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The North |
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The northern part of Guatemala is still largely tropical rain forest and wetlands. More than 2,000 years ago, it was the center of the lowland Maya civilization in Guatemala and the great city of Tikal. Tikal is a "must see" for kids, but take the time to explore other mysterious ruins, such as Ceibal, in this area. Lake Peten Itza is your jumping off point for the ancient Maya cities. |
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Tikal | ||
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Flores – Lake Peten Izta | ||
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Ceibal National Park (Sayaxche) | ||
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Semuc-Champey (near Lanquin) – Take a swim in the beautiful natural pools on the River Cahabon in the middle of the tropical forest. The water is clear and pools are only a few feet deep. The perfect place to relax for an afternoon. | ||
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Mario Dary Rivera Nature Reserve (Biotopo del Quetzal) – This nature reserve near Salama was set up to protect the quetzal bird, revered by the Maya and the national bird of Guatemala. There are nature paths through the cloud forests where you can see orchids, ferns and bromeliads, owls, hummingbirds and toucans. The bright red and green quetzal birds are quite elusive – the best time to see them is very early in the morning. | ||
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Vivero de las Verpaces (Coban) – Visit an orchid farm, with over 60,000 examples and 750 different kinds, including miniature orchids. |
travel for kids | guatemala | northern guatemala |
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