Tikal vs Caracol?
 

While I realize Tikal is a much larger complex, I'd like to hear input from people who've been to both. I'm planning on staying at Chaa Creek and leaning towards Caracol due to less travel time (w/ kids 6 & 11) & overall cost for 4 to go. However, if Tikal is simply that much superior, I'd hate to be that close and not to go. Also, while I'm pretty sure you can climb the ruins at Tikal (tower IV,etc), can you climb to the top of the main pyramid at Caracol. If so, is the climb relatively easy (kids ok)?

Thanks,

Actually from Chaa Creek Tikal takes less travel time than Caracol.

I've been to both a number of times. They're both great. Tikal is the gold standard, because the escavated area is much larger and mcuh more impressive. The two were probably similar in size during their heydays.

I think the trip to Caracol is more pleasant.

Yes, you can climb both. All Maya sites I've visited are NOT easy to climb -- very steep steps with high steps and narrow landings. Take twice as much water as you think you'll need. But kids will probably find climbing pretty easy.

Have I told about the time I was on top of one of the temples at Tikal and a swarm of killer bees came by?

--Lan Sluder
www.belizefirst.com