Guatemala is home to some of the most impressive Mayan ruins in the world, offering a glimpse into the fascinating history and culture of the ancient Mayan civilization. The country’s lush jungles and rolling hills are dotted with these remarkable sites, each with its own unique features and stories to tell. In this blog, we’ll explore the most visited Mayan ruins in Guatemala and highlight the best things to see and do at each site.

1. Tikal

Tikal is the most famous and largest Mayan ruin site in Guatemala, located in the heart of the jungle in the northern part of the country. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to towering pyramids, impressive temples, and fascinating ruins that date back to the 6th century BC. Some of the must-see attractions at Tikal include the Great Plaza, the Temple of the Grand Jaguar, and the Temple of the Masks. You can also climb to the top of some of the pyramids to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle.

2. El Mirador

El Mirador is another impressive Mayan ruin site located in the northern part of Guatemala. This ancient city was one of the largest and most powerful Mayan cities, with a population of around 100,000 people at its peak. The site is known for its massive pyramids and impressive stelae, as well as its intricate network of causeways and water systems. The main attraction at El Mirador is the La Danta pyramid, which is one of the largest pyramids in the world.

3. Yaxha

Yaxha is a Mayan ruin site located near Lake Yaxha in northern Guatemala. This site is known for its beautiful setting, with stunning views of the surrounding lake and jungle. Yaxha was a major Mayan ceremonial center, and it is home to several impressive temples and pyramids, including the Temple of the Red Hand and the Twin Pyramids. One of the highlights of visiting Yaxha is the opportunity to climb to the top of the pyramids and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

4. Aguateca

Aguateca is a Mayan ruin site located in the Petexbatun region of Guatemala. This site is known for its well-preserved structures and impressive defensive walls, which were built to protect the city from invaders. Some of the must-see attractions at Aguateca include the Palace Complex, the Central Acropolis, and the Ball Court. You can also take a guided tour of the site to learn more about its fascinating history.

5. Quirigua

Quirigua is a Mayan ruin site located in the southeastern part of Guatemala, near the border with Honduras. This site is known for its impressive stelae, which are large stone monuments that depict scenes from Mayan mythology and history. The most famous stela at Quirigua is Stela E, which is the largest stela in the Mayan world.