Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A relatively small part of Tikal has been officially discovered and excavated. New dis-
coveries await, along with new information that will undoubtedly continue to shed light on
the turbulent history of the Mayan civilization. Among the more recent discoveries are the
1996 unearthing of a stela from A.D. 468 in the Great Plaza and the location of Temple V
inscriptions challenging the notion of Tikal's 130-year hiatus after its defeat against Calak-
mul.
Tikal's abundant wildlife is most active early and late in the day, with birds and forest
creatures more easily seen at these times. The summit of Temple IV, Tikal's highest struc-
ture, is a particularly popular place at sunrise and sunset. From your position high above
the forest canopy, you can watch the sun dip below (or rise above) the horizon of un-
broken tropical forest as far as the eye can see, while the chatter of myriad birds and forest
creatures permeates the air. The roof combs of the Great Plaza pyramids pop out from the
jungle canopy as toucans dart from tree to tree with their curious yellow beaks, like bana-
nas with big black wings. More than 400 species of birds have been recorded at Tikal.
The
Birds of Tikal,
by Frank Smythe, is a useful guide in this regard.
Watch out for wildlife on the road into Tikal National Park.
