Nakbe, Archaeological site in Petén, Guatemala
Nakbe is an archaeological site in the Petén jungle featuring pyramids and platforms from the early Maya period. Buildings are connected by paved walkways made of crushed white stone that spread across the entire site.
The site was investigated between 1980 and 1990, revealing that the Maya built advanced structures as early as 600-400 BC. This discovery shifted understanding of when the Maya established their early urban centers.
The limestone quarries at Nakbe demonstrate sophisticated material extraction methods, with workers using specialized tools such as bifacial picks and chert axes.
The site is remote and accessed through guided multi-day tours departing from Flores or Tikal. Visitors should prepare for rough conditions and bring warm clothing for nights in the open.
A notable feature is the Kan Causeway, an elevated pathway that connected different parts of the early settlement. This paved route demonstrates the engineering skill of the ancient builders.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
