Uaxactun: Explore One of Guatemala’s Oldest Mayan Cities

Deep in the heart of the Petén jungle lies a quiet but powerful reminder of the ancient Maya—Uaxactun. While it may not be as famous as nearby Tikal, this incredible site holds its own secrets, stories, and wonders. In fact, many archaeologists believe Uaxactun is one of the oldest known Mayan cities. It’s a hidden gem for history lovers, adventurers, and curious travelers looking to go beyond the usual route.

Let’s take a closer look at this fascinating place, learn how to visit it, and learn why it deserves a spot on your Guatemala travel list.

What Is Uaxactun?

Uaxactun (pronounced “wah-shak-tun”) is an ancient Mayan city located in northern Guatemala. It’s about 25 kilometers north of Tikal, right in the middle of the Maya Biosphere Reserve. The name Uaxactun means “Eight Stones,” a reference to its early calendar system. In the 1920s, it became one of the first Maya cities ever excavated and studied by archaeologists.

Many experts now agree that Uaxactun is one of the oldest astronomical observatories in the Maya world. Its temples and buildings were carefully aligned with the sun, moon, and stars. These alignments helped the Maya track time, plant crops, and celebrate sacred events.

A Quiet Site with a Big Story

Unlike Tikal, which draws thousands of visitors each week, Uaxactun feels peaceful and remote. You won’t see large tour groups or crowded plazas here. Instead, you’ll find moss-covered ruins, howler monkeys in the trees, and a sleepy village nearby where people still live a simple jungle life.

That’s part of what makes Uaxactun so special. It gives you a chance to experience ancient history in a more personal way. You can climb pyramids, stand in ancient ball courts, and wander through the jungle trails without the crowds.

What to See at Uaxactun

While the site is smaller than Tikal, Uaxactun still offers plenty to explore. Some of the highlights include:

1. Group E – The Ancient Observatory

This is Uaxactun’s most famous feature. The buildings in Group E are arranged to track the movements of the sun during the solstices and the equinoxes. When you stand at the central pyramid, you can see the sun rise directly over specific temples during important times of the year. The ancient Maya used this setup to mark their calendar and plan key activities.

2. Temples and Pyramids

Several temples and pyramids remain in good shape. Many are covered in jungle moss, which adds to their mystique. Some of the structures date back over 2,000 years, making them among the oldest in the region.

3. Ball Court

Like most major Mayan cities, Uaxactun has a ball court where ceremonial games took place. These games weren’t just for fun—they had religious and political importance, and sometimes even life-or-death stakes.

4. Local Village

The small community living near the ruins is worth a visit, too. Local families still live in traditional homes and welcome travelers who respect the area. Some offer handmade crafts or meals, adding a personal touch to your visit.

How to Get to Uaxactun

Reaching Uaxactun takes a bit more effort than visiting Tikal, but it’s part of the adventure.

Most people start from Flores or Tikal. From Tikal, the road to Uaxactun is mostly unpaved, but it’s drivable during the dry season. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by vehicle. You can go with a guide or book a tour that includes both Tikal and Uaxactun.

If you prefer to travel with comfort and local insight, Tropicana can arrange a shuttle service or a guided tour for you. We’ll help you experience Uaxactun without the hassle, and make sure you don’t miss any of the key highlights.

When to Visit Uaxactun

The best time to visit Uaxactun is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. Roads are easier to travel on, and the weather is more pleasant for walking around the ruins.

However, if you don’t mind a little rain, visiting in the wet season also has its charm. The jungle becomes even greener, wildlife is active, and there are even fewer tourists.

Why Uaxactun Matters

You might be wondering—why visit Uaxactun when Tikal is just nearby and more developed?

Here’s why:

• It’s older than Tikal – Some parts of Uaxactun date back to 900 BC.
• It’s less crowded – You can explore the ruins in peace.
• It’s historically rich – Uaxactun played a key role in Maya astronomy and politics.
• It connects the past and present – You’ll see both ancient temples and modern village life in one place.

In short, Uaxactun offers a deep connection to Maya culture that you won’t find in busier sites.

Tips for Visiting Uaxactun

To make the most of your trip, keep these tips in mind:

• Wear good walking shoes – Trails can be uneven and muddy.
• Bring water and snacks – There are few services near the ruins.
• Hire a guide – Local guides offer great insights and help support the community.
• Pack insect repellent – The jungle is beautiful, but full of bugs.
• Bring a flashlight – If you stay late or overnight, there may not be much light.

Visit Uaxactun with Tropicana

Tropicana is a trusted tour operator in Guatemala, and we’d be happy to help you explore Uaxactun and beyond.

Want more adventure? We also run popular tour packages to Acatenango and Pacaya Volcanoes—perfect if you’re up for a thrilling hike.

Need help getting around? Tropicana provides shuttle services to various destinations across Guatemala, making your travel plans smooth and stress-free. And if you’re looking for a place to stay, we offer comfortable accommodation options in Antigua Guatemala, ideal for resting before or after your adventure.

Contact us anytime—we’re here to help you plan the Guatemalan trip you’ll never forget.

Final Thoughts

Uaxactun may not be the most famous site in Guatemala, but it’s one of the most meaningful. With its deep roots in Maya history, peaceful setting, and powerful connection to the cosmos, it offers something truly special.

So if you’re planning a trip to the Petén region, don’t skip Uaxactun. Take the time to walk through its ancient paths, climb its temples, and feel the silence of the jungle around you. You’ll walk away with more than just photos—you’ll carry a story that few others have heard.