Complete Guide to Jorge’s Rope Swing in Flores (Guatemala)

Whether Flores is your first stop in Guatemala after hopping over the border, or your last stop in a jam-packed Guatemala itinerary; you will almost certainly be paying a visit to the Tikal Mayan Ruins… But then what?

Many travellers are left wondering what to do in Flores besides Tikal. Thankfully, I have a suggestion – Jorge’s Rope Swing.

Situated on the opposite shoreline of Lake Peten Itza, Jorge’s Rope Swing offers a scenic spot for visitors to relax, swim, socialise, and most importantly do a giant rope swing into the lake!

I’m here to break down everything you need to know about this popular backpacker activity, including how to get there, costs, what to expect and more. So let’s get started!

About Jorge’s Rope Swing

Set on the jungle-filled bank on the opposite shore from Flores, this lakeside spot has a rope swing, jumping platforms, and inner tubes to help you make the most of Lake Peten Itza. There are various hammocks and benches scattered with the option of shade to relax and cool off in, or to sunbathe as the area catches the sun as it goes down.

But why visit Jorge’s Rope Swing?

Flores in Guatemala is a tiny island that doesn’t take long to explore. You can easily walk around the whole island in less than an hour.

This means that after exploring Tikal, most tourists and backpackers are left searching for something else to do. Whilst you are surrounded by such beautiful scenery, why wouldn’t you want to explore more of it?

Jorge’s Rope Swing probably may not be the more elderly traveller’s cup of tea, but it does offer a more adventurous activity for the younger backpacker!

This backpacker hangout has a relaxed and sociable atmosphere, inviting fellow travellers to try out the rope swing, have a laugh, or simply relax in a hammock. The proximity and ease of access from Flores, mean that you can easily be flexible around existing plans.

Once there, Jorge’s Rope Swing offers a different perspective of Flores and the lake, as well as a better sunset spot than the popular Skybar in Flores. Plus it’s a cheap activity to do something different!

Whilst I wouldn’t rant and rave about Jorge’s Rope Swing, it is an easy and affordable way to spend a fun couple of hours away from the town and out in nature.

Jorge’s Rope Swing Overview

• Entrance fee: 25Q ($3.20)
• Opening hours: 08:00-17:00
• Opening days: Monday-Sunday
• Facilities: Toilets ✅, Parking ❌
• What to bring: Water, suncream, swimming costume, towel, GoPro, cash, and dry bag.
• Guide needed? – No.
• Time needed: 1-2 hours ⏳
• Suitable for children? Yes (rope swing with caution)
• Suitable for fear of heights? Yes

How to get to Jorge’s Rope Swing?

The most common way to access Jorge’s Rope Swing is by boat (lancha). It’s a short (5-15 minute) boat ride across from Flores. The waters are usually peaceful making it a pleasant ride. You can either arrange a pickup with your captain (usually 50Q-60Q) or pay for a one-way trip and ask the owner (Jorge) to arrange a boat back when you are ready. The latter gives you more flexibility but runs the risk of being overcharged a few quetzals on the way home.

You can also hire a kayak and make your own way.

Whilst it is possible to hike from El Mirador de Canek, I would strongly advise against it. Jorge’s Rope Swing is located on the edge of the lake and surrounded by forest. This means you will either need to navigate through the forest, or follow the road and swim the final part.

Jorge’s Rope Swing Hours

Jorge’s Rope Swing welcomes visitors daily between 9 AM and 7 PM. The majority of travelers tend to arrive in the early afternoon and stay until sunset.

This is a great way to chill out and relax after an early morning tour of Tikal without letting the day slide away. Plus sunset from Jorge’s Rope Swing is pretty stunning!

How much is Jorge’s rope swing?

Entry to Jorge’s Rope Swing is 25Q. You will need to pay for this in addition to your transport across the lake. As you hop off the boat, you will need to head into a little hut on the right-hand side which doubles as the bar.

For this price, you have access to the rope swing, diving platform, hammocks, and seating alongside the lake. You can use the rope swing as many times as you want. It’s an affordable little trip for a fun change of scenery in a beautiful setting.

Is it safe to swim in Lake Peten, Flores?

If you’ve heard any of the stories from backpackers travelling around Guatemala, you will have almost certainly come across someone saying they got sick from the water. Whether it’s in Lake Atitlan, Lanquin or elsewhere.

Thankfully, the water in Lake Peten Itza around Flores is safe to swim in! There wasn’t the same worry here as elsewhere in Guatemala about getting sick from the water.

This isn’t to say that the water is beautiful and clear; it’s not. But it is warm, buoyant, and fine to swim in, dive in and rope swing into!

The only thing to look out for is boats and the occasional terrapin!

Tips for Jorge’s Rope Swing

Whilst rope swings are in essence quite simple, you’d be amazed how many people injure themselves on them! Plus, you want to look graceful like you’ve done this before right?

• Practice on the lower levels first: There’s a lower platform and higher platforms at Jorge’s rope swing. Work your way up as you feel comfortable as you don’t want to get it wrong when the stakes are higher!
• Don’t drink too much: Swinging and jumping in the water can be dangerous, especially after a few drinks.
• Hold the rope high up: It’s easier to grip the rope at one of the knots. Use the highest knot possible so you have more room to play with.
• Make sure to let go of the rope: Don’t forget to let go of the rope otherwise, you will swing back into the wall. The best time to let go of the rope is at its highest point. on the swing.
• Throw the rope as you exit: Let go of the rope all at the same time and throw it away so it doesn’t tangle. This will avoid any rope burn around your forearms and the knots hitting you where it hurts…

Food and Drink at Jorge’s Rope Swing

You can buy beers and other alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks here. You are not allowed to bring your own. I’m sure nobody would notice but have consideration that it’s a family-run business.

Gallos (local beer) were 25Q, Coronas were 30Q, whilst cokes and water were 20Q. I also saw people drinking margaritas.

Food options are simple and basic. They offered predominantly vegetarian options such as rice, beans, and veggies or their more popular nachos option. Apparently, they sometimes offer a BBQ with meat, however, this wasn’t available when I visited.

Is Jorge’s Rope swing worth it?

Let’s be honest, Jorge’s Rope Swing is on nobody’s list of top 10 things to do in Central America (sorry Jorge).

It’s simply a big rope swing overlooking a lake with a bar and a bunch of chillout spots. I don’t want to gloss it up to be anything more than it is. It’s not the highlight of my visit to Flores (that remains with Tikal). But did I enjoy it and will I remember it – yes I will! And for that reason, I think it’s worth it.

Particularly as a backpacker, it’s a nice spot to go with a friendly and social vibe. Around sunset there’s a very pleasant atmosphere as the music plays, everyone has had a couple of drinks and you’re surrounded by people chatting, having fun, and enjoying the beautiful surroundings. During the daytime, expect peace, serenity, and the occasional splash followed by laughter!

What else to do in Flores

People don’t travel from far and wide to Flores for Jorge’s Rope Swing. It’s Tikal that most people are here to see! So besides Tikal, here are a few more ideas of things to do in Flores for the rest of your stay:

El Mirador 5-day trek

If your time isn’t limited, there is one standout option: the epic 5-day hike to El Mirador. This trek isn’t on most Guatemalan itineraries and is completely missed by most people visiting Flores because of time or cost constraints. The trek provides a unique experience of Mayan ruins completely isolated from modern civilisation. The only way to get there is either by helicopter over the jungle or a 5-day trek through the jungle. These mysterious ruins are home to La Danta, the tallest Mayan structure ever built and one of the tallest pyramids in the world!

The hike starts in La Carmelita and heads north towards the Guatemala-Mexico border. Be prepared for a long and sweaty hike, with some days up to 8 hours of walking. I’m not going to deny that trekking those distances through the dense and humid jungle isn’t tough, but at least it’s flat! Plus, you will see loads of wildlife and no tourists (you left them back in Flores)!

Museo Santa Barbara

On a tiny islet to the east of Flores is the Museo Santa Barbara. It’s one of the only museums in the Flores region and hosts a collection of ancient Mayan artifacts from nearby ruins – dating back as far as 2000 years! Despite the small size of the museum, it aptly tells the history of this civilisation and is a great little visit if you like archaeology, Mayan culture, or museums.

After browsing the museum, enjoy a drink on this scenic island at the local cafe. A boat from Flores Island to Santa Barbara should cost 10-15Q.

Uaxactun Ruins

A few kilometers beyond Tikal, and further into the jungle, are the Uaxactun ruins. They’re not as large or famous as Tikal, but they are significantly quieter and less excavated. The lack of tourists makes it a more intimate experience, whilst the limited renovation makes it more rugged. Uaxactun is worth the visit if you prefer quieter Mayan ruins and have some time going spare. Once again, I would recommend a tour guide to help you understand the history.

Uaxactun can be visited on a day trip from Flores but organised transport is necessary due to its more remote location. If you would rather take public transport to Uaxactun, you will need to catch the bus from Santa Elena in the afternoon. This stops at Tikal at around 5 PM and arrives in Uaxactun around 6 PM. The return bus leaves Uaxactun at 7 AM meaning you will need to spend at least one night in Uaxactun village, which will show you a different side of Guatemala.

Where to stay in Flores

On the small island of Flores, there aren’t loads of accommodation options, but here are some of the best:

Los Amigos Hostel: The most well-known and popular hostel on the island of Flores.

Hostal Don Cenobio: Located on the northern tip of Flores, you can almost see Jorge’s Rope Swing in the distance!

Hotel Peten Express Tikal: More of a hotel vibe than a hostel (despite being on Hostelworld).

Before you go

Thank you for reading my guide for visiting Jorge’s Rope Swing in Flores, Guatemala. If guides, itineraries and travel content like this interest you, head over to my blog page to find out more.

If you are new to Matt’s Next Steps, check out the About Me page to find out a bit more about who I am, my travel adventures, and why I wanted to become a travel writer.

Please comment below and let me know your thoughts and experiences, or if there is anything else you want information on.

Happy travelling!