How to get there  

The Carmelita community is located in the municipality of San Andrés, 85 kilometers from Flores, Petén. It's a 3 hour car ride or 4 hour bus ride through an unpaved road.   If you plan on driving make sure your car is in good condition and try to obtain some information before departing (4X4 is recommended during the rainy season).    If you want to ride the bus make sure you find out at what time it leaves and be there at least ½ an hour in advance, since the bus leaves once it is full.  

The excursion to El Mirador is an arduous but pleasant 5 day walking journey through the forest.   Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and clothing and be sure to bring some pain relieving medicine for sore muscles as well as some sort of tape to repair blisters.   Make sure you use the guaranteed services of the Carmelita Cooperative or ACTUNAC, as many bad stories have been heard from people using inexperienced guides or operators who fail to provide comfortable sleeping facilities, enough food or water or quality guidance through the journey.