Find hotels in Santa Elena from £26

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Outdoor Adventures: Santa Elena offers a variety of outdoor activities, perfect for adventure enthusiasts looking to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region.
• Cultural Immersion: Visitors can engage with local culture through tours and visits to historical landmarks like the Santa Elena Cathedral.
• Scenic Marina: The local marina provides a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls and boat excursions.
• Vibrant Neighbourhoods: The lively Santa María area is ideal for exploring shops, dining, and experiencing local life.
• Diverse Accommodation: A range of lodging options, from hotels to hostels, cater to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels in and around Santa Elena

Discover a range of accommodation options in Santa Elena, Flores, Petén, where you can find everything from welcoming hotels to affordable hostels catering to backpackers. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly getaway, a business trip, or a relaxing beach escape, the hotels here offer essential services and facilities to enhance your stay. Explore the best hotel options and read reviews to find the perfect base for your Guatemalan adventure.

• Ramada Tikal Isla De Flores Hotel: This 3.5-star hotel is perfect for business travellers seeking a comfortable stay close to Santa Elena, located merely 1.1km away. With a guest rating of 8.0, Ramada Tikal Isla De Flores Hotel offers a well-rounded experience, blending functionality with modern amenities. Guests appreciate the professional atmosphere and convenient facilities, making it an ideal choice for those on a working holiday. The hotel features spacious rooms equipped with essential amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay for business and leisure alike.
• Hotel Casona del Lago: Situated right in Santa Elena, this charming 3.5-star hotel boasts an impressive guest rating of 9.0. Hotel Casona del Lago is a splendid choice for business travellers, offering a serene environment complemented by elegant décor and attentive service. Guests enjoy a range of amenities, including comfortable accommodations and a relaxing atmosphere that fosters productivity. The hotel’s prime location allows easy access to local attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring the beauty of Petén.
• Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel: Rated an impressive 10.0, this 4.5-star hotel is tailored for families looking to create lasting memories in Santa Elena. With amenities specifically designed for children, including a children's pool and babysitting services, parents can unwind while their little ones are entertained. The hotel's luxurious setting, combined with its focus on family-friendly offerings, ensures that every guest feels at home. Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel is a perfect blend of comfort and elegance, making it an exceptional choice for family vacations.

Where to stay in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, nestled in the heart of Petén, offers an enchanting blend of adventure and history. Explore the stunning Santa Helena islands, perfect for a serene escape, or venture to the vibrant neighbourhood of Santa María, renowned for its excellent location. With opportunities for outdoor activities and a relaxing atmosphere, your holiday in this captivating region promises unforgettable experiences surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

• Flores: Nestled on an island in Lake Petén Itzá, Flores is a picturesque city that serves as the gateway to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal. Known for its charming cobbled streets and vibrant buildings, Flores offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventure, stunning scenery, and cultural experiences. The number of travellers peaks in March and during the festive December to January period, as visitors flock to enjoy its public market, shopping areas, and nearby national parks. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the historic sites and enjoy breathtaking views of the lake.
• San Benito: Located approximately 12.9km from Santa Elena, San Benito is a lively city that provides a different flavour to your travel experience. Known for its consistent year-round visitor numbers, particularly peaking in March to April and December, San Benito attracts those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. With a variety of shopping centres and educational venues, it’s an ideal spot for families. The nearby archaeological sites and national parks offer a unique glimpse into Guatemala’s rich history and natural wonders.
• La Ponderosa: Just 12.9km from Santa Elena, this quaint village offers an enchanting escape into nature. La Ponderosa is popular during peak seasons in March and December to January, attracting visitors who seek outdoor adventures and stunning landscapes. The village is known for its proximity to a marina, national park, and archaeological sites, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in both the stunning scenery and the historical significance of the area. La Ponderosa provides a perfect balance of adventure and tranquillity for those looking to explore Guatemala's beauty.

Things to do in Santa Elena

Santa Elena offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and local attractions. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including exploring shopping centres, visiting an amusement park, and embarking on local tours. Don't miss the opportunity for morning excursions to fully appreciate the area's charm and vibrant culture, making your vacation a memorable experience in this enchanting part of Guatemala.

Shopping

In Santa Elena, visit the bustling local markets for unique souvenirs and handicrafts. If you're up for a drive, check out the Multiplaza in Flores, located about 19.3km away, which features a variety of shops and dining options for a more extensive shopping experience.

Recreation

In Santa Elena, indulge in holistic therapies at the serene Casa de la Luna, where expert practitioners guide you through rejuvenating treatments and yoga sessions. For outdoor enthusiasts, explore the lush landscapes with guided hikes and immerse yourself in nature's tranquillity at the nearby Lake Petén Itzá.

Adventure

Explore the breathtaking Tikal National Park, home to ancient Mayan ruins surrounded by dense jungle. Experience thrilling hikes, spot exotic wildlife, and marvel at towering temples. For a unique adventure, take a boat tour on Lake Petén Itzá, enjoying stunning views and the tranquil atmosphere of this picturesque region.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Santa Elena is vibrant and inviting. Start your evening at La Casa de la Cerveza for a refreshing local brew, then enjoy live music at La Parada. For a lively atmosphere, check out Club Mambo, where dancing into the early hours is the norm.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Elena are May and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March, 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially save money by combining your Santa Elena hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Santa Elena

Santa Elena offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for those seeking culture and adventure. Visitors can explore the local marina, the intriguing Santa Elena Reserve, and the historic cathedral. Just a short distance from Santa Elena, these attractions allow travellers to immerse themselves in the area’s natural and cultural heritage, making for an enriching experience in this charming part of Guatemala.

• San Miguel & Tayazal: Discover the rich history and cultural vibes of San Miguel & Tayazal, a fascinating historic site in Santa Elena. Wander through ancient ruins and immerse yourself in the stories of the past.
• Cuevas de Ak'tun Kan: Embrace adventure in the stunning Cuevas de Ak'tun Kan, a captivating cave system offering outdoor exploration. Explore its unique formations and experience the thrill of underground discovery.
• Central Park: Enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere at Central Park, a vibrant urban space perfect for relaxation and socialising. Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy local cuisine, or join in on community events amidst the cityscape.

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	Average
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	Slightly Low
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

When flying into Santa Elena, the major airport to consider is Flores (FRS-Mundo Maya International Airport), located 1.6km away. Convenient hotel options nearby include Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel, a 4.5-star establishment positioned 6.4km from the airport, offering various transportation services. Hotel Camino Real Tikal, rated 4 stars, is situated 19.3km away and provides airport shuttle services upon request. Bolontiku Boutique Hotel, a member of the Cayuga Collection, is another 4-star option located 8.0km from the airport. These hotels ensure easy access to Flores Airport, making your arrival in Santa Elena seamless and comfortable.