3 Day Trek from El Zotz to Tikal

E
Etnica
  • Email address verified
25 reviews
Duration: 3 days
Group size: 1 - 4
3 Day Trek from El Zotz to Tikal
Guatemala

Etnica
  • Email address verified
25 reviews

Duration: 3 days
Group size: 1 - 4

About this trip

Attention all adventure seekers! Get ready for the ultimate 3-day, 2-night journey into the heart of the Guatemalan jungle! This epic tour offers the perfect blend of nature, culture, archaeology, and adrenaline. As you embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, prepare to tread the ancient Maya trails and immerse yourself in the symphony of sounds from the jungle's diverse wildlife. Listen to the calls of colorful birds, the chatter of playful monkeys, the rustling of elegant deer, and if you're lucky, the roar of majestic jaguars and tapirs! The Maya Trek covers a distance of approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) and takes you through some of Guatemala's most stunning natural landscapes. You will be hiking from 6 to 7 hours per day in dense forests surrounded by temples and structures hidden in the lush vegetation. This unforgettable expedition culminates with your arrival in Tikal by foot – a rare and incredible feat that few travelers get to experience! Explore the magnificent ruins of this ancient city and witness the splendor of the Maya civilization. Don't miss out on this incredible adventure – book your Maya Trek today and experience the ultimate journey into the heart of the jungle!

This experience begins from Flores island in Peten. If you require assistance with local flights, accommodation and visiting other sites please let us know before booking.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Trek to El Peñón bat caves

You'll depart from Flores Island and will meet your expert guides before beginning your journey to the Cruce Dos Aguadas. From there, you'll start hiking to San Miguel La Palotada-El Zotz Protected Area, this will be your first taste of Guatemalan wilderness and outdoors. As the sun sets, you’ll venture to a cave where you'll witness the spectacular sight of thousands of bats of over 39 different species, soaring through the dark skies in search of their prey. It's a sight that will leave you in awe . Afterward, you’ll continue your trek to base camp, where you'll enjoy a delicious, freshly made outdoor dinner surrounded by the wild beauty of the jungle. As you dine, listen to the sounds of nature and take in the stunning scenery of the protected area.

Day 2 - El Zotz Exploration

After fueling up with a hearty camp breakfast, you'll journey deep into the lush jungle for a visit to the incredible El Zotz archaeological site. Your destination? The breathtaking "Devil's Hill," where the tomb of the legendary ruler P.A. Chan awaits. This uncharted temple is a true marvel of the Maya civilization, shrouded in mystery and surrounded by the vibrant jungle. As you explore this incredible site, you'll be transported back in time to a world of ancient wonders and forgotten secrets. And after enjoying a delicious lunch, you'll continue your journey to the next base camp at El Yesal, nestled on the border of the San Miguel la Palotada Nature Reserve and the iconic Tikal National Park. Here, you'll be surrounded by the enchanting sounds of howler monkeys and exotic birds, providing the perfect backdrop for an evening under the stars!

Day 3 - Arrival at Majestic Tikal

Get ready to be mesmerized as you continue your trek towards the magnificent Maya city of Tikal! The jungle pathways become narrower, and the sounds of the exotic wildlife will surround you. Keep an eye out for jaguars and tapirs as you follow the impressive Maya trails. You'll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the tallest temple in the site, Temple 4. Tikal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for both its cultural and natural significance, and you'll have the opportunity to explore its massive ancient city, climb its emblematic temples, and appreciate the local fauna. After a delicious lunch inside the park, it's time to head back to your hotel and unwind from this incredible adventure.

What's Included

  • Round trip transportation from Flores to hike starting point and finish.
  • All park entrance fees.
  • Specialized local Spanish-speaking community guide.
  • Local, experienced and bilingual guide is available at an extra cost.
  • Porters and horses will carry luggage and camping gear.
  • First aid kit.
  • Filtered, clean and fresh drinking water. 
  • 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners.
  • Sleeping bags, sleeping pads and comfortable tents for camping in humid climate. 

What to bring

  • Hiking boots or trekking shoes
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Electrolytes and snacks 
  • Large capacity backpack with rain cover (25L+)
  • One war layer and /or windbreaker
  • Rain jacket
  • Flashlight / head torch with extra batteries
  • Personal toiletries and / or medications
  • Camera, hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
  • Binoculars and field guide
  • Comfortable, light-colored and breathable clothes 
  • Cash for personal expenses and tipping

Booking & Cancellation Policy

BOOKING AGREEMENT

A booking is only effective and confirmed once a deposit has been paid by the customer/traveler. Once we collect your deposit or initial payment, we will proceed to confirm all offered services with our local partners and suppliers. 

We will only make room blocks and proceed to reserving hotels once we collect a deposit or full installment payment guaranteeing booking. All hotels mentioned in trip proposals are subject to dates and availability. If by any chance we are in the need to change hotels, we will notify you in advance and will choose an accommodation option that is the same category and pricing. 

Be advised we do not operate overnight transfers or do long transfers during nighttime. 

High risk activities such as active volcano hikes, paragliding, and other active adventures may require you to sign a liability waiver. If this is not signed we cannot be responsible for your participation in such activities and it will be your responsibility to book them.

Once we confirm your booking with the deposit or installment payment, we proceed to securing all offered services. All payment installments must be completed 15 days prior to your arrival date in Guatemala or Mexico. 10 days prior to your arrival we will share your detailed travel program and pre-departure recommendations. 

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Each traveler / customer is responsible for acquiring a valid travel insurance that will provide coverage during their time traveling. We are not responsible for international travel delays, missing luggage or cancellations. 

ENTRY TO GUATEMALA AND MEXICO

Check the validity of your personal travel documents and if you require a visa for visiting Guatemala or Mexico. If this is the case, each traveler/customer is responsible for acquiring a valid travel visa before booking a trip and payment. We do not provide invitation letters or any documentation for such procedures. 

Guatemalan or Mexican authorities may require upon entry:

-a copy of your itinerary (printed or digital)

-the trip payment receipt (itinerary or digital). 

CANCELLATIONS AND MODIFICATIONS

In order to cancel a package for which you have made a booking, please email us at hello@lokaltravel.com stating your order reference and “Cancellation” in the title of the email. You may telephone us to discuss your desire to cancel the package but cancellation will only be effective when we have received from the person who purchased the package a written confirmation of his or her decision to cancel the package. An email to us stating that you desire to cancel a package is an irrevocable notice and you cannot subsequently change your mind even if we have not yet acknowledged the cancellation in writing.

If you cancel your tour:

We will apply the airline’s cancellation policy to any flights in your package and reimburse your ground arrangements in accordance with the penalty timeline

For cancellation of ground-only arrangements:

(a) 90 days or more prior to the stated departure date, we will retain an administrative fee of $100 per traveler and reimburse the remaining amount;

(b) Between 30 and 89 days prior to the stated departure date, we will retain 50% of the total booking cost and reimburse the remaining amount;

(c) Less than 30 days prior to departure, we will retain 100% of the price paid by you for the package.

If you leave a trip for any reason after it has started, we are not obliged to make any refunds for unused services.

We may cancel a package at any time prior to departure by giving you notice by email, letter or (if very close to departure) by telephoning you, if, due to terrorism, natural disasters, political instability or other external events it is not viable or safe for our local partner to operate the planned itinerary. If we cancel a package prior to departure, in your sole and absolute discretion you may choose between (i) us applying the amounts paid towards an alternative trip, or (ii) receiving a full refund. We are not responsible for any incidental expenses that you may have incurred as a result of your booking such as visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights.

AMENDMENTS TO BOOKED PACKAGES

If you wish to change the date, route, services or itinerary there is a fee of

(a) $100 per traveler if done at least 90 days prior to the scheduled date of departure, subject to availability; and

(b) $300 per traveler if done between 30 and 89 days prior to the scheduled date of departure, subject to availability.

If you wish to change the name of one or several travelers of the trip, there is a fee of $100 per passenger if done at least 90 days prior to the scheduled date of departure. No name changes. are permitted within 89 days prior to the scheduled date of departure. No amendments are permitted to your booking within 29 days of departure. 

If changes are necessary while you are traveling they will be assessed by us and our suppliers beforehand and communicated to the customer. 

ALL CUSTOMERS ARE REQUIRED TO AGREE WITH THESE POLICIES UPON BOOKING. 

Available Packages

Solo traveler**
Available until 7 days before departure

Includes:

-Round trip transportation from Flores to hike starting point and finish.

-All park entrance fees.

-Specialized local Spanish-speaking community guide*.

-Porters and horses will carry luggage and camping gear.

-First aid kit.

-Filtered, clean and fresh drinking water. 

-3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners.

-Sleeping bags, sleeping pads and comfortable tents for camping in humid climate. 

**This is a private experience. 

*Local, experienced and English-speaking guide is available at an extra cost.

$875
Price per person - 2 travelers**
Available until 3 days before departure

Includes:

-Round trip transportation from Flores to hike starting point and finish.

-All park entrance fees.

-Specialized local Spanish-speaking community guide*.

-Porters and horses will carry luggage and camping gear.

-First aid kit.

-Filtered, clean and fresh drinking water. 

-3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners.

-Sleeping bags, sleeping pads and comfortable tents for camping in humid climate. 

**This is a private experience. 

*Local, experienced and English-speaking guide is available at an extra cost.

$570
Price per person - 3 travelers**
Available until 3 days before departure

Includes:

-Round trip transportation from Flores to hike starting point and finish.

-All park entrance fees.

-Specialized local Spanish-speaking community guide*.

-Porters and horses will carry luggage and camping gear.

-First aid kit.

-Filtered, clean and fresh drinking water. 

-3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners.

-Sleeping bags, sleeping pads and comfortable tents for camping in humid climate. 

**This is a private experience. 

*Local, experienced and English-speaking guide is available at an extra cost.

$550
Price per person - 4 travelers**
Available until 3 days before departure

Includes:

-Round trip transportation from Flores to hike starting point and finish.

-All park entrance fees.

-Specialized local Spanish-speaking community guide*.

-Porters and horses will carry luggage and camping gear.

-First aid kit.

-Filtered, clean and fresh drinking water. 

-3 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners.

-Sleeping bags, sleeping pads and comfortable tents for camping in humid climate. 

**This is a private experience. 

*Local, experienced and English-speaking guide is available at an extra cost.

$485

Available options

Local specialized English-speaking guide
$160

Have a specialized, local and experienced English-speaking guide join you in your adventure for interpretation purposes and extra insight.



Your Organizer


E
Etnica
25 reviews
At Etnica we invite you to discover culture by experiencing it and encourage you to interact with local communities and learn about the traditions and cultural heritage that make them unique while you discover Guatemala and southern Mexico. We design tailor-made experiences, tours and workshops with local operators and families in their beautiful surroundings. If you are a hands-on travel enthusiast; we welcome you to learn from the best and participate in real and authentic cultural encounters.

Reviews

BP
This was a wonderful cooking class! The guide was very knowledgeable and cooking instructor was excellent. I learned several new cooking techniques and the food was delicious.
By Beth P for Local Cooking Class - Beth Payne on Nov 15, 2024
We had an incredible visit to Guatemala thanks to Etnica Travel! We got to pick our basic itinerary and activities including transfers and Pablo and his team did the rest. We set up activities like weaving, hikes, visiting a midwife/healers collective, bird watching, visiting Antigua, San Juan de Laguna, and Santa Catarina Polopo around Lake Atitlan. The local guides, Benjamin and Sophie, were wonderful people and incredibly knowledgeable. It was a joy spending time with them. The activities were all with local people who welcomed us warmly into their gardens, homes, and villages and we felt so fortunate to meet them and learn about their culture, history, and ways of life. Etnica also gave us great recommendations for other things to do all over Guatemala. The app was also amazing, and every driver was also incredibly prompt and drove very safe getting us to our destinations. We could not have had such an intimate and incredible experience getting to know the people of Guatemala without Etnica Travel. We had a last minute flight change but Pablo rearranged everything to make it all work. I’m very glad our tourist dollars went directly to local Guatemalans. My highest recommendations and we will definitely be booking more trips with them when we return! Thank you so much for an incredible trip!
By Jay P for Immersive Cultural Experiences in the Guatemalan Highlands - Jay Patel on Jun 28, 2024
This was an unforgettable holiday, and your hard work made it seem effortless. Huge thanks to all the drivers and guides who took us around your beautiful country. We loved all the marvellous hotels that were charming, well-run and safe. We managed to get a glimpse of how wonderful Guatemala was, and it was just stunning. I loved every moment and every place we went to. And your drivers and guides were timely, thoughtful, helpful and knowledgeable. Due to travel sickness, I often had to sit near the front, and all the drivers were kindly and helpful. The guides were intuitive, easy to talk to and full of great facts. All the hotels were terrific, although I think we would have preferred staying at Hotel Atitlan when we were at the lake. Thank you so much for helping us all discover some of the great charms of Guatemala in only 8 days!
By Rachel E for Essential Guatemala: 8 Days of Must-See Highlights on Mar 26, 2024
The trip was a truly awesome opportunity to witness the culture and natural beauty of Guatemala. The arrangements and guides provided experiences we would not have had if we ventured alone.
By Katherine S for Essential Guatemala: 8 Days of Must-See Highlights on Mar 18, 2024
Dear Katherine, we appreciate you sharing your experience exploring Guatemala with us! ¡Muchas gracias!
By Etnica on Mar 19, 2024
E
ME
We had a wonderful trip. Merida and its surroundings is a wonderful place, but the highlight of the trip was Pablo and Etnica travel. He did not leave a single detail out and the places he chose for us were incredible.
By MARIA EUGENIA DE S for Explorando Yucatán - Viaje de amigas en Mérida! on Feb 07, 2024
Dear Cuqui, we appreciate your wonderful comments and that you're taking the time to share details about your experience in Merida. We loved showing you around and Pablo's really enjoying the wonderful gift you brought from Guate! Muchas gracias! Come back and visit whenever you can!
By Etnica on Feb 07, 2024
E
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References

I had a truly incredible experience in Guatemala - and I have Pablo and the Etnica team to thank for it! Pablo worked closely with me to design a custom trip for my friend and me, taking into consideration our logistical preferences, interests, time window, and budget. As the primary planner for my friend's and my trip, I was in frequent communication with Pablo, and I was impressed by his expertise, professionalism, warmth, and dedication. It is clear that he is passionate about what he does, and wants his travelers to experience the best of what Guatemala has to offer! During our trip itself, everything was smooth, efficient, and executed perfectly, from airport transfers / transportation, food and cultural recommendations, and comfortable, conveniently-located accommodations. All of our guides were incredibly friendly, treating us like friends rather than "tourists"; in fact, I felt that my interactions with the locals were perhaps the best part of this whole experience. At the end of the trip, I remained in Guatemala solo, while my friend returned to the states. During this time, I continued to take tours and explore Guatemala per Pablo's recommendations, and I felt safe, met incredible people, and gained a huge appreciation for the culture and people. I will recommend Etnica to my friends and family with great enthusiasm, and I can't wait to return! Thank you for everything, Pablo! -Kim from NYC
By Kim T on 21 Apr, 2023
I traveled as a teacher with students and can say with full sincerity that our tour guide, Pablo, exceeded every expectation I had for the trip! Not only did my students see beautiful tourist attractions and learn about the history of those places, but the best was them having multiple opportunities to meet and spend time getting to know people and their different ways of life all across the country. Having chaperoned educational tours with various companies, I can easily say that this one facilitated the best cultural learning and human connections for myself and my students. Many thanks, Etnica, for the experience and the memories!
By Emily H on 31 Aug, 2022