TrvlMaven

I will be in southwestern Guatemala on a mission trip from July 25 to Aug 4. I would like to fly to Flores and spend a few days at Tikal. Maya Vacations has a tour that fits the bill,but at almost $1100 that's steep. I see r/t flights for $217. Should I just plan this on my own? Any suggestions for companies, guides, hotels, etc?

volcanogirl

We just did it as a day trip, but PACZ provided a wonderful guide. I'd use them again.

hopefulist

Different route, volcanogirl, they're heading from Guatemala City.

I'd check with a few other agencies, being very clear about what you want and what's included. Here are 2 transportation providers I’ve been pleased with in Guatemala for share shuttles, private transfers, and flight arrangements:
Adrenalina Tours: http://www.adrenalinatours.com
Rainbow Travel: http://www.rainbowtravelcenter.com

You might want to have at least the flights booked by 1 of them - that has saved me a few bucks in the past over what I was finding on line.

My favorite hotel in the park is the Tikal Inn.
www.tikalinnsunrise.com

And for what it's worth, I HIGHLY recommend archaeologist/naturalist Roxy Ortiz. I love her tours so much that I schedule my visits around her availability, even though I'm not usually a guided tour sort of gal. She can sometimes be a piece of your transportation plan, depending on your schedule and hers. Consider a visit to Yaxhá as well as Tikal, really amazing.
http://www.tikalroxy.blogspot.com

Have a great visit, whatever you decide!

volcanogirl

Thanks, hopeful. I didn't know if PACZ operated from there or not.

TrvlMaven

Thanks hopeful. I will follow up on your suggestions.

RAC

I would book a flight, spend two nights inside the park, and take a tour with a guide recommended by your lodge inside the park. We used a guide from the Tikal Inn.

ginger50

Seconding the recommendation for Roxy as a guide. She's a wealth of info, friendly, amusing, etc. thouroughly enjoyed her services.

I also stayed at the Tikal Inn and liked it just fine, particularly the pool after a hot day in the ruins.