Lake Petén Itzá
Just an hour away from the legendary Mayan ruins of Tikal, Lake Petén Itzá sports its own host of Mayan attractions. Visitors come to the lake to see the 27 Mayan sites that dot the shore and also visit the lake’s small islands. The lake itself offers many opportunities for swimming and tranquil boating expeditions.
Make sure to visit Flores, an island in the southern end of the lake. This island town has colonial buildings and cobblestone streets, which were built by the Spanish. Outside of town, you can visit the Mayan ruins of Tayasal, an active archeological site that has reliefs and faded paintings on the walls of its crumbling monuments. This was the capital city of the Itzá culture.
El Remate is a small, idyllic town on the eastern end of Lake Petén Itzá. It has a good view of the lake, and is somewhat less populated than Flores (although it's becoming steadily more popular among visitors). While you’re in town, rent a canoe or a kayak and paddle away from the quiet shores to explore the lake. Before you leave, stop by the town’s artisanal shops to check out woodcarvings made by the locals.
Near El Remate, you can visit Biotopo Cerro Cahuí for an enriching hike through Guatemala’s wildlife. While you’re hiking through this bird-watcher’s paradise, you’ll have the chance to spot the pig-like tapir, among other rare Central American animals. There are two hiking trails, both of which offer flawless views of the lake. Biotopo Cerro Cahuí has its own beach on Lake Petén Itzá, which makes for the ideal spot to go for a swim.
Just south of the lake, make a trek around Ixpanpajul Nature Park. This park offers lots of different ways to see the forest, including canopy tours, zip-lining, and horseback riding. Hiking paths will bring you across long suspension bridges, overlooking dense treetops. The trees reverberate with the calls of rare, tropical birds. At the crest of the park’s Miramás Hill, you’ll arrive at a sweeping vista of Lake Petén Itzá.
Lake Petén Itzá itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Lake Petén Itzá itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
Heart of The Mayan World
I would warn them about the deceptive practices of Casa Azul though about the stocking and charges of the alcohol in the fridge. No warning at check in. No signage on fridge. Not locked. No tally sheet. No warning or heads up by Anywhere. I have never had to pay for alcohol before. ($92. U.S.) There was a store a few doors away. My only complaint about this hotel. I would stay there again. I just wouldn't be tricked twice.
Experiences in Lake Petén Itzá
Explore hand-picked Lake Petén Itzá tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Lake Peten Itza Zoo & Actun Kan Caverns - EX
Where to stay in Lake Petén Itzá
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Lake Petén Itzá accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Hotel Villa Maya
The hotel is set on a private nature reserve outside the town of Santa Elena and Lake Petén Itzá. The property is gorgeous (and set between two small lakes) and the accommodations here are well furnished.
Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel, Peten
Experience the richness of the jungle at this hotel. Located in the heart of Petén, this hotel is close to the Tikal, Uaxactún and Yaxhá ruins.
Casa Azul Guest House & Hotel
The hotel is located on the island of Flores in Petén. This resort has simple and clean rooms, some of which overlook Lake Petén Itzá.
Casona de La Isla
A hotel on the island town of Flores. This resort has a pleasant swimming pool and excellent views of Lake Petén Itzá.
Hotel del Patio
This hotel is located in the town of Santa Elena, which lies along the shores of Lake Petén Itzá. It has a tasty restaurant and rooms with modern amenities.
Hotel Petén
Is located in the town of Flores. The hotel has a central location and rooms with beautiful views of the Lake Petén Itzá.
Hotel Casona del Lago
Is located in the town Santa Elena. The hotel lies along the shores of Lake Petén Itzá and has clean, spacious rooms. It’s a short walk from Flores.
Bolontiku Boutique Hotel
This Boutique Hotel is a luxury resort where you can spend your days making the most of Lake Petén Itzá. While you’re staying here you can explore the lake with a kayak, a paddleboard, or a paddleboat.
Camino Real Tikal
The hotel is located 45 minutes from the Tikal National Park. Set along the shores of Lake Petén Itzá, it has comfortable rooms and a beautiful location.
Hotel La Lancha
This hotel is located in a forested area above Lake Petén Itzá. The resort is beautiful and comfortable, and has just ten rooms.
Hotel Tikal Inn
This hotel is one of a handful of hotels located within the Tikal National Park. The resort has big room, a swimming pool, and an unbeatable location.
Jungle Lodge Hotel
A stay at this hotel grants you proximity to the Tikal National Park, which draws visitors from all over the world. The national park is home to world-famous Mayan ruins and rainforest that protects several endangered species. The schedule for electricity in this hotel is the following: 5:30 - 08:00 13:00 - 15:00 17:00 - 22:30 It may be the possibility that there is no HOT WATER between this hours.
Insider-led Guatemala Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
