Tikal Private Day Tour from Flores & Tikal Hotels with Guide

Summary

Private Guided Tikal Ruins Experience from Flores

You’ll wander ancient Mayan ruins at your own pace, guided by locals who know every hidden corner of Tikal. Flexible timing, real stories, and plenty of chances for photos make this tour perfect if you want more than just quick snapshots.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me stepping out of the van at Tikal was the thick, earthy smell—jungle air mixed with a hint of rain from last night. Our guide, Carlos, greeted us with a grin and handed out cold water bottles before we even made it to the park gate. He pointed out a pair of spider monkeys swinging overhead, barely visible unless you really looked up through the green tangle.

Walking into Tikal National Park, you can feel how ancient this place is. The ground’s uneven in spots, roots poking up here and there. We took our time—no rush—stopping whenever someone wanted to snap a photo or ask about the mossy stones lining the path. Carlos had stories for everything: why Temple IV’s steps are so steep, how the Mayans tracked time by watching shadows move across the Grand Plaza. I remember hearing distant howler monkeys; their calls echo weirdly between temples, almost like thunder rolling in.

Lunch was simple but filling—a plate of grilled chicken and rice at a shaded picnic table near the main plaza. There’s always a breeze here, even when it’s hot. I bought a carved wooden jaguar from an old man near the entrance; he wrapped it in newspaper and told me his family’s been selling crafts here since he was a kid. By mid-afternoon, we’d climbed Temple II (not as tough as it looks), and Carlos offered to take group photos with our phones—he actually got everyone smiling at once, which never happens in my family.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tikal National Park Tour

• Visit Tikal National Park

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

It’s best for folks who can handle some walking on uneven ground. If you take it slow and bring water, most ages do fine—but steep temple steps might be tricky for some.

Can I join if I’m staying in Flores or at a hotel inside Tikal?

Yes! Pick-up and drop-off are available from both Flores hotels and those inside Tikal park. Just let us know where you’re staying when you book.

What should I bring for the day?

You’ll want comfy shoes (it gets muddy if it rained), bug spray, sunscreen, cash for souvenirs, snacks if you get hungry between stops, and any personal meds.

Is lunch included? What kind of food is served?

Yes, lunch is included—usually grilled chicken or veggie options with rice, plus a soft drink. If you have dietary needs, just mention them ahead of time.

What’s included

Your private tour covers round-trip transport in an air-conditioned van (with insurance), entrance fees to Tikal National Park, an English-Spanish speaking guide who’ll take your photos if you want, bottled water throughout the day, and lunch with a soft drink. Departure times are flexible—we’ll work around your schedule.