Things to do in Tikal

Templo IV, Tikal

Templo IV, Tikal is a pyramid temple within the ancient Mayan city of Tikal. Built around 741 AD, it is located in the dense forest approx. 300 m west of Temple 3. Because the wooden lintel of the temple at the top is carved with a double-headed serpent, it is also known as the "Temple of the Double-Headed Serpent." It was commissioned by the Tikal ruler Yik'in Chan K'awiil to showcase his achievements. Archaeologists speculate that his tomb may be hidden beneath the pyramid, though it has yet to be discovered. The temple stands approx. 70 m tall, making it a rare, towering structure in Tikal and the entire Mayan world. Visitors can climb to the top via the wooden stairs on the back of the temple. From the platform at the top, the spires of Temple 1, Temple 2, and Temple 3 emerge from the vast forest, offering a classic view of the ancient city. The jungle scenes of the Rebel base on the planet Yavin in the movie "Star Wars" were filmed here.

Tikal National Park

Tikal National Park is located deep in the rainforest of Peten, Guatemala, as the capital city of the Maya civilization at its peak, with pyramid tops piercing the canopy to form a unique skyline. The entire archaeological area consists of stone structures such as temples, plazas, and ball courts, with several limestone pyramids still preserving original altar structures and hieroglyphic stelae. In the morning mist, jungle trails lead to the core of the site, where howler monkeys and macaws can be heard. Climbing to the temple platform reveals buildings aligned along astronomical axes, reflecting the ancient Maya's deep understanding of the stars. The fusion of Maya wisdom and natural wonders creates a unique cultural landscape. This rainforest site holds the mysteries of ancient astronomical calendars while continuing the living memory of traditional crafts, offering modern travelers a dimension of exploration across time and space, making it a classic destination for both historical and ecological experiences in Central America.

The Great Jaguar Tikal

The Lost World

North Acropolis, Tikal

Temple II

Templo V

Palace of the Grooves

Templo VI

Museo “Sylvanus G. Morley”