Flores is a small colonial town on an island in Lake Petén Itzá, in the Petén region of Guatemala. Its cobblestone streets and brightly painted, traditional buildings give it a warm, compact character that is easy to explore on foot.
Most visitors come here as a base. Flores is the main starting point for trips to the ancient Maya ruins of Tikal, which lie to the north of the lake and are reached by road. Staying on the island means you can return each evening to the lakeside, where the town's pace is unhurried.
What to expect
- Architecture: colourful houses and traditional façades along narrow cobbled lanes.
- The lake: Lake Petén Itzá surrounds the town, and its shoreline makes a pleasant place for an evening walk.
- A base for Tikal: the ruins are the reason many travellers choose Flores, so plan your days around that excursion.
Who it suits
Flores works well for travellers who want a relaxed town with a calm atmosphere after a day of exploring archaeological sites. It is compact enough that you need no particular plan for a short stay, though a visit to the lake and a stroll through the old streets are simple pleasures in themselves.
The island is also known as Flores Island, and it is the place to head if you are looking for a colonial-style town close to the Maya heritage of the Petén.
