When visiting Guatemala, chances are high a visit to a Maya ruin are high on the list. For most travelers, this means that Tikal is part of the travel itinerary. However, Yaxha National Park is a key competitor. Once travelers hear about Yaxha after more extensive research on the top sights of Guatemala, it can be a tough choice. Or.. in some occassions it might not even be a choice between the two of them, but on whether to visit only 1 (generally Tikal) or both. Moreover, both sites offer rich history, stunning ruins and unique experience, however, both also have their own charm. With this travel guide I provide you with a detailed comparison to help you decide which Mayan ruin to visit and whether it is worth to visit both.
Spoiler: In my opinion, it is worth to visit both as they offer their own unique charms. Especially if you visit Yaxha for sunset, this will bring additional experiences. However, if you have only time to visit one, I would still go with the famous ruins of Tikal.
Tikal is known for its towering temples and the grand plaza, and therefore showcase the full reach of Maya civilization. Also, in general the temples are higher and larger than in Yaxha and therefore more impressive. Yaxha also offers multiple temples, however, not as many and majestic as Tikal. On the other hand, the views and nature in Yaxha I found more impressive, with for example beautiful views of the lagoon.
Both sites are rich in wildlife, but Tikal, as a higher chance of spotting a diverse range of animals due to its size. However, on the other hand, Yaxha is more suitable for a sunset tour and we found the jungle noises made by the howling monkeys very impressive.
Yaxha offers an unforgettable sunset experience. The sun sets over the lagoon, everyone is asked to remain silent, cretaing a peaceful atmosphere. In my opinion, the sunset is one of the highlights of any visit to Yaxha. While Tikal offers sunsets tours, this experience is less intimate and also less well known than the one in Yaxha. More tourists tend to visit Tikal for a sunrise tour, however, personally I’ve heard many stories this is not worth it due to the fog present on many days.
Tikal is probably one of the most iconic sites in the world, known for the ancient Maya history and its impressive and towering temples. This UNESCO World Heritage site can’t be missed during a visit to Guatemala. Unsurprisingly, Tikal is bustling with visitors and offers a more dynamic and touristic experience compared to Yaxha.
Yaxha almost feels like the little brother of Tikal, and is a tranquil site next to a lagoon located in a dense jungle. This lesser-known Mayan city offers therefore a more serene and unique experience. The temples and plazas are still wonderful, however, less expansive and high than in Tikal. On the other hand, the sunset in Yaxha is amazing.
Temple 216: This is the tallest structure in Yaxha and is the famous place to watch the sunset with stunning views over the lagoon.
The lagoon: As there is no lagoon in Tikal, I’ve experienced this as one of the highlights in Yaxha.
North Acropolis: This plaza showcases the impressive Mayan architecture, with 3 temples in a single plaza it was my favourite place in Yaxha.
Ballcourt: Even though it might not have been the most amazing structure, the story behind the games being played at the ballcourt being told by the guide were impressive.
If you want to visit both National Parks, the best place to stay is Flores or El Ramate. As many travelers stay in Flores, the distances mentioned are from Flores.
Tikal is located about 65 kilometers from Flores, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by car. Yaxha on the other hand is located about 30 kilometers from Flores, roughly 1.5 hours by car.
The entrance fee of Tikal is 150 GTQ for a day pass and 100 GTQ for a sunrise or sunset access. When visiting Yaxha, this will cost 80 QTC. Thereby, tours to Tikal are also slightly more expensive than to Tikal. Furthermore, Tikal opens at 6 AM and closes at 6 PM, whereas Yaxha is open between 8 AM and 5 PM (however, you can watch the sunset).
Most backpackers and travellers visiting Tikal stay in Flores, a charming island town that also offers a vibrant atmosphere. With its colourful streets and nice restaurants and bars, as well as a variety of accommodations, it’s the perfect spot to unwind before and after your Tikal adventure.
Casa Maya Itza (we stayed here!) for €40 a night. You cannot book this place far in advance.
Zapote Tree House Inn for a remote stay on the other side of the water (€40 a night)
Los Amigos Hostel for a social stay, bunk beds are available (€55 a night for a 2-person room)
Hotel Isla de Flores for a more luxurious stay, including a swimming pool! (€120 for a room)
If you only have 1 day in your Guatemala itinerary assigned to exploring from Flores, I would visit Tikal. Even though Yaxha is beautiful, there is something about visiting the largest Maya city and personally I found Tikal more impressive due to the larger temples and plazas.
If you have 2 days to explore from Flores, I would highly recommend visiting both Tikal and Yaxha. The differences between the two are evident, you will learn even more about the Mayan culture with the guide and in Yaxha you can stay for sunset which is an amazing experience.
