Discover the Charm of Peten Through Its Iconic Film Settings

A trip to Peten, Guatemala, is like stepping onto a living film set. This lush, tropical region has served as the backdrop for numerous famous films, TV shows, and books, captivating audiences worldwide with its stunning natural beauty, ancient Mayan ruins, and rich cultural heritage. Let’s embark on an exciting journey to explore the cinematic landscapes of Peten and unravel its hidden gems.

Peten: A Star on the Silver Screen

Peten’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture have made it a favorite among filmmakers. From action-adventure films to animated classics, Peten’s unique charm shines through in each frame. Here are a few famous films shot in Peten that have left an indelible mark on global cinema:

1. “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope” (1977): Directed by George Lucas, the iconic Tikal National Park in Peten was transformed into the rebel base on the planet Yavin 4. The film’s memorable scenes featuring the towering Mayan temples emerging from the dense jungle helped to bring the Star Wars universe to life.
2. “Apocalypto” (2006): Directed by Mel Gibson, this thrilling action-adventure film was set in the declining period of the Mayan civilization, with several scenes shot amidst the spectacular ruins of Peten.
3. “Moonraker” (1979): This James Bond classic included scenes shot in Peten, showcasing the region’s alluring landscapes and exotic wildlife.

TV Shows Set in Peten

Peten’s enchanting locales have also made their way into the small screen, offering viewers a slice of this tropical paradise. Here are some noteworthy TV shows set in Peten:

1. “Survivor: Guatemala” (2005): This reality show was filmed in the ancient Mayan ruins of Yaxha, in the heart of Peten, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the survival challenges.
2. “Destination Truth” (2007): An episode of this popular paranormal reality TV show was shot in Peten, exploring local cryptid legends and mysteries.

Animated Films Set in Peten

Peten’s lush rainforests and ancient ruins have also inspired the settings of various animated films. The region’s vibrant flora and fauna, and its intriguing cultural heritage, have been beautifully depicted in these films:

1. “The Road to El Dorado” (2000): Although not directly set in Peten, this animated adventure film was inspired by the myths and folklore of ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, including the Maya of Peten.
2. “The Maya the Bee Movie” (2014): This animated film features a young bee named Maya, who embarks on an exciting journey through lush landscapes inspired by regions like Peten.

Famous Books Set in Peten

Peten’s enchanting landscapes and rich cultural history have also found expression in literature. Here are some famous books set in Peten, offering readers a literary tour of this fascinating region:

Classic

1. “The Lost City of the Monkey God”  by Douglas Preston is a thrilling narrative about the search for a legendary city in the heart of Central America, with Peten playing a key role in the story.
2. “Breaking the Maya Code”  by Michael D. Coe presents a riveting account of the decipherment of the ancient Maya script, with insights into the profound cultural and historical significance of Peten.
3. “Jungle of Stone”  by William Carlsen narrates the extraordinary journey of two explorers who rediscovered the lost Mayan civilization in the jungles of Peten.

Contemporary

1. “The Maya”  by Michael D. Coe offers an in-depth look into the ancient Mayan civilization, with a focus on the archaeological wonders of Peten.
2. “The Long Night of White Chickens”  by Francisco Goldman is a novel set against the backdrop of Guatemala’s political turmoil, with several scenes unfolding in Peten.
3. “Silence of the Grave”  by Arnaldur Indridason, while primarily set in Iceland, includes a subplot involving an archaeological dig in Peten.

Exploring Peten’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

Peten’s cinematic allure lies in its diverse landscapes, from sprawling rainforests and shimmering lakes to awe-inspiring Mayan ruins. Here are some must-visit spots for film enthusiasts:

1. Tikal National Park: Featured in “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to one of the most significant Mayan archaeological complexes, set amidst the lush Peten rainforest.
2. Yaxha: The ancient Mayan city of Yaxha, which served as the backdrop for “Survivor: Guatemala,” offers stunning views of the Yaxha and Sacnab lakes, along with over 500 structures, including 40 stelae, 13 Altars, 9 Temples, and 2 ball courts.
3. El Mirador: Known for its colossal Mayan pyramids, El Mirador is a hidden gem in the heart of Peten’s jungle. Its breathtaking structures and murals have served as inspiration for various films and documentaries.
4. Lake Peten Itza: With its crystal-clear waters and surrounding tropical forests, Lake Peten Itza has featured in numerous documentaries and travel shows.
5. Flores: This picturesque island town on Lake Peten Itza, with its colorful buildings and cobbled streets, is a beloved filming location for travel and lifestyle shows.

Where to Sleep in Peten

Budget

1. Los Amigos Youth Hostel: A budget-friendly option with comfortable dorms, private rooms, and a vibrant atmosphere.
2. Hotel Peten: Offers affordable rooms with basic amenities, located close to the central park of Flores.
3. Hostal Don Cenobio: A budget guesthouse offering simple rooms with beautiful views of Lake Peten Itza.

Luxury

1. Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel: A luxurious eco-resort offering plush suites with private hot tubs and stunning lake views.
2. Bolontiku Boutique Hotel: Offers luxurious rooms and a private beach, located on the shores of Lake Peten Itza.
3. Camino Real Tikal: A luxury hotel offering comfortable rooms with views of Lake Peten Itza and a private dock.

Where to Eat in Peten

Budget

1. Cool Beans Cafe: Offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and Guatemalan coffee, set in a relaxed garden setting.
2. Restaurante San Telmo: Serves delicious local dishes at affordable prices, with stunning views of Lake Peten Itza.
3. La Luna: A charming restaurant offering a variety of vegetarian and vegan options.

Luxury

1. Casa Amelia: A fine dining restaurant offering a fusion of local and international cuisine, with beautiful views of Lake Peten Itza.
2. Achiote: Serves up a variety of Guatemalan dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
3. Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel Restaurant: Offers a fine dining experience with a view, serving up a variety of gourmet dishes.

A Detailed Itinerary to Explore Peten’s Filming Locations

Day 1: Flores and Lake Peten Itza

• Start your day exploring the charming island town of Flores, with its colorful buildings and cobbled streets.
• Rent a kayak or take a boat tour to explore the beautiful Lake Peten Itza.
• Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying the local cuisine and stunning views.
• In the afternoon, visit the Tayazal Archaeological Site and the Mirador del Rey Canek for panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscapes.
• Enjoy dinner at one of the lakeside restaurants, watching the sunset over Lake Peten Itza.

Day 2: Tikal National Park

• Depart early for a day trip to the Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Explore the iconic Mayan ruins, including the Great Plaza, Temple IV, and the Lost World Complex, among others.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the ruins.
• In the afternoon, take a guided tour to learn more about the Mayan civilization, the wildlife, and the biodiversity of the park.
• Return to Flores in the evening for dinner and rest.

Day 3: Yaxha and Topoxte

• Depart for a day trip to the Yaxha National Park.
• Explore the ancient Mayan city of Yaxha, with its numerous structures, stelae, and ball courts.
• Take a boat trip to Topoxte, an ancient Mayan site located on islands at the Yaxha lagoon.
• Return to Flores in the evening for your last night in Peten.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Peten is rich in folklore and legends, with countless tales of cryptids and supernatural beings. One of the most famous is the legend of “El Sombreron” (The Hatted One), a mischievous goblin-like creature known for his large hat. Another well-known cryptid is the “Sisimite,” a Bigfoot-like creature believed to inhabit the dense forests of Peten.

Hidden Gems in Peten

Beyond its famous film locations, Peten is home to several hidden gems:

1. Uaxactun: An ancient Mayan city featuring unique astronomical complexes, located north of Tikal.
2. Nakum: An archaeological site nestled deep in the jungle, known for its beautifully preserved stelae and hieroglyphic inscriptions.
3. Aguateca: A fortified Mayan city located on a cliff overlooking the Petexbatun Lagoon, offering a unique insight into the ancient Maya’s defensive strategies.
4. Ixpanpajul: A nature park offering various outdoor activities like canopy tours, horseback riding, and nature trails.
5. El Zotz: Known for its bat caves, El Zotz is an archaeological site offering a unique blend of natural and cultural attractions.

What to Pack for a Trip to Peten

Packing for Peten depends on the season of your visit. In the dry season (November to April), lightweight clothing, hats, and sunscreen are essential. For the rainy season (May to October), waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear are recommended. Regardless of the season, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, and a camera are must-haves. Also, don’t forget to pack your sense of adventure!

Transportation Tips

Getting around Peten is relatively straightforward. Local buses, known as “chicken buses,” and minibusses known as “collectivos,” are the cheapest options. For more comfort, taxis or car rentals are available. However, due to Peten’s expansive geographical area, domestic flights to various parts of the region can also be a time-efficient option.

Conclusion

With its cinematic landscapes, cultural richness, and natural wonders, Peten offers an immersive experience for film enthusiasts and travelers alike. So pack your bags, channel your inner Indiana Jones, and embark on a thrilling cinematic journey to Peten, the heart of the Maya world.