6Tikal – Guatemala
Deep in the jungles of Guatemala lies the ancient city of Tikal, once a major power in the Maya civilization. Tikal was inhabited from the 6th century BCE to the 10th century CE, during which time it became one of the most powerful city-states in Mesoamerica. Its towering temples, pyramids, and palaces rise above the jungle canopy, offering visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of the Maya empire. The city was abandoned for reasons that are still debated by scholars—likely a combination of environmental degradation and warfare. Rediscovered in the 19th century, Tikal is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a stunning example of Maya architecture.
