Tikal, in Guatemala’s Petén rainforest, was one of the greatest Maya cities of all — and it is only a long day’s journey from Yaxchilán. From Frontera Corozal, boats cross or run up the Usumacinta to Bethel or La Técnica on the Guatemalan side, and roads continue to Flores on Lake Petén Itzá, the base for Tikal.
This river crossing is the classic overland link between Mexico’s Maya sites and Guatemala’s. Shared shuttles from Palenque handle the whole journey, including the boat, in about a day.
Tikal (Guatemala): what to see and do
Take the shuttle from Palenque to Flores
The easiest way to cross: see the Palenque–Flores shuttle. Some operators can combine it with a stop at Yaxchilán — ask before booking.
Visit Tikal from Flores
Tikal is roughly an hour from Flores. Temples I and II face each other across the Great Plaza, and Temple IV rises above the forest canopy.
Tikal (Guatemala): how to get there
- Palenque → Frontera Corozal: about three hours by road.
- Frontera Corozal → Bethel / La Técnica: by lancha across the Usumacinta.
- Bethel / La Técnica → Flores: several hours by road.
Insider tips
- Immigration arrangements on both sides have changed over the years — confirm where to get your Mexican exit stamp and Guatemalan entry stamp before you travel.
- Carry both Mexican pesos and some US dollars or quetzales.
- Check current travel advice for the border area.
Tikal (Guatemala): the best tours
These top-rated experiences are the easiest way to get there:
Shuttle from US$75 Shuttle Palenque to Flores (Guatemala)
A shared shuttle from Palenque to Flores on Lake Petén Itzá, the gateway to Tikal — the practical way to continue into Guatemala after Yaxchilán. Check the current schedule and border requirements before you book.
- Palenque to Flores in one day
- Crosses the Usumacinta border region
- Base for visiting Tikal
Day trip from US$142 From Palenque: Bonampak & Yaxchilán
This version reverses the usual order: Bonampak first, then the boat ride down the Usumacinta to the lost city of Yaxchilán later in the day, when many day-trippers have already left.
- Bonampak’s murals in the morning
- About an hour on the Usumacinta to Yaxchilán
- Long day, unhurried visits
