Aguateca Archaeological Site
Aguateca Archaeological Site

Aguateca Archaeological Site

Sayaxché

The Basics

Because the city was so quickly abandoned, everyday relics were preserved in place, offering archaeologists an unprecedented look at everyday Mayan life.Reach Aguateca by motorized canoe, passingxa0 through the Petexbatún Wildlife Refuge, a birders paradise of mangroves and marshlands, before crossing a stone bridge that spans a massive ravine and hiking up to the city for epic views of the Petexbatún Basin. Several plaster walls and murals dating from the Classic Period, when Aguateca and neighboring Dos Pilas formed the region’s dominant polity, are unique to the region.

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Things to Know Before You Go

  • Aguateca is an ideal spot for history buffs, archaeologists, hikers, and nature lovers.
  • The site is quite a trek to reach and is not wheelchair accessible.
  • Wear appropriate clothing and shoes to hike the long trail.
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How to Get There

Aguateca is located along the shores of the Petexbatún Lagoon in Guatemala’s northern Peten Department. From Flores, take a 3-hour bus to the small service town of Sayaxché, then a 1.5-hour canoe trip on Rio Pasion, before starting the uphill trek to the ruins.

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When to Get There

To explore Aguateca, start your day early, since it will take 5-6 hours to reach the site from Flores. The climate in Guatemala is pleasant throughout the year. Try to avoid visiting on a rainy day since the trail will be muddy and slippery.

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Punta de Chimino

Head just a bit north from Aguateca to Punta de Chimino, a Mayan archaeological site on the west coast of the lagoon. Highlights here include an Acropolis, a main square, altar platforms, a ceremonial pyramid, residential structures, and a number of intricately carved stones artefacts.

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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What are the nearest attractions to Aguateca Archaeological Site ?
A:
Attractions near Aguateca Archaeological Site :

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