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Tikal is a Mayan ruin and at the same time a national park in guatemalan Department El Peten.
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Next Machu Picchu in Peru Tikal is the only place in Latin America that is both a World Heritage Site and a World Natural Heritage Site. The facility extends over 65 km², while the inner-city area extends to 15 to 20 km². Originally the city was probably called Mutal, which means something like flower.
From the beginning to regional power
The oldest traces of settlement (ceramic finds) go back to 900 BC. BC back. From 500 BC The first complex buildings arose and the village became a town. In the pre-classical period (approx. 200 BC) Tikal had developed into an important and powerful metropolis. But unlike most other cities (see e.g. El Mirador or Cerros) Tikal did not go under at the end of this period around AD 200. Tikal increasingly rose to become a powerful supraregional metropolis.
Conflicts with Teotihuacan and Calakmul
- Yax Ehb ’Xook around 90 AD
- Foliated Jaguar around AD 292
- Animal headdress unknown
- Siyaj Chan K’awiil I around 307 AD
- Lady Une ’B’alam around 317 AD
- K’inich Muwaan Jol I. to 359 AD
- Chak Tok Ich’aak I from 360–378 AD
- Yax Nuun Ayiin I from 379–404 AD
- Siyaj Chan K’awiil II from AD 411–456
- Kan Chitam from AD 458–486
- Chak Tok Ich’aak II from AD 486–508
- Lady I from 511 - ??? A.D.
- Lady Kaloomte ’B’alam from 511-527 AD.
- Bird Claw unknown
- Wak Chan K’awiil from AD 537-562
- Animal Skull from 593–628 AD
- K’inich Muwaan Jol II from AD 628–650
- Nuun Ujol Chaak from 650–679 AD
In the early classical period, there were increasing indications that the in Mexico lying city Teotihuacan. There is an increasing number of cultural similarities here. The Mundo Periodo group was established during this time, using the Talud Tablero architectural style that is so typical of Teotihuacán. But the influence was not enough for the rulers in central Mexico, and so they sent in the 4th century AD. an invasion force in the Maya empire to exert direct influence. In 378 AD the troops of Born Im Feuer from Teothuacán invaded Tikal and killed the reigning king Chak Tok Ich'aak I (Great Jaguar Paw) and set up a king of their own. But it merged so quickly with the local nobility that it can be assumed that at least some of them supported this action. In the following years Tikal expanded, forcing more and more cities into vassal status. But at the beginning of the 6th century there were increasing problems. First, the reigning King Chak Tok Ich'aak II fell on the battlefield in 509 AD. His daughter at the age of six now had to serve as his successor. Probably various noble families in the background now determined the fate of the city. In AD 537, her brother Chan K'awiil returned from exile and immediately took power. This should not have happened without conflict and certainly weakened Tikal's position. Furthermore, the protective power from Teotihuacán got more and more internal problems, so that support was out of the question. During this time, the archenemy of Tikal Calakmul bring more and more vassals of Tikal into an alliance against Tikal or destroy them. Among other things, could with Rio Azul an important food supplier to be turned off and that not far away Caracol, which was one of the largest cities at the time, to be separated from the alliance with Tikal. Caracol and Calakmul attacked Tikal in AD 562 and were victorious all along the line. A King loyal to Calakmul was installed, and no new building was built in Tikal for the next hundred years. This period is also commonly referred to as the "hiatus". But after a hundred years there was an increasingly large independence movement in Tikal, which rebelled against the ruling class subordinate to Calakmul and prevailed. In 629 AD they were able to appoint the new king Nuun Ujol Chaak, and the old ruling class fled and founded the city of Dos Pilas on the Pasión River. This received the same glyph, and from here one continued to claim the throne of Tikal. After Calakmul had brought Dos Pilas militarily on a common line, bitter wars ensued between Tikal and Dos Pilas in support of Calakmul. In 679 AD Tikal was defeated again and a King of Dos Pilas loyal to Calakmul was reinstated. In addition, all cities around Tikal were brought to Calakmul's side by diplomatic or military means.
Rise to great power and decline
- Jasaw Chan K’awiil I from 682–734 AD
- Yik’in Chan K’awiil from 734–766 AD
- Ruler 28 from 766–768 AD
- Yax Nuun Ayiin II. From 768–794 AD
- Nuun Ujol K’inich around 800 AD
- Lady Dark Sun around 810 AD
- Jewel K’awiil around 849 AD
- Jasaw Chan K’awiil II around AD 869
But Tikal was able to recover and strengthen increasingly. Some strong allies like Copan or Palenque stayed on. There was a stalemate between two power blocs, in which Tikal was completely surrounded by hostile cities. Some like El Zotz were in sight. In 695 AD the situation escalated when the small town Naranjo when the vassal of Calakmul attacked Tikal and kidnapped a noble lord. Tikal had to respond to this provocation. But instead of attacking Naranjo, King Jasaw Chan K'awiil went to war directly against Calakmul. They were probably totally surprised by this act and were crushed. Tikal knew how to take advantage of this sudden turn in the political structure. In the following years Tikal conquered one vassal after another, defeated Calakmul several times and lost few allies. An absolute position of power was achieved under King Yik'in Chan K'awiil. Tikal experienced a building boom and the city reached its greatest extent. But at the beginning of the 9th century the city suddenly began to decline. Probably a drought ushered in the downfall. Its own water reserves were running out and the entire Maya region was marked by a long war. Even after the long period of drought from 800 AD to 830 AD, the climate did not recover immediately. Extremely dry years can still be proven up to the 10th century AD. The last stele was made in AD 879. set up. After that, all construction activities ceased and the city was abandoned in the following years.
Rediscovery and research
Although abandoned, the center was still known to the Maya of the region and a sacred place. But it wasn't until the middle of the 19th century that the first expedition was brought here. But at first the value of this site was not recognized. Even John Lloyd Stephens and Frederick Catherwood heard of temples with white roofs towering over the rainforest, but did not follow these stories. So it took almost 100 more years until the archaeological research was structured. A small landing strip was created in the facility to improve the development of the facility. Together with the University of Pennsylvania the Tikal project was started and the huge area was mapped. Between 1957 and 1969, the Gran Plaza and the northern Acropolis were uncovered, and a museum was opened in 1964. In the following decades several follow-up excavations were initiated. Today Tikal is the main attraction in Guatemala and world famous. For example, George Lucas used the view from Temple IV in his first Star Wars film (Star Wars IV) (see picture on the left).
getting there
By plane
The closest airport is in Flores (Guatemala). From here it continues on the road.
In the street
From Flores there is a direct paved road that leads into the national park and the ruins. There are bus connections with Flores and the airport. From Flores you can usually book the trip through the hotel. This uses one of the numerous shuttle bus companies.
Who from Belize comes, crosses at San Ignacio (Belize) the border and drives on a road that is not paved in the first part to Lake Petén-Itzá. Here it meets the road between Flores and Tikal. However, the road is only safe in daylight. Therefore, if you want to visit the ruins early in the morning, you should plan an overnight stay
Out Mexico it is best to travel from Palenque to Frontera Corozal (see Palenque). Here you can take a boat across the river to the other side of Guatemala. From here, minibuses drive through the rainforest to Flores. However, the tour partly takes place on unpaved roads and is not the most comfortable way to travel. Those who like it more comfortable should fly to Flores by plane.
By boat
Many cruise lines that operate in Belize moor, offer a day trip to Tikal as a shore excursion. But there are only a few hours left for viewing. Most of the trip is spent on arrival and departure.
mobility
The complex is huge and you should be able to walk easily. Although the paths between the ruins are well developed, the short tour to visit the most important highlights alone takes almost a full day. If you want to see the more distant centers, you have to be prepared to walk a few kilometers.
Tourist Attractions
The National Park
The Tikal National Park is first and foremost a World Heritage Site and comprises an area of 576 km² of almost untouched rainforest with an incredible biodiversity. In addition to around 300 different species of birds, howler monkeys and spider monkeys are also at home here. Crocodiles live in the water reservoirs, and of course the jaguar is also at home here. But for some tourists, the small groups of coatis that roam the area here are an absolute highlight. As a general rule, the early riser has a clear advantage here too. But even during the day it rustles in the trees when a few spider monkeys pass by, and the coatis always seem to be active. And this paradise is home to one of the largest, perhaps the most important and, for many, the most beautiful of all Mayan ruins.
Only a small fraction of the system has been exposed. But this alone is enormous. You can see many unexposed pyramids in the form of stone piles, most of which are overgrown with rainforest, but buildings of enormous size and beauty are exposed in between. And this is so compact in the center that you immediately think you have found a former center of power in the form of a big city.
Sacbés
The different areas are connected by numerous small paths and above all by sacbés. In the past, these paved paths also had ceremonial purposes and ensured a good connection between the different parts of the city even in the rainy season. Four of them were uncovered and are now used by tourists to get from A to B:
- Painter Causeway. This runs from the east plaza in a northerly direction to the north group.
- Maudsley Causeway. This runs 800 meters from the north group in a westerly direction to Temple IV.
- Mendez Causeway. This runs in a south-easterly direction from the East Plaza to Temple VI at a distance of 1.3 km.
- Tozzer Causeway. This runs from the Gran Plaza in a westerly direction to Temple IV.
The great temples
Tikal is best known for the large temples. Some of these have been excavated, restored and climbed and, in addition to an impressive sight, also provide a fantastic view:
- Temple I (T1). Probably the most famous building in Tikal. Hardly any picture book about the Maya can do without a large picture of this temple, which, in addition to the beauty of this impressive building, could also be due to the fact that it can be photographed very well from Temple II. The 47 meter high building is also known as the Temple of the Great Jaguar or the Temple of Ah Cacao. Due to some accidents, the temple is currently closed and cannot be climbed. This pyramid was built by Jasaw Chan K'awiil I. and finally completed by Yik'in Chan K'awiil around 730 AD.A burial chamber was found in the pyramid in which the remains of Jasaw Chan K'awiil I. found with numerous grave goods. In addition to numerous jade objects and vessels, numerous bones were found here that were provided with texts and representations. The best-known depiction shows the king in a canoe on his way to the underworld. Teoberto Maler named the temple Temple I in 1895. Work on the pyramid began in 1955, although the burial chamber was only discovered in 1962. In 1964 the work was completed. Today the pyramid is represented in nine levels. This number has a mythical meaning and is synonymous with the nine levels of the underworld. There is a small temple at the top of the pyramid. This was originally decorated with four beams made from the wood of the sapotilla tree, on which there were reliefs. Since this wood is very resistant, they were still in relatively good condition when they were rediscovered. But all were stolen. The whereabouts of two are still unclear and two more are in the British Museum in London. The roof ridge is relatively well preserved and used to be colored.
- Temple II (T2). With a height of 38 meters, the Temple of the Masks is not much less impressive than the Temple I opposite. In contrast to Temple I, it can be climbed via a staircase attached to the side of the temple. This is not very steep and can therefore be conquered by almost everyone. From here you have a beautiful panoramic view of the Gran Plaza. The temple is dedicated to Jasaw Chan K’awiil I's wife, Ms. Twelve Macaws, who died in AD 704. So far, however, no grave of this could be discovered in the pyramid. A wooden door arch in the temple on top of the pyramid contains a portrait of her. The small staircase to the temple is flanked by two heavily eroded masks. Hence the name of the pyramid comes from. The roof ridge represents a face with earrings and used to be brightly painted.
- Temple III (T3). The Temple of the Jaguar Priest is the youngest large temple at 55 meters high and is dated to the year 810 AD. It is believed that the tomb of the rather unknown King Dark Sun is here. The structure of the temple is similar to that of e.g. Temple I and allows the conclusion that the world was still in order for Tikal in 810 AD. Nevertheless, the city was abandoned a few decades later. The pyramid has only been restored in the upper area. The lower part has not been excavated, but we know that, like Temple I, it also shows a nine-tier pyramid. The upper part bears a small temple which, like Temple II, faces east. Inside there is a lintel showing a corpulent figure in a jaguar pattern. The roof ridge is badly damaged and shows a 10 cm wide crack.
- Temple IV (T4). With a height of around 65 meters, this pyramid is not only the tallest building in Tikal, but also the tallest for tourists in the Maya world and even in the New World. Just the La Danta pyramid of El Mirador is higher. This consists of a massive two-tier platform with a floor plan of 144 meters by 108 meters, on which the actual seven-tier pyramid is located. This part has not yet been excavated. A wooden staircase leads along the pyramid to the top that has been excavated. For the ascent you should definitely bring sturdy shoes and a head for heights. You will be rewarded with a fantastic overview of the rainforest from which temples I., II, III. and V. as well as the pyramid of the forgotten world protrude. This view was also used by George Lucas in Part 4 of Star Wars. On top of the pyramid is a temple with three chambers. A wooden door lintel was found in one of the chambers and has been richly carved. These show Yik’in Chan K’awiil in a sitting position under a snake, and characters tell of the great victory over El Peru in the year 743 AD Above the temple is a massive roof ridge, which contains a few empty chambers inside, which have been introduced for static reasons (weight reduction). Years in the temple indicate a completion date in AD 740. Many archaeologists suspect a burial chamber of Yik’in Chan K’awiil under the pyramid. In good weather, you used to have eye contact with the El Diabolo pyramid in the warring one El Zotz.
- Temple V (T5). At 57 meters, this pyramid is the second tallest building in Tikal. This pyramid was built at the end of the seventh century and was therefore the tallest building in Tikal for around 40 years. The architecture is remarkable, in contrast to the great temples, which were built between 730 AD and 810 AD, reflect many features of the early Classical period. The corners are rounded here and the stairs are enclosed in two walls. This temple was not in the focus of archaeologists for a long time. It was not until 1987 that this was included in the excavation work and brought numerous finds to light. Some chambers were discovered inside the pyramid. Two smaller chambers contained offerings such as incense burners and clay vessels. Skeletons of the dead were found in the larger chambers. One burial chamber contained a 15-year-old girl who had died of severe inflammation in the tooth and jaw area in the late classical period. Another small burial chamber was discovered directly under the pyramid. This was built spatially directly below the central axis of the temple on the top. This suggests that an exact construction plan has to be drawn up before work begins. The remains of a man around 20 years old have been found in the small chamber. He came from wealthy circles, as his bones showed no nutritional deficiencies and his teeth and skull had been changed according to the ideals of beauty of the time. Since no violence can be determined, one does not assume a human sacrifice in this case. A royal grave is also excluded due to the lack of offerings. Furthermore, some representations of the rain god Chaac were found here, who could also be seen on the roof ridge. Therefore the temple is generally assigned to this god as well. On the left side, next to the stairs, there is a wooden staircase. But this is more of a 50 meter high ladder. Good footwear, a head for heights and a good physical condition are necessary to enjoy the beautiful view.
- Temple VI (T6). This temple, located about 1.3 km from the city center, has a 12 meter high ridge on a temple, which is provided with numerous reliefs and texts. These represent a large part of the history of Tikal. The pyramid itself has not yet been excavated or examined and dates from the middle of the 8th century. The last event recorded in this temple is from AD 766 and tells of the death of Yik’in Chan K’awiil and the succession by an unknown king as the 28th king of Tikal. Archaeologists suspect the tomb of Yik’in Chan K’awiil in or under the pyramid.
Plazas and assemblies
Tikal was a big city that didn't consist solely of the above temples. Numerous buildings, mostly arranged in groups around a plaza, have already been uncovered and partially restored. Here are the main touristically accessible:
- 1 Gran Plaza - The Gran Plaza has been proven to have been the political and religious center of the city since the early classical period and probably earlier. Today this large square, littered with steles, is lined with some of Tikal's most important buildings. In the north rises the mighty North Acropolis, while in the south there is the great palace of the central acropolis. The plaza is bounded by Temple I and Temple II to the east and west. These face each other, and since the lintels bear the face of King Jasaw Chan K’awiil I in Temple I and the face of his wife in Temple II, they still face each other day after day.
- 2 Mundo Perdido group
- This area, which can be found about 500 meters as the crow flies southwest of the Gran Plaza, is one of the most archaeologically interesting in Tikal. Characterized by the approximately 30 meter high structure 5C-54, which is also often referred to as the Lost World Pyramid, this is an indicator of the influence of Teotihuacan. Here you can often find the centralMexico so typical Talud-Tablero architecture. Often used mockingly as an embassy area Teotihuacan stamped, this area had from 600 BC. A central function until the city was abandoned. Around 600 BC A platform was built here, to which an elongated substructure was placed on the east side. Both were used in combination for sun observation and are considered to be the oldest system for star and sun observation in the Maya world. In the course of the years, the elongated substructure was supplemented by some grave temples of early classical kings and the Lost World temples were built in the 4th century to a size of 30 meters. Which also corresponds to the period of the seizure of power from Teotihuacan. The Lost World Temple has stairs on each side, which are lined with masks. At the top there is a small platform on which there was probably a wooden building in the past. The pyramid can be climbed. But some of the steps are in poor condition and there are no aids such as ropes. Sturdy shoes, a good physical condition and a head for heights are required. The group is complemented by a ball playground that has not yet been exposed.
- 3 Seven Temples Square - This plaza, which lies directly to the east next to the Mundo Periodo group, is flanked on the east side by seven identical temples. These are currently being uncovered and restored. There is also a double ball playground on the north side, but this has not yet been exposed. Smaller palaces can be found in the south and west.
- 4 East Plaza - This plaza is located to the east right next to the Gran Plaza and was specifically designed as a meeting place. Large crowds could be informed and entertained here. The central market square was probably also here. There is also another ball playground and the structure 5D-43. Originally there was a twin pyramid complex here. This was built over at the end of the seventh century with a new platform in the Talud-Tablero style. The symbolism of the ornaments also uses many elements Teotihuacan. It is likely that the kings of the regained Tikal wanted to use this architectural style to underline their claim to absolute power over the Maya region.
- 5 West Plaza - This plaza adjoins the Gran Plaza in the north-west and is bounded by the north acropolis in the west and by Temple II in the south-west. In the south-east is the Tozzer Causeway and opposite Temple III. In the north there is a large structure from the late classical period, but most of it is still overgrown with vegetation.
- 6 North Acropolis - One of the most impressive places in Tikal is certainly the North Acropolis. The earliest works are from the 6th century BC. Chr. Attributed. After that, the Acropolis was built over again and again and finally brought to the state that can now be admired in the 9th century. There are no fewer than 12 large temples on this. The constant redevelopment of this complex was certainly helped by the fact that the complex was mainly used as a burial place for the elite. Numerous graves could be uncovered here. These belonged to kings as well as nobles. Particularly noteworthy here are the burial chamber of Yax Nuun Ayiin I (404 AD) under structure 34, which shows a mixture of Mayan and Teotihuacán cultures, the burial chamber of Siyaj Chan K'awil (456 AD). ), which was painted with stucco and hieroglyphics, and the burial chamber of Yax Ehb 'Xook (90 AD), which contained the king's skeleton but not the skull. The gifts found in the graves included jewelry, various clay pots, sometimes a few companions who followed the ruler to his death, and sometimes a pet. In the 9th century, 43 additional steles and 30 altars were erected here. Even after the city was abandoned, burials continued to take place here from the surrounding villages.
- 7 Central Acropolis - This huge complex is located on the south side of the Gran Plaza and has its roots in the pre-classical period. On a total of 15,000 m², 45 buildings spread out around 6 small courtyards on several floors. There is evidence that the king and his retinue lived here. For example, under Chak Tok Ich'aak I, building 5D-46 was erected here in the 4th century, in which a consecration vessel was found that bears the inscription "The King's Residence". The king of Tikal resided here until 850 AD. And even a hundred years later, it was possible to prove that the premises were used as a bedroom. In addition to residential buildings with bedrooms in which the beds can still be clearly seen, there are also meeting rooms or a lodge to watch the games on the ball playground between Temple I and the central Acropolis. The Painter's Palace and the Palace of the Five Floors are particularly worth seeing. Teoberto Maler settled in the painter's palace in 1895 when he visited the ruins and took the first photos. The painter's signature can still be seen here today.
- 8 South Acropolis - The South Acropolis is located south of the Central Acropolis and is separated from it by a water reservoir. Much is not yet known about them. We only know that the huge platform was built over a total of 7 times until it reached a height of 24 meters and an area of 22,000 m². On this platform there are four palaces grouped around a central temple.
- 9 G group - One of the largest palaces can be found in the so-called G group south of the Mendez Causeway. The palace has numerous rooms on two floors. One entrance was framed with a large mask. This most likely represents a snake mouth.
- 10 F group - This group is located north of the Ostplaza and has not yet been extensively investigated. This probably formed a unit with the Ostplaza and had a bathhouse.
- 11 Bat Palace - This palace can be found between Temple III and the Mundo Periodo group. A two-story palace that offers numerous rooms furnished with benches and beds and with small windows. The palace is relatively well restored.
- 12 North group - This is also called the H group and was untouched by archaeologists for a long time. The group was not mapped until 1920, and the first excavations began around 1950. Here is a large plaza with numerous temples from the late classical period and a twin pyramid complex. The largest temple in the group is the massive 3D-43 structure, which also has reliefs and supports a roof ridge.
Twin pyramids
Another specialty for Tikal are the so-called twin pyramids. These always have the same structure. Two identical pyramids face each other, one in the west and one in the east. Each pyramid has four flights of stairs, each with 91 steps. Together with the platform, these 365 levels result in the days of the year. In front of the eastern pyramid stood nine flat steles, which may have been painted. In the south there was an elongated palace with 9 entrances. This symbolized the underworld, with the nine entrances standing for nine lords of the underworld. In the north stood the sky, which was symbolized by a walled stele-altar combination. Here, the builder of the facility was shown on the stele and an important event from the last twenty years on the altar, because such a facility was built every twenty years. The K'atun calendar covers exactly 20 years. Whenever this ended, the events of the last 20 years were symbolically recorded in this building. Such groups have only recently been found in other sites. At the time of construction, however, they were in a very close partnership with Tikal, e.g. Yaxha, which had shortly before been militarily forced into an alliance with Tikal. A total of 7 twin pyramid complexes have been discovered so far. The most important are:
- 13 Complex N - These twin pyramids are located near Temple IV and were built by Jasaw Chan K’awiil I in 711 AD. Noteworthy are the stele (number 16) and the altar (number 5) from the northern symbolized area of the sky. Here you can find the picture of Jasaw Chan K’awiil I on the stele and on the altar the depiction of how he and a distant relative brought the bones of his wife from a distant city to Tikal and thus saved them from desecration.
- 14 Complex O - These twin pyramids are located north of the North Acropolis in the rainforest.
- 15 Complex P&M - These complexes can be found in the north group and have been partially restored. Complex M was built by Jasaw Chan K’awiil I in 692 AD. The stela 30 and altar 14 allowed the complex to be accurately dated. Complex P was built by Yik’in Chan K’awiil in AD 751. A prisoner scene is depicted on the relatively well-preserved altar 8.
- 16 Complex R - This group of pyramids can be found directly between the painter Causeway and Complex Q and has not been restored and is traced back to the year 731 AD and was probably built by Jasaw Chan K’awiil I.
- 17 Complex Q - Die am besten restaurierte Gruppe. Besonders die östliche Pyramide ist detailgetreu restauriert worden. Auch die flachen Stelen vor der Pyramide sind aufgebaut. Errichtet wurde der Komplex übrigens von Yax Nuun Ayiin II. im Jahre 771 n. Chr. Die Stele (No.22) im nördlichen Bereich wurde wahrscheinlich schon in der Postklassik stark beschädigt. Auf dem Altar findet sich die Darstellung eines Gefangenen.
miscellaneous
Andere Mayastätten haben ein kleines Museum. Dass dieses für Tikal nicht ausreicht, versteht sich von selber. Daher gibt es hier gleich zwei davon.
- Museo Lítico - Liegt direkt am Visitor Center und zeigt zahlreiche Stelen und andere Steinmetzarbeiten. Auch sind hier erst Fotografien von Teoberto Maler zu sehen. Vor dem Museum befindet sich ein großes Modell von Tikal 800 n. Chr.
- 18 Museo Lítico. Geöffnet: In der Woche 8:30 Uhr bis 16:30 Uhr; Sa und So 8:00 Uhr bis 16:00 Uhr.Preis: Q10.
- Museo Sylvanus G Morley - Dieses liegt am Jaguar Inn Hotel und zeigt Jadekunst, Keramiken oder Knochen mit Inschriften.
- 19 Museo Sylvanus G Morley. Geöffnet: In der Woche 9:00 Uhr bis 17:00 Uhr geöffnet. Samstags und sonntags 9:00 Uhr bis 16:00 Uhr geöffnet.Preis: Q10.
activities
- Discover - Obwohl nur ein kleiner Teil der Stadt ausgegraben ist, ist es doch nicht möglich, innerhalb ein oder zwei Tagen all das zu besichtigen, was es bereits zu sehen gibt. Deshalb begnügen sich die meisten Besucher damit das Wesentliche zu sehen. Dabei sollte man nicht unbedingt mit der Gran Plaza beginnen, da man sonst aufgrund einer Reizüberflutung anschließend den anderen Bereichen nicht mehr die Beachtung schenkt, die diese verdienen.
Für den Tagesbesucher ist folgende Route empfehlenswert:Vom Besucherzentrum vorbei am Wasserreservoir zum Complex Q um sich mit dem Thema Zwillingspyramiden auseinanderzusetzen. Von hier führt ein kleiner Pfad am Rande der Westplaza zum Tempel IV. Weite Strecken liegt der Pfad dabei im dichten Regenwald und eignet sich gerade für die frühen Besucher zur Tierbeobachtung. Kurz vor Erreichen des Tozzer Causeways betritt man eine Lichtung, von der man durch das Blätterdach die beeindruckende Spitze des Tempels IV erblicken kann. Auf dem Tozzer Causeway geht es dann westwärts bis zum Fuß von Tempel IV. Jetzt sollte man sich noch einmal stärken, bevor es über eine Holztreppe steil aufwärts bis zur Spitze auf 60 Metern Höhe geht. Von hier aus blickt man über das Blätterdach des Regenwaldes und sieht in einer Reihe Tempel III, II und I. Zur Rechten sieht man die Lost-World-Pyramide aus dem Blätterdach ragen. Nach dem Abstieg geht es vorbei am Complex N, wo eine gut erhaltene Stele und ein Altar zu besichtigen sind, direkt zum Fledermauspalast. Eine Besichtigung lohnt sich schon um die angenehme Frische im Inneren des Palastes zu genießen und einen Moment zu verschnaufen. Von hier aus geht es weiter zur Mundo-Periodo-Gruppe. Die Besteigung der zentralen Lost-World-Pyramide erfolgt über die ausgetretene Originaltreppe. Das ist anstrengend und nur etwas für Schwindelfreie, belohnt wird man aber mit einem 360°-Rundumblick. Danach geht es weiter über den Platz der sieben Tempel to the Tempel V. Diesen kann man über eine 50 Meter hohe Leiter besteigen. Auch hier gilt es Schwindelfreiheit, gutes Schuhwerk und Kondition mitzubringen. Dieses Mal zeigen sich die Tempel I, II & III in einer Seitenansicht aus dem Regenwald ragend. Wieder auf dem Boden geht es um ein weiteres Wasserreservoir herum zur Zentralen Akropolis. Hier gibt es zahlreiche Paläste zu entdecken, bevor man die Gran Plaza erreicht und einen fantastischen Blick auf Tempel I, Tempel II and the Nord Akropolis Has. Diesen Anblick sollte man erst einmal genießen, bevor man sich auf die Gran Plaza begibt. Auf jeden Fall sollte man den reicht einfach zu besteigenden Tempel II auch erklimmen. Den Rest des Tages kann man auf der Nord-Akropolis mit ihren zahlreichen Tempeln und Stelen ausklingen lassen.
- Wildlife observation - Über 300 verschiedene Vogelarten, zahlreiche Affen und Nasenbären etc. Wer hier anreist, sollte sich die Zeit nehmen auch die Tierwelt zu beobachten. Wer es richtig machen will, steht früh auf und bucht einen professionellen Führer, der die besten Plätze zur Tierbeobachtung kennt.
- Sonnenaufgang - Wer an der Ruine übernachtet, kann diese ab 5:00 Uhr betreten. Dann heißt es schnell auf einen hohen Tempel, wobei der beste noch der Tempel IV ist, und den Sonnenaufgang über dem Regenwald beobachten. Ein einmaliges Erlebnis!
- Cable car - Die Canopy Tour bietet auf einer Gesamtstrecke von 1,3 km die Möglichkeit sich an einem Drahtseil entlang in luftiger Höhe von Baumwipfel zu Baumwipfel zu schwingen. Insgesamt 10 Plattformen sind mit Seillängen von 75 Metern bis 200 Metern verbunden. Diese Attraktion gibt es schon seit über 10 Jahren laut eigener Aussage völlig unfallfrei.
- hike - Tikal lädt zum Wandern ein, wobei man nicht auslassen sollte, die Pyramiden zu besteigen um die Aussicht zu genießen. Wer alleine nur die wesentlichen Sehenswürdigkeiten sehen will, ist gezwungen ein wenig zu wandern. Darüber hinaus kann man noch zu den etwas außerhalb liegenden Gruppen wandern. Dabei sollte man sich aber vorher über die aktuelle Sicherheitslage erkundigen. Früher waren gerade die außerhalb liegenden Sehenswürdigkeiten häufig die Ziele von Raubüberfällen. Durch die starke Aufstockung von Sicherheitspersonal hat sich die Lage zwar beruhigt, doch sollte man sich vor Ort über die Bedingungen informieren. Wem diese Wege nicht reichen, dem wird noch mehr geboten. Eigentlich alle lokalen Anbieter bieten hier verschiedene mehrtägige Wandertouren an. Dabei kümmern sich die Anbieter um Zelte, Verpflegung und Führung. Die zwei beliebtesten Touren sind einmal die Route El Zotz - Tikal und die Route Yaxha - Nakum - Tikal. Als die einfachere und preiswertere Tour gilt im Allgemeinen die von oder nach El Zotz. Als die schönere Tour wird in der Regel die Yaxha-Tour beschrieben.
shop
Am Besucherzentrum gibt es einen Souvenirshop, der neben Postkarten, Büchern und T-Shirts auch einige Handwerkswaren anbietet. In der Jungle Lodge gibt es einen weiteren Souvenirshop.
kitchen
In Tikal gibt es nur drei Restaurants. Diese liegen gegenüber dem Besucherzentrum und haben von 5:00 Uhr bis 21:00 Uhr geöffnet. Die Comedores Maya, Ixim Kua und Tikal bieten regionale einfache Küche wie gegrilltes Huhn mit Bohnen und gekochtem Gemüse zu Preisen um die Q50 an.Außerhalb dieses Bereiches werden gelegentlich auf der Gran Plaza Getränke verkauft. Ansonsten ist man auf sich selber gestellt und sollte sich vor der Besichtigung mit ausreichend Wasser und Essensvorräten eindecken.
nightlife
Wer ein Nachtleben mit Restaurants, Bars oder Discos sucht, sollte hier nicht übernachten. Denn nachts spielt die Musik nur im Regenwald. Wer zeltet, kommt diesem gefühlsmäßig am nächsten. Doch auch von der Terrasse der drei Hotels abends die Atmosphäre zu genießen, ist wunderbar. Früher konnte man sich über ein bisschen Trinkgeld auch eine Nacht auf einem Tempel erkaufen. Diese Zeiten sind allerdings vorbei.
accommodation
In Flores (Guatemala) gibt es zahlreiche Unterkünfte. Von dort gibt es zahlreiche Möglichkeiten nach Tikal zu gelangen.
Wer aber ganz früh da sein möchte um den Sonnenaufgang von einer Pyramide aus beobachten, sollte direkt an der Anlage übernachten. Hier gibt es einen Campingplatz und ein geringe Anzahl von Hotelbetten:
- Jungle Lodge, Parque Nacional Tikal,Peten, Guatemala Centro America. Tel.: 502 2477 0570, 502 2476 8775, Fax: 502 2476 0294, Email: [email protected]. Preis: Bungalow für 2 Personen USD$ 150 pro Nacht.Die Lodge bietet 36 Bungalows, 12 DZ und 2 Suiten. Souvenir-Shop und Pool sind ebenfalls vorhanden.
- Hotel Jaguar Inn, Parque Nacional Tikal,Peten, Guatemala Centro America. Tel.: 502 7783 3647, Email: [email protected]. Preis: DZUSD 50,00.
- Hotel Tikal Inn, Parque Nacional Tikal,Peten, Guatemala Centro America. Tel.: 502 7861 2444, Fax: 502 7861 2445, Email: [email protected]. Preis: DZ USD 115,00.- Bungalows und Hotelzimmer mit eigenem Badezimmer.
- campsite. Am Campingplatz ist keine Reservierung möglich, aber eigentlich auch nicht nötig. Die Übernachtung kostet Q30 pro Person. Falls man noch etwas benötigt (Zelt, Hängematte, Moskitonetz) kostet das extra. Die Duschen sind kalt. Der Campingplatz liegt direkt am Haupteingang.
health
There are poisonous snakes here, so careless handling is certainly not appropriate. But in view of the fact that humans are not on the menu of these animals, careful behavior appropriate to the rainforest and appropriate clothing should guarantee sufficient protection. The "most dangerous" here are almost the mosquitoes, so mosquito repellent should not be dispensed with. Dengue fever, which is occasionally transmitted by mosquitoes, cannot be prevented by vaccination. However, other diseases can be prevented:
- Malaria prophylaxis should be carried at least in an emergency.
- A typhoid vaccination should be carried out beforehand.
- Die Hepatitis-A-, B-, Tetanus- und Tollwutimpfungen sollten aufgefrischt sein.
 | These medical notices have been carefully researched, but they are made no guarantee. A conversation with the person responsible Family doctor or one travel medicine or tropical medicine advice center is recommended in case of health problems or uncertainties. Also note: Note on health issues |
Practical advice
Es kommt in Tikal immer wieder zu Unfällen, wenn sich Touristen beim Besteigen der Pyramiden überschätzen und hierfür unzureichendes Schuhwerk benutzen. Gerade Passagiere von Kreuzfahrtschiffen werden immer wieder mit Flip-Flops beim Aufstieg beobachtet. Weiterhin sollte man vorher beachten, dass es hier häufig heiß und schwül ist. Daher sollte man sich mit ausreichend Wasservorräten und Nahrungsmitteln eindecken. Insektenschutz und Kopfbedeckung gehören ebenfalls zur Grundausstattung.
Sicherheitstechnisch kann der zentrale Bereich als sicher bezeichnet werden. Hier wurden in den letzten Jahren die Sicherheitskräfte ausgebaut. Vor einem Besuch des Palastes der Inschriften und der Nord-Gruppe sollte vor Ort die Sicherheitslage abgefragt werden.
Alle drei Hotels haben einen Internetanschluss, der für die Gäste zu Verfügung steht. Weitere Möglichkeiten gibt es nicht.
trips
Weitere beliebte Ziele sind z.B.:
- Uaxactun - Wichtige Maya-Stadt der Präklassik und während der Klassik enger Verbündeter von Tikal.
- El Mirador - Die Metropole der Präklassik tief im Regenwald mit den höchsten Pyramiden der Maya-Welt.
literature
- Maya. God kings in the rainforest by Nikolai Grube published by Könemann-Verlag, Cologne 2000. ISBN 3-829-01564-X .
