Tikal is well connected with Semuc Champey. You can get from Semuc Champey to Tikal via Flores by shared shuttle, private transfer, on a guided tour, or rental car.
Visiting the incredible ancient Mayan city of Tikal is a truly unforgettable experience! This attraction is not only one of the largest ancient Maya cities but also home to a treasure trove of artifacts and incredible natural wonders.
Tikal National Park is deep in the heart of Guatemala’s El Petén rain forest. The archaeological site is loaded with so much historical importance that there is no surprise it’s a UNESCO world heritage site and one of the most popular places to visit in the country!
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This stunning ancient city will leave you amazed at the end of a sweaty jungle hike. From a scenic staircase leading up to Temple IV and away from the crowds, you can feel like an adventurous explorer as you walk through winding paths and peek into hidden chambers with breathtaking views.
The park is a must-visit for all history heads and nature lovers alike and is full of amazing sights, adventures, and towering temples waiting to be discovered!
So, what are you waiting for?
Traveling between Semuc Champey and Tikal via Flores is easy, and you can choose between a shared shuttle, private transfer, guided tour, and rental car!
Check our guide for the best options to travel from Semuc Champey to Flores and Tikal!
How far is Tikal from Semuc Champey?
The distance from Semuc Champey to Tikal is 197.3 miles or 317.5 kilometers.
Transportation Options from Semuc Champey to Tikal
The following table outlines all transportation options from Semuc Champey to Flores and Tikal:
| Method | Travel time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Shuttle from Semuc Champey to Flores | 9 hours | USD 44 |
| Shared Shuttle from Flores to Tikal | 2 hours | USD 30 |
| Shared Shuttle + Tour from Flores to Tikal | 2 hours | USD 45 |
| Private Transfer from Semuc Champey to Flores and Tikal | ~8 hours | – |
| Rental Car from Semuc Champey to Flores and Tikal | ~ 8 hours | – |
Getting to Flores and Tikal from Semuc Champey
1. Shared Shuttle from Semuc Champey to Flores
Journey Duration: 9 hours
Since both Semuc Champey and Tikal are national parks, it’s difficult to get directly from one destination to the other, considering the long distance and lack of direct transportation.
Therefore, to get from Semuc Champey to Tikal, you must first travel from Semuc Champey to Flores and continue your journey to Tikal the next day.
This way, the journey from Semuc Champey to Tikal will take you approximately two days, but that’s why it’s good first to make a stop and take a little rest in Flores overnight!
One direct shuttle departing from Semuc Champey will take you to Flores in about 9 hours. The shuttle departs early in the morning from Gasolinera Exxon in Lanquin, the town near Semuc Champey and where you will probably be staying.
Considering the crazy mountainous roads and Guatemalan traffic, it’s a long journey. Still, it is the only way to travel with public tourist transport from Semuc Champey to Flores at a lower price.
Once you arrive in Flores, you have a night to rest, so it’s probably best to book a room since the next shuttle to your final destination is the next day.
Also, keep in mind to book your seats one day ahead, since this is the only shuttle and it can be overcrowded. Luckily, you can book your tickets online and not stress about your journey!
Semuc Champey to Flores Shared Shuttle Schedule:
- 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM: Shared Shuttle to Flores from Semuc Champey
Total price: USD 44
2. Shared Van Shuttle from Flores to Tikal
Journey Duration: 2 hours
Once you find yourself in Flores, you’re just a 2-hour road trip away from Tikal!
One shuttle departs from Flores to Tikal daily for only USD 30.
The journey takes 2 hours, and you will travel comfortably in an air-conditioned shared van shuttle. The shuttle departs from the entrance of Flores at the “I Love Petén” sign and drops you off in Tikal National Park, where you have the whole day ahead to explore!
To travel from Semuc Champey to Tikal, you must be in Flores one day before since the shuttle to Tikal leaves only early in the morning. So there is no way to make it directly from Semuc Champey on the same day.
It’s also best to get your tickets to Tikal ahead, so you don’t miss your only ride that comes at such an affordable price!
Flores to Tikal Shared Shuttle Schedule:
- 08:00 AM to 10:00 AM: Shared Shuttle to Tikal from Flores
Total price: USD 30
GuateGo
On GuateGo, you can check all available transportation options from Semuc Champey to Flores and Tikal. It is a reliable and easy-to-use platform for comparing prices & schedules and making a booking online.
3. Shared Van Shuttle + Tour from Flores to Tikal
Journey Duration: 2 hours
For an extra USD 15, you can travel from Flores to Tikal while being guided by a professional through the National Park!
For a little extra, you get a round trip on the shared van shuttle that departs simultaneously as the regular shuttle transport and a guided tour with a guide explaining everything you need to know about Tikal!
This is a convenient and cost-effective option since it provides you with a way back to Flores.
The shuttle leaves for Flores at 03:00 PM and departs from the spot where it leaves you off.
You will get an organized day full of adventure and won’t have to worry about finding your way around the National Park!
Reserve your tickets online today, and get the best deal for a journey from Flores to Tikal!
Flores to Tikal Shared Shuttle + Tour Schedule:
- 08:00 AM to 10:00 AM: Shared Shuttle + Tour to Tikal from Flores
Total price: USD 45
4. Private Transfer from Semuc Champey to Flores and Tikal
Journey Duration: ~7 hours
Booking a private vehicle with your driver is the easiest, most relaxing, and fastest way to travel between Semuc Champey and Tikal!
Your driver will pick you up at your designated spot, either from your hotel in Lanquin or Semuc Champey and drive you through the mountains to your accommodation in Flores.
You can even get directly to Tikal, but it is a long journey from Semuc Champey, so you might want to rest for a day in Flores to get a full day of exploring in Tikal.
However, if you still travel from Semuc Champey to Tikal in one day, we recommend you book your private transfer to depart as early as possible since the car drive takes around 7 hours.
The price of this option is also reasonably higher. Therefore it is usually only recommended for groups or families, or those who are into luxury travel!
So, if you think this is your option, find a reliable tourist agency, and book your private transfer from Semuc Champey to Flores and Tikal!
5. Rental Car from Semuc Champey to Flores and Tikal
Journey Duration: ~7 hours
And lastly, to travel from Semuc Champey, you can rent a car in Lanquin and drive to Tikal or Flores. Even though the route is picturesque, the road conditions are poor, so drive cautiously and ensure your car is trustworthy and has plenty of gas.
We advise leaving early from Semuc Champey, especially if you intend to travel all the way to Tikal.
Since you will probably have the car for multiple days, we recommend you stay in Flores overnight and continue your journey to Tikal the next day!
The journey from Semuc Champey to Tikal takes around 7 hours, but be sure to allow extra time for photo stops at picturesque locations with fantastic views along the way!
GuateGo
On GuateGo, you can check all available transportation options from Semuc Champey to Flores and Tikal. It is a reliable and easy-to-use platform for comparing prices & schedules and making a booking online.
Best day tours in Tikal, Guatemala
Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading to. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.
The following widget shows some of the best tours in Tikal, Guatemala.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Flores from Tikal?
The distance from Flores to Tikal is 65 kilometers.
What is the best way to get from Semuc Champey to Tikal?
Tikal can be reached most easily from Flores. This vibrant city is only 90 minutes from Tikal and is partially located on a small island. So, to get from Semuc Champey to Tikal, it’s best to first stop in Flores.
How much does it cost to enter Tikal?
The general park entrance fee to the Tikal National Park is USD 22 per day per person, valid from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM.
Can you visit Tikal without a tour?
It’s easy to visit the Tikal ruins without a tour! You can organize your road trip by renting a car or get there by a regular shared shuttle and explore all on your own!
Is there direct transportation between Flores and Semuc Champey?
Yes, there is a direct shuttle service from Semuc Champey-Lanquin to Flores. The service runs once daily and departs early in the morning.
