Things To Do
in Flores
Flores is a picturesque island town located in the heart of Guatemala, surrounded by Lake Petén Itzá. Its charming cobblestone streets are lined with colorful colonial buildings, creating a unique atmosphere for visitors to explore. The town serves as a gateway to the nearby Mayan ruins of Tikal, one of the most important archaeological sites in Central America.
Flores offers a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and activities for travelers to enjoy while experiencing the beauty of the region.
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day early with a guided tour of Tikal National Park. Marvel at the ancient Mayan ruins and lush rainforest.
Enjoy a picnic lunch among the ruins. Continue to explore more hidden temples and wildlife in the afternoon.
Return to Flores and enjoy a local dinner. Reflect on the stunning sights you experienced during the day.
Rent a kayak and paddle on Lake Petén Itzá to enjoy the serene waters. Stop at small islands for photos and exploration.
Lunch at a lakeside restaurant with fresh fish. Spend the afternoon swimming or lounging by the lake.
Watch the sunset over the lake for a beautiful view. Enjoy dinner with local cuisine in Flores town.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful scenery and landscapes, including natural lakes and lush greenery.
- Rich cultural heritage with a blend of Mayan and colonial influences.
- Vibrant local markets offering handmade crafts and fresh produce.
- Easy access to nearby attractions such as Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for relaxation.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger cities.
- Can experience heavy rains during the rainy season, which might disrupt travel plans.
- Higher tourist traffic can lead to crowded areas, especially near attractions.
- Language barrier for those who do not speak Spanish, as English is not widely spoken.
- Safety concerns, particularly in certain areas after dark.
Best Activities in Flores
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the ancient ruins of Tikal, one of the largest archaeological sites and urban centers of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization.
Embark on a hiking adventure through the stunning Candelaria Caves, known for their natural beauty and historical significance.
Enjoy a relaxing boat tour on Lake Petén Itzá, surrounded by lush forests and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Take a refreshing dip in the natural pools and waterfalls of Semuc Champey, a picturesque natural monument located amidst the rainforest.
Tours
Uncover the best of Flores with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Flores
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Flores, Lake Petén Itzá, and the surrounding jungle
Provides stunning views of the Flores and the surrounding landscape, especially at sunset
Scenic area with beautiful views of Lake Petén Itzá and the opportunity to capture shots of diverse bird species and wildlife
Food in Flores
Flores Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pepián is a hearty, flavorsome stew made with meat, vegetables, and a rich tomato and spice-infused sauce. It's often served with rice and is a must-try for anyone visiting Flores.
Must-Try!
Subanik is a traditional Mayan dish made with roasted tomatoes, peppers, and spices, often served with meat or fish. Its bold, smoky flavors make it a standout dish in the local cuisine.
Kak'ik is a red turkey soup with a blend of traditional Mayan and Spanish flavors, featuring a rich, spicy broth and tender turkey meat. It's a popular dish especially during festivals and special occasions.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Flores better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Mercado de Flores is a bustling market where you can find an array of fresh produce, local spices, and traditional ingredients. It's a great place to taste authentic street food and sample regional snacks like tamales, elotes, and tostadas.
Calle 30 is known for its vibrant street food scene, offering a variety of dishes such as chuchitos (steamed corn dough filled with meat or cheese), garnachas (fried tortillas with toppings), and tamales. It's a must-visit for those wanting to experience the local flavors and vibrant atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Flores, Guatemala, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, particularly when engaging in conversations or interactions.
Using polite language and greetings, such as 'Buenos días' (good morning), 'Buenas tardes' (good afternoon), and 'Buenas noches' (good evening), is a common cultural norm in Flores, Guatemala.
Being mindful of traditional customs, such as asking for permission before taking photographs of locals or when visiting sacred sites, is an important aspect of respectful behavior in Flores, Guatemala.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Flores with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Flores
Ensure a smooth experience
In Flores, Guatemala, tipping is not mandatory, but it is customary to leave a 10% tip at restaurants if the service was satisfactory. Tipping for other services, such as tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff, is also appreciated but not expected.
In Flores, Guatemala, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment, especially in smaller establishments. However, some hotels, restaurants, and tour operators may accept credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard. It's advisable to carry some cash for transactions in Flores.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Flores.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Flores, with warm and sunny weather. Perfect for exploring the ruins and enjoying outdoor activities.
Expect daily rain showers and lush green landscapes. May experience occasional flooding but also fewer tourists and lower prices.
Flores at Night
Hiking in Flores
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park featuring ancient Mayan ruins, surrounded by lush jungles and a variety of trails for hiking enthusiasts.
A stunning lake known for its vibrant colors, offering scenic hiking trails in the surrounding areas.
Home to archaeological sites and diverse ecosystems, this park features several hiking trails with beautiful vistas.
A popular viewpoint near Flores that can be accessed by a short hike, providing panoramic views of the surrounding lakes and hills.
A nature reserve with well-maintained trails, ideal for hiking while exploring the local flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Flores through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Flores by plane.
Located approximately 60 kilometers from Flores, this is the nearest international airport serving the region.
Situated in Guatemala City, about 400 kilometers from Flores, this is the largest international airport in Guatemala.
Located approximately 600 kilometers from Flores, this is one of the major international airports in Honduras, serving various international destinations.
Located in Managua, Nicaragua, approximately 700 kilometers from Flores, this is an important airport for international flights in Central America.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Flores, primarily composed of various Maya ethnic groups such as the Itza and other descendants.
People of mixed Indigenous and European descent, a significant population throughout Guatemala.
Individuals who have a mixed heritage but primarily identify more with European culture and language.
A group of Afro-Indigenous peoples primarily found along the Caribbean coasts, with some presence in Flores.
A smaller but notable community, primarily involved in commerce and trade in Guatemala.
Includes individuals from various European countries, residing in Guatemala for business or personal reasons.
The Soul of Flores
Discover the essence of Flores through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is by far the most popular sport in Flores, Guatemala, with many local teams and vibrant community support.
Basketball is gaining popularity, particularly among the youth, with several local courts available for play.
Volleyball is commonly played on beaches and in recreational areas, enjoyed by both men and women.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity, with many locals participating in mountain biking and road cycling.
Running events and marathons attract many participants and are a common way for communities to engage in sports.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Flores.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Guatemalan cuisine is meat-centric, several restaurants in Flores, such as Café Arqueológico Yaxha, offer delectable vegetarian and vegan options, including fresh salads, vegetable stews, and plant-based adaptations of local dishes.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find several dining establishments that cater to their needs. Many places offer corn-based tortillas and dishes that are naturally gluten-free. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements with the staff to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Flores with these cultural adventures.
