Ceibal Day Tour from Flores
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Ceibal, the largest archaeological site in the southwestern Maya Lowlands, was once a center of power for the Mayan civilization. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site on a day trip with a professional guide. You’ll discover elaborate stelae that decorate the pyramids of three plazas in this remote spot, situated on the banks of the Passion River (Rio La Pasión). Your tour includes a box lunch and round-trip transport from Flores and Santa Elena Peten hotels, or Mundo Maya International Airport, plus a boat ride from Sayaxché to the site.
Available options
Santa Elena Peten
Tour departs from Santa Elena Peten hotels<br/>Pickup included
Mundo Maya Airport
Tour departs from Mundo Maya International Airport<br/>Pickup included
Ramada Hotel
Flores: Tour departs from Ramada hotel<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Lunch
Round-trip shared transfer
Professional English- and Spanish-speaking guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
After pickup from the airport or your hotel, you’ll be taken to Ceibal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s an approximate 1-hour drive from Flores to Sayaxché, where you will continue by boat for another hour on the Passion River. Once you disembark, follow your guide from the river to the archaeological site—about a 30-minute hike through the rainforest. Keep an eye out for birds and other wildlife that inhabit the river region as you walk.
2
Stop 2
Start your guided tour of Ceibal at the central plaza, the heart of the Mayan world. You’ll have several hours to explore the beautifully preserved temples and stelae in this magnificent Mayan city, whose name comes from the national ceiba tree—considered sacred to the ancient Maya.
Ceibal was inhabited during two main periods—the Late Preclassic (300 BC-250 AD) and Terminal Classic (830-950 AD)—until the site was completely abandoned. Known for exquisite Mayan art carvings, the excavated structures of Ceibal are located in dense forest on the banks of the Passion River. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, you’ll appreciate the intricate stelae that adorn the buildings, sculpted with the figures of animals and gods.
When you’ve completed your tour, you’ll have time to enjoy a complimentary lunch. Afterward, return to Sayaxché and onward, with drop-off at your hotel or the airport in the afternoon.
What's not included
Gratuities
Drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A minimum of 4 people per booking is required
If you are lodging at a hotel on the Island of Flores, please be requested to move to our meeting point (Hotel Ramada, Calle playa sur, Isla de Flores Peten) to be picked up for your excursion. Our tour guide or driver pick up you around 08:00 hours please be sure to be at that time at the indicated place
Important notes
Please, email us at reserve@graylineguatemala.com or call (502) 24410189 or (502) 54586888 at least 48 hours prior to the departure date of the tour to reconfirm date of travel, hotel, pickup time, and location for your tour. On the day of your tour, please present your printed voucher to the driver/guide upon pick up
About Petén
Petén is the largest department of Guatemala, known for its vast tropical forests, ancient Mayan ruins, and rich biodiversity. It is a paradise for archaeology enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventurers, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Tikal National Park
Tikal is one of the largest and most significant archaeological sites of the Mayan civilization. It is home to thousands of ancient structures, including temples, palaces, and plazas.
Historical/Nature
Full day
150 GTQ
El Mirador
El Mirador is an ancient Mayan city hidden deep in the rainforest. It is known for its massive pyramids and remote location.
Historical/Nature
Multi-day trek or helicopter tour
Varies depending on the tour
Lago de Petén Itzá
This large lake offers beautiful views, water activities, and a relaxing atmosphere. It is surrounded by lush vegetation and small islands.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to explore; tours vary in cost
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pepián
A rich and flavorful stew made with meat, vegetables, and a blend of spices and seeds.
Main Dish
Contains meat and gluten
Tamales
Corn dough filled with meats, vegetables, or cheese, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Snack
Can be vegetarian or vegan
Chiles Rellenos
Stuffed chili peppers filled with meat, cheese, or seafood, and then battered and fried.
Main Dish
Contains gluten and dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking in Tikal National Park
Jungle trekking to El Mirador
Kayaking on Lago de Petén Itzá
Boat tours on the lake
Sunset viewing at Parque Central
Coffee tasting at local cafés
Visiting Mayan ruins
Exploring local markets
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season, offering the best weather for exploring the ruins and enjoying outdoor activities. The skies are clear, and the temperatures are pleasant.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English, Mayan languages
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ)
Time Zone
CST (UTC -6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Petén is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Avoid displaying wealth or expensive items.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.
Getting there
By air
- Mundo Maya International Airport • 5 km from Flores
By bus
Flores Bus Terminal, Santa Elena Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are frequent and cover most areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: No widely used apps; taxis are hailed on the street
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Flores
Santa Elena
Day trips
Yaxha
80 km from Flores • Full day
Yaxha is an ancient Mayan city known for its well-preserved temples and stunning views of the surrounding jungle and lakes.
Uaxactun
25 km from Tikal • Half day to full day
Uaxactun is an ancient Mayan city known for its astronomical significance and well-preserved ruins.
Festivals
Festival de la Primavera • April
Semana Santa (Holy Week) • March or April (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a deeper understanding of the Mayan ruins and culture.
- Visit Tikal at sunrise to avoid crowds and enjoy the magical atmosphere.
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
- Carry insect repellent and protective clothing to avoid mosquito bites.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interaction with locals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
