In the heart of Petén, surrounded by the waters of Guatemala’s third-largest lake, lies a gem that shines with its own light: Isla de Flores. Recognized as one of the most picturesque towns in the world, this peninsula connected by an artificial causeway is much more than just a pretty face. It is the epicenter of adventure, history, and culture in the northern part of the country.
Founded by the Spanish as the “Isla de Los Remedios del Itzam” and renamed in 1830 in honor of independence leader Cirilo Flores Estrada, today it serves as the perfect starting point for exploring Mayan wonders and local secrets. Join us on this complete guide, inspired by the experiences of several travelers, to discover everything you can do in this unforgettable corner of Guatemala.
How to Get There and Where to Stay
The journey to Flores from Guatemala City is a trek of approximately 9 hours. Various bus companies offer the service, from budget-friendly options to more comfortable double-decker buses. Upon arrival at the station in Santa Elena, you’ll be just a stone’s throw from the island.
You will find hundreds of hotels with options for every budget. You can choose a hotel with a lake view directly on the island or, if you’re looking to save money, there are many more affordable alternatives in Santa Elena, just a few minutes away.
Unforgettable Experiences on the Island
Once you’re settled, the island invites you to explore it on foot.
- Wander Its Streets: Stroll through its cobblestone alleys and admire the vibrantly colored houses that make the island so “Instagrammable.” Locals joke that its alleys have two main uses: for taking spectacular photos or for stealing a kiss from someone special.
- Visit the Central Park: Head up to the small plaza in the center of the island. In addition to its beautiful church, this park has a special charm, as it has been the traditional “dating spot” for local youth for generations.
- Swim in the Lake: It’s practically a requirement! From any point on the promenade that surrounds the island, you can head down for a refreshing dip in the waters of Lake Petén Itzá.
- Experience the Nightlife: As the sun sets, the island transforms. People go out to dinner, the lights from the restaurants reflect on the water, and the nightlife begins in its bars and clubs.
Exploring the Lake: Boats, Kayaks, and a Legendary Horse
The lake is an attraction in itself. The most popular way to explore it is by lancha (small motorboat). A typical tour can take you to places like the “El Ceibo” rescued animal zoo or to the Mirador del Rey Canek for panoramic views.
If you prefer to adventure on your own, you can rent a kayak (approximately Q30 for an hour or Q100 for the whole day) and navigate at your own pace.
A short and fascinating excursion is to take a lancha to San Miguel, the town you can see just across from Flores (the crossing costs only a few quetzales). There, in addition to enjoying its beaches and restaurants with their own docks like Casa Lachi’s, you will find the “Caballo de Piedra” (Stone Horse). This sculpture honors the legend of Hernán Cortés’s horse, which the conquistador is said to have left in the area during his journey to Honduras.
The Essential Excursion: The Gateway to the Maya World, Tikal
You can’t talk about Petén without mentioning Tikal. Isla de Flores is known as the gateway to this world-class archaeological site. Just 64 km away, it’s a day trip you can’t miss. Most hotels and hostels on the island offer organized tours that include transportation, making the journey very accessible. Contemplating the Temple of the Grand Jaguar, climbing Temple V, and listening to the sounds of the jungle is an experience that perfectly complements your stay on the island.
The Sunset: The Daily Spectacle of Flores
If there’s one thing that defines the magic of Flores, it’s the sunset. Every afternoon, locals and tourists gather on the promenade to witness the sky being painted with incredible colors. For a superior experience, find a restaurant with a terrace facing the lake. Or, for a front-row seat with a drink in hand, a place like Sky Bar is considered by many to be the best spot to bid the day farewell.
Budgeting Your Trip
Transparency is important. Based on one traveler’s experience, a two-day trip can cost around Q1800 (about $230 USD), but this can vary greatly. Here is a breakdown to guide you:
- Transportation: Q500 (on a luxury bus; can be reduced to Q300 or less on more economical options).
- Hotel: Q600 (in a hotel with a lake view on the island; can be significantly reduced by staying in Santa Elena).
- Food: Q275 (this can go up or down depending on the restaurants you choose).
- Boat Tour: Q300.
- Entrance Fees and Shopping: Q125.
The key advice: You can enjoy Flores on any budget. Save on the bus and hotel, and spend on the experiences that appeal to you most.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, history, romance, or simply a place to relax with a spectacular view, Isla de Flores, Petén, has it all.