The Island of Flores is the home of a small town in the Northeastern region of Guatemala with a population of 42,960 as of 2020. The city generally serves as the launching point for visiting the ancient city of Tikal. This small town is in the middle of Guatemala’s third largest lake, Lago (Lake) Petén Itzá. The island is connected to the city of Santa Elena via a short causeway.
Flores is the second oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the Americas, trailing behind only Cholula, Mexico. This city’s name, Flores, is a modern name, the Pre-Colombian name was Nojpetén (pronounced Noh-pay-tayn). The direct translation from the Itzá language of Nojpetén means “Great Island,” for the obvious reasons. Upon arrival, the Spanish began calling the city Tayasal, which is possibly derived from Ta Itzá or “Place of the Itzá.”
The island was home to the last independent Mayan state. The shores of Lake Petén Itzá served as the final standing ground against the Spanish conquerors. The Spanish were unable to defeat the Mayans of the island until 1697. The Spanish marched in and simultaneously attacked from boats and destroyed the town. The modern city as it is known today was raised from the ruins of Nojpetén.
Flores serves as a fantastic launching point for several expeditions to visit Mayan Ruins. The two best options are split between the most visited and the most secluded sites. The ancient pre-Colombian city of Tikal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site while the more secluded option is that of El Mirador.
Tikal is one of the most extensive sites that I’ve ever been to. In fact, it is so extensive that I’ll be posting an in-depth article about the magic of this place. Tikal is home to one of the largest pyramids in the world, Temple IV. There is staircase that leads above the trees, servicing incredible views of the other soaring pyramids consumed by the surrounding jungle. Temple IV was even used to film the departure of the Millenium Falcon in Star Wars Episode IV, which inspired the name.
El Mirador is supposed to be a magnificent archeological site. It is so secluded that it’s extremely difficult to get to. There are only two ways to visit either by helicopter or a five-day trek through the Guatemalan jungle. Unfortunately, this was an experience I had to skip out on this time around. The most affordable way to visit is via a five-day trek that costs $300 US. It’s expensive but supposed to be one the best excursions in Guatemala.
Guatemalans are notorious for speaking a clear and well pronounced Spanish, making it a fantastic place to learn the language. There are several options for Spanish schools within the area. With a little research, visitors can find the perfect program that fits each individual’s needs.
The island is small and doesn’t take long to explore. There are several options for restaurants and shopping, with plenty of stops for vegetarians, vegans, and meat eaters alike. The shops are full of items such as jade, souvenirs, handmade indigenous artisanal crafts, along with several shops that sell locally produced coffee and cacao.
Flores towers over the lake as the buildings hug the shoreline. The island is packed full of buildings and walkways that include a handful of one-way streets that serve the few cars and tuk-tuks that pass through the city. One of my favorite activities around Flores was taking a cheap boat ride around the lake to get incredible an view of the island, in what is called a lancha. These excursions generally cost 10 Quetzals which is roughly $1.30 US.
I spent three nights and four days in this beautiful place and fell in love instantly due to islands charm. I stayed in a hostel across from Flores proper. The view looked back at the island all lit up after a stunning sunset that looked just like a Bob Ross painting. During my time here, I took an early morning tour to visit and explore Tikal. I then took another two days to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of the lake.
I will be back to this picturesque island. I’d love to spend around a week and check out one or two of the smaller ruin sites along with taking the five-day trek to the ancient city of El Mirador. I love the laid-back island vibes found in Flores and would recommend this wonderful place to anyone visiting Guatemala.
