Best things to do in Petén Department

Petén's Unmissable Maya Heritage

Petén serves as the heart of the Maya civilization, centered around the UNESCO-listed Tikal National Park where iconic structures like the Temple of the Great Jaguar and Temple of the Masks dominate the landscape. The region features the astronomical complexes of Uaxactun, the massive Preclassic foundations of Nakbe, and the river-based ruins of Piedras Negras and Cancuén. From the defensive fortifications of Aguateca to the island history of Nojpetén on Lake Petén Itzá, these sites offer a comprehensive look at Maya urban planning, intricate stelae, and historical trade routes.