As another option for destination in Guatemala Experiences Network, Petén is where adventure meets ancient wonder. Covering one-third of Guatemala yet remaining its least populated region, this vast lowland of rainforests, hidden Maya cities, and wildlife promises unforgettable experiences. Why Petén is a Must in Your Guatemala Travels? A cornerstone of the Guatemala Experiences Network, Petén delivers: Tikal’s Towering Temples – The iconic Classic-era Maya metropolis, where howler monkeys greet dawn from 70m pyramids. Tikal: A Metropolis Reborn Discovered in 1848, Tikal’s 3,000+ structures sprawl across 16 km²—only 20% excavated. Climb Temple IV (the tallest) for sunrise over the Great Plaza, where rulers like Jasaw Chan K’awiil I once held court. Fun fact: The Millennium Falcon scene in Star Wars: A New Hope was filmed here! Flores’ Island Charm – A colorful lakeside town built atop the last Maya stronghold (Tayasal), which resisted Spain until 1697. Wildlife Encounters – Spot ocellated turkeys, spider monkeys, and coatimundis in Tikal National Park (a UNESCO site since 1979). Off-the-Beaten-Path Ruins – Beyond Tikal, discover lesser-known sites like: Yaxhá – Climb Temple 216 for sunset over its twin lakes, where Survivor was filmed. Topoxté – Explore this Postclassic Maya island city on Lake Yaxhá, with rare intact wooden structures. Ceibal – Walk among 9th-century stelae carved with intricate hieroglyphs near the Pasión River. Uaxactun – Discover astronomical observatories older than Tikal, deep in the biosphere reserve. Aguateca – Trek to this cliffside fortress abandoned mid-invasion (see still-intact Maya households!). Cerro Cahuí Reserve – Spot jaguars and howler monkeys on jungle trails overlooking Lake Petén Itzá. Cancuén – Marvel at Guatemala’s most ornate palace (3 stories tall!), mysteriously abandoned in AD 800. El Mirador, where jungle still claims the stones. Largest construction man-made pyramids in the world! A Land of Resistance & Rediscovery. Lovely Island of Flores: Where Maya History Meets Modern Comfort. This cobblestoned island on Lake Petén Itzá hides a dramatic past: The Itzá Maya held Tayasal against the Spanish for 150+ years—the last kingdom to fall. Today, it’s a traveler hub with waterside cafes, boutique hotels, and sunset views. Top Experiences in Petén Tikal at Dawn – Hear the jungle wake as mist rises off Temple I (the Jaguar Temple). Kayak Lake Petén Itzá – Paddle to Jorge’s Rope Swing or explore cave systems. Flores Food Tour – Try Peten-style tamales or grilled mojarra (lake fish). El Mirador Trek – A 5-day jungle hike to Guatemala’s "lost city," home to the La Danta pyramid (taller than Egypt’s Giza!). Ready for the adventure and to Explore Peten with Us? Contact us for a reservation through our tailored Travel Programs: info@guatemalaexperiences.net