Try In Peten
1. Pepian: This traditional Guatemalan dish is a must-try in Peten. It is a hearty stew made with chicken or beef, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a variety of spices. The dish is typically served with rice and tortillas.
2. Tapado: Another popular dish in Peten is Tapado, a seafood soup made with coconut milk, fish, shrimp, crab, and various vegetables. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is truly delightful.
3. Chirmol: Chirmol is a traditional Guatemalan salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It is often served as a condiment with grilled meats or as a topping for tortillas. The freshness and tanginess of chirmol add a burst of flavor to any dish.
4. Tamales: Tamales are a staple in Guatemalan cuisine, and Peten is no exception. These delicious corn-based treats are filled with various ingredients such as chicken, pork, or vegetables, and then wrapped in banana leaves before being steamed. They are often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack.
5. Atol de Elote: This traditional Guatemalan drink is a sweet corn-based beverage. It is made by blending fresh corn kernels with milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Atol de Elote is often served hot and is a comforting and delicious treat.
6. Horchata: Horchata is a refreshing drink made from rice, milk, cinnamon, and sugar. It is typically served cold and is a popular choice to accompany meals or as a standalone beverage. The creamy and slightly sweet flavor of horchata is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
7. Gallo Beer: Gallo Beer is the national beer of Guatemala and is widely enjoyed throughout the country, including Peten. It is a light and crisp lager that pairs well with the local cuisine. Trying a cold Gallo Beer is a great way to immerse yourself in the Guatemalan food and drink culture.
8. Cafe de Peten: Peten is known for its coffee production, so be sure to try the local coffee. Cafe de Peten is a rich and flavorful coffee that is grown in the region. Whether you prefer it black or with milk, savoring a cup of Cafe de Peten is a must for coffee lovers.
9. Fruit Smoothies: Peten is home to a variety of tropical fruits, and one of the best ways to enjoy them is through fruit smoothies. You can find vendors selling freshly blended smoothies made from fruits like mango, pineapple, papaya, and more. These refreshing drinks are perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day.
10. Choco Banana: A popular street food in Peten is the Choco Banana. It is a frozen banana dipped in chocolate and then rolled in various toppings like sprinkles, nuts, or coconut flakes. This sweet treat is a favorite among locals and tourists alike and is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.
Best Time To Visit Peten
The best time to visit Peten, Guatemala is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the archaeological sites and natural wonders in the region. The rainy season, from May to October, can bring heavy downpours and flooding, which can make travel and outdoor activities more challenging. However, some travelers may prefer visiting during this time to experience the lush green landscapes and fewer crowds. It's important to note that temperatures in Peten remain relatively hot and humid throughout the year, so it's advisable to pack lightweight and breathable clothing regardless of the season.
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Transportation To Peten
There are several transportation options to Peten, Guatemala. You can fly into Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores, which is the main gateway to the region. From there, you can take a taxi or a shuttle to your final destination in Peten.
If you prefer to travel by land, you can take a bus from Guatemala City to Flores. The journey takes approximately 8-10 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions. There are also private shuttle services available that offer more comfort and convenience.
Once you are in Peten, you can use local transportation options such as taxis, tuk-tuks, or buses to get around the area and explore the various attractions, including the Tikal National Park and the Mayan ruins.
It is important to note that transportation options may vary depending on your specific location within Peten, so it is recommended to research and plan your transportation in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.