One Epic Day in Tikal: Exploring Guatemala’s Ancient Mayan City

In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I take you deep into the Guatemalan jungle for an unforgettable one-day adventure through Tikal National Park—one of the most breathtaking and mysterious Mayan archaeological sites in the world.

Join me as I travel from Lake Atitlán to Flores, flying from Guatemala City Airport (not part of the plan!). I take you on a journey into the heart of Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Guatemala’s must-see destinations. I share my real-time experiences, from booking the guide and finding accommodation to dealing with hostel mishaps and late-night boat rides on Lake Petén Itzá.

🎒 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• How to visit Tikal in one day (and why it's totally worth it!)
• The best tips for booking your Tikal day tour
• Why staying on the island of Flores is essential
• What to bring to Tikal: cash, ponchos, and good shoes!
• Temple highlights: Temple I (Temple of the Great Jaguar), Temple II (Temple of the Masks), and the towering Temples IV and V
• Insights from my incredible guide, Georgino
• The mystery of Tikal’s collapse and what still lies hidden beneath the jungle
• My recommended hostels in Flores, Guatemala
• Whether you need a guide to explore the ruins (hint: it’s highly recommended!)

🌿 Why Tikal Is So Special:

Tikal was once a thriving Mayan city and holds deep historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. With only 10–20% of its ruins uncovered, this ancient city in the jungle offers visitors a rare and humbling glimpse into a civilization that mastered architecture, astronomy, and jungle living. It's an absolute bucket-list destination in Guatemala, and a highlight of my Central America backpacking trip.

📸 PRO TIP: Take your best camera—Tikal is a content creator’s dream with panoramic jungle views, ancient pyramids, and wildlife all around.

🧭 Essential Travel Info for Tikal, Guatemala:

• Location: Tikal National Park, Petén, northern Guatemala
• Entry Fee: 150 Quetzales (cash only)
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season (Nov–Apr), but bring a rain jacket regardless
• Tours: Easily booked through hostels like Los Amigos or Casa Maya Itza

✈️ After Tikal, I flew back to Guatemala City, en route to Mexico City and Oaxaca—coming up in future episodes!

Book Hostal Cada de Grethel on Booking.com

Timestamps

00:00 Welcome to the Winging It Travel Podcast

00:30 Journey to Tikal: Planning and Logistics

02:20 Experiencing Flores: Accommodation Insights

04:14 Exploring Tikal: The Guided Tour Begins

05:41 The Wonders of Tikal: History and Architecture

09:00 The Mysteries of Tikal: Collapse and Rediscovery

10:26 Final Thoughts on Tikal: Recommendations and Reflections

Support the Show:

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on your favourite podcast platform! Want to support the show? Check out our affiliate links for travel resources in the show notes.

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Winging It Travel Podcast Credits

Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond

Contact me - [email protected] 

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Cheers, James.