Things to do in Santa Elena

Activities, attractions and tours

Santa Elena which includes heritage architecture, religious aspects and a church or cathedral
Santa Elena
Santa Elena showing heritage architecture, religious elements and a church or cathedral
Santa Elena showing religious aspects and a church or cathedral
Santa Elena featuring a church or cathedral and religious aspects

Explore thousands of activities with free cancellation and no added fees.

Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more.

Get an insider's look in what to book before you travel.

Most popular experiences in Santa Elena

Tours & day trips

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From Flores: Tikal Ruins Guided Tour

From Flores: Tikal Ruins Guided Tour

Activity duration is 8 hours
6.6 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €27 per adult
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Adventure & outdoor

See all 10 activities
From Flores: Tikal Ruins Guided Tour

From Flores: Tikal Ruins Guided Tour

Activity duration is 8 hours
6.6 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €27 per adult
From Flores: Tikal Ruins Guided TourOpens in new tab

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 4 activities
Tikal Exclusive Group Tour

Tikal Exclusive Group Tour

Activity duration is 4 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is €107 per adult
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Cruises & boat tours

See all 3 activities
Tikal Exclusive Group Tour

Tikal Exclusive Group Tour

Activity duration is 4 hours
Free cancellation available
Price is €107 per adult
Tikal Exclusive Group TourOpens in new tab

What to do in Santa Elena

Popular places to visit

Tikal featuring a ruin, heritage elements and heritage architecture

Tikal National Park

Explore the great outdoors at Tikal National Park, a lovely green space in Flores. Wander the lakeside in this relaxing area.

Tikal National Park
Tikal showing a ruin and heritage elements

Tikal

Take a step back in time as you discover a magnificent collection of Mayan palaces and temples set amid a jungle.

Tikal
Cathedral de Flores featuring a church or cathedral

Church of Our Lady of the Remedies

This humble whitewashed cathedral is home to a revered Black Christ and is a great starting point for exploring Flores’ picturesque streets and waterfront.

Church of Our Lady of the Remedies
Central Acropolis

Central Acropolis

You can find out about the history of Flores with a trip to Central Acropolis. Wander the parks or discover the area's sunrises.

Central Acropolis

Plaza of the Seven Temples

Find out about the history of Flores when you spend time at Plaza of the Seven Temples. Wander the parks or discover the area's sunrises.

Plaza of the Seven Temples

Flores Dock

Explore the waterfront in Flores with a trip to Flores Dock. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Flores Dock

Maya Mall

You can enjoy retail therapy at Maya Mall during your trip to Santa Elena. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Maya Mall

Yaxha Archaeological Site

Find out about the history of Laguna Yaxhá with a stop at Yaxha Archaeological Site. While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Yaxha Archaeological Site

Ixpanpajul Nature Park

Explore the great outdoors at Ixpanpajul Nature Park, a lovely green space in Flores. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Ixpanpajul Nature Park

Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Elena worth visiting?
Santa Elena has an interesting mix of local charm, attractions and culture. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or traditional cuisine, there's plenty to enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Santa Elena?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ixpanpajul Nature Park and Cuevas de Ak'tun Kan. Then, explore different parts of Santa Elena for a quick bite and a little retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Santa Elena?
The top tourist attraction in Santa Elena is Ixpanpajul Nature Park, so be sure to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Santa Elena?
Three days will give you time to check out the leading city sights, like Ixpanpajul Nature Park, Cuevas de Ak'tun Kan and Petencito Zoo. The average stay in Santa Elena is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your holiday, Flores isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Santa Elena with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, a fun-filled itinerary sets the tone for a great escape. Browse our ideas for what to do in Santa Elena with kids.

What to do in Santa Elena for adults?
From regional food and cultural highlights to thrilling activities and unique experiences, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Santa Elena for adults.
Are there free things to do in Santa Elena?
One of the best ways to learn about free things to do in Santa Elena is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on exciting neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can visit without reaching into your pocket. Cuevas de Ak'tun Kan is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.