Top 10 Things to Do on Flores Island
Flores is a tiny island packed with charm — pastel buildings, lakeside views, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it feel worlds away from Guatemala’s busier cities. It’s also the ideal base for visiting Maya sites like Tikal and Yaxhá. Even with a short visit, the island makes a lasting impression with its sunsets, food stalls, and easygoing vibe.
Here are the top things to do in and around Flores, whether you’re staying one day or several.
1. Visit Tikal National Park❌ Missed This (but saw one temple from Yaxhá!)
Tikal is the crown jewel of Petén — towering temples rising above the jungle canopy, wildlife echoing through the trees, and miles of ancient pathways. I didn’t get to visit this trip, but the glimpse I saw from Yaxhá made me appreciate how incredible it must be up close.
💡 JD’s Tip: Choose a sunrise tour. The jungle waking up around you is the full Tikal experience.
That moment in Yaxhá when someone points and goes, “See that way out there? That’s Tikal.” And suddenly the jungle feels even more legendary.
2. Explore the Cobblestone Streets of Flores Island 🌟 Did This
Flores is tiny, colorful, bright, and beautiful. Pastel houses, lake views, and narrow cobbled streets make the island feel like a postcard from every angle.
💡 JD’s Tip: Explore early in the morning. The soft light makes the colors pop.
3. Visit Yaxhá National Park🌟 Did This
This was my main adventure during my time in Flores. Yaxhá is quieter, emptier, and more atmospheric than Tikal — a full jungle immersion with stunning lagoon views. This is also where I spotted the top of a Tikal temple in the far distance.
💡 JD’s Tip: Stay for the sunset. It’s peaceful, golden, and unforgettable.
A day trip to Yaxhá: towering temples, jungle trails, and endless photo ops.
4. Explore Lake Petén Itzá🌟 Did This (Water Taxi Only)
I didn’t have time to fully explore the lake, but even taking a water taxi showed how peaceful and calm Lake Petén Itzá really is. Clear water, soft breezes, and a lovely view of the island.
💡 JD’s Tip: If you don’t have time for a full boat tour, a simple water taxi ride still gives you the lake experience.
The water taxi ride to Flores offers peaceful lake views before the day’s exploring begins.
5. Eat & Hang Out at Los Amigos 🌟 Did This
Los Amigos is the main traveler hub of Flores — colorful murals, great food, friendly staff, and a lively backpacker energy. I ate here on my first night, and it was the perfect welcome to the island.
💡 JD’s Tip: The place fills up quickly during dinner hours. Expect a short wait for a table.
First Guatemalan beer at Los Amigos… because hydration comes in many forms.
6. Cross the Flores Causeway❌ Missed This (Crossed by shuttle, taxi & bus only)
I crossed the causeway multiple times — by taxi, shuttle van, and bus — but didn’t get to walk it. The lake stretches out beautifully on both sides, and I could immediately tell it would’ve been a gorgeous stroll.
💡 JD’s Tip: Walk it during golden hour if you can — the lighting is perfect.
7. Watch the Sunset From a Rooftop Bar❌ Missed This
Flores sunsets are legendary — pink, gold, and reflecting across the lake. I didn’t have time this visit, but it’s at the top of my list for next time.
💡 JD’s Tip: Rooftops fill up fast before sunset. Arrive early for a lake-facing seat.
8. Jorge’s Rope Swing❌ Missed This
A fun and relaxed backpacker hangout across the lake with swings, wooden platforms, and a casual lakeside bar. A great spot for a refreshing afternoon dip.
💡 JD’s Tip: Bring water shoes. The rocks near the edge can be slippery.
9. Shop the Markets in Santa Elena❌ Missed This'
Just over the bridge, Santa Elena’s markets are full of local life — fruit stalls, clothing, street snacks, and everyday Guatemalan energy. A lively and authentic experience.
💡 JD’s Tip: Carry small bills. Vendors rarely have change.
10. Visit the Santa Bárbara Museum ❌ Missed This
Located on a tiny island just off Flores, this museum can only be reached by boat. It’s known for Maya artifacts and peaceful lake views. I didn’t have time this visit, but it’s a unique local stop.
💡 JD’s Tip: Bring cash for both the boat ride and museum entrance.
Final Thoughts
Even with only two days, Flores left a big impression. It’s colorful, calm, friendly, and surrounded by some of Guatemala’s most fascinating Maya sites. Yaxhá was unforgettable, the island was charming, and the quick glimpse of Tikal already has me planning a return trip.
I didn’t get to experience everything — sunsets, museums, lake tours, and a full Tikal visit are still on my list — but that just means Flores gave me the perfect excuse to come back.
A reminder that the best travel moments happen when you don’t plan them.
