Yaxhá

Yaxha is one of the largest archaeological sites in the Petén Basin region, located on the banks of the Yaxha lagoon. This ancient city is known for its impressive structures, including temples, plazas, and ball courts. The site provides a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur of the ancient Maya civilization while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding rainforest and lagoon.

Ancienne pyramide maya entourée d'une forêt luxuriante.
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    Yaxha is an ancient Maya archaeological site situated in the Petén region of northern Guatemala, near the village of El Remate. The site is nestled between two lagoons, Yaxha and Sacnab, within the Yaxha-Nakum-Naranjo National Park.

    • From Flores or El Remate: The most common route is by car or organized tour. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours from Flores or 45 minutes from El Remate via the CA-13 highway, followed by a well-marked turnoff to the park entrance.
    • Public Transport: Limited options exist, but shared minibuses (colectivos) occasionally run from Flores or El Remate to the park entrance. Hiring a private taxi is more reliable.

    Heures d'ouverture et billets

    • Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Last entry is typically at 3:00 PM.
    • Entrance Fees: Approximately 80 GTQ (about $10 USD) for foreign visitors. Discounts may apply for Guatemalan residents and students with valid ID. Tickets are purchased at the park entrance.

    Meilleur moment pour visiter

    The early morning or late afternoon offers cooler temperatures and softer light for photography. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. The dry season (November to April) is ideal for exploring, as trails are more accessible.

    Durée de la visite

    A thorough exploration of Yaxha takes 3–4 hours, including climbs to the main temples and leisurely walks around the lagoons. Shorter visits (1–2 hours) are possible if time is limited.

    Activités

    • Explore the ruins of over 500 structures, including the iconic Temple 216, which offers panoramic views of the lagoons and surrounding jungle.
    • Birdwatching and wildlife spotting, particularly around the lagoons, where howler monkeys and toucans are often seen.
    • Sunset views from the temples are a highlight, as the site is less crowded than Tikal.

    Installations

    • Restrooms: Basic facilities are available near the entrance.
    • Parking: A small parking area is provided for visitors.
    • Food & Drink: No cafes or shops on-site; bring water and snacks.
    • Accessibility: The terrain is uneven and involves steep climbs; not suitable for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.

    Ce qu'il faut apporter/vêtir

    • Sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots for uneven paths.
    • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and insect repellent.
    • Ample water, as the site has limited shade.
    • A camera for capturing the lush scenery and wildlife.

    Règles et règlements

    • Do not climb on restricted structures or remove any artifacts.
    • Respect wildlife and avoid feeding animals.
    • Drones may require special permission; check with park staff.

    Informations sur le contact

    For updates or inquiries, contact the Guatemalan Institute of Anthropology and History (IDAEH) or check local tourism offices in Flores or El Remate. An official website is not readily available.