Flores

Written by Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
02/08/2025
A breathtaking aerial view of a vibrant island town with a bustling harbor and scenic waterfront.
ZaetaFlow Sec, Pexels

Flores, Guatemala, is a vibrant island town in Lake Petén Itzá, serving as a charming base for exploring ancient Mayan ruins like Tikal and Yaxha. It offers a relaxed atmosphere with colorful streets, local markets, and opportunities for lakeside activities.

Flores has a lively social scene, especially around the island's hostels like Los Amigos Hostel, which is popular among backpackers. The lakeside promenade features bars and restaurants such as Sky Bar and Mango's Bar, providing spaces for socializing with lake views. Jorge's Rope Swing is also a known spot for travelers to gather and enjoy recreational activities.

Top 5 Things to do in Flores

Activities in Flores include exploring ancient Mayan cities, enjoying recreational lakeside pursuits, and discovering the charm of the island town.

1. Day Trip to Tikal National Park

Tikal is a vast and iconic Mayan archaeological site, considered a must-visit in Guatemala. Exploring its well-preserved temples, palaces, and plazas offers a profound glimpse into ancient Mayan civilization. Many structures can be climbed, providing panoramic views over the rainforest canopy. An early bird (sunrise) tour is often recommended for a more immersive experience and to avoid the main crowds.

Cost: A guided day tour typically costs between $65 and $128 per person, which often includes round-trip transportation, a specialized bilingual guide, and sometimes lunch without drinks. The national park entrance fee is separate and costs Q150 (approximately $19-20 USD). For sunrise or sunset tours, an additional Q100 (approximately $12.75 USD) entry fee is required. It is possible to visit Tikal independently by public minibus from Santa Elena for around $16 return, or by taxi for $45-60 return, but a guided tour is highly recommended for historical context and navigation.

Transport: Tikal is approximately 65-70 km from Flores, with a journey time of 1 to 2 hours. Most tours and shared shuttles depart from Flores, often picking up from hotels or a central point like the 'I Love Peten' sign. Public minibuses depart from Santa Elena bus station.

2. Day Trip to Yaxha Ruins (Sunset Tour)

Yaxha offers a quieter, more intimate Mayan experience compared to Tikal, set between two beautiful lakes. The site includes nine plazas and numerous structures, with a highlight being the opportunity to climb Temple 216 for serene sunset views over the lagoon, where silence is encouraged as the sun descends. This site is rich in wildlife, and offers a deep dive into Mayan history.

Cost: A guided sunset tour typically costs around Q200 (approximately $25-26 USD) for the tour portion, with the entrance fee to the park being an additional Q80 (approximately $10.50 USD) for foreigners. Private tours can cost upwards of Q18,130 per group of two, which often includes transport, guide, and lunch. For independent travel, a taxi from Flores can cost approximately $25-65 USD for the round trip.

Transport: Yaxha is about 75 km from Flores, approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. Tours usually provide private shuttle transportation from Flores hotels. Taxis can also be arranged.

3. Jorge's Rope Swing

Located across the lake from Flores, Jorge's Rope Swing is a lively spot for swimming, swinging into the lake, and relaxing. It features a rope swing, a diving platform, hammocks, and offers food and drinks. It's particularly popular among young travelers and backpackers looking for a fun, recreational day by the water.

Cost: The entry fee to Jorge's Rope Swing is Q25 (approximately $3-3.20 USD). The boat ride (lancha) from Flores to the rope swing costs around Q50-75 (approximately $7-10 USD) for a round trip.

Transport: A short boat ride (lancha) from the Flores waterfront, typically lasting 5-15 minutes. Boatmen are readily available at the docks.

4. Boat Tour of Lake Petén Itzá and Mirador del Rey Canek

A boat tour around Lake Petén Itzá allows you to explore the beauty of the surrounding area, including visiting nearby islets and the town of San Miguel. A key stop is the Mirador del Rey Canek, a viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of Flores island and the lake. This tour often includes a visit to ARCAS, a wildlife rehabilitation center, and can be a relaxing way to spend a half-day.

Cost: Boat tours are often priced per hour or per trip. A half-hour tour around Flores Island can cost Q100, while a one-hour tour is around Q200 (approximately $13-26 USD). Private tours including multiple stops and a guide can range from $39 to $145 per person, depending on group size and inclusions. The cost of a water taxi to San Miguel and the Mirador del Rey Canek is around Q30-40 round trip.

Transport: Boats and water taxis are available from the Flores waterfront. The journey to San Miguel is typically around 10 minutes. The Mirador is a short uphill walk from the San Miguel dock.

5. Wander the Colorful Streets of Flores Island

Flores island is known for its charming, colorful colonial-style houses and cobblestone streets. Taking a leisurely walk around the island allows you to soak in the vibrant atmosphere, admire the architecture, and enjoy views of the lake. The island is small and easily walkable, making it a perfect activity for a relaxed morning or afternoon.

Cost: Free to explore on foot.

Transport: Flores is a small island, making it entirely walkable. It takes approximately 15-60 minutes to walk around the entire perimeter.

Check out our other pages on Flores

Getting There icon Getting There Restaurants icon Restaurants Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays

Discover destinations in Guatemala

Guatemalan Highlands
Northern & Eastern Guatemala