El Zotz, Maya archaeological site in Petén Department, Guatemala
El Zotz is an archaeological site in Petén located within San Miguel la Palotada National Park. The area contains multiple building groups with pyramids, plazas, and ceremonial structures arranged across the landscape.
The site flourished during the Late Classic period when it formed an alliance with Calakmul against the neighboring city of Tikal. These political connections are reflected in the architecture and inscriptions found at this location.
The name El Zotz comes from a large bat population living in nearby cliffs, while the original Maya name was Pa'Chan. This connection to nature remains visible in how the site sits within the surrounding landscape today.
The site is accessible via established paths through the protected area, with the central zone comprising several connected sections. Visitors should expect regular rainfall and humid conditions, particularly during the rainy season.
Excavations have revealed mortuary pyramids built from limestone blocks that still retain traces of original paint beneath stucco layers. These preserved paint layers offer a rare glimpse into how the Maya structures originally looked in color.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
