- NOV - isla de flores. guatemala
Quito, Ecuador’s capital, sits high in the Andean foothills at an altitude of 2,850m. Constructed on the foundations of an ancient Incan city,
it’s known for its well-preserved colonial center, rich with 16th- and 17th-century churches and other structures blending European, Moorish and indigenous styles. These include the cathedral, in the Plaza Grande square, and ultra-ornate Compañia de Jesús Jesuit church.
- ATTRACTIONS
Due to the compact nature of Flores, it only takes around 15-20 minutes to walk the perimeter of the island. It’s worth a wander to see the colourful houses and hang out with locals in Parque Central.
A visit to Tikal is a must. This complex of Mayan ruins deep in the rainforests of northern Guatemala with more than 3,000 structures on the site.
El Miridor is one of the oldest Maya cities and has the biggest pyramid in the world. Before embarking in this trip be aware that it is no walk in the park; it is a 5 or 6 day hike with some days consisting of an 8 hour/30km trek through dense jungle.
- VOLUNTEER
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- DINNING
There are a myriad of bars and restaurants to try, most of which line the main road on the southern and western sides of the island.
However, most locals skip the restaurants and choose to eat at what is known as “Las Mesitas”, a row of food tents set up nightly next to the lake on the west side.
The tables sell Guatemalan burritos, enchiladas, tamales, tostadas, salads, juices, and desserts. You can get a full meal for less than $2.50 USD. They’re always crowded with locals, which pretty much guarantees that the food is tasty and safe.
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- flights
Mundo Maya International Airport, formerly Flores International Airport, is an international airport located in the suburb of Santa Elena, in the city of Flores, Guatemala.
It serves national and international air traffic for the areas of Flores, Santa Elena, and San Benito, as well as all the Maya sites like Tikal or Yaxhá and destinations like Guatemala City and Belize
- DRIVING
Since Flores is so small, the major form of transportation is called a tuk tuk or in Asian countries a rickshaw.
Guatemala is loaded with these little three wheel vehicles running around taking people from place to place. A Central America form of a taxi.
You will want to talk a bus to Tikal though.
- LODGING
Most travellers head straight to Los Amigos as soon as they make it to the island.
As the main backpacker hub, it has pretty much all the amenities you could want; internet access, book exchange and on-site bar/restaurant.
The best thing about this place? It has an open courtyard filled with trees, fountains and hammocks giving you the feeling that you’re hanging out in the jungle.