Where to Stay in Flores: 18 Best Hotels For Every Budget & Traveller Type
Discover the best places to stay in Flores, from the nicest areas to the top hotels in this accommodation guide.
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The capital of the PetĂ©n region in northern Guatemala, Flores is most commonly known as the gateway to the Mayan city of Tikal, but it’s also a gorgeous destination in its own right. We were a little overwhelmed by the accommodation options in Flores when planning a trip to Guatemala. The island may be small, but it’s packed with budget hostels and boutique hotels. Not only that, but there are so many parts to the Flores region, offering everything from local guesthouses to boujee jungle lodges in Tikal National Park.
Having spent longer than most travellers do here, we’ve found the best areas to stay in Flores, whether you’re seeking a simple bed for the night or a lakefront escape. In this guide, we’ve listed the best hotels in Flores and Tikal, categorised by budget and traveller type, to help you find the perfect place to stay, from social backpacker hostels to colourful boutique getaways and secluded jungle lodges.
Best Flores Hotels – Our Top Picks
More from Flores
Where to stay in Flores
Flores sits on the huge Lake PetĂ©n Itzá (Lago PetĂ©n Itzá), the third largest lake in Guatemala. It may be a small island town, but it has a surprisingly wide range of places to stay and is worth adding to your Guatemala itinerary. You’ll find everything from lively hostels where backpackers meet over cheap beers to boutique hotels with rooftop pools and lake views. While the wider region has a surprisingly wide variety of places to stay, too.
What is the best area to stay in Flores?
Choosing where to stay in Flores can be overwhelming at first if you don’t actually know what Flores is. It’s not a traditional tourist town, but actually a municipality of various towns, islands, and peninsulas, including:
Flores Island
Flores Island (Isla de Flores) is a tiny island floating in Lake PetĂ©n Itzá, connected to the mainland by a causeway. This is the ‘old town’ and the main tourist hub in the region, where you want to base yourself. It has all the best hotels, restaurants, bars, and tour operators.
Santa Elena
Santa Elena is the town on the mainland across from Flores Island. This is the region’s commercial hub, with the main airport, bus terminal, and shopping amenities. It’s not the nicest or safest area, but it is widely used by transiting travellers and offers some cheaper accommodation options.
San Miguel
A town on the peninsula on the opposite shore of the lake from Flores Island. It’s connected to a road and has some cheaper accommodation and is quieter than Flores Island, but it can be a pain to have to use lanchas (boats) to get everywhere. Along the peninsula, you’ll also find upscale jungle lodges, perfect for those seeking an escape in nature. You’ll be quite cut off from most of the main things to do in Flores, but it’s a good option for a few nights of seclusion.
Tikal National Park
Tikal is a UNESCO World Heritage site made up of the historic Mayan city of Tikal and a protected national reserve that makes it one of the top things to do in Guatemala. This is the main reason most people visit Flores. Instead of staying in Flores, you can actually stay in a handful of accommodations close to the park entrance. These options are perfect if you want to spend one to two days exploring the park.
Lake Petén Itzá
While not technically in Flores, there are a few other towns around the lake that serve as alternative bases to visit Tikal. El Remate is the most notable. A small lakeside village about 30 minutes from Flores, it is popular for its peaceful vibe and clear swimming spots.
Flores Hotels Map
Use the filters on the menu on the left-hand side to see the best places to stay in Flores, marked with red pins.
The best hotels in Flores
Flores is one of the best places to visit in Guatemala for a reason, and the best variety of hotels is found on the island. Staying in the small town puts you close to restaurants, markets, and transport for day trips, while lakeside and jungle options give you more peace and quiet.
Consider the side of the island you choose as a base – the west side gets stunning sunset views, while the east side gets the sunrise. The north has beautiful vistas across the lake to San Miguel, while the south is close to the causeway (and therefore Santa Elena’s amenities) and the shuttle pick-up/drop-off point.
Flores Hotel Prices
Hotel prices fluctuate due to seasonal demand, occupancy levels, current events, and other external factors. To provide a general idea of costs, we’ve categorised the average room price per night using the following price ranges in USD:
$ – less than $50
$$ – between $50 and $100
$$$ – between $100 and $150
$$$$ – between $150 and $200
$$$$$ – over $200
The best hostels in Flores
If you’re travelling on a shoestring or just love the backpacking scene, Flores has some solid hostel options. Whether you’re after something social or a laidback vibe, here are the best hostels in Flores, offering everything from cheap dorm beds to affordable private rooms.
1. Los Amigos Hostel
Los Amigos Hostel is one of the top places to stay in Flores for backpackers and our top pick for affordable accommodation on the island. Nestled in the heart of the island, it has a colourful interior of murals, lanterns, and a jungle-clad courtyard filled with plants, seating, and hammocks.
You can choose between dorm beds with personal fans and lockers or private rooms that feel more like a budget hotel. We especially loved their on-site Secret Garden restaurant, one of the top restaurants in Flores, which has a great range of veggie options and some banging cocktails (10/10 recommend margaritas at happy hour).
A communal vibe makes it easy to meet people and pick up travel tips, which is especially great if you’re a solo traveller, but the hostel also has quiet corners for those who want to relax, too.
2. Macarena Hostel
Macarena Hostel is a smaller, more laidback alternative for budget travellers in Flores. It sits a block away from the lake, and many rooms have views over the water, especially at sunset. Accommodation is simple but clean, with options ranging from dorms to private rooms with en-suite bathrooms.
The communal kitchen makes it easy to cook your own meals, a big plus for long-term travellers. The atmosphere is relaxed rather than party-focused, but still with such a cool vibe, making it a good pick if you want peace while still staying centrally.
3. Hostal Don Cenobio
Hostal Don Cenobio is one of the most affordable stays on Isla de Flores, perfect for travellers who just need a comfortable bed and a central location. Rooms are no-frills but clean, with fans or air-conditioning available depending on your budget.
The hostel sits right off Parque Central, so you’re within steps of shops, restaurants, and the waterfront. You can grab cheap street food and watch basketball in the evenings, just steps from your bed.
Free Wi-Fi and a friendly, family-run atmosphere make this a good choice for those who value simplicity and convenience. It’s also super easy to book tours to Tikal or El Remate directly through the hostel.
4. Ciao Cacao
Ciao Cacao is part hostel, part café, with a creative, artsy vibe that sets it apart from the rest. You can stay in private rooms decorated with colourful local art or dorms that are simple but cosy.
Downstairs, the café serves excellent coffee, fresh smoothies, and light meals, with a range of veggie options. The atmosphere is calm and friendly, making it a great option for digital nomads or those who prefer a quieter stay.
We really loved Ciao Cacao’s vibe and would love to return here to spend dreamy days doing yoga and swinging in hammocks in the lush courtyard.
5. Hotel Peten Express
Hotel Peten Express bridges the gap between a hostel and a budget hotel, offering dorms, private rooms, and even access to a lakeside, indoor-outdoor pool. The pool is shared with its sister property next door, giving budget travellers an extra perk rarely found in this price range.
Rooms are modern and colourful, with murals and simple furnishings, plus air-conditioning to keep you cool. Its location right on the lakefront means you can roll out of bed and catch a boat tour in minutes, while its westerly-facing façade means it gets killer sunsets.
There’s also a swim-up bar and café on-site, making it easy to grab drinks with views, enjoy food, or meet other travellers.
The best mid-range hotels in Flores
If you’re after a little more comfort, Flores has several great mid-range hotels with local charm. These are more private than hostel dorms without breaking the bank.
6. Hotel Petenchel
Hotel Petenchel is a small, family-run budget hotel on Isla de Flores. Rooms are simple but well-kept, with private bathrooms, fans, or air-conditioning depending on the option you book. Wi-Fi and basic amenities are included, making it a great base if you’re exploring Flores on a tighter budget.
The nice thing about staying locally is the warm, welcoming owners who are happy to give local advice or help arrange tours. The hotel’s location is just a short walk from the waterfront but away from the noisiest streets, making it a peaceful choice. It’s also a hop, skip, and a jump across the causeway, making it well connected to amenities like malls.
7. Casa Ramona
Casa Ramona is a stylish mid-range option, one block from the waterfront. Rooms are bright and airy, many featuring balconies that open up to views over Lake Petén Itzá.
The dĂ©cor is minimal but gorgeous, with boho-style lanterns, seating areas, and a brightly-painted façade – plus, we’re suckers for a beautiful, flower-adorned doorway. It is also home to one of the cutest cafes we found in Flores, with sandwiches, pastries, and Guatemalan coffee.
Friendly staff can help with travel arrangements and tours, giving your stay a personal feel. It’s the perfect hotel in Flores for couples who want boutique vibes without the boutique price tag.
8. Hotel Villa del Lago
Hotel Villa del Lago is one of the best-located hotels in Flores. The clue’s in the name, as it sits right on the lakefront, with stunning views from its on-site restaurant. Rooms are spacious, with private balconies where you can watch the sunrise over the water.
Inside, you’ll find Mediterranean-style décor, modern comforts like air-conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and reliable Wi-Fi. The rooftop terrace is a real highlight, offering panoramic views of the lake and town, with complimentary breakfast. Staff can arrange boat tours, transfers, and Tikal trips for you, too.
9. Hotel Casazul
Hotel Casazul stands out with its bright blue façade and charming interiors filled with Guatemalan textiles and local art. Rooms are cosy and colourful, each with air-conditioning and balconies that overlook Lake Petén Itzá.
The location is central but tucked away on a quieter street, giving you easy access to restaurants and boat docks without the noise. It doesn’t have its own pool, but guests can use the pools of the two next-door sister properties.
The rooftop terrace adds to the appeal, especially at sunset, when you get panoramic views of the lake. Breakfast is served in the nearby hotel, but coffee and pastries are provided in the morning for free.
10. Hotel Casa Amelia
Hotel Casa Amelia is a classic favourite in Flores, offering lakefront rooms and a rooftop restaurant with some of the best views in town. Rooms range from budget-friendly to more modern options, most with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and some even have private terraces.
The on-site restaurant serves hearty Guatemalan dishes alongside international staples, and it’s one of the best sunset dining spots on the island. With its central location, you can step straight out to explore the colourful streets or catch a boat across the lake.
The best luxury boutique hotels in Flores
For travellers who want something stylish and a bit more polished, boutique hotels in Flores are a treat. These properties are more upscale, often with elevated amenities and more sophisticated décor.
11. Hotel Isla de Flores
If you’re looking for a boutique stay with a modern feel, Hotel Isla de Flores is hard to beat. Tucked right in the centre of town, it has a sleek rooftop pool that feels like a hidden oasis after a hot day of sightseeing. It’s one of the best spots on the island to relax with a cocktail, offering sweeping views across the lake. The on-site Mangos Bar is one of the top bars on the island, and the Achiote restaurant is highly rated.
The suites are stylish and well-finished, with crisp white linens, pops of colour. Thoughtful touches give the place a contemporary feel, and some rooms even come with large baths. We especially love the minimalist, blue flower prints on the hotel’s exterior, which are repeated in miniature in the bedrooms. Despite its boutique feel, the hotel has a laidback warmth that makes it feel welcoming.
12. Hotel Casona de la Isla
Hotel Casona de la Isla combines lakefront charm with plenty of little extras that make it feel like a mini resort. The pool and hot tub are a huge bonus in the hot and humid Flores weather, and many of the rooms open onto private balconies overlooking the water. The hotel is right in the middle of town, but thanks to its garden-like design and quiet pool area, you’ll feel like you’re in the jungle.
Rooms are apartment-style with kitchenettes, which is perfect for families and travellers who like a little more autonomy. The on-site restaurant gets rave reviews, serving both Guatemalan and international dishes, and the lakeside terrace is one of the best places to enjoy breakfast with a view.
13. Hotel Casa Turquesa
Hotel Casa Turquesa feels like a hidden gem on Isla de Flores. With white-washed walls and just a handful of rooms that are stylishly decorated and filled with natural light, the hotel feels more Grecian than Guatemalan. Each room is uniquely designed with splashes of turquoise and cosy furnishings, and many come with private terraces that open onto sweeping lake or town views.
Because it’s a smaller property, the atmosphere is calm and intimate, making it ideal for couples or travellers who prefer a more elevated stay. The staff really go the extra mile, offering personalised tips for exploring Flores and arranging tours to nearby attractions. There’s a small pool, terraces on each floor, and breakfast is included each morning.
The best jungle lodges in Flores and Tikal
If you’d rather wake up surrounded by jungle and wildlife, there are some incredible lodges near Flores. Just like the amazing jungle lodges in Belize we found, these accommodations offer an immersive experience in nature.
14. Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel
Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel is the kind of place you book when you want an unforgettable experience rather than just a bed for the night. Set on a private nature reserve a short drive from Flores, its overwater suites sit above tranquil lagoons and come with private decks, outdoor jacuzzis, and even glass panels in the floor so you can watch the fish swim below.
The property is surrounded by jungle, so you’ll likely hear howler monkeys, toucans, and tropical birds without leaving your room. Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel’s Monkey Island also works with ARCAS (a non-profit animal rescue centre) to provide a safe environment for rescued monkeys, and guests can take a boat tour to see them.
On-site, there’s a gorgeous infinity pool, a full-service spa, and a fine-dining restaurant overlooking the lake. Complimentary activities like kayaking and guided nature walks make it easy to connect with the setting, while the staff can arrange day trips to Tikal or Yaxhá. It’s not the cheapest hotel, and it’s further from Flores’ amenities, but it’s one of the most luxurious places to stay in all of Flores – perfect for honeymoons or a special splurge.
15. Bolontiku Boutique Hotel & Spa
For a stay that feels secluded but still connected to Flores, Bolontiku Boutique Hotel & Spa is a dream. It’s set on a quiet stretch of Lake PetĂ©n Itzá, west of Flores Island, and reached by a complimentary 15-minute boat ride, so you feel like you’re escaping the bustle without losing access to amenities and attractions.
Most rooms are private cottages, which are modern and airy, with big windows and terraces that frame the lake perfectly. The infinity pool and spa are ideal for lazy afternoons, and the on-site restaurant serves up beautifully presented dishes with local and international flavours.
You can spend your days enjoying treatments in the on-site spa, enjoying lakeside yoga, and kayaking at sunset. This isn’t just a practical base for day trips like Tikal, it’s the kind of place you retreat to for a few days for a restorative stay.
Staying in Tikal
While we’d recommend at least a few nights in Flores to explore the region’s many attractions, if your main goal is to explore Tikal National Park, staying right by the entrance is a real advantage. There are several options close to the park that offer proximity that’s perfect for sunrise and sunset tours, as well as an immersive experience in the Guatemalan jungle.
16. Hostal Jungle Lodge Tikal
If your dream is to sleep inside Tikal National Park without blowing your budget, Hostal Jungle Lodge is the property for you. This rustic hotel offers private rooms surrounded by dense jungle, so you can fall asleep to the sound of howler monkeys and wake up steps from the ruins.
Facilities are basic, with limited electricity and simple meals available on-site, but that’s part of the experience. The location is unbeatable – you’ll be able to join sunrise tours before the day-trippers arrive or wander back to the temples in the late afternoon after the crowds leave.
17. Jungle Lodge Hotel
Right next door to the hostel (they’re part of the same complex), Jungle Lodge Hotel offers a more comfortable place to stay in Tikal National Park. The thatched-roof cabanas and suites are surrounded by lush greenery, but inside you’ll find cosy beds, private bathrooms with bathtubs (some are even outside under the rainforest canopy), and even air-conditioning in some rooms.
The pool is a welcome treat after exploring the ruins under the baking sun, and the open-air restaurant serves generous meals with both Guatemalan and international dishes on offer. The real draw, though, is the chance to experience the park without rushing – you can walk to the entrance in minutes for sunrise or sunset visits.
18. Hotel Tikal Inn
Hotel Tikal Inn is another fantastic option if you want to stay right inside Tikal National Park, just a short walk from the entrance to the ruins. The hotel is built in a traditional style with thatched-roof bungalows set around a swimming pool, giving it a rustic but comfortable jungle vibe.
Rooms range from simple fan-cooled options to air-conditioned ones, so you can choose based on budget and comfort. One of the highlights is the sunrise tour package – you can join a guided walk into the park before the crowds arrive, then return for a hearty breakfast by the pool.
Electricity is limited to certain hours, adding to the off-grid experience, but Wi-Fi is available in common areas when the power is on. It’s not quite as luxurious as the Jungle Lodge Hotel, but it’s more affordable.
Where to stay in Flores for couples
Flores is a romantic spot for couples, with boutique hotels and lakefront stays that make the most of the island’s gorgeous views and stunning sunsets. Many couples love staying at stylish boutique properties like Hotel Isla de Flores or Hotel Casa Turquesa, where you’ll find elegant dĂ©cor, rooftop pools, and balconies overlooking the water. If you’re after something more secluded, jungle lodges such as Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel or Bolontiku Boutique Hotel & Spa offer private casitas, infinity pools, and candlelit dinners with views across Lake PetĂ©n Itzá.
Where to stay in Flores for families
Families visiting Flores will find plenty of comfortable and affordable hotels with convenient locations and kid-friendly amenities. Mid-range stays like Hotel Villa del Lago and Hotel Casazul offer spacious rooms, reliable service, and easy walking access to restaurants and shops around the island. Many hotels have pools, which are always a hit with younger travellers after a hot day of sightseeing. Families who want more space can book apartments or family suites, often with kitchenettes to prepare simple meals. For a nature-focused stay, jungle lodges like Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel are great choices, where kids can spot Guatemalan wildlife from the property itself.
Where to stay in Flores for solo travellers
Flores is a welcoming place for solo travellers, with plenty of hostels and social guesthouses that make it easy to meet others. Los Amigos Hostel is the most famous, with a lively atmosphere, colourful murals, a great bar and café, and both dorms and private rooms. For a quieter but still social vibe, Macarena Hostel and Hostal Don Cenobio are friendly and affordable options right in the heart of the island. Solo travellers who prefer more comfort can choose budget or mid-range hotels like Hotel Peten Express or Casa Amelia, which are centrally located and offer good value.
Flores Hotel FAQs
To help you choose where to stay in Flores and Tikal, we’ve answered these frequently asked questions.
Where to stay if you want to visit Tikal?
If your main focus is visiting Tikal, you have two main choices: staying directly inside the park or basing yourself in Flores. Inside Tikal, you’ll find rustic but convenient options like the Jungle Lodge Hotel, its twin hostel, and Hotel Tikal Inn, which let you wake up early and be among the first at the ruins for sunrise. Staying in Flores gives you a wider range of hotels, from budget hostels to boutique stays, and it’s only about a 1.5-hour drive to the site, with many tour operators located on Isla de Flores. Many travellers choose to stay in Flores for more variety and comfort, then take an organised tour or shuttle to Tikal (which is what we did).
Is it better to stay in Tikal or Flores?
This really depends on your style of travel. Staying inside Tikal puts you right at the heart of the jungle, with the chance to hear howler monkeys at night and experience sunrise or sunset in the park. But accommodations there are basic, and food options are limited. Flores, on the other hand, has dozens of hotels, lively restaurants, and easy access to other attractions around Lake Petén Itzá. If you want convenience and variety, Flores is better; if you want immersion and proximity, Tikal is the winner.
Is it worth staying in Flores, Guatemala?
Flores is far more than just a jumping-off point for Tikal. The island has a colourful, colonial-style charm, with cobbled streets, lakeside cafĂ©s, and great views across the water. It’s a relaxing base where you can enjoy sunsets, boat rides, and day trips to ruins, caves, and swimming spots. Accommodation is varied and good value, so you’ll find something whether you’re backpacking or after some luxury.
Are there good hotels in Flores, Guatemala?
Flores offers everything from backpacker hostels like Los Amigos to boutique gems like Hotel Isla de Flores and lakeview options like Hotel Villa del Lago. Budget hotels provide simple, comfortable rooms with lake access, while mid-range and boutique properties add rooftop terraces, pools, and stylish décor. If you want a jungle experience, nearby lodges like Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel or Bolontiku combine comfort with wildlife watching. The variety is surprisingly wide for such a small island, making Flores a reliable and enjoyable place to stay in Guatemala.
Read next:
Travel Guide to Flores: Guatemala’s Rainbow Island with Rainforests & Ruins
20 Fantastic Things to Do in Flores
12 Best Cafés, Bars, and Restaurants in Flores
A Detailed Guide to Visiting Tikal National Park & Majestic Mayan Ruins
The Top Tikal Tours: Sunrise vs Sunset vs Daytime
How to Visit ARCAS: Guatemala’s First Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation Centre
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