Bacalar to Flores tickets

About the ride from Bacalar to Flores

Leave Mexico behind to discover the equally beautiful country of Guatemala, starting in the breathtaking town of Flores.

Located 377 kilometers (234.2.9 miles) away from Bacalar, Flores is world-famous for its Maya ruins, most notably the archaeological sites of Tikal. Visitors will fall in love with its archaeological and natural treasures.

Hop on a bus or minivan to drive to the island town, keeping an eye out for the ancient temples that peak out of the dense jungle surrounding the area. 

What is Flores like?

Flores is a small town in Guatemala's northern Petén region on Lake Petén Itza.

It is the second oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the Americas. It was the very last Maya city to fall to the Spanish after they spent 200 years gradually conquering Guatemala's various towns and cities.

Although Flores is primarily the gateway to the nearby Maya ruins, the town is also famous for its vibrant buildings, cobblestoned streets, and friendly atmosphere.

Thankfully, it is not overtaken by tourism, and the area is a welcome balance of tourist-friendly shops and eateries paired with authentic local life.

Unforgettable activities in Flores 

Thrilling activities surround the small island that will fill your time while you explore the area. You'll quickly find plenty to do, but prioritize these attractions when planning your trip:

1. Take a boat tour around Lake Petén Itza. Lots of boat taxis stay at the docks waiting for tourists to take on tours, so you'll easily find a guide for this trip. Along the way, you'll stop by San Miguel, El Museum, and Jorge's Rope Swing, a small bar and restaurant with a rope swing and diving platform overlooking the lake's waters.

2. Book a day trip to Tikal National Park. This awe-inspiring site covers 575 square kilometers (222 square miles) and centers on the sprawling archaeological site with its ceremonial plazas, temples, and pyramids. The UNESCO World Heritage Site simultaneously preserves the area's biodiversity and the marvels of ancient Maya. 

Spend a full day here to explore the ruins and spend a few hours hunting for monkeys and toucans in the jungle.

3. Go shopping along the waterfront. The boardwalk alongside the lake bursts to life in the early evening as various pop-up stalls sell their wares. Hunt for souvenirs made by local artisans while sampling cuisine from the numerous food stalls.

4. Visit the ruins of Uaxactun. Located one hour north of Tikal, these ruins house even more preserved Maya structures. This site is most well-known for the astronomy observatory, where ancient Mayan astronomers would track celestial events with astounding accuracy. It's an ideal option for people eager to avoid crowds because fewer tourists are willing to take the 90-minute journey to see it. 

5. Hike to the El Mirador Rey Canek Viewpoint. Ask a boat taxi driver to drop you off at the start of the trail and then take the short 20-minute hike to summit the small peak. At the top, magnificent panoramic views of the Island of Flores and its luscious landscapes will blow you away. It's also a fantastic spot to watch the sunset!

How do I get from Bacalar to Flores?

Travelers from Bacalar to Flores have a few options: a minivan or bus.

By bus

The most affordable way to travel from Bacalar to Flores is to take an air-conditioned bus.

There is only one class option for this trip: standard. The journey will take approximately 7.5 hours, but there may be delays due to the border crossings, traffic, or additional stops. 

This journey has two border crossings: one to leave Mexico and enter Belize, and the second to enter Guatemala from Belize. 

Have all of your travel documents ready to pass through the borders. The operators are not responsible for your documentation, so ensure you have everything prepared before departure.

To exit Mexico and enter Belize and Guatemala, you may need to pay immigration fees.

These costs are not included in the price of your travel ticket. Get cash out before you leave to avoid any delays.

Marlin Espadas operates this route, and buses depart from Maya Cabana Jardin and arrive at Green Monkey Hostel or Hotel y Restaurante Las Gardenias in Flores.

The trip will cost you around $60. Make sure to exchange your Bookaway voucher for a supplier's ticket before boarding to avoid any disruptions to the journey. Arrive at the departure spot at least 15 minutes early to find the correct bus and get the correct ticket with plenty of time.

You can bring one 25 kg (55 lb) bag and one piece of hand luggage per passenger.

By minivan

The fastest way to get from Bacalar to Flores is to take an air-conditioned minivan.

Operated by Adrenalina Tours, this option will take seven hours to reach Flores. You can request pick up from your hotel in Bacalar and arrive in the center of Flores.

This option also has multiple border crossings, first from Mexico to Belize and then from Belize into Guatemala. You are responsible for having the correct travel documents and paying the immigration fees, so ensure everything is ready before departure.

This option will cost travelers around $79.

Your luggage allowance is one 35 kg (77 lbs) bag and one piece of hand luggage per passenger.

The best things about the ride from Bacalar to Flores 

Wave goodbye to the incredible scenery of Bacalar and replace it with equally picturesque views in and around Flores. 

It's quite a long journey, but you'll benefit from breathtaking views of the south of Mexico as you slowly drive southwards through the northern part of Guatemala.

Use the middle of the journey to catch up on some sleep because you'll spend most of it on main roads before waking up for the last stretch, which will bring you closer to the spectacular landscapes of Flores.

However, if you're exhausted from your travels, sit back and sleep the whole way there while your chosen transport takes you to Flores. The views at your destination are so epic that you won't miss much if you don't bother watching the scenery on the way there. 

When is the best time to visit Flores?

The best time to visit Flores is during the dry season, which starts in November and ends in April. These months bring drier, sunny days without the intense humidity of the monsoon season. 

However, it's important to note that the dry season is also the busiest time for tourists.

To avoid the bulk of the crowds, visit just before or right after the dry season. The weather is slightly cooler, and there is a higher chance of rainfall, but you'll enjoy the area's impressive sites in a more peaceful setting.

How many days should I spend in Flores?

Visitors to Flores should spend at least three days here to see everything the beautiful area offers. 

A few days will give you enough time to book an excursion to see at least one of the local ruins and to spend a day soaking up the natural beauty of Flores while strolling around the town.

It is possible to zip in and out on a day trip just to see the Tikal ruins, but it's worth staying longer.

Where should I go after Flores?

Next, continue your explorations of Guatemala's staggering natural beauty by heading to Carmelitas. 

The area is the perfect launching pad to explore the various national parks and reserves surrounding it, such as El Mirador National Park and Maya Biosphere Reserve.

Alternatively, travel south to Raxruhá to discover Guatemala's smaller towns and visit the Candelaria Caves.