Exploring the Petén Region of Guatemala

The steamy jungles of Petén have fascinated visitors for years thanks to the proliferation of old Mayan ruins. Most popular with visitors is the restored temple complex at Tikal, even featured in Star Wars. However, there is plenty more to see if you are willing to get off the beaten track.

For example, the ancient city of El Mirador is arguably more impressive, given it is home to the largest pyramid in the world by volume. The problem here is hardly any of the site has been excavated by archaeologists, so you’ll have to use your imagination. And then there is the small matter of a five-day, round-trip trek to get there and back.

If you don’t have the time or the inclination to venture off into dense jungle, the island town of Flores is a charming place to visit. It’s the top choice as a jumping-off point for a visit to Tikal, but it’s worth spending a day there before or after. You can take a swim in the lake, go on a boat trip or take a hike through the forest.

Elsewhere in Petén you can go on birdwatching expeditions with local guides, or spot jaguars and pumas on specially arranged trips. You’ll have to pay a premium for these small group adventures, but there is plenty to see in the largest rainforest in Central America.

Petén is within easy reach of Guatemala City thanks to an overnight bus service. Many people continue their travels into Belize and later the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico following a visit to the area.