Flores

Flores is a town in Petén, Guatemala . The town proper is an island on Lago Petén Itzá ( la isla ), connected to land by a causeway ( el puente ), on the other side of which lie the twin towns Santa Elena and San Benito. All three are often referred to as Flores, and are grouped in one article here accordingly.

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Mundo Maya International Airport

( FRS

IATA )

( is just outside Flores ).

It is the only other international airport in the country aside from Guatemala City. This modern facility with its 10,000-ft runway is courtesy of the US CIA.

TAG and Avianca both run flights from Guatemala City (daily and three times a week respectively), but are often delayed in both directions.

A taxi from the airport to Flores costs Q20 ( quetzales ), or Q10 per person, whichever is larger. It is about 2 km from the airport to the Flores causeway.

Shuttles to Tikal and taxis meet every flight.

Walking is the most common way to get around, and circling the whole island takes about 15 minutes. It is an easy walk to Santa Elena and San Benito from Flores, about 10 minutes along the sidewalks of the causeway. Otherwise, auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks), vans and buses are an option. As of June 2024, the standard fee for an auto-rickshaw in the Flores/Santa Elena/San Benito seems to be Q10-15, but if you have a lot of luggage or squeeze in two people, the fare might be more. Rates also go up at night.

The towns of San José and San Andrés , located on the northern shores of the lake, can be rea

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Ak'tun Kan

( La Cueva de la Serpiente, the cave of the serpent )

( take the main road through Santa Elena, turn left at the end of the road and follow signs; it is clearly marked; from the causeway in Flores, it is a 30#minute walk, or taxis are available for Q20 ),

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+502 7867 5296 .

Inside the cave are many formations that resemble various objects, such as animals, people, and of course ordinary stalagmites and stalactites. Most of the relics are labeled (in Spanish) and will be identified by your guide.

Q15 (including guide) .

ARCAS (Asociaciòn de Rescate y Conservaciòn de Vida Silvestre) ,

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+502 926 0946 .

A wildlife rescue center dedicated to the prevention of animal trafficking. There are possibilities to offer your services here as a volunteer. The center operates its

Activities in Flores revolve around experiencing local life: shopping at the weekly market, sampling street food, visiting local cafes, and taking walks through the town and surrounding countryside. Engaging with locals and learning about regional traditions are among the most rewarding activities.

Guatemalan staples such as tamales, pepián, and chiles rellenos are available at local comedores and restaurants in Flores. Street food options include garnachas, tostadas, and elotes locos. Fresh tropical fruit juices and horchata are widely available. Dining options are modest but offer authentic local flavours at affordable prices.

Local cafes and comedores in Flores serve coffee, soft drinks, and fruit juices throughout the day. Guatemala is renowned for its highland-grown coffee, and a cup of locally sourced brew is a must-try. Gallo is the most popular local beer. Fresh fruit licuados (blended drinks) are also widely available. Bottled water is recommended for visitors.

Accommodation options in Flores are limited but adequate for travellers passing through. Small hotels and hospedajes (guesthouses) may be available in or near the town centre. For a wider selection of lodging, the departmental capital or larger neighbouring towns offer more choices. Advance planning is recommended during local festivals and holiday periods.

Local shops and markets in Flores sell everyday goods, fresh produce, and handicrafts. The weekly market day is the best time to shop for fresh fruits, vegetables, and household items. Basic supplies and locally produced goods are available from small family-run stores throughout the town.

Neighbouring towns and the Petén departmental capital are reachable by bus or microbus. The region offers opportunities for further exploration of Guatemala's diverse landscape. Check local transport schedules for onward connections to other departments and major cities.