How to get to Flores

If you are planning to travel to Flores, this picturesque island town on Lake Petén Itzá serves as the ideal starting point for exploring northern Guatemala. There are several convenient ways to reach Flores: travellers can take flights to the local airport or choose a journey by bus or car along the region's scenic roads. Regardless of the route, a visit to this historic centre promises vivid impressions from discovering the country's culture and nature.

Travelling by plane is the fastest and most comfortable option to reach Flores. The city is served by Mundo Maya International Airport (FRS), which receives regular flights from the capital of Guatemala and some neighbouring countries. This aviation hub serves as the main aerial gateway for tourists wishing to visit the legendary Tikal and other attractions of the Petén region.

The airport is located on the mainland, in the town of Santa Elena, in immediate proximity to the causeway leading to the island of Flores. Transfers to most hotels take literally a few minutes by taxi or tuk-tuk, allowing travellers to save time and energy for walks and excursions.

Currently, it is impossible to reach Flores by train, as there is no active railway infrastructure in the city or its surroundings. Passenger rail service in Guatemala has been completely suspended, and historic tracks are not used for regular tourist transport.

Since rail transport is unavailable in this region of Central America, travellers are advised to consider alternative options. It is best to use intercity buses or air travel for the trip, which ensures a reliable and comfortable arrival at your destination.

The most sought-after way to reach the region is by bus from the capital, Guatemala City. This is a key transport hub from where comfortable first-class buses depart daily. The journey takes about 8–10 hours, so overnight transfers are particularly popular. Such trips allow passengers to save time and accommodation costs by offering comfortable reclining seats and air-conditioned cabins for proper rest before arrival.

A popular route for travellers arriving from Belize starts in the town of San Ignacio. The trip takes just 2–3 hours, covering a distance of about 110 kilometres, and includes a scenic border crossing. This is one of the most convenient ways to enter the Petén region while enjoying views of tropical forests along the way.

If you are heading from the Caribbean coast, for example, from the towns of Punta Gorda or Independence, the road will be significantly longer and may take more than 6–7 hours. However, such a route allows you to see the change in landscapes from the coast to the dense jungles. It is important to remember that most buses arrive at the terminal in Santa Elena (on the mainland), from where you can reach the island of Flores in a couple of minutes by tuk-tuk across the causeway.

Travelling by car from the neighbouring Belizean town of San Ignacio is one of the fastest options, taking about two hours to cover 110 kilometres. After crossing the border at Melchor de Mencos, you will find yourself on a quality highway leading through dense tropical forests directly to the island of Flores. Taxis on this route are available and popular, and the customs procedure by car usually does not take much time.

Routes from southern Belize require more endurance: the journey from the town of Punta Gorda is about 330 kilometres and takes 5–6 hours of driving. The road from Independence is slightly shorter and will take approximately 4–5 hours, allowing you to witness the changing landscapes before entering Guatemala. Given the distances, a private transfer can cost from 150 dollars, so for a group of travellers, renting a car often becomes a more cost-effective solution.

Preparing for a trip to Flores requires attention to detail to ensure your holiday on this picturesque island goes perfectly. This colourful town in Guatemala has its unique features, knowledge of which will help you feel confident and comfortable from the first minutes of your stay.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is hot and humid year-round, so bring light, modest clothing made of natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Be sure to pack comfortable flat shoes: the town's streets are paved with cobblestones, making walking in heels difficult. Do not forget sunglasses, a hat, and a high-quality raincoat if travelling during the rainy season.
2. Transport. The island itself is very small and can be explored on foot in 15–20 minutes, so you won't need transport within the town. For trips to the neighbouring town of Santa Elena or the bus station, it is best to use tuk-tuks (motor taxis) — they are affordable and fast. For trips around Lake Petén Itzá and visiting beaches, use the "lancha" boats waiting for tourists on the waterfront.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Quetzal. Although US dollars may be accepted in some travel agencies, the exchange rate will be unfavourable. In small cafés, souvenir shops, and tuk-tuks, payments are made in cash only. ATMs on the island itself are rare and may not work, so it is more reliable to withdraw money at shopping centres in Santa Elena.
4. Health and Safety. Strictly avoid consuming tap water; buy bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Since the region is in a tropical zone, be sure to use repellents, especially in the evening, to protect against mosquitoes. The island is considered a safe place for tourists, but it is better not to leave valuables unattended on the beaches. Regarding dining, while Halal certification may be rare, there is an abundance of fresh seafood and vegetarian options suitable for Muslim travellers.
5. Communication. The main language is Spanish. In hotels and large restaurants, staff often speak English, but tuk-tuk drivers and market vendors may not know it. Learn a few basic phrases in Spanish ("hello", "how much is it", "thank you") — locals greatly appreciate such gestures of politeness.
6. Local Etiquette. Guatemalans are a polite and reserved people. When entering a shop or restaurant, it is customary to greet others ("Buenos días" or "Buenas tardes"). If you want to photograph locals, always ask for permission first. In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of about 10% of the bill if it is not already included.
7. What to Avoid. Do not buy tours to Tikal or other locations from random people on the street, even if the price seems very attractive. Often, such offers turn out to be low-quality or fraudulent. It is better to contact certified agencies or book excursions through your hotel concierges.
8. Extra Tip. The western part of the island is the ideal place for watching sunsets. Reserve a table in advance at one of the terrace cafés or lounges on the waterfront around 17:00 to enjoy evening refreshments and the stunning view of the lake in the rays of the setting sun.

Following these simple recommendations will allow you to avoid inconveniences and fully focus on the beauty of the Petén region. Be open to new experiences, and the city will welcome you with its unique hospitality and comfort.