Tikal

The Department of Petén covers almost one-third of Guatemala and is the least populated. Situated in the north, with an average altitude of just 130m, this area known as the lowlands is home to rainforests and ancient Mayan cities. The most well-known and impressive site is Tikal, at its height during the Classic period, with soaring temples concealed within the 576 km2 Tikal National Park, where birds and wildlife abound.  But there are many other, lesser-known sites to explore, away from the crowds. Within Lake Petén Itzá's 99 km2 lies the island city of Flores. Incredibly, the Itzá Maya who occupied this area held out against the Spanish conquistadors until 1697. A short causeway links Flores with the mainland and the Mundo Maya International Airport.