This 82 Kilometer (50-mile) hike takes hikers on a grueling route through the Guatemala jungle and to the ancient, buried city of El Mirador. Here lies the largest pyramid by volume in the world, and archeological sites few have ever seen. Wake up to the sounds of howler monkeys in the forest on this magical adventure. At the top of these pyramids, you can look over a sea of endless jungle, teaming with life. This trek requires a local guide and jungle expert. We went with these guides, who we later found out had a history of saving lost travelers in the jungle. Our guide not only taught us about the ancient history we were basking in, but also many great jungle survival skills along the way. This hike is also not for the faint of heart. This article by Outside magazine covers the brutality of the trek well.
Local History We Celebrate!
The ancient city of El Mirador, located in the dense jungles of northern Guatemala, is a remarkable archaeological site that dates back to the Preclassic period of Mesoamerican civilization. This once-thriving city flourished from around 600 BC to 150 AD, making it one of the earliest and most significant centers of Maya civilization.
El Mirador is known for its monumental architecture, which includes massive temples, pyramids, and courtyards. The city’s largest structure, known as La Danta, is one of the largest pyramids in the world by volume, standing approximately 230 feet tall. The construction of these impressive edifices was a testament to the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the Maya people.
At its zenith, El Mirador was a thriving metropolis with a complex social and political structure. The city played a crucial role in early Maya society, serving as a regional power center and participating in long-distance trade networks. It had an intricate system of causeways, agricultural terraces, and reservoirs, indicating a highly organized and sustainable society.
However, like many ancient civilizations, El Mirador eventually declined, likely due to environmental stress, deforestation, and population pressure. The city was abandoned around 150 AD, and the jungle reclaimed the once-great civilization. Today, El Mirador stands as a silent testament to the ancient Maya’s monumental achievements and their connection with the natural world.
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