Flores

Flores is a charming and colourful little town set on a small island in the middle of Lake Peten Itza, in the jungle lowlands of northern Guatemala, connected to the mainland by a short causeway. A laid-back, red-roofed Spanish colonial town of cobbled lanes, pastel houses and lakeside restaurants, it is the most pleasant base and gateway for visiting the great Maya ruins of Tikal nearby, and a relaxing spot to enjoy the lake, the sunsets and the tropical calm.

What you actually see

• The island town - the colourful cobbled lanes and red roofs.
• Lake Peten Itza - the boat trips and swimming in the lake.
• The sunsets - the lakeside sunsets over the water.
• The gateway to Tikal - the base for the great Maya ruins nearby.

When to go

November to April, the dry season, for the best weather; Flores is a year-round base for Tikal, and its lakeside setting is lovely for a relaxing evening after a day at the ruins. It is hot and humid in the lowland jungle.

Honest expectations

It is small and its main role is as a pleasant, relaxing base for visiting Tikal rather than a major sight in itself, seen in a stroll. It is touristy, geared to the Tikal traffic, but genuinely charming. It is hot and humid. The lakeside setting and colourful town make it a lovely place to unwind around a jungle adventure.

Nearby

The ruins of Tikal, Yaxha and the jungle of the Peten are within reach.