Uaxactún - The Place That Marks Time

Q: What is Uaxactún most famous for?

Uaxactún is most famous for its Astronomical Group E, which is one of the oldest and best-preserved Maya astronomical observatories. It was used to track the solstices and equinoxes, marking it as the place where the Maya "marked the time."

Q: How long do we spend at the archaeological site?

The guided walking tour of the site typically lasts about 3 hours, allowing ample time to explore the main complexes and the astronomical observatory.

Q: Is Uaxactún located inside Tikal National Park?

It's located within the broader Maya Biosphere Reserve, about 23 km (14 miles) north of the Tikal ruins. You must pass through Tikal National Park's entrance to reach Uaxactún.

Q: What should I wear and bring for the trip?

Wear lightweight clothing and comfortable walking shoes suitable for jungle trails. You should bring insect repellent, a hat, sunscreen, and cash (Quetzales or USD) for tips or souvenirs.

Transportation
Private Vehicle (A/C)
Departure from
Flores/Santa Elena/Local Hotels
Guide
Both English & Spanish
Lunch
Included
Tour type
History, Archaeology, Sightseeing
Fitness level
Easy to Moderate
Best season
Year-round

Overview

Itinerary

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FAQs

Map

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Uaxactún: The Astronomical Center of the Maya Jungle

Explore Uaxactún, a less-crowded archaeological gem famous for being the cradle of Maya astronomy and one of the few places with a perfectly preserved Astronomical Observatory. This full-day tour deeply immerses you in Pre-Hispanic history and offers an authentic community experience, allowing you to interact with the local people who protect the site. Discover pyramids that mark the solstices and equinoxes, enjoy the pristine jungle of Petén, and savor local cuisine before returning to your hotel.

Highlights

Archaeological Exploration: Visit the impressive Astronomical Observatory (Group E), which is key to understanding the Maya calendar.
Community Experience: Enjoy an authentic lunch at a community-run restaurant, directly supporting the Uaxactún forest commun
Jungle Adventure: Travel through the heart of the Maya Biosphere Reserve, located just 23 km north of Tikal.
Full-Day Tour: Convenient pickup and drop-off service from hotels in Flores, Santa Elena, or El Remate for a complete day immersion.

07:30 AM :

Tour Start and Pickup

We will pick you up promptly at Mundo Maya Airport (FRS), or your hotel in Flores, Santa Elena, or El Remate. You will board our private air-conditioned transport toward the heart of the Maya Biosphere Reserve.

09:20 AM :

Arrival and Checkpoint

Arrival at the Uaxactún forest community. We begin the walking tour of the Archaeological Site, famous for its impressive Astronomical Observatory (Group E), a key location where the Maya charted the movement of time.

10:00 AM :

Arrival at Uaxactún and Tour Begins

01:00 PM :

End of Archaeological Tour and Lunch

We conclude the exploration of the main structures and head to a community restaurant within Uaxactún to enjoy a delicious typical lunch with local flavors.

02:30 PM :

End of Lunch Break and Return Trip

After lunch, we begin the journey back to your pickup point.

04:00 PM :

Arrival and End of Service

Arrival at your hotel in El Remate or Flores/Santa Elena, concluding the tour.

FAQs

Expand all

What is Uaxactún most famous for?

Uaxactún is most famous for its Astronomical Group E, which is one of the oldest and best-preserved Maya astronomical observatories. It was used to track the solstices and equinoxes, marking it as the place where the Maya “marked the time.”

Is Uaxactún as crowded as Tikal?

No. Uaxactún is significantly less crowded than Tikal. Since it requires traveling through Tikal National Park and then further on an unpaved road, it offers a much more solitary and authentic jungle experience.

How long do we spend at the archaeological site?

The guided walking tour of the site typically lasts about 3 hours, allowing ample time to explore the main complexes and the astronomical observatory.

Is Uaxactún located inside Tikal National Park?

It’s located within the broader Maya Biosphere Reserve, about 23 km (14 miles) north of the Tikal ruins. You must pass through Tikal National Park’s entrance to reach Uaxactún.

What is the community lunch experience like?

The lunch is served in a community-run restaurant, offering a genuine taste of traditional local food. This experience directly supports the local residents who actively protect the forest and site.

What should I wear and bring for the trip?

Wear lightweight clothing and comfortable walking shoes suitable for jungle trails. You should bring insect repellent, a hat, sunscreen, and cash (Quetzales or USD) for tips or souvenirs.

What are the road conditions like?

The journey from Flores to the Tikal entrance is paved. However, the final 23 km (14 miles) from the Tikal entrance to Uaxactún is a dirt and gravel road (terracería). Our vehicles are equipped to handle these conditions, but the ride can be bumpy.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?

The tour involves a fair amount of walking on uneven jungle trails and climbing some temple steps. It is generally suitable for all ages but may be challenging for people with serious mobility issues.

Uaxactún – The Place That Marks Time

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Highlights

Itinerary

What's included

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FAQs

Uaxactun Location

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

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