Santa Elena Hotels

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Scenic Outdoor Adventures: Santa Elena is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities amid stunning landscapes.
• Historical Attractions: Explore local historic sites and the beautiful cathedral, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the area.
• Santa Elena Reserve: Just a short distance away, this reserve provides an opportunity to connect with nature and experience diverse wildlife.
• Charming Marina: Enjoy leisurely strolls at the marina, where you can soak in the tranquil beauty of the nearby Santa Helena Islands.
• Diverse Accommodation: A range of lodging options ensures a pleasant stay for every type of traveller, from budget-friendly hostels to family-friendly hotels.

Find great hotels in and around Santa Elena

Discover a range of hotel accommodation options in Santa Elena, Flores, Petén, Guatemala, ideal for every type of traveller. From family-friendly hotels to budget-friendly hostels, you’ll find a variety of choices suited for business trips or leisurely beach vacations. Explore hotel reviews and options to ensure a pleasant stay in this charming destination.

• Ramada Tikal Isla De Flores Hotel: This 3.5-star hotel exudes a professional atmosphere, catering primarily to business travellers seeking a convenient stay near Santa Elena, just 1km away. With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, the Ramada Tikal Isla De Flores Hotel strikes a balance between comfort and functionality. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms equipped with modern amenities, making it suitable for both short and extended stays. The hotel's location offers easy access to local business hubs and attractions, ensuring a productive yet relaxing experience.
• Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel: A luxurious 4.5-star accommodation, Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel boasts an exceptional rating of 10.0 out of 10, making it an ideal choice for families and adventure enthusiasts. Situated in Santa Elena, the hotel offers an array of onsite and nearby activities, including hiking, biking, and kayaking, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural splendour of the region. The property also provides child-friendly amenities such as a dedicated children's pool and babysitting services, ensuring both parents and children have a memorable stay filled with adventure.
• Hotel Del Patio: This charming 3-star hotel, rated 8.6 out of 10, is located in the heart of Santa Elena. Hotel Del Patio features a welcoming restaurant, providing delightful dining options for guests. The property offers various sports and recreation activities, including nearby mountain biking, catering to those seeking a bit of excitement during their stay. Guests can unwind in comfortable rooms equipped with satellite television, while the nearby shopping and entertainment districts promise an engaging experience just a stone's throw away.

Where to stay in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, a charming village in Petén, Guatemala, is an ideal base for outdoor adventures and scenic explorations. Travellers can immerse themselves in historical vibes while enjoying the tranquil beauty of nearby Santa Helena Islands. The region offers a delightful mix of budget-friendly options and relaxing atmospheres, perfect for those seeking both adventure and serenity. With its excellent location, Santa Elena serves as a gateway to uncover the captivating wonders of this enchanting area.

• Flores: Nestled on an island in Lake Petén Itzá, Flores is a vibrant city that serves as the gateway to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal. The picturesque cobblestone streets, adorned with colourful buildings, create a charming atmosphere perfect for leisurely strolls. Visitors can indulge in outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the nearby national parks, or simply relax by the lake’s shores. The city comes alive during peak seasons in March and December to January, making it an ideal spot for those seeking adventure and scenic beauty.
• San Benito: Located a mere 13km from Santa Elena, San Benito offers a blend of modern amenities and cultural experiences. This city is known for its shopping centres, making it a great destination for those looking to explore local crafts and products. With a mix of historic sites and archaeological treasures nearby, San Benito attracts visitors year-round, particularly in March to April and December. The lush landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities add to its allure, making it an exciting place to explore.
• La Ponderosa: A quaint village situated 13km from Santa Elena, La Ponderosa is a hidden gem for those who crave adventure and natural beauty. With its proximity to marinas and archaeological sites, visitors can engage in various outdoor activities while soaking in the serene surroundings. The village experiences moderate seasonal fluctuations in tourist traffic, particularly peaking in March and December. La Ponderosa is a perfect spot for those seeking a tranquil escape infused with rich history and scenic vistas.

Things to do in Santa Elena

Shopping

In Santa Elena, you can visit local markets such as Mercado Municipal de Santa Elena for unique handicrafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, around 18km away is La Gran Plaza, a shopping mall featuring a mix of local and international brands along with dining options.

Recreation

In Santa Elena, experience rejuvenation at the serene wellness centres offering yoga sessions and holistic therapies amidst lush surroundings. Engage in local cooking classes for a healthy culinary experience or explore nearby nature trails, ideal for leisurely hikes and connecting with the beautiful landscape of Petén.

Adventure

Explore the Tikal National Park, located a short drive from Santa Elena, to witness ancient Mayan ruins amidst lush rainforest. Enjoy hiking trails that lead to impressive temples and vibrant wildlife, offering an exhilarating experience for nature and history enthusiasts.

Experience the serene beauty of Lake Petén Itzá with kayaking or paddleboarding. This tranquil setting allows for exploration of the lake's hidden coves and wildlife, providing a refreshing adventure amidst stunning natural scenery.

Visit the nearby Yaxhá National Park, renowned for its lesser-known Mayan ruins. The archaeological site features picturesque views over the lakes and is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and discovering the fascinating history of the Maya civilisation.

Nightlife

Visit La Terraza in Santa Elena for a lively atmosphere and enjoy a variety of cocktails. For a more laid-back experience, check out Café del Lago, where you can unwind with a beautiful view of the lake and savour local snacks while mingling with friendly locals.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

To save money on your trip to Santa Elena, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January and September to October, avoiding higher prices in April, August, and December. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, ideally on a Wednesday for the lowest prices. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations by filtering for eco-certified hotels and combining bookings for flights and activities to unlock extra savings. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals and special offers to maximise your travel rewards and minimise costs.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Elena are January and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April, August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Santa Elena is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Elena is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Elena is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can organise your search results by price, displaying the lowest rates first to easily identify the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Santa Elena hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Flores, Petén, is perfect for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts seeking scenic beauty and cultural experiences. Key attractions include a marina, a historic cathedral, and various historic sites. For those looking to explore further, the Santa Elena Reserve is a notable destination just a short distance away, offering a chance to immerse oneself in nature. Whether you prefer adventure or culture, Santa Elena has something to offer every traveller.

• San Miguel & Tayazal: Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural vibes of San Miguel & Tayazal, a historic site nestled within Santa Elena. Discover ancient ruins and learn about the fascinating Maya civilisation, all while enjoying the serene surroundings.
• Cuevas de Ak'tun Kan: For those seeking adventure, Cuevas de Ak'tun Kan offers an exhilarating experience. Explore the captivating caves that showcase stunning natural formations and unique wildlife, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and explorers alike.
• Central Park: Central Park serves as a vibrant urban oasis in Santa Elena, ideal for families and visitors. Enjoy leisurely strolls, recreational activities, and local events in this welcoming green space that captures the essence of city life.

Best time to go to Santa Elena

The best time to visit Santa Elena can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Elena falls in May, when visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Elena falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	72.0°F (22.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly Low
February	74.5°F (23.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
March	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
April	83.1°F (28.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	83.3°F (28.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
June	80.6°F (27.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	80.4°F (26.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
September	79.0°F (26.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
October	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
November	73.8°F (23.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

Accessing Santa Elena in Flores, Petén, Guatemala, is straightforward via Mundo Maya International Airport (FRS), situated a mere mile away. Hotels nearby include the upscale Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel, located 6km from the airport, and Bolontiku Boutique Hotel, a member of the Cayuga Collection, which is 8km away. Both hotels offer convenient access to the airport, with various transportation services such as limited-hour airport shuttles and on-request transfers available. For those seeking a more luxurious stay, the 4-star Hotel Camino Real Tikal is situated 19km from the airport, providing additional transport options to ensure a seamless journey.