Flores, Guatemala, offers more than just a pretty lakeside setting. With its close proximity to some of the most famous Mayan ruins and vibrant archaeological sites, it’s a hub for travelers eager to enjoy history and natural beauty. What makes Flores particularly appealing is its variety of tours — whether you want a full-day adventure exploring Tikal, a boat ride to Yaxha, or a relaxing sunset walk, there’s an option for every traveler. We especially love the all-inclusive tours that combine expert guides, transportation, and local insights — they make exploring easy and enriching.
For example, the Tikal from Hotel Camino Real El Remate tour offers a comprehensive experience, including hiking along ancient trails with an expert guide, all while enjoying the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. Meanwhile, the Yaxha + Topoxte private tour combines boat rides, archaeological exploration, and a visit to the smallest structures with a very personalized touch. And for those seeking a more relaxed, scenic finale, the Yaxha at sunset tour promises a peaceful walk with stunning views. Each of these options reflects the best of what Flores’ surroundings have to offer, and they all include the practical perks of guided insights and transportation.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of the top tours, with insights into what makes them special, who they’re best suited for, and how they compare in terms of value.
1. Tikal from Hotel Camino Real El Remate – All Inclusive
At number 1 on our list is the Tikal from Hotel Camino Real El Remate tour, which gets rave reviews for its thoroughness and ease. For $115 per person, this 7-hour guided trip takes you directly from your hotel to the most iconic Mayan site in Guatemala. The tour departs daily, and the all-inclusive setup means you won’t have to worry about a thing — just show up ready for a full day of exploration.
What sets this tour apart is the expert guide who shares over 25 years of knowledge about Tikal and the region. You’ll hike along Mayan trails, discovering the ruins’ intricate carvings and towering pyramids, all while gaining insights that bring the site’s history to life. The itinerary includes a guided 4-hour tour of the ruins, a brief visit to the visitor center, and free time for photos and reflection. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off at two locations adds to the appeal, making it perfect for travelers seeking a hassle-free, in-depth experience.
This tour is ideal for history buffs and those who want a well-rounded day with expert guidance. The only potential downside is that the full-day commitment may be long for travelers with limited mobility, but the value for the price and the quality of the guide make it a top pick.
Bottom Line: For an all-inclusive, expertly guided visit to Tikal, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience without the hassle of planning your own transport.
2. From Flores: Yaxha + Topoxte All-Inclusive Private
Number 2 on our list is the Yaxha + Topoxte All-Inclusive Private tour, a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a personalized, flexible experience. Costing $460 for groups up to two people, this 8-hour private tour includes boat rides, archaeological exploration, and visits to two fascinating sites.
Yaxha was discovered in 1904 by Teobert Maler, and it’s notable as the site with the smallest structures, which gives it a different feel compared to Tikal. The tour begins with a pickup from seven different locations, including Flores Island, the airport, and local hotels, emphasizing how tailored this experience is. After a 1.5-hour bus ride, you’ll visit the visitor center, then hop on a speedboat to Topoxte, where a guided tour lasts about an hour. The boat ride adds a fun, scenic element that makes this trip stand out. Then, there’s a 3-hour guided walk through Yaxha Archaeological Site, exploring the ruins and learning about their significance.
The great advantage of this private tour is its flexibility and the opportunity to explore two sites in one day without feeling rushed. It’s best suited for travelers who want a personalized experience and are comfortable with slightly higher costs.
Bottom Line: If you’re traveling with a partner or a small group and want a tailored tour that combines archaeological sites with boat rides, this private Yaxha + Topoxte trip offers a memorable, customized day.
$460 per group up to 2
3. Yaxha at Sunset with Transportation, Guide plus Entrance
Rounding out our list, the Yaxha at Sunset tour is a more relaxed, scenic option priced at just $60 per person. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience the magic of Yaxha without a full day’s commitment. Departing daily from Flores or El Remate, this 7-hour tour focuses on the peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunset views.
The tour begins with a short van ride to Yaxha, where you’ll explore the site with a guided walk lasting about 3 hours. The highlight is undoubtedly the sunset, which offers a calm, almost contemplative moment to appreciate the ruins from a different perspective. During the walk, you might spot monkeys and other wildlife, adding a touch of nature to your archaeological visit. After sunset, the return trip takes around two hours, with convenient drop-off options.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace and want to combine exploration with relaxation. It’s particularly appealing for those interested in photography or simply wanting a memorable, quiet moment at a famous site.
Bottom Line: For a gentle, scenic experience that emphasizes sunset views and wildlife watching, this tour is a solid, budget-friendly choice.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a comprehensive, guided full-day trip with no planning fuss, the Tikal all-inclusive tour is hard to beat, especially given its expert guide and included meals. For those seeking a more private, personalized experience, the Yaxha + Topoxte private tour offers flexibility and a scenic boat ride, ideal for couples or small groups. If you’re after a relaxing, sunset-focused visit, the Yaxha at sunset tour offers a peaceful, budget-friendly way to experience the site.
Consider your budget, time, and interest in archaeological sites. For example, if your priority is to see Tikal with a knowledgeable guide, that all-day tour is your best bet. If you want to combine boat travel with a less crowded site, the private Yaxha + Topoxte tour is perfect. For a shorter, scenic experience, the sunset tour fits well.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid missing out.
Final Thoughts
Flores offers a rich selection of tours, each tailored to different interests and travel styles. For an in-depth exploration of Tikal, the all-inclusive tour provides excellent value with expert guides and convenient logistics. If a more private and flexible experience appeals, the Yaxha + Topoxte private tour offers personalized service and scenic boat rides. And if you’re looking for a relaxing sunset walk with wildlife, the Yaxha at sunset tour delivers memorable views at an affordable price.
No matter which tour you choose, booking ahead ensures you’ll secure a spot for a fascinating adventure in the heart of Guatemala’s Mayan world. Be sure to pick the experience that best matches your interests and energy level — each one promises a unique way to see these extraordinary archaeological sites.