Exploring Ancient Tikal: Travel From Hopkins Belize

Belize and Guatemala are neighbouring countries in Central America. The only land border crossing between the two countries is at Melchor de Mencos, Guatemala, and Benque Viejo del Carmen, Belize. It is possible to travel between the two countries by boat, bus, shuttle, car, or plane.

If you are travelling from Hopkins, Belize, to Tikal, Guatemala, you can take a shuttle, bus, or plane.

Travel by air: Fly from Belize City to Flores, then travel by vehicle to Tikal

If you're looking to travel from Hopkins, Belize, to Tikal, Guatemala, one option is to travel by air. You can fly from Belize City to Flores and then travel by vehicle to Tikal. Here's a detailed guide on how to make this journey:

Step 1: Book Your Flight

First, you'll need to book your flight from Belize City to Flores. You can find flights on various online platforms, such as Expedia or TripAdvisor. Flights are available with airlines such as TAG Airlines, American Airlines, and Tropic Air. The price of flights can vary depending on the season and availability, but you can typically find one-way flights starting from around $200, and round-trip flights from around $400. It is recommended to book your flight in advance to secure the best prices and your preferred travel dates.

Step 2: Prepare for Your Flight

Once you've booked your flight, make sure you arrive at the airport in Belize City with plenty of time to spare. The airport, known as Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE), is located about 10 miles west of Belize City. Give yourself enough time to check in, go through security, and find your gate. It is always a good idea to check the latest travel advice and guidelines before your journey.

Step 3: Arrive in Flores

Upon arriving at Flores, you will land at Mundo Maya International Airport (FRS). This airport is located about 1 mile southeast of the city centre. From the airport, you can easily find transportation options to get to your accommodation or directly to Tikal.

Step 4: Travel to Tikal

The distance from Flores to Tikal is approximately 40 miles (65 km). The most convenient way to travel this distance is by arranging a private transfer or booking a tour that includes transportation. You can also rent a car and drive to Tikal yourself, but make sure you are comfortable with the local driving conditions and have the necessary documentation. Alternatively, there are bus and shuttle options available, although they may be less frequent and comfortable.

Step 5: Enjoy Tikal!

Tikal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous Mayan sites in Guatemala. It is known for its impressive temples, pyramids, and ancient ruins set amidst lush jungle. Make sure to explore the site, learn about its history, and admire the natural beauty that surrounds it. Don't forget to bring your passport, as you will be crossing an international border, and it is always recommended to have local currency for any purchases or incidental expenses.

Travel by bus: Take a bus to Flores, then find transport to Tikal

If you're looking for a more affordable option to get from Hopkins, Belize, to Tikal, Guatemala, taking a bus to Flores and then arranging further transport to Tikal is a viable option. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this journey:

Step 1: Hopkins to Flores by Bus

• There are no direct buses from Hopkins to Flores. You will need to take multiple buses or combine other forms of transportation.
• One option is to travel to Belize City, where you can find buses heading to Flores. This journey will likely involve changing buses or transportation methods multiple times.
• Alternatively, you can take a bus to the Belize-Guatemala border at Melchor de Mencos and then cross the border on foot. This border crossing is generally straightforward and well-trodden by travellers.
• From the border, you can take a taxi or another bus to Flores.

Step 2: Flores to Tikal

• Once you arrive in Flores, you'll need to arrange transportation to Tikal. There are a few options for this leg of the journey:
• Chicken Buses and Taxis: From Flores, you can take a "chicken bus" (a colourful, repurposed American school bus) or a taxi to Ixlu, the crossroads where you can connect to another bus heading north to El Remate or all the way to Tikal. However, the wait for these buses can be long and unpredictable as schedules are not published.
• Shuttle Services: Several shuttle companies offer direct services from Flores to Tikal, including S&L Travel Tours and Atlanta Tour Express Bus Service. These shuttles usually depart in the early morning, around 6:30 am or 7:00 am.
• Tour Companies: Consider booking a tour with a local company, such as Pacz Tours, that offers regular trips to Tikal from San Ignacio, Belize. This option takes care of transportation and border crossing logistics, so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

The bus journey from Hopkins to Flores and then on to Tikal is an affordable and adventurous way to travel between these two destinations. It allows you to experience the local transportation and interact with fellow travellers and locals along the way. However, it can also be time-consuming and less comfortable than other options, so make sure you're prepared for a lengthy journey.

Travel by car: Rent a car and drive to Tikal

If you want to make the journey from Hopkins, Belize to Tikal, Guatemala by car, you can rent a car from Crystal Auto Rental in Belize City. It's one of the only companies that allow you to take a rental vehicle into Guatemala, but be sure to inquire about insurance. The cost is around US$65 per day.

From Hopkins, you'll first need to drive to the border crossing at Melchor de Mencos. This journey will take around 4.5 hours. Once you arrive at the border, be prepared to present your passport, as well as pay the exit tax (US$15) and the PACT conservation fee (US$3.75).

After crossing the border, you can continue driving to Tikal. The drive from the border to Tikal is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

It's important to note that renting a car and driving yourself may not be the most convenient option. There are many tour companies that offer direct bus services from Belize City to Tikal, which can save you the hassle of navigating the border crossing and driving in a foreign country. Additionally, shuttle services and public transportation are also available for those who prefer a more budget-friendly option.

If you do decide to drive, be sure to research the driving laws and conditions in both Belize and Guatemala, and always prioritize safety on the roads.

Use a tour company: Book a tour to Tikal from Belize City

Booking a tour to Tikal from Belize City is a great option for those who want a hassle-free experience. Here's a detailed guide on what to expect and how to book:

Finding a Tour Company

Start by researching reputable tour companies that offer trips from Belize City to Tikal. You can search online or ask for recommendations from your hotel or hostel. Look for companies that have experience conducting these tours and have positive reviews from previous customers.

Booking the Tour

Once you've found a few potential tour companies, contact them to inquire about availability, pricing, and what's included in the tour. Most companies will require a reservation, so be sure to book in advance to secure your spot. You can usually book directly on their website or by contacting them via phone or email.

What to Expect on the Tour

A typical tour to Tikal from Belize City will include round-trip transportation, a professional guide, entrance fees, and assistance with border crossing. The journey to Tikal from Belize City takes around 12 hours, including travel time and time spent at the site.

Your day will likely start early, with a pickup from your accommodation in Belize City around 5:00 AM. You'll then embark on a scenic drive to the Guatemala border, which takes about 2 hours. The tour company will assist you with the border crossing to ensure a smooth transition.

From the border, it's another 1.5-hour drive to Tikal National Park. Once you arrive, you'll be guided through the ancient city, exploring iconic structures like Temple I (Temple of the Great Jaguar), Temple II, and the Central Acropolis. Your guide will provide insights into the history, culture, and significance of Tikal.

The tour also includes a lunch break where you can enjoy local Guatemalan cuisine. After a full day of exploration, you'll depart from Tikal and head back to Belize City, arriving around 6:00 PM.

What to Bring

For the tour, remember to bring your passport, comfortable clothing and walking shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent, and any personal items like medications. You may also want to bring some cash for souvenirs and tips.

Pricing and Capacity

The price per adult for a full-day tour from Belize City to Tikal is typically around $265 USD. These tours usually have a minimum requirement of 2 guests and can accommodate groups of various sizes.

Customer Reviews

Be sure to read customer reviews before booking your tour. Many people who have taken similar tours rave about the knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking views, and the convenience of having transportation and border crossing assistance taken care of.

Tour Company Recommendations

• S&L Travel Tours: Located on N. Front St. in Belize City, they offer direct service to Tikal and Flores.
• Atlanta Tour Express Bus Service: You can find them inside the San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi Terminal in Belize City. They provide direct service to Tikal and Flores via Guatemalan Línea Dorada buses.

Using a tour company to visit Tikal from Belize City offers convenience, expertise, and a well-organized experience. With their guidance, you can focus on immersing yourself in the ancient Maya world and creating unforgettable memories.

Border crossing: The only land border crossing between Guatemala and Belize is called Melchor de Mencos

Border crossing: Melchor de Mencos

The only land border crossing between Guatemala and Belize is called Melchor de Mencos. It is a straightforward and relatively easy process to cross the border here, and it can be done by shuttle or public transport. The town of Melchor de Mencos is a rapidly growing municipality in Guatemala, with a population of 35,000 in 2020. It has numerous bars, a sprawling market, and many shops and restaurants.

The Belize customs and immigration offices are about 200 yards from a bridge that crosses the Mopan River into Melchor de Mencos. Between the border outpost and the bridge is a "no man's land" area of about 5 acres, which is Guatemalan territory. This area is popular with locals who cross over to buy cheaper beer.

There are several options for getting to the border. You can take a bus to the border from Flores, which takes around 2 hours. From the Guatemalan side, there are regular microbuses from Melchor de Mencos to Santa Elena, which cost Q30. From the Belize side, there are taxis from the border to Benque Viejo Del Carmen, about 3km away, and then buses from Benque to San Ignacio.

When crossing the border, you will need to pay an exit fee of BZ$37.50 when departing Belize. There may also be an unofficial Q20 entrance/exit fee charged by Guatemalan immigration officials, but this is illegal, and asking for a receipt will usually resolve the issue. It is recommended that you have at least six months' validity left on your passport and a couple of blank pages. You may also need to provide proof of funds, intended address, and onward travel plans.

It is wise to exchange your Guatemalan Quetzales before entering Belize, as it will be harder to do so and the rates may be worse. There are money exchangers outside both the Belize and Guatemalan immigration centres.

Frequently asked questions