Tayazal Archaelogical Site
The Mayan ruins of Tayazal are set in the hillside above San Miguel, a town that borders Lake Petén Itzá. The ruins are small but offer spectacular views of the lake and Flores.
The Itzáes people, who came here after the Yucatán city of Chichén Itzá was destroyed, settled Tayazal. Tayazal was probably centered on the island town of Flores, but the ruins from the Itzáes are spread around the peninsula. Tayazal was one of the last Mayan capitals, holding out against the Spanish until 1697.
The ruins here date to the Classic period and are mostly overgrown with vegetation. A few stelae have been recovered, but many of the structures remain excavated. There is also a wonderful lookout, or mirador, on top of a temple mound. Set within the trees, this mirador provides excellent views of Flores and Lake Petén Itzá.
You can take a boat from Flores to the village of San Miguel. The Mayan site is about 1 mile (2 km) outside town.
Where to stay in Tayazal Archaelogical Site
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Tayazal Archaelogical Site accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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