Spectacular Tikal, located in Guatemala’s northernmost department of Peten, is a world of jungles, rivers, lakes, caves, colorful birds, monkeys, and even crocodiles. It is one of the most highly acclaimed classic Mayan cities with more than 3,000 ancient Mayan structures. These include temples, palaces, ball courts and a sauna, which can all be seen within the 550 square kilometers of Tikal National Park.
Archeologists have determined that the Maya first settled in this area as early as 600 B.C. During the Classic Period of Maya History from 300-900 A.D., Tikal experienced a golden age of architecture, art and written language but then mysteriously underwent a swift decline. Most of the structures and stelae seen at Tikal today date from this Classic Period.
Visitors can book accommodations right in the National Park. It is a mystical experience to watch the sunset and greet the dawn from Temple 4, the tallest structure ever built by the Maya. Also found in the National Park are interesting museums displaying ceramics and incised bones, a large collection of stelae and alters, and a photo exhibition documenting the fascinating exploration and excavation of Tikal.
