After my time in Belize, I made my way into Guatemala by bus, crossing the border smoothly with an online booking. If you're curious about the border crossing experience, check out my blog post on crossing borders. My first stop in Guatemala was the picturesque town of Flores, a charming island city located on Lake Petén Itzá.
How to Get to Flores,Peten
I booked a ticket online that covered the entire journey from Belize City to Flores. Once you cross the border, you will continue your journey with Transportes Fuente Del Norte, which then transfers you to a smaller shuttle heading to the island. Upon arrival, you will be dropped off directly at your hotel, making the trip convenient and seamless. [Here's the link for the transport.]
Flores is a small, colorful island town in northern Guatemala, connected to the mainland by a short causeway. It serves as the gateway to the famous Mayan ruins of Tikal, making it a popular stop for travelers. The island is known for its cobblestone streets, vibrant colonial buildings, and stunning sunsets over the lake. Despite being a major tourist hub, Flores maintains a laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal place to start exploring Guatemala. Additionally, you can find money changers on the island offering good exchange rates, making it a convenient place for currency exchange.
Flores offers a variety of accommodations ranging from budget hostels to mid-range hotels with stunning lake views. Many travelers choose to stay on the island itself, while others prefer the quieter town of Santa Elena or the lakeside village of El Remate. Here are some recommendations:
Budget: Los Amigos Hostel – A lively backpacker hostel with a great social vibe.
Mid-Range: Hotel Isla de Flores – A cozy, well-located hotel with rooftop views.
Luxury: Bolontiku Boutique Hotel & Spa – A more secluded option with high-end amenities and direct lake access.
My Stay: I stayed at Hotel Casona de la Isla, which provided a comfortable stay with a great location. If you book a tour to Tikal, they offer the convenience of taking out your complimentary breakfast during an early departure, ensuring you're fueled for the adventure ahead.
a cute hotel towel arrangment
Flores is not just a stopover for visiting Tikal; it has plenty to offer on its own. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, here are some must-do activities in Flores, Guatemala:
Explore the Island: Walk around the entire island in under an hour, taking in the colonial charm and waterfront views.
Boat Tour on Lake Petén Itzá: Rent a kayak or take a boat ride to explore the lake and visit nearby attractions like Jorge’s Rope Swing.
Enjoy the Sunset: The lakeside spots in Flores offer breathtaking sunset views—don’t miss out! I watched the sunset at Skybar, and it was an amazing experience, offering a panoramic view of the lake as the sun dipped below the horizon.
Try Local Cuisine: Sample traditional Guatemalan dishes at restaurants like Raices or Cool Beans.
Visit the archaelogical site of Tikal
The day after I arrived in Flores, I set off to explore the breathtaking ruins of Tikal, which I had booked in advance. [Here's the link for the tour.]
Tikal is one of the most significant Mayan archaeological sites, featuring towering temples, vast plazas, and hidden trails surrounded by dense jungle. The park entrance fee is around 150 quetzales, so make sure to have local cash on hand. You can find money changers with good rates in town. If you have an early departure, inform your hotel in advance—they can prepare a boxed breakfast for you.
Bring bug spray and a hat to protect yourself from the intense sun.
Local currency (quetzales) is necessary to pay the park entrance fee (around 150 quetzales).
Inform your hotel if you have an early departure; they may offer a boxed breakfast.
Food is not allowed inside the park, but you can purchase snacks at designated areas.
Carry enough water to stay hydrated during your visit.
Drones are strictly prohibited in the park.
Be prepared for a half-day of walking and even climbing steep temple staircases, but the view from the top is absolutely worth it!
Flores is a wonderful introduction to Guatemala, offering a mix of history, nature, and relaxation. Whether you're planning a short stay or an extended trip, this charming island town has something for every traveler.
After my time in Flores and my unforgettable visit to Tikal, my next destination is Antigua, Guatemala. This colonial city is famous for its well-preserved Spanish architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant culture. Here, I plan to take on the challenge of climbing Acatenango, one of Guatemala’s most famous volcanoes. Stay tuned for my next blog post, where I'll share my step-by-step guide to climbing Acatenango, along with breathtaking photos and tips for making the most of this incredible adventure!
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