Jungle, Animals & Nature
Tikal is located in the Maya Biosphere Reserve, the largest contiguous rainforest north of the Amazon. This means: besides the ruins, you experience an incredible biodiversity. A visit to Tikal is always also a jungle safari.
Animals you can see in Tikal
- Howler monkeys (Monos aulladores): You hear them before you see them—their roar sounds like a storm and can be heard for miles. They live in groups in the treetops and are almost guaranteed to be seen in Tikal.
- Spider monkeys (Monos araña): Elegant, slender monkeys that swing through the trees with their prehensile tails. Often found in the less visited areas of the park.
- Toucans: The rainbow-billed toucan with its huge colorful beak is one of Central America's most iconic birds. Relatively common in Tikal, especially early in the morning.
- Coatis: Curious, raccoon-like animals that roam the park in groups. Do not feed them!
- Ocellated turkeys: The ocellated turkey is a magnificent, shimmering bird found only in Guatemala, Belize, and southern Mexico. Often seen on the lawns in Tikal.
- Jaguars & pumas: Live in the reserve but are extremely rarely seen. However, their tracks can be found on the trails—a thrill.
Other nature experiences in Petén
- El Mirador: Perhaps the largest Maya city of all time—with La Danta, one of the largest pyramids in the world by volume. Only accessible on foot: 5-day jungle trekking expedition from Carmelita. The ultimate Guatemala experience for adventurers.
- Yaxhá: Smaller Maya site overlooking the lake of the same name. Less visited than Tikal, spectacular sunset from the main pyramid. 1.5h from Flores.
- Cerro Cahuí: Small nature reserve on Lake Petén-Itzá, perfect for a half-day hike with birdwatching. From Flores/El Remate.