Situated towards the north-east of Guatemala lies the sprawling ruins of Tikal, the largest of the ancient Mayan’s ruined cities, and Guatemala’s most famous cultural and natural preserve.

Hidden by dense jungle until the 19th century Tikal is one of the most breathtaking archaeological sites of the Maya World. Once one of the largest and most powerful cities of the Classic period it was abruptly abandoned over 1000 years ago and disappeared under mud and dense jungle.

The site was only discovered in 1848 when the Guatemalan government sent an expedition to the site. When they arrived at the site the impressive temples, the open plazas and several-story buildings stood in front of them. Scientific exploration of Tikal began in 1881 and since 1956 the research and restoration of the site has been carried out by the University of Pennsylvania and the Guatemalan Institute of Anthropology and History.

You can only get a sense of the power and immensity of Tikal by climbing up Temple IV and looking out over the expansive site to see the distant temples protruding through the jungle canopy as well as wonder what else has yet to be discovered. Temple IV is the tallest structure in Tikal standing at over 70 metres and can be reached via wooden ladders and protruding roots. Once at the top you realise that you are not alone as the sound of the howler and spider monkeys compete with an array of birdlife such as toucans, macaws and parrots. Back on the ground keep your eyes peeled for jaguar’s that can occasionally be spotted.

The ruins of Tikal include more than 3,000 structures and include ceremonial platforms, ball courts, terraces, avenues and steam baths.

The National Park of Tikal comprises of around 222 square miles and as only approximately 16 square miles has been excavated it is easy to see why the much of it remains such a mystery and will leave you wishing you had more time to explore this ancient and magical city.