Petén department is one of Guatemala's most stunning regions, especially for those who love hiking, bird watching, and archaeological discoveries. Forest walks, zip-lining, encounters with local wildlife and flora… It's truly the premier destination for nature lovers from around the world. Located at the northern tip of the country, Petén encompasses several remarkable archaeological sites such as Waka-El Perú, Tayasal, or Tikal.

History

The Pre-Hispanic Period

During the first centuries of our era, Petén was an important center of Mayan civilization. At that time, the department was inhabited by several million indigenous peoples. Impressive cities were built throughout the region, including the powerful Tikal and the merchant city of Waka'. Despite significant economic and technical development, the territory was far from peaceful. Several violent conflicts erupted between different cities.

Around the 10th century, the region's resources became depleted due to unsustainable management of natural resources. A major famine struck the area, bringing down the great Tikal and all surrounding cities. The population gradually abandoned the territory.

During the 13th century, indigenous peoples returned to the region. They built the city of Nojpetén in the middle of a large lake, Petén Itzá. The city featured a great pyramid, palaces, and approximately 200 thatched dwellings.

The Spanish Conquest

The first attempt to "pacify" the region occurred during the 16th century under the conquistador Hernán Cortés. However, it failed. The Itzáes successfully repelled attacks from their island stronghold. Nojpetén resisted Spanish conquest for nearly 150 years.

The Spanish were forced to bring a warship deep into the forest to conquer the territory. Built in the middle of Lake Petén Itzá, Nojpetén fell on Wednesday, March 13, 1697, under cannon fire from conquistador Martín de Ursúa y Arismendi. The city of Flores was erected in place of the great city.

Petén Today

Petén department is located at the northern edge of Guatemala. Most of the region is covered by dense tropical forest and harbors significant archaeological remnants left by the Mayas. To explore the region, you must first visit the city of Flores, its capital.

Flores

Built in the middle of Lake Petén Itzá, the city of Flores is the main gateway to Petén department. Centuries old, many buildings are direct legacies of colonial times. Unfortunately, most have undergone major renovations, which diminish some of their charm.

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios y San Pablo de los Itzás ranks among the city's must-see monuments. This grand colonial-style church was built using stones from an immense Mayan pyramid during the Spanish conquest. The Museo Santa Barbara is the ideal place to learn more about the Mayas. It displays several artifacts inherited from this legendary civilization. To observe some of the region's animal species, you can visit the Petencito Zoo. The reserve houses several species that have been rescued from poaching.

The surroundings of the city form a magnificent and picturesque setting, worthy of a postcard. The best way to appreciate its beauty is to board a boat and navigate across Lake Petén Itzá.

Petén's Archaeological Sites

Petén department once corresponded to the "lowlands" of Mayan territory. It thus housed countless cities, each as impressive as the last. Tikal is a significant part of this heritage. Its pyramids, platforms, and reservoirs provide invaluable information about the culture, daily life, politics, and religion of this mythical people. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it ranks among Guatemala's emblematic sites.

Several hundred kilometers away, the Mayan city of Waka-El Perú also figures among Petén's prime attractions. Nestled deep within the jungle, its gigantic stelae, unusual tables, platforms, and grand pyramid have not yet revealed all their secrets. Located within the Laguna del Tigre National Park, this magnificent discovery crowns a long trek through tropical forest. Along the way, you may encounter howler monkeys, jaguars, parrots, and tapirs.

Natural Reserves

Petén department is also a meeting place for nature enthusiasts. It harbors incredible natural reserves scattered across its territory. Located approximately 240 kilometers from the city of Flores, the Laguna del Tigre National Park ranks among the most beautiful. A trek through its tropical forest reconnects you with nature and allows you to observe several local animal species. Near its famous lagoon or along the Rio San Pedro river, you can observe a variety of specimens such as jaguars, parrots, and river turtles. Within the natural reserve, the lost city of Waka-El Perú provides fascinating insights into the lifestyle of ancient Mayas.

The epicenter of ecotourism in the region remains undoubtedly the Ixpanpajul Natural Park. Located just ten kilometers south of Flores, it offers thrilling adventures deep in the forest through hiking trails and zip-lining sessions.

Petén brims with unsuspected treasures that deserve to be discovered gradually during your trip to Guatemala. During your explorations of the surroundings, you can visit the Tayasal archaeological site near Carretara San Miguel, enjoy the view from the Mirador del Rey Canek viewpoint, or explore the caves of Cueva de la Serpiente.

Climate

A tropical savanna climate prevails in the areas around the city of Flores. There, temperatures range between 18°C and 32°C. Heavy downpours fall on the area between May and November. The dry season extends from February to April.

If you head west, toward Laguna del Tigre National Park, be aware that this part of the department also enjoys a warm and humid climate. Temperatures rarely drop below 18°C. The rainy period typically begins in July and ends in December. You'll have to wait from January to June for clearer weather. Despite seasonal variations, heat and humidity dominate this region.

Flores, the capital of Petén department, is served by the Mundo Maya International Airport. This airport receives flights from major cities across the country as well as from abroad.

If you're already in Guatemala, you can also opt for a bus. Just be aware that the journey from the country's capital takes about ten hours of driving.