Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
El Petén
Why Go?
Vast, sparsely populated and jungle-covered, Guatemala's largest and northernmost depart-
ment is ever ripe for exploration. Whether it's the mysteries of the Classic Maya, the biolo-
gical bounty of the jungle or simply the chance to lounge lakeside that inspires you, it's all
here in abundance. How deeply you choose to delve into the Maya legacy will depend on
your level of interest/willingness to get your feet muddy. The towering temples of Tikal can
be reached by tour from just about anywhere in the country, while more remote sites like El
Mirador or Piedras Negras require days of planning and further days of jungle trekking.
Wherever you go, you'll be serenaded by a jungle symphony - the forests are alive with
parrots, monkeys and larger, more elusive animals. The Maya Biosphere Reserve covers
virtually the entire northern third of El Petén, and together with its counterparts in Mexico
and Belize forms a multinational wildlife haven that spans more than 30,000 sq km.
When to Go
If you're planning to do much jungle trekking to remote archaeological sites, late February
to May are best: it's drier, less boggy and you won't have to wade through so much mud,
though it can get rather hot and steamy toward late May. The rains begin in June and with
them come the mosquitoes - bring rain gear, repellent and, if you plan on slinging a ham-
mock, a mosquito net. September and October are peak hurricane and thunderstorm season,
with the rains continuing into November, and are best avoided. December to February, with
cool nights and mornings, can be quite a pleasant time to visit El Petén.
Best Least-Visited Ruins
»
Yaxhá (
Click here
)
»
Ceibal (
Click here
)
»
Uaxactún (
Click here
)
»
El Perú (
Click here
)
»
Aguateca (
Click here
)
