The largest of the ancient Classic Mayan cities is spread out within the El Peten rainforest, in Northeastern Guatemala. The ancient structures are spectacular, emerging from the jungle canopy, surrounded by 222 square miles of national park. Like a scene from the Jungle Book, the ruins and forest are now inhabited by animals including howler and spider monkeys, toucans, parrots and the racoon-like coatimundi, who add a noisy and colorful element to the whole experience.

With an estimated population up to 50,000 Mayans living here at the city's peak, between 600-800 AD, the grounds of the site are thought to have once covered 25 square miles - 10 of which are been mapped and excavated to some degree. There are over 3,000 separate structures, including temples, shrines, ceremonial platforms, residences, ball courts, terraces, causeways and plazas, to discover on the site.

Take some time to really explore the grounds, including the Lost World Pyramid and more remote Temple of the Inscriptions. If your visit coincides with a full moon or you’re desperate to see the sun rise, you can request special permission to visit after hours from the park’s administration office.

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Written by  Amber Dobrzensky.

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