Things to Do in El Mirador

El Mirador sits deep in Guatemala's northern Petén rainforest, home to what many archaeologists consider the largest Maya pyramid complex ever built. This remote archaeological site, often called the 'Lost City of the Maya,' contains La Danta - a massive temple complex that actually surpasses Egypt's Great Pyramid in total volume. The entire site spans over 2,000 square kilometers and includes dozens of pyramids, palaces, and ceremonial complexes dating back over 2,000 years. Getting here isn't exactly a casual day trip - you're looking at a challenging multi-day trek through dense jungle, but that's precisely what makes El Mirador so extraordinary. Unlike the crowds at Tikal, you might find yourself completely alone atop these ancient structures, watching howler monkeys swing through the canopy while contemplating one of humanity's most impressive architectural achievements. The isolation means the site remains largely as archaeologists found it, with many structures still partially covered by jungle growth.

Food during the El Mirador trek is provided by your tour operator and typically consists of simple but hearty meals prepared by camp cooks over wood fires. Expect beans, rice, tortillas, canned vegetables, and occasionally fresh fruit or chicken when logistics allow. The meals are surprisingly satisfying after long days of hiking, and most operators accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Before and after your trek, Carmelita offers basic comedores serving traditional Guatemalan fare, while Flores provides the full range of restaurants from street food to upscale dining. Many trekkers appreciate a good meal in Flores after several days of camp cooking.

The dry season from December through April offers the most comfortable trekking conditions, with less mud, fewer insects, and clearer skies for photography and stargazing. That said, this is also peak season, so book well in advance and expect higher prices. The wet season from May through November brings lush vegetation, incredible wildlife activity, and fewer crowds, but also means challenging hiking conditions with muddy trails and potential river crossings. Many experienced trekkers actually prefer the shoulder months of November and May, when you get some benefits of both seasons without the extremes.