Tikal Day Trip with Local Lunch from San Ignacio

San Ignacio , Belize

Tikal Day Trip with Local Lunch from San Ignacio

Active

(287 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take a day trip from San Ignacio to the Mayan ruins of Tikal, located in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tikal National Park (Parque Nacional Tikal). A professional guide leads you on a tour of the famous archeological site, once inhabited by the pre-Columbian Mayan civilization. Step foot in the heart of the jungle and experience Guatemalan history, culture, and nature all in one day! Round-trip hotel transport, crossing the border from Belize, is included.

Available options

Tikal Private Tour

Private Tour<br/>Duration: 9 hours<br/>lunch & Drink: local Lunch, water, sodas<br/>air-condition: SUV, Vans, BUS<br/>Pickup included

Tikal Day Trip with Local Lunch from San Ignacio

Pickup included

What's included

Local guide

Hotel pickup and drop-off within San Ignacio town limits

Lunch

What you'll see

Grab your passport, and meet your local guide upon pickup from your San Ignacio hotel in the morning. Your tour begins with an approximate 1.5-hour drive to Tikal National Park, located in Guatemala. Aboard your comfortable coach you'll cross over the border hassle-free.

The ruins of more than 3,000 palaces, temples, ceremonial platforms, ball courts, and plazas dot this UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as a religious, social, and political hub for the Mayan people. Throughout your visit, your guide shares historical background on the ancient kingdom. Head to Complex Q and R, where you'll see twin pyramids with altars set in front of the temples.

Visit the Central Acropolis, a maze of courtyards and smaller temples. Gaze in awe at the Great Plaza, and see the Temple of the Grand Jaguar, which was built to honor and bury King Moon Double Comb. Here, three rooms are located inside the 144-foot (44-meter) temple. Take in the sight of Temple IV (the Double Head Serpent), Tikal’s tallest structure at 212 feet (64 meters) high. The intriguing Temple II, commonly known as the Temple of the Masks, also sits in this part of the park near the Great Plaza.

Enjoy a delicious lunch in Tikal National Park before you explore the ruins on your own. Afterward, your guide transports you back to Belize with drop-off at your hotel in San Ignacio.

What's not included

Gratuities

Departure tax fee (US$ 20 per person, due on day of travel)

Hotel pick-up and drop-off outside San Ignacio town limits

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

185 reviews

5★

163

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

102 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

It is recommended you wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes

A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

Note: departure tax fee is due on day of travel in cash

Please note: a minimum of 2 passengers is required in order for this tour to operate. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund

Hotel pick up and drop off included in pricing is for hotels within San Ignacio town limits. For hotels outside of San Ignacio a surcharge applies

Meeting point

Unit 2 Inside The Belize Caving Expeditios Office

Important notes

• Please note: a minimum of 2 passengers is required in order for this tour to operate. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
• Please remember to bring US$ 19 per person for the departure tax fee on the day of travel

About San Ignacio

San Ignacio is a vibrant town nestled in the Cayo District of Belize, known for its rich Maya heritage, lush jungles, and proximity to incredible natural wonders. It's a hub for adventure travel and cultural exploration, offering a mix of outdoor activities and historical sites.

Top Attractions

Cahal Pech Village Resort

A beautifully restored Maya site in the heart of San Ignacio, offering a glimpse into ancient Maya civilization.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (entry fee around $10 USD)

ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal)

A challenging but rewarding cave system with ancient Maya artifacts and human remains.

Adventure Full day Expensive (tours around $150-200 USD)

Green Hills Butterfly Ranch

A sanctuary for butterflies and other wildlife, offering a peaceful and educational experience.

Nature 1-2 hours Budget (entry fee around $5-10 USD)

Big Rock Falls

A stunning waterfall in the Mountain Pine Ridge area, perfect for swimming and picnicking.

Nature Half day to full day Free

San Ignacio Market

A bustling market offering local produce, crafts, and street food.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to browse, budget for purchases

Must-Try Local Dishes

Stewed Chicken

Chicken cooked in a rich, spicy sauce with tomatoes, onions, and peppers.

Main dish Contains meat

Tamales

Corn dough filled with meat or vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Rice and Beans

A staple dish of red beans and rice, often served with fried plantains.

Side dish Vegetarian

Garnaches

Small fried tortillas topped with refried beans, onions, and pickled onions.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Caving Hiking Zip-lining Birdwatching Nature walks Spa treatments Visiting Maya sites Local markets

Best Time to Visit

November to April

The dry season offers the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Days are warm and sunny, with cooler evenings.

20-28°C 68-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Maya languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Belize Dollar (BZD)

Time Zone

GMT-6

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

San Ignacio is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas

Getting there

By air

Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport • 120 km (75 miles)
Maya International Airport • 25 km (15 miles)

By bus

San Ignacio Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are affordable and frequent. They are a good way to get around town and to nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown San Ignacio Bull Falls Area San Jose Succotz

Day trips

Caracol

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

One of the largest Maya sites in Belize, featuring impressive ruins and a rich history.

Mountain Pine Ridge

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

A scenic area with waterfalls, hiking trails, and lush forests.

Xunantunich

13 km (8 miles) • Half day

A well-preserved Maya site with a towering pyramid and beautiful views.

Festivals

Battle of San Jose Succotz • September 10 Cayo Cultural Festival • Annual, dates vary

Pro tips

Hire a local guide for a more authentic and informative experience.
Visit the ATM Cave for a unique and adventurous experience, but be prepared for a challenging hike.
Try local specialties like stewed chicken, tamales, and coconut candy.
Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and crafts.
Be prepared for both hot and rainy weather, especially during the wet season.