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Home » Central America » Places to Visit

20 AMAZING Places to Visit in Guatemala (2024 • Insider Guide!)

Despite being six times smaller than Texas, Guatemala is a remarkably diverse country, home to striking landscapes, Mayan culture, lush jungle, dry highlands, and ancient ruins. In this guide, I’ll cover the best places to visit in Guatemala. And let me tell you: there are a lot of them.

There aren’t many countries where you can roast marshmallows at the top of active volcanoes, swim among crystal-blue waterfalls, explore ancient ruins, and hike around lush rainforests, all in one trip.

Guatemala is definitely a nature lover’s paradise, but it is also home to the unique Mayan culture, and a few cool cities to explore.

Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and Tikal are definitely the show-stopping highlights in Guatemala but don’t stop there. This guide will cover all of the other unmissable places to visit in Guatemala.

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Where to Visit in Guatemala

Faqs about the best places to visit in guatemala, final thoughts on where to go in guatemala.

Whether you want to summit volcanos, hike between Mayan villages, wander around ancient sites, or taste all of the amazing food, you’ll have an action-packed backpacking trip in Guatemala ! 

Insider Tip: Literally all of the top things to see in Guatemala are worth visiting, so fitting everything in might become a real struggle if you don’t have a rough itinerary. Plan your trip beforehand and you’ll have the time of your life! 

#1 – Laguna Lachua – One of the most incredible places to go in Guatemala!

• Calcite and sulfur lake;
• High biodiversity of native plants and flowers.

After a few rough roads and an hour-long hike through thick, dense rainforest, you will earn your afternoon at Laguna Lachua, one of Guatemala’s most beautiful natural wonders.

This calcitic, bright turquoise lake is perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. Located in the middle of Laguna Lachua National Park, the lake remains free of villages and settlements, so you can relax in tranquility. A refreshing oasis in the middle of a jungle, Laguna Lachua is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

Best Attractions

• Hiking might be necessary in order to reach Laguna Lachua lake, but this 4-kilometer long path is full of flora and fauna to explore. Although it takes roughly an hour to complete, the trek is fairly flat and suitable for beginners.
• Swimming in the lake on a hot day is the best way to cool off after the jungle hike. Soaps, shampoos, and other liquids are not allowed in the protected lake, so the waters are extremely clean.

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#2 – Tikal National Park – The most impressive Mayan site… in the world!?

• One of ancient Maya’s most powerful cities;
• Only a small percentage has been excavated.

Guatemala is home to one of the largest pre-Columbian Maya ruins in all of the world! Once known as Yax Mutal during its reign in the 4th-century BC, Tikal’s ruins shed a glimpse of what life was like for this economically and politically important Maya city.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tikal is full of palaces, homes, and monuments that cover an astounding 60 square kilometers.

Most of the park is covered in forest and fauna, but just a few feet under the jungle floor is a concrete floor. The theory is that the Mayans abandoned Tikal because their monstrous city ran out of natural resources. No matter what happened, the city they left is absolutely breath-taking, and it’s still being excavated!

As someone who has explored multiple Mayan ruins, including the popular ones in Mexico, Tikal is the best one.

You can easily spend a full day here, if not more, exploring the trails and ruins. You can also expect to see spider monkeys, howler monkeys, plenty of birds, such as toucans, pizotes, and maybe (if you’re lottery lucky) a jaguar.

• The North Acropolis is the main necropolis that contains the burial sites of citizens dating back 1,300 years. It most notably contains the tombs of several Maya kings, including Yax Nuun Ayiin, Siyaj Chan K’awiil II, and Wak Chan K’awiil.
• The Plaza of Seven Temples is a complex of seven small temples that were built in 650 BC. Because of the similar size and shape of the temples, all seven are almost identical to each other. If you look on the north side of the temples, you’ll find a three-sided ballcourt, which was completely unusual for this time period.
• Tikal Temple I is one of the most prominent buildings in Tikal. Standing 47-meters high, the temple was built as a tomb and shrine to the King, Jasaw Chan K’awaiil I.
• Discover the magic of the ancient city of Tikal on a full day tour that includes a visit to Tikal National Park. Explore ancient archaeological wonders such as the Central Acropolis, various temples, the Great Plaza and other significant sites.

#3 – Chichicastenango – Home to the largest market in Central America!

• Traditional markets and shopping.

Situated high in the Guatemalan Highlands, Chichicastenango translates to place of Chichica (an itchy plant you should never touch). The seemingly normal town doesn’t off tourists much to do on most days, but if you have the chance to visit on a Thursday or a Sunday, you will not be disappointed!

The Chichicastenango market is bursting with vibrant textiles, colorful crafts, and just about anything you could need. Chichicastenango is a photographer’s dream.

There is something is buzzing around every cobblestoned corner, from the lively handicraft markets to the street-side grocery stores. Even if you aren’t into shopping, Chichicastenango is worth visiting!

Discover Guatemala’s vibrant highland culture and breathtaking scenery on a 12-hour excursion from Guatemala City to Chichicastenango and Lake Atitlan. Begin your journey by exploring the historic architecture and bustling market of Chichicastenango.

• Chichicastenango Market occurs every Thursday and Sunday right in the middle of the city center. Shops and stalls spill out into the street selling everything from fresh produce to pottery to livestock.
• Iglesia de Santo Tomás is a church dedicated to Saint Thomas. Dating back almost 500 years, the church is marked by the 18 steps in front of it, which represent the 18 months of the Mayan calendar. The church holds significance as one of the only to mix Catholicism and the ancient Mayan religion.
• Chichicastenango Regional Museum showcases traditional artifacts from Guatemala. You’ll find everything from 800-year old ceramics to bright, colorful jade and stone carvings.

#4 – Semuc Champey – One of the most beautiful and scenic places to visit in Guatemala

• One of Guatemala’s natural wonders;
• Hiking, swimming and exploring.

Semuc Champey is one of the natural highlights of Guatemala. The brightly colored pools are tiered, and the water cascades down through each one until it reaches the Cahabón River.

It’s truly one of Guatemala’s most magical landscapes, and you’ll be happy that you made the journey through the jungle to see its flowing falls.

As for your stay, I recommend Greengo’s Hotel . I extended my stay twice, and I bet you will too.

• El Mirador is the highest viewpoint in Semuc Champey. A 45-minute hike to the summit boasts some of the best views of the pools, along with the green rainforests and mountains that surround them.
• Swimming is allowed in the Semuc Champey pools. Some of the pools are deep enough for diving, so find a rocky cliff and jump into the refreshing turquoise waters for an unforgettable memory.
• K’an Ba Cave can be explored directly in the water! It may be an additional fee to take the guided tour , but you’ll have the chance to swim through the shallow, dark waters around the protruding, rocky stalactites.

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#5 – Quetzaltenango (Xela) – One of Guatemala’s most fun and authentic cities!

• High altitude at 2,300-meters;
• Also known as Xela.

Although Quetzaltenango is the second-largest city in Guatemala, it feels quite a bit smaller than the polluted and loud capital.

Located high in the Sierra Madres Mountain range, Quetzaltenango is the perfect base for anyone looking to experience authentic, real-life Guatemala. Here you will find great Guatemalan food , lively locals, street fairs, and more.

Because Xela is lively and much more affordable than the cities in the south (the capital and Antigua), many backpackers settle down in Xela for a few weeks or months to learn Spanish.

The best part about Xela, however, is not found in the city proper. The surrounding mountains and volcanos provide ample opportunities for hiking, hot springs, and multi-day treks.

Because of the high altitude, Quetzaltenango can be cooler than the other cities, so don’t forget to pack your sweater !

• Parque Centro América is a beautifully manicured park and the center of life in Quetzaltenango. Surrounded by museums, palaces, and cultural buildings on all four sides, Parque Centro América is the best jumping off point for seeing the city and also where you should stay. Many of the city’s best restaurants are walking distance from here.
• Volcán de Cerro Quemado, Santa Maria, and Santa Aguito: Explore dormant and active volcanos, where you can hike, cycle, and camp. If you make it to the summit of a volcano, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the entire city.
• National History Museum is dedicated to Guatemalan history over the last several centuries. From taxidermied animals to ancient Mayan artifacts, you’ll find everything in this fascinating museum.
• Fuente Georginas are natural hot springs just outside of Xela, perfect for taking a dip after a long day of hiking!

Where to Stay in Xela

Hostel: Casa Seibel

Hotel: Casa Morasan Hotel

#6 – Acatenango Volcano – One of the best volcano hikes in Central America!

• Strenuous Overnight Hike to Watch Volcan Fuego Erupt;
• Beautiful Sunrise over Volcan Fuego.

One of the best volcano hikes in Central America , the hike to summit Volcano Acatenango is also tough with a capital T. This is due to the sheer steepness of the volcano; nevertheless, it’s one of the most popular volcanos to summit, purely for its incredible views of the nearby (and very active) Volcan Fuego.

At the time of writing, Volcano Fuego is erupting every 10 minutes!!! Absolute madness, right!?  The difficult climb is totally worth a front seat to Volcano Fuego. There are some tours that will even take you on top of Fuego, but not without its risks. A massive eruption killed hundreds of people just last year (June 2018).

• An Overnight Hike to the top of Volcano Acatenango is the best way to experience the hike. This way you can witness the sunrise, one of the best in the world!
• Camping with a View of Fuego is my favorite part about this hike! At night you can really see the lava spewing from Volcano Fuego.

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#7 – Pacaya Volcano – Most Active Volcano in Central America

• Erupted 23 times in 500 years;
• See flowing, orange lava.

While there is no shortage of volcanoes in Guatemala, Pacaya remains one of the most active. Its last massive eruption was just in 2014, but that hasn’t stopped tourists from climbing it anyway.

Towards the top, you’ll have the opportunity to see the glowing, molten lava flowing down the volcano in streams! Standing over 2,500-meters into the sky, Pacaya is a natural site that can’t be missed during your visit to Guatemala.

Moreover, the climb to the top of Pacaya is one of the easiest in the country (not to say it is easy) and only takes a few hours.

• Hiking to the top of Pacaya is the best way to experience the volcano. It’s a fairly steep hike but only takes a couple of hours. The hike can be toured individually or in a tour group.
• Roasting marshmallows over the burning lava flow is a unique activity to do on Pacaya. The marshmallow gets hot and toasty from the heat the radiates through the cracks in the volcano.
• Horse rides can be taken to the summit if the hike is too steep for you. It’s the perfect way to take photos and enjoy the view without burning any calories!

#8 – Pacific Beaches of Monterrico and Paredon – The most underrated places to visit in Guatemala

• Underdeveloped black sand beach;
• Surfing Paradise;
• Monterrico in the middle of a mangrove swamp.

If you’re looking for a bit of relaxation and sun in Guatemala, head to Monterrico , a pristine beach right on the coast. While Guatemala is not known its beaches, Monterrico remains a hidden gem just 2 hours away from Guatemala City. The black sand stretches as far as your eyes can see, and the lapping ocean waves are perfect for surfing.

Speaking of surfing, I definitely wanted to mention the even lesser developed village of Paredon. Further north from Monterrico, this beach is more famous for its surf breaks, and not there are a few surf schools and hostels setting up shop.

Here you’ll find surf, sun, and seafood, and almost nothing else.

If you are looking for relaxing and more unique places to visit in Guatemala, then head to the coast!

• The mangrove swamp near Monterrico is a protected canal of trees situated right on Monterrico’s beach. You can walk on the wooden boardwalk through the mangroves, or take a guided boat tour through the swamp.
• Surf in Paredon  is pretty decent, though not the best for total beginners. You’ll have a good time no matter what, though!
• Photography is popular during sunset or sunrise due to the contrasting orange and pink sky against the dark, black sand. The beach is rarely crowded, so you don’t have to worry about any tourists photobombing your pictures!

#9 – Lake Atitlan – One of the Best Places to hang for a week in Guatemala!

• The deepest lake in Central America;
• Many unique and small villages to explore, lakeside.

Lake Atitlan isn’t really a secret anymore. It’s been frequented by backpackers since the 60s and continues to remain one of the most popular places to visit in Guatemala. All of that being said, it is also one of my personal favorite places to visit in Guatemala.

Lake Atitlan is a cobalt blue lake surrounded by rugged, volcanic mountains. The views are absolutely incredible and there are plenty of awesome activities to do on and around the lake, such as a sunrise hike (as pictured), kayaking around the lake, or even just hanging out on the docks.

There are several towns that surround the lake, and each has a completely different atmosphere than the other. The three most popular are Panajachel (also the most convenient to reach from Antigua and the Capital), San Pedro, and San Marcos.

Panajachel is a nice mix of everything and is convenient to reach, but it’s also a bit noisy and polluted. I recommend visiting the markets for an afternoon and staying elsewhere on the lake for a more relaxing stay.

I always tell travelers there are two types of backpackers: those who stay in San Pedro and those who stay in San Marcos. San Pedro has the best nightlife and San Marcos has the best vegetarian food served with a side of Kombucha *shout out to Love Probiotics!*

Actually, Love Probiotics is technically in Tzuluna and you can find it in San Pedro too 😉 All jokes aside – as I appreciate both towns for what they are – these are great spots to base yourself if you want to be close to other travelers, things to do, and good food.

They are not authentic nor do many locals live in the center, but luckily some of my favorite towns are not far away.

San Juan is just a short boat or tuk-tuk from San Pedro. Here you’ll find some of the best textiles and art classes. The people are ultra laid back . This is my favorite town, personally.

Just a tuk-tuk from San Marcos is the tiny town of Tzuluna . Come here to visit Bambu House and the awesome permaculture farms. Santa Cruz is also on the same side of the lake and a nice village to spend a couple of nights as it has some of the best views of the lake, but there isn’t much to do here other than relax in the sun.

• Paragliding is one of the most thrilling activities to do over Lake Atitlan. You’ll have the most exquisite bird’s eye view of the volcanoes and valleys as you gracefully fly over the Lake and Panajachel River.
• San Pedro is the largest village around Lake Atitlan. Attracting a variety of backpackers and students attending one of the many Spanish schools, San Pedro also happens to be a wild nightlife area.
• San Juan is a charming village located 10-minutes from San Pedro. Overlooked by most tourists, San Juan caters more for those looking for authentic Guatemalan culture .

#10 – Livingston – Give the Atlantic Coast some love!

• Majority of the population is ethnically Garifuna;
• Peninsula is only accessible by boat.

For a slice of the Caribbean in Guatemala, head to Livingston, a unique city that makes you feel as if you’ve left the country! Although it was populated by escaped Garifuna slaves, Livingston has transformed to become a culturally diverse city with a laid-back Caribbean-like atmosphere.

Come to learn more about Garifuna culture, indulge in gourmet cuisine, and unwind in this picture-perfect town. Playa Blanca isn’t too far away either!

• Los Siete Altares are stunning, cascading waterfalls that can be viewed just 5-kilometers from the city center. Swim in the freshwater pools, or take a boat tour to experience everything Los Siete Altares has to offer.
• Shop through the local markets to find a unique souvenir. Traditional handicrafts from Livingston include shell jewelry, coconut artwork, and embroidered textiles.
• Drink Coco Loco , the local tropical cocktail of the area. You’ll find several street stalls selling this delicious drink, which is rum that has been poured inside a fresh coconut! If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t forget to try Guifiti, another rum-based cocktail known to have healing properties.

Where to Stay in Livingston

Hostel: Casa De La Iguana

Hotel: Casa Nostra

#11 – Zone 1, Guatemala City – A great place to visit in Guatemala for the architecture!

• Architecture hub of Guatemala City;
• The historic part of the city.

When visiting the bustling Guatemala City center, you’ll most likely wander through the metropolis of Zone 1. Breathtaking plazas and grand palaces intertwine between cheap bars, restaurants, and hostels.

If you’re looking for a bit of quiet and relaxation, then Zone 1 is not for you! The neighborhood becomes even more hectic at night with loud music, rowdy cocktail bars, and late-night clubs. If you want to explore the historic sights of Guatemala city in Zone 1 and the others, we’d recommend doing so with a private guide .

• Catedral Metropolitana is the stunning cathedral that looms over the city. Although several earthquakes destroyed the interior of the church, the ornate exterior facade is impressive on its own. Taking almost 100 years to construct, this baroque and classical building has 12 towering pillars, a marble altar, and two side-wing towers.
• Plaza Mayor de la Constitucion is the main square and beating heart of Zone 1. Surrounded by some of the most grandiose buildings in the city, Plaza Mayor de la Constitucion is the perfect place to grab a cup of coffee and people watch.
• Guatemalan National Theatre is a jaw-dropping complex that was once a historical military fortress. This cultural center shows every type of performance in its grand theater, from musicals to operas to ballets.

#12 – El Boqueron Canyon

• 180-meter steep cliffs;
• The perfect non-touristy natural park.

If you are looking for a place to visit in Guatemala that is off the beaten path, head towards El Boqueron Canyon. Located just one hour from Rio Dulce, the steep limestone walls of the El Boqueron Canyon are just one of the many impressive sites to see.

Rarely visited by tourists, you’ll most likely have the jagged cliffs and running waters all to yourself. The further you go into the canyon, the more stunning and gigantic the rocks are!

• Swimming through the shallow waters is the best way to experience the El Boqueron Canyon. Although it’s an exhilarating experience, keep in mind that you will be swimming in currents and around rocks.
• Boat tours are offered by many of the locals that live around the canyon. For a small fee, they’ll take you out on their canoe for some of the most jaw-dropping views of the towering canyons above you.
• Explore the caves that have been created by the limestone rocks. As you bob above the blue waters, you’ll see some of the impressive carved out stalagmites and stalactites.

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#13 – Antigua – A must visit place in Guatemala on the weekend!

• Only 35,000 local residents;
• Spanish-Baroque architecture and one of the most beautiful towns in the country.

You didn’t think we’d leave Antigua off of the list, did you!? This Spanish colonial town is arguably the most aesthetically pleasing city in the country, if not on the continent! Since there are different neighborhoods in the city, doing some research on where to stay in Antigua can make your trip a lot more enjoyable. 

Architecture lovers will enjoy spending the day wandering around the preserved streets of Antigua. From the colorful colonial buildings to the narrow cobblestone alleys, the entire city center is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Antigua is also regarded as one of the best places to learn Spanish, and there are many highly regarded institutes and schools that teach students from all over the world! For this reason, and its convenient location, Antigua has become the most visited place in Guatemala.

With such popularity comes plenty to do, and awesome restaurants, but also a loss of local authenticity. While Antigua is beautiful and a lovely place to live for a while, it doesn’t represent the country anymore. However, there are countless amazing hostels in Antigua that make the stay absolutely worth it.

• Arco de Santa Catalina is the recognizable, iconic arch that stands in the middle of the city. Built in the late 1600s, this bright yellow landmark connects a Catholic convent to a school but also symbolizes the entrance to Antigua.
• Iglesia de La Mercedes is a grand church styled in a classically Spanish-Baroque style with a dab of Moorish influence. Don’t miss the sprawling tiered water fountain that takes up the entire inside courtyard.
• Cerro de la Cruz is the tallest hill that looms over the entire city of Antigua. Marked by a tall cross at the summit, you’ll be able to see panoramic views of the city and volcanic backdrop.

Where to Stay in Antigua

Hostel: El Hostal BNB

Hotel: Selina Antigua

#14 – Cobán – One of the Best Jungle Regions to Explore in Guatemala

• Coffee and cardamom plantations;
• Lots of rivers and beautiful nature.

Cobán is the main city in this region and honestly doesn’t have much to offer in the city proper. You come to Cobán as a base for exploring the nearby rivers, waterfalls, and farms!

The most famous nearby attraction is Semuc Champey , which is just outside of Lanquin. If you really want to get off the beaten path, consider visiting places like Moy Sac.

Cobán is close to many of Guatemala’s top national parks and reserves, and is one of the best places for tasting one of Guatemalan’s biggest exports – coffee! Situated in the central highlands of Guatemala, coffee and cardamom are grown here.

• El Calvario Church is not only the most prominent religious building in the city, but it also boasts the best view from its terrace! Legend has it that the church was built when a hunter spared two sleeping jaguars and instead saw the image of Christ the next day where they were sleeping.
• Las Victorias National Park is just a few minutes outside Cobán and is an 82-hectare park that was once a coffee plantation.
• Nearby Nature like Semuc Champey and Moy Sac.

#15 – Lake of Peten Itza – Let’s Give Lake Atitlan a run for its money for most beautiful lakes in Guatemala…

• Chill on the lake before visiting Tikal;
• Swim and Kayak.

The name  Itzá  means “Brujo del agua”, or water witch. This beautiful lake is often visited because of Flores Island, which is a jumping point for Tikal, but with the right guide and transportation, there is so much to explore around this lake!

You can take a kayak, swim, or even sail to a lost island! Playa Chechenal is the most convenient beach near Flores, mostly known for its wooden dock, white sand, and turquoise water.

El Remate is my personal favorite place on the lake! This is a small and relaxed town on the eastern side of the lake, opposite to Flores and so not visited often by backpackers. The water is much cleaner on this side, so it’s a great place to swim and kayak.

• El Remate  is a laidback and beautiful part of the lake. It’s also the best spot to catch the sunset.
• Explore Flores , the town/island in the middle of the lake!

#16 – Panajachel, Lake Atitlan – The Gateway to the Blue Lake

• Village on Lake Atitlan
• Cheap shopping and markets

Panajachel sits on the banks of Lake Atitlan and is the perfect home base for exploring the neighboring area.

While you can easily spend a full day admiring the buildings and churches, the main draw is watching the vibrant sunset from the shores of the lake. Because of its location, it’s the best town to catch the sunset.

• Souvenir shopping in Panajachel is a great way to get affordable trinkets and gifts for everyone back home. You can find great bargains compared to most other cities, as long as you’re prepared to haggle for it ! If you want to visit a more authentic market, head up the hill to Solola.
• Temescals or traditional Mayan saunas can be found throughout Guatemala, but Panajachel has some of the best treatments. Nothing is more relaxing than sweating out all the toxins in a beautiful, remote sweat lodge.
• Calle De Los Salpores is a street that runs straight through the city center to the lake. At the end of the street, you’ll be rewarded with one of the best viewing points to watch the colorful, infamous sunsets.

Where to Stay in Panajachel

Hostel: Hostal Dulces Sueños

Hotel: Hotel Utz Jay

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#17 – Quiriguá – Lesser-known but impressive ruins to visit in Guatemala

• An ancient archeological site from 200 AD
• 3 square meters wide

The archeological site of Quiriguá is located on the Southeast coast of Guatemala. Once a powerful kingdom during the Maya Classic Period, the city slowly started to decline after the death of the King Uaxaclajuun Ub’aah K’awaiil.

From the sprawling plazas to the towering monoliths, Quiriguá is a historical and educational site to learn more about Guatemalan history .

• The Great Plaza sits at the center of Quiriguá and is considered the largest plaza in the entire Maya region. Legend has it that the Great Plaza was the site of where King Uaxaclajuun Ub’aah K’awaiil was sacrificed.
• Stela C is one of the site’s oldest monuments. Built in 775, and standing over 9-meters tall, the monolith is adorned with ancient hieroglyphic texts and pictures.
• Stela E is the world’s tallest free-standing monument at 10.5-meters high. While it looks strong the monolith has actually fallen over multiple times due to bad weather. It now has to be partially buried underground in order to keep it sturdy.

#18 Crater Azul – One of the most beautiful places in Guatemala

The blue crater or (Crater Azul) is a small blue-water pond located at the end of a series of natural streams. To get here, you’ll need to boat on Rio La Pasion, which is also known for its outstanding flora. It’s best to go to Crater Azul with a guide since there is plenty to learn about the nature and crater itself.

Crater Azul was formed by a natural barrier, and the blue color is due to a large population of snails that keep it clean!

#19 – Sierra Del Lacandon National Park

• Most biodiverse park in all of Guatemala;
• Several Maya ruins to explore.

With some of the most diverse ecosystems in the entire country, Sierra Del Lacandon National Park is a stunning site with jagged limestone cliffs and lush green rainforests. Budging up to the Mexican border, Sierra Del Lacandon National Park is protected land that covers an astonishing 2,000 square kilometers.

Not only is the park thriving with native plants and flowers, but it’s also home to more than 30 archaeological sites to explore.

• Piedras Negras is an ancient pre-Columbian Maya site known for its abundant sculptures. Human activity was recorded in Piedras Negras dating all the way back to the 7th century BC!
• Selva Lacandona is a gigantic rainforest that also stretches into Mexico and Honduras. The Chiapas section of the rainforest is located in Guatemala and contains babbling rivers, flowing waterfalls, and lush vegetation.
• Cenotes are located everywhere throughout the park. Bring your swimsuit and dive straight into the crisp, blue pools on a hot summer day.

#20 – Ixil Region – Where to Visit in Guatemala for Culture and Hiking

The Ixil Region in the state of Quiché is remote and rural. It’s one of the harder to reach areas of Guatemala but definitely worth reaching to experience the authentic Ixil culture and hike around the highlands that reach over 3,500 meters!

There are several towns to visit in this area, many of which can be hiked in-between. Nebaj is generally the starting off point. It’s a small city, but worth stopping through to eat Boxbol and check out the market! One of the best hikes also starts here: Nebaj to Todos Santos .

Some of my favorites include Acul (known for its cheese), Chajul for its coffee and nearby waterfalls, and more remote towns like Chortiz, which you have to hike to in beautiful natural surroundings.

• Hiking in the highlands is one of the best ways to experience this incredible area. There are many remote villages and natural surroundings to explore as well as waterfalls!
• Eat Boxbol , the regional dish.

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#21 – Flores – The Gateway to Tikal National Park

• Gateway to the Tikal Ruins;
• A charming, colorful island town.

Nestled on an island surrounded by Lake Peten Itza, Flores is a good jump off point to visit the Tikal ruins. Flores still attracts a variety of visitors thanks to its well-preserved architecture and historic buildings.

The town itself is so compact that you can actually walk the entire thing in only 15-minutes, but Flores can be reached by a small highway that connects the island to the mainland.

• Flores Plaza is the main square in the center of town. There are many cheap bars and restaurants that surround the square if you’re looking to get a delicious filling snack without breaking the bank.
• Tuk Tuk ride to Flores over the small causeways that connect to the mainland. It’s one of the cheapest ways to reach the city, and also one of the most memorable!
• The Night Market has some of the best food in the city .

Where to Stay in Flores

Hostel: Hostel Yaxha

Hotel: Ciao Cacao

#22 – Rio Dulce – What to Visit in Guatemala for half a day!

• The main connection to Livingston.

The Rio Dulce flows 43-kilometers through Guatemala and is home to the country’s top attractions and cities. Snaking through narrow, limestone gorges and riverbank homes, Rio Dulce is the perfect place to relax and let time slip by you. Whether you’re cruising down the river on a boat or admiring the streams from the bank, you’ll definitely be in awe of this wonderful natural landmark.

• Boat tours are the best way to see large parts of Rio Dulce. Take a short tour down the water and see a plethora of dense jungles, tangled mangroves, and charming villages!
• Thatched houses are scattered all over the banks of the Rio Dulce. These wooden huts are propped a few feet over the river with palm leaf roofs to keep indoors cool and dry.
• Sailing is another popular activity down the river. Many sailors rent their boats in Honduras and make their way down the river via the Carribean sea. The best thing about hiring your own sailboat is that you can make stops wherever you want, from the bustling town of Livingston to the ancient Mayan sites .

#23 – Zone 4, Guatemala City

• The artistic hub of Guatemala City
• Great for nightlife

Line with boutique stores, cozy cafes, and cool art galleries, Guatemala City’s Zone 4 neighborhood is the cities artistic and cultural hub.

While it was once a seedy, run-down area south of Zone 1, it has since seen a wild transformation making it one of the coolest places in the entire city. Don’t miss out on the color street graffiti painted on most of the buildings and walls throughout the neighborhood.

• Cuatro Grados Norte is a pedestrianized street in the middle of Zone 4, and one of the neighborhood’s trendiest hangouts. Overflowing with bars, shops, and cafes, Cuatro Grados Norte should be your first stop for bohemian, artistic culture.
• La Esquina is a small market with some of the best contemporary food stalls in the city! Built in the style of a traditional Guatemalan market, you’re sure to find something tasty in this indoor food palace.
• La Erre is a quaint art gallery that also hosts a variety of unique exhibitions and workshops. This cultural center features a gallery dedicated to the local artists of Guatemala City, as well as several interactive exhibits.

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ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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Find out what people want to know about where to go in Guatemala.

What are two popular tourist destinations in Guatemala?

The Mayan ruins of Tikal and the very active Volcán de Fuego volcano are two attractions not to miss off your Guatamala itinerary.

Is Guatemala a safe place to visit?

Guatamala is on the whole a safe place to visit, as long as you stay on the tourist path and don’t go wondering around Guatamala City in the dead of night. It has a very high crime rate, but these crimes are usually gang related and do not often interfere with tourists.

What is Guatemala famous for?

Guatamala is famous for its volcanoes and rich Mayan culture, including the world-famous Tikal National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Antigua.

What are places to avoid in Guatemala?

Aside from not having anything interesting to see and do, Guatamala City is a dangerous place and is one place I would recommend avoiding.

Now that you know a little more about where to travel in Guatemala, you can see how this stunning country is rich in history and overflowing with some of the most abundant landscapes in the world. I hope you’ve taken some inspiration with what to visit in Guatemala and you’re ready to explore this often overlooked destination!

Whether you’re backpacking through the quaint villages on the Lake Atitlan coast or indulging in local, tropical cuisine, we know that Guatemala has something special for you.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Claire Martin

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Words, pictures, and people telling you can not describe the beauty of Guatemala! Besides the great and stunning places the culture, the people, and the food, is an amazing place, God created this beautiful land for all of us to discover.

Impressive but you left out the Hermitage of El Carmen which is a colonial church from the Spanish period. It was the first religious building in what later became Guatemala City dating from 1620. The site is located atop a hill and today there is a remarkable park in it’s surroundings. It’s is in the historic quarter of Guatemala City in Zone 1.

What does a trip to Guatemala on average cost?

Hi Miguel, you should probably budget 1200-1500USD per month for a backpacking trip. You could probably do it for less depending on the type of activities you are interested in!

I agree that Guatemala is a great place, but Rio Dulce is not a half of day, you can travel from the lake to the ocean and make stops pretty much every day..Rio dulce is at least 2 days to enjoy the beauty.

Hay tres eventos culturales de enorme trascendencia, aquí en estas tierras de Mesoamérica. La escritura maya empleada durante mas de mil años. En sus códices y estelas. El escrito de la conquista de la nueva España por Bernal Díaz del castillo. Realizada en la Antigua Guatemala 1600, lugar donde descansan los restos de el y de Pedro de Alvarado.. y recibir en la iglesia de Chichicastenango por el fraile Francisco Jiménez el manuscrito del Popol Vuh en cachiquel que traduce al español, presentada al lado original. Hay que conocer y apreciar como algo de un valor universal.

Great no one could describe the beauty of Guatemala better, warm hugs. Thank you

Hi! We are planning a trip to Guatemala and want to visit all the wonderful places you listed. But how did you travel to each place? Did you rent a car or take busses? What would you recommend is the easiest/safest/cheapest way to travel around Guatemala?

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10 Best Places to Visit in Guatemala

By Carl Austin · Last updated on April 2, 2024

Guatemala is a great place to see sights you probably not going to see anywhere else. Things like smoking volcanoes, world-famous coffee fresh from the slopes where it’s grown and roasted, and ruins of the once-great Mayan civilization.

Guatemala is a place to mingle with the locals, including roaming the country in a colorfully painted former school bus, called a chicken bus . Oh, the country has some great beaches and stunningly blue lakes, of which Lake Atitlan is the most famous. So, gringos, it’s time to pack those bags and vamoose! An overview of the best places to visit in Guatemala:

10. Semuc Champey [SEE MAP]

Getting to Semuc Champey involves a 30-minute ride over bumpy roads through a jungle, but the trip is well worth the bounces. Once you get there, you can relax the bumps away with a swim in gorgeous turquoise blue pools atop a natural limestone bridge.

Equally incredibly turquoise blue is the Cahabon River that created the limestone bridge and now runs under it. Caves can be found within the limestone bridge; some caves are accessible only by swimming underwater.

9. Todos Santos Cuchumatan [SEE MAP]

The town of Todos Santos Cuchumatán, in a province with the same name, is a good place to see native Guatemalans wearing traditional clothing on a daily basis. It’s one of the few places in the country where this still occurs.

The residents are predominantly Mayan and still speak that language. Located in the mountains of the Sierra de los Cuchumatánes, the town is noted for its annual All Saints Day celebration (Todos Santos translates as “all saints.”) The celebration features music, dancing, lots of alcohol and horse races.

8. Livingston [SEE MAP]

Livingston is one of Guatemala’s gems tucked away on the Caribbean coast, and can only be reached by boat. Fortunately, two ferries head out and back each and every day. The town is the hub of the Garifuna culture, meaning tourists have a chance to taste the local menu and music during their visit. Evenings in Livingston are full of excitement and you may just have the opportunity to take part in the Punta, a regional dance with an incredible beat.

7. Quetzaltenango [SEE MAP]

The name may be a mouthful, but Quetzaltenango has been described as the perfect Guatemalan town. It’s the country’s second largest city, but is not considered big nor is it considered too small. Quetzaltenango is also known by its Mayan name of Xela.

The Germans moved in after the Spanish left, giving this former coffee-growing center the multi-cultural feel that can be found in the Central Plaza, home to the Catedral de Espiritu Santo. The city is a jumping off point for hikes to Laguna Chicabal, a doormat volcano, and the active Santa Maria volcano.

6. Monterrico [SEE MAP]

Many people gravitate to white-sand beaches for a little rest and relaxation. You won’t find those at Monterrico, a popular beach resort on Guatemala’s Pacific Coast. The beaches are volcanic black ash.

You’ll want to bring sandals if you plan to do any beachcombing, as the sand can be too hot for bare feet. It has nice waves for surfing, but Monterrico’s main attraction may be the sea turtles. The beach is the breeding ground for four species of sea turtles.

5. Flores [SEE MAP]

Flores is a located on Lake Petén Itzá and connected to land by a causeway, on the other side of which lie the twin towns Santa Elena and San Benito. It was here, on the island of Flores, that the last independent Maya state held out against the Spanish conquerors.

For many tourist, the main reason to visit Flores is its proximity to the famous Maya ruins of Tikal. But the island city itself is a great place to visit in Guatemala, filled with colonial, red-roofed buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, a historic church and many hotels and restaurants.

Walks through the Old Town offer the sights of beautiful old Spanish churches and colonial buildings. Boat cruises can be taken across Lake Peten to view picturesque scenery and a variety of birds. With several piers along the lake, tourists can do like the locals and jump off to take a refreshing swim. The Petencito Zoo offers encounters with native animals like jaguars and monkeys. Also close by, the Ixpanpajul Natural Park is a great place for forest hikes, ziplining, canopy tours, horseback riding and wildlife viewing.

4. Chichicastenango [SEE MAP]

There’s just something about the name Chichicastenango that makes you want to visit. Maybe because it’s a good place to immerse yourself in the Mayan culture – almost 100 percent of the town’s population is Mayan K’iche. Maybe it’s because of the fantastic Thursday and Sunday market, where you can buy everything from food and colorful women’s blouses to lime stones for making tortillas and traditional carved wooden masks. Adjacent to the market is the Church of Santo Tomas, built on the site of a pre-Columbian temple.

3. Panajachel [SEE MAP]

Panajachel, a lakeside town in the southwestern central highlands, is named after the indigenous word for a tropical fruit, the white sapote. The town sits on the shores of Lake Atitlan , which, with Sierra Madre volcanoes on the other side, dominates the landscape.

Atitlan is the deepest lake in Central America. This former Spanish colonial town, with its busy marketplace, is reputed to be the best place in Guatemala to buy souvenirs. It also makes a good place to explore surrounding native villages around Lake Atitlan, which are accessible by private boat.

The scenic region around Lake Atitlan is a natural playground where visitors can enjoy a number of outdoor activities. The lake itself offers boat cruises, swimming and kayaking, while the surrounding volcanoes, farms and hills present opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, bird watching, touring coffee plantations, and exploring archaeological Mayan sites such as those at Sambaj and Chiutinamit.

2. Antigua Guatemala [SEE MAP]

Set against the pictorial backdrop of three imposing volcanoes in the central highlands of Guatemala, the beautiful, old colonial town of Antigua is one of the country’s top tourist destinations. Once the noble capital of the Spanish Empire in Central America, Antigua was severely damaged during a major earthquake in 1773, causing the city to lose its sovereignty to what is now modern-day Guatemala City. Nevertheless, Antigua still retains an outstanding collection of well-preserved Spanish architecture, which furnishes the city with an enchanting and romantic atmosphere.

A major center for learning the Spanish language as well as a popular base for exploring other parts of Guatemala, Antigua provides a plethora of impressive sights and activities. Just a simple stroll through the city center awards views of spectacular architecture, historic churches and prominent landmarks like the Santa Catalina Arch. The heart of the city is Central Park, a large green space with trees, walking paths, monuments and fountains, where people can relax or hire taxis to get around the city.

A must-do is get lost in the city’s huge market with its maze of tropical fruit stalls and flowers. Museums and art galleries showcase Antigua’s history, culture and art, while the Hill of the Cross presents panoramic views of the city. Just outside Antigua, tourists can hike up the volcanoes or hop on a bus to tour coffee farms, cacao plantations and traditional villages.

1. Tikal [SEE MAP]

Located in the tropical rainforest of the Petén province in northern Guatemala, Tikal was one of the largest cities of the ancient Mayan civilization during its Classic period, which ran from approximately 200 A.D. to 850 A.D. Archaeologists estimate that, at its peak, Tikal’s population ranged from 50,000 to 100,000 inhabitants. It was a religious, political and trade center due to its favorable geographic location, being bounded by rivers on both the east and west.

Although Tikal reached its height during the Classic Period, some of the architecture at the site dates back to the fourth century B.C. At times, rulers of Tikal would be replaced by others, but the city continued to flourish. It was the dominant city in the region, and ruled over other small city-states. Because of the availability of the tombs of the past rulers as well as other monuments and palaces to study, Tikal is one of the best understood of the large Mayan cities.

Unfortunately, for unknown reasons, the Mayans abandoned the city around 900 A.D. Due to the growth of the jungle, archaeologists did not rediscover it until 1848. The portion of the city now excavated is quite impressive. Approximately 3000 sites have been uncovered and nearly 10,000 still need to be revealed.

At the center is the Great Plaza, a large area with a plaster-like floor. In time, other structures were built surrounding the Plaza. These include the North Acropolis and the Central Acropolis. The North Acropolis holds seventy slabs of stone, called stelae, that stand in a double row with altars set in front of them. Some are carved with images of rulers and hieroglyphs. The Central Acropolis encompasses 700 feet of long buildings with many rooms, often called palaces.

There are six temple pyramids, with the tallest one, Temple IV, standing 65 meters (212 feet) high. Visitors can scale it by using protruding roots and wooden ladders. Temple VI has an immense display of hieroglyphics that narrate the history of the city. Temple I and Temple II lie to the east and west of the Great Plaza.

In addition to the towering temples and other unique architectural works, Tikal is well known for the carved inscriptions and exceptional polychrome ceramics found there. Water conservation was important to the Mayans at this site, and they engineered reservoir and culvert systems to help with the storage and usage of water. Another innovation used by the Mayans were sacbes, which were raised causeways paved with lime-based cement, connecting Tikal’s ceremonial nodes.

Map of Guatemala

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Guatemala

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Jul 26, 2022

Guatemala is one of those rare finds, with a good mix of travel options to satisfy adventurers, culture seekers, beach worshippers, and travelers looking for a little relaxation. The country is a cultural hot spot in Central America, from the colonial architecture and cobbled streets of Antigua Guatemala to the Mayan ruins of Tikal .

Small towns in the highlands and on the shores of beautiful Lake Atitlan offer a chance for unique cultural experiences. Tropical jungles, active volcanoes, mountain lakes, cloud forests, coral reefs, and beaches will entice nature lovers.

If you venture down to the coasts, you'll encounter beaches ideal for relaxing and finding solitude in a hammock. Throughout the country are markets with local goods for sale, particularly textiles; these only operate on certain days of the week.

Discover the best places to visit in this beautiful country with our list of the top tourist attractions in Guatemala.

Mayan Ruins of Tikal

Antigua guatemala, lake atitlán (lago de atitlán), chichicastenango market, quetzaltenango, monterrico and the biotopo monterrico-hawaii (nature reserve), pacaya volcano, antigua, semuc champey, livingston on the caribbean coast, museo ixchel del traje indigena (museum of mayan costumes), guatemala city, grutas de lanquín (lanquín caves), museo popol vuh, guatemala city, mayan ruins of iximche, casa santo domingo museums, choco museo (chocolate museum).

In the humid jungle of northern Guatemala, near the border of Belize, stands one of the greatest archaeological sites in Central America. The well-preserved ruined city of Tikal is one of the best places to visit in Guatemala to learn about Mayan culture.

Tikal was occupied between approximately 600 BC and AD 900, and showcases more than 3,000 structures, ranging from pyramids and temples to plazas and an acropolis. It was one of the most important urban Mayan centers for more than a thousand years and is today one of the largest Mayan archaeological sites of its time period still in existence.

The experience of visiting Tikal is enhanced by the surroundings. Steep pyramids rise above the jungle's lush green canopy populated by birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. Tikal National Park , which encompasses the ruins, is a biosphere reserve, protecting rainforest and wildlife habitat.

Monkeys are prevalent at Tikal. You'll definitely see spider monkeys and, if you don't see the howler monkeys, you'll most certainly hear them.

If you're looking for a city to settle in for a bit, this is the place to come. With Quality hotels at reasonable rates, trendy restaurants serving excellent food, and plenty of things to do, it's easy to fill your days here.

Antigua Guatemala, often referred to simply as Antigua, is one of the highlights of Guatemala and certainly one of the most beautiful cities in Central America. Surrounded by three volcanoes, this former capital of Guatemala offers a unique glimpse of a city unblemished by modern day concrete buildings and high-rises.

Cobblestone streets are lined with old colonial buildings, some of which show evidence of the earthquakes that have contributed to the city's history. Everywhere in the old city center are incredible churches and convents.

While many of the buildings have been completely restored, some reveal cracks caused by past earthquakes, and some have been reduced to ruins. In many cases, the ruins have been creatively incorporated into more recently constructed buildings, some of which are now hotels. The city has interesting museums to explore along with beautiful old convents that are open to visitors.

Often described as the most beautiful lake in the world, Lake Atitlán is another destination where travelers tend to linger. Make the journey here and you won't be disappointed. You can easily spend a week or more sightseeing in the small towns and villages that ring the lake.

Lake Atitlán is located in the high country, less than a two-hour drive from Guatemala City and less than an hour and a half from Antigua . It sits in a volcanic crater 1,538 meters above sea level and is surrounded by hills and volcanoes, and many of the villages on the shores are only accessible by boat.

The prime entry point is the city of Panajachel . After exploring the main street, lined with all kinds of vendors selling their blankets and goods in stalls and alleyways, make your way to the waterfront to catch a water taxi.

Boats line up here to take passengers to the villages of San Pedro, Santiago Atitlán, San Andrés Semetabaj, Santa Catarina Palopó, San Lucas Toliman , and even smaller secondary villages or private hotels. Each village is known for something different, but most have markets and local crafts.

Over the years, Atitlán has attracted many expats with an interest in alternative lifestyles. Spiritual or new age centers offer everything from yoga to metaphysical pursuits. If you are considering learning Spanish, schools are available and very reasonably priced.

Lake Atitlán's water levels are a mystery to scientists. Sometimes they go up unexpectedly and then for some reason they drop. Several theories exist but no one seems to be able to figure out the exact reason. If you find yourself at the lake during one of its high-water levels, be prepared for makeshift docks, and homes underwater. No matter the water level, it is crystal clear and generally warm enough for swimming year-round.

Isolated Chichicastenango, known locally as "Chichi," is a large town surrounded by valleys and mountains. The sleepy cobblestone streets come alive on Thursdays and Sundays, as it hosts one of the largest and most hectic markets in Guatemala.

This is a locals' market, selling regular everyday goods, vegetables, and the distinctive textiles for which it is so famous. Vendors come from miles around for this market, making it a great opportunity for people watching and photography.

Chichicastenango is a 1.5-hour bus ride from Panajachel making it an easy day trip from Lake Atitlán . It takes about 2.5 hours from Guatemala City and 3.5 hours from Antigua.

Quetzaltenango, Guatemala's second-largest city, is the commercial center of southwestern Guatemala. More commonly called Xela, the town's major sights are the Parque Centro América and the Neoclassical buildings surrounding it. Most of these buildings, apart from the cathedral, stem from the era in the 19th century when Xela was a major trading and artistic community.

Top reasons to visit Quetzaltenango include studying Spanish and hiking in the nearby mountains. Walking up Volcan Tajumulco , Central America's highest peak, is one of the more adventurous options.

In addition to being a relatively clean and safe city, Quetzaltenango's altitude of 2,333 meters ensures warm days, cool nights, and less mosquitoes. The city also serves as a base for excursions to the many nearby villages noted for their hot springs and handicrafts.

The small coastal village of Monterrico, with its laid-back feel and lovely stretch of oceanfront, will appeal to anyone looking for some time at the beach and a little nature. Unlike the high inland regions, the area around Monterrico is hot and tropical. The beach here is dominated by big surf and not always ideal for swimming, but beautiful nonetheless.

The Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii, or Monterrico Nature Reserve , is a nature reserve created to protect mangrove forests and sea turtles. Covering an area of both land and water, it's a habitat for a large variety of bird and aquatic life, including leatherback and Kemp's ridley turtles. Boat tours offer trips through the swamps and good opportunities for bird and wildlife viewing, particularly in the morning hours.

The Pacaya Volcano, rising to more than 2,550 meters, offers the chance to witness volcanic activity firsthand. Located near Antigua, this volcano been continuously active since 1975, and lava explosions constantly change its appearance.

Organized tours offer guided hikes on the volcano and an opportunity to roast marshmallows over the heat created by hot spots. It should be noted that, as an active volcano, hiking here does involve some risks. If you want to get to the top with less effort, horses are available.

This stunning spot, deep in the jungle, can be a bit difficult to get to but is worth the effort. A 300-meter limestone shelf creates natural pools in the river, perfect for a quick dip. The pools are a vibrant color of green or turquoise. The water is calm and warm, and the area is surrounded by dense forest full of wildlife.

Tours to this site can be arranged from Lanquín. Access is either via a 2.5-kilometer hike in the steamy jungle heat, or a bumpy 4X4 ride.

This small town of brightly painted wooden houses, found in the jungle among coconut groves, lies along Guatemala's Caribbean Coast. Livingston feels more like the Caribbean than the rest of Guatemala because of its population of Garífuna, descendants of escaped would-be slaves and the indigenous Maya.

They have created a distinctive culture and language. Caribbean rhythms abound and they increase during the month of May as a Garífuna pilgrimage arrives in town. Celebrations during Easter week and on December 12 (the feast day of the Virgin of Guadalupe) are also colorful events.

Livingston is the departure point for boat rides on the Río Quehueche and Río Cocolí or to the Cayos Sapodillas for snorkeling and fishing. The best beaches are just outside of town, easily reached by taxi.

Visit the Ixchel Museum of Mayan Costumes for an overview of traditional Guatemalan costumes, from ceremonial pieces to regular garments. The museum is on the Universidad Francisco Marroquin campus.

The vast collection of textiles dates to the end of the 19th century, originating from 120 Guatemalan communities. A collection of paintings illustrating the regional costumes complements the exhibits. The museum is named for the Mayan goddess of fertility and weaving.

Address: 6A Calle 6, Guatemala City

The Lanquín Caves, northeast of Coban , are deep limestone caverns containing an underground river with various lagoons and unique rock formations. You can tour a portion of the cave, which has some rugged walkways and low lighting.

Thousands of bats make their home here and provide an interesting spectacle as they leave in a nightly mass exodus from the cave to feed in the nearby forest. If you are interested in seeing this unique site, plan to tour the cave in the late afternoon and then hang around until sunset.

A religious shrine is also contained within the caves, which are considered sacred by the local indigenous people.

If you have some time in Guatemala City and want to learn about Mayan culture, one of the most interesting places to enjoy a few hours at is the Museo Popol Vuh. This is one of the leading museums in the world of Mayan art, housing a valuable and comprehensive collection of both Mayan and colonial art. On display are a large collection of masks, pottery, gems, tools, and sculptures.

The Museo Popol Vuh is located on the campus of the Universidad Francisco Marroquin in Zone 10.

Address: 6 Calle Final zona 10, Universidad Francisco Marroquín

If you are visiting Antigua and don't have the time or money to head to the Mayan ruins at Tikal, Iximche, only an hour away, is a good stand in. Much smaller than Tikal, but still quite impressive to a first-time visitor, these ruins are over 550 years old, dating from 1470.

Iximche was once the capital city of the Kaqchikel Maya kingdom. At the site, you'll find two ball courts and several pyramid temples, all very well preserved and restored. Also on-site is a small museum showcasing historical items found here.

For an insight into some of the local history, stop by the Casa Santo Domingo Museums in Antigua. Located in an old convent that's been wonderfully restored, the facility has six museums consisting of rooms that thoughtfully present historical items from the Mayan people and also the Spanish.

Items on display include pharmaceutical instruments, local artwork, glass items, ceramics, Conquistador artwork, and Mayan Artwork. If you work up an appetite while touring the museums, an on-site restaurant serves up fine food in a pleasant garden setting.

Guatemala produces a significant amount of cacao, a critical ingredient in the production of chocolate. The Choco Museo in Antigua is a fun experience for chocolate lovers. The museum, a term that is perhaps somewhat misplaced, as this is more of a shop, is a good place to learn how the raw fruit pod is processed into the final product.

To truly experience the chocolate making process, it's best to sign up for one of their classes. Not only will you learn about the process, but you'll actually end up making your own chocolate bars, an enjoyable family thing to do in Antigua.

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The best things to do and see in Guatemala

Updated On 21st June, 2024

Are you planning on going backpacking in Guatemala ? Or perhaps you’re planning a wellness and hiking holiday and are looking to get some inspiration and direction as to the best things to do in Guatemala ?

Well, my friend, this is the blog post for you! In this post, I am going to share some of the best things to do in Guatemala with you, some of which I have done and some that are still high on my  Guatemala  bucket list.

Guatemala is home to such a variety of landscapes, and there are so many things to do in Guatemala to suit every taste. From volcano hikes such as the Acatenango and Fuego hike , to dense jungles, surfing in El Paredon, sightseeing in Antigua, as we as exploring the world famous UNESCO world heritage sites and all the small towns of Lake Atitlan… you’re not going to be short of places to visit in Guatemala by the time you get to the end of this Guatemala bucket list! 

Get your pen and paper at the ready, by the end of this post you’re going to know the best things to do in Guatemala , the best places to visit in Guatemala and the best adventures to add to your Guatemala bucket list.

Blog posts you might find useful include…

• A complete guide to the Acatenango hike, Guatemala
• The best things to do in Mexico 
• A guide to Puerto Escondido
• The best things to do in San Cristobal
• North America: The Ultimate Travel Guide
• Top tips for travelling to Cuba
• Top tips for travelling to Costa Rica
• The best things to do in Costa Rica

1. Hike Acatenango and watch Fuego erupt

The Acatenango volcano hike is on almost everyone’s Guatemala bucket list, and for good reason! The pictures say it all. This has got to be one of the best hikes I have ever done.

This is a challenging overnight hike, which will put you through your paces mentally as well as physically, but it’s so worth it for the views of Fuego. Volcán Acatenago stands at 3,975m tall.

Note that you can do it as a day hike, but you’ll probably miss Fuego erupting, which is definitely one of the best things to do in Guatemala. Find out more about the Acatenango volcano hike here.

A guide to the Acatenango volcano hike, Guatemala

2. Visit Guatemala’s biggest market – Chichicastenago Market

Speaking of markets in  Guatemala , this is one that you absolutely cannot miss. About 2 hours from Xela or 1.5 hours from Lake Atitlan you’ll find the largest Indigenous market in Guatemala (and in Central America) – Chichicastenango Market.

Diving into the Mayan culture and adventuring through this colourful explosion of a market is a truly unique experience and one of the best things to do in Guatemala. Last week I got to experience it through Original Travel with a local, experienced tour guide and it is now hands down one of my Guatemala highlights. I forgot how amazing it is to explore with a guide… but my guide Felix reminded me. The richness added from absorbing the wisdom of someone that knows the Mayan rituals and history so thoroughly, means you get to connect with Guatemala and their colourful culture on a much deeper level.

With this 2-day  Original Travel experience I:

• witnessed the market being set up the night before
• dined at the best local restaurants, chosen by the guide
• experienced a traditional Mayan ceremony blessing with the Mayan Pope – Tata Chuan
• Had a morning tour of all that the Chichicastenango market has to offer
• Walked up and through the pine forest for a bird’s eye view of the market town and famous colourful cemetery 
• Explored and tried on the indigenous masks and costumes used in special celebrations
• Had a bilingual guide which allowed me to connect deeper with the locals and immerse myself in their wisdom and way of life.

Explore all of Original Travels Guatemala experiences and holidays here.

Note: Chichicastenango Market is only open on Thursdays and Sundays. Arrive early, keep your bag closed and spend a few hours here wandering around the outdoor market, trying local food, buying fresh produce, and marvelling at the Mayan woven handicrafts.

3. Stand up paddleboard on Lake Atitlan

If you’re planning your trip already, visiting Lake Atitlan must already be on your list of best things to do in Guatemala. Why not up the ante, and take on a unique adventure and see Lake Atitlan from a new perspective with SUP Atitlan.

SUP Atitlan provide guided, private paddleboard adventures for beginners and experienced paddlers, so no matter whether you’ve SUPed before or not, you’re sure to have fun! They have experience navigating the lake and they understand best how the weather works in this unique microclimate (all SUP adventures happen in the morning because there is afternoon wind every day on the lake!). 

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience of the lake with SUP Atitlan, view more and book here.

Note: They don’t rent paddleboards, so you’ll want to book a tour if you’re going to add this to your Guatemala bucket list!

4. Bathe in the pools at Semuc Champey

If visiting the jungle is up there on your list of fun things to do in Gautemala, you cannot miss Semuc Champey.

Semuc Champey is a series of natural pools filled with crystal clear water, hidden deep in the jungle. Not only is it absolutely stuning to look at, but it’s absolutely glorious to swim in! 

Getting to Semuc Champey isn’t easy as it’s in a super remote location, but don’t let that put you off. There’s a shuttle bus from most of the popular places to visit in Guatemala, but be warned that this takes up to 8 hours, and the roads aren’t great! The closest town to Semuc Champey is Lanquín, which is where the shuttle bus is likely to drop you off. You can either stay here for the night and then make your way to the pools in the morning (there’s a public bus), or there is also accommodation nearer the pools. 

For 50Q, you can enter Semuc Champey, hike up to the viewpoint and then swim to your heart’s content in the pools. For 75Q, you can also swim in the nearby caves! Note that there are also guided tours which include the lakes, caves, and even river tubing on the river Cahabón! 

5. Spend a few days exploring Antigua

Antigua is more than likely the starting point of your adventure, and spending a few days sightseeing here is one of the best things to do in Guatemala! Antigua was the capital of colonial Guatemala, but the capital because Guatemala City in 1773 after a huge earthquake. You can still see some of the pre-earthquake architecture when you visit, such as the Ruins of the Church of Candelaria, the Ruins of Santa Rosa, and Capuchins Monastery! 

If you’re looking at learning more about Guatemala’s colonial past, make sure that you don’t miss Santa Catarina Arch, Iglesia de la Merced, and Cerro De La Cruz, a stunning hilltop viewpoint. Other fun things to do in Antigua include shopping at the local market, visiting the Chocolate Museum, taking a picnic to Central Park, and getting lost in the backstreets of this stunning city.

6. Go surfing in El Paredon

Guatemala’s culture, hiking, cities and jungles are amazing, but the coast is stunning too, and especially good for surfing! El Paredon, on the Pacific Coast, has got to be one of the best places to visit in Guatemala if you’re looking for a relaxed beach holiday.

To get to El Paredon, you can get a chicken bus (see number 9 on this list of best things to do in Guatemala if you have no idea what I’m talking about!) or a direct shuttle. Soaking up the sun and enjoying the surf in El Paredon has got to be on your Guatemala bucket list. If you’ve never surfed before, try some lessons here, and make sure you don’t miss that Pacific Ocean sunset! 

If you time your visit to Guatemala between June and November you can watch the baby turtles hatch on the beach in El Paredon and head for the sea – magical!

7. Visit the Mayan Ruins of Tikal

One of the top things to do in Guatemala is marvelling at the Mayan ruins of Tikal. It’s another remote location that’s not easy to get to (the closest town is Flores, which is still an hour away), but well worth it if you want to tick off this must-do from your Guatemala bucket list. 

Like other Mayan ruins, such as Chichen Itza in Mexico , expect spectacular ancient architecture and a fascinating history. However, you won’t get the crowds here. Despite being a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, the Mayan ruins in Guatemala just don’t get the same crowds as the ones in Mexico !  

You’ll learn more if you book a tour with a guide, but if you’re travelling in Guatemala on a budget, you can visit without a guide too. It’s 150Q to enter, and the ruins are open from 6am-6pm.

8. Learn Spanish

Wherever you are in Guatemala, you’ll find knowing even a little Spanish will help you get by and connect with the locals. 

There are classes everywhere in Guatemala, and they’re fairly cheap!

Another way to learn Spanish on the road is to download the Duolingo app – it definitely helped me!  See more useful travel apps here.

Some basic phrases to get you started…

• Hola = Hello
• Adiós = Goodbye
• Por favor = Please
• Gracias = Thank you
• Lo siento = Sorry
• Sí = Yes
• No = No
• Disculpe = Excuse me
• ¿Dónde está …. ? = Where is …. ?
• Yo no comprendo = I do not understand
• ¿Habla inglés? = Do you speak English?
• Quisiera … = I would like… 
• ¿Cuánto cuesta?  = How much does it cost?

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9. Ride in a “chicken bus”

Riding in a chicken bus has got to be one of the most unique things to do in Guatemala! Chicken buses are a popular mode of transport with the locals here, and also the cheapest way to travel. 

Chicken buses are old, recycled, repainted American school buses that are now used as local transport in Guatemala. They are cheap, but not comfortable; there’s no maximum capacity, and the buses stop anywhere and everywhere, so it can take a while to get to your destination. Nonetheless, a unique and budget-friendly experience if you’re travelling in Guatemala!

10. Hike another of Guatemala’s volcanoes

I’ve already mentioned hiking Acatenango as one of the best things to do in Guatemala, but did you know that there are 37 volcanoes in Guatemala, three of which are active?! Guatemala is on the edge of two tectonic plates, so there’s no shortage of awesome volcano hikes and stunning scenery here! 

Popular volcano hikes in Guatemala include: 

• Volcán Acatenango. See our guide to the Acatenango hike here.
• Volcán Tajumulco (the highest volcano in Central America)
• Volcán Pacaya (day hike, but must be done with a guide as it’s still active!)
• Volcán San Pedro (day hike through the jungle)

11. Find your zen and indulge in the spiritual offerings in San Marcos, Lake Atitlan

San Marcos La Laguna is known for being one of Guatemala’s most spiritual villages. There are lots of little villages on Lake Atitlan, and this is just one of them. It’s the wellness centre of Guatemala, full of yoga retreats, holistic healing centres and new age workshops, as well as excellent restaurants, good value hotels and beautiful lakeside areas. If you’re loooking to improve your wellness, visiting San Marcos is one of the best things to do in Guatemala for you. 

12. Hike Rostro Maya at sunrise

Known as Rostro Maya (which means Mayan Face) in the local Mayan dialect, but commonly called Indian Nose (less politically correct), if you’re looking for beautiful places to visit in Guatemala with stunning views, this is the one. Here you’ll get a stunning lookout over Lake Atitlan, with views of up to 5 volcanoes. If you’re lucky, you might even see Fuego puffing smoke!

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13. Visit a cacao farm and bring back some ceremonial cacao

A cacao farm tour is definitely one of the best things to do in Guatemala! The origins of chocolate are so closely linked with Mayan chocolate that visiting a cacao farm in Central America has got to be on your bucket list. Guatemala is one of the best places in the world to learn about the history, culture, and tradition of cacao and chocolate, from seed to purchase. 

14. Spend some time meandering through local markets

Visiting the local markets in Guatemala has been one of the highlights of my trip. Depending on where you are, you’ll find everything from locally grown fruit and vegetables, colourful flowers, Mayan woven goods, artwork, and pottery. As well as taking a weekly trip to the market to buy your food, I’d recommend getting souvenirs from the markets as one of the best things to do in Guatemala!

15. Learn about Mayan culture in Xela (Quetzaltenango)

Xela, Guatemala’s second biggest city, is one of the best places to visit in Guatemala if you want to experience Mayan culture. Quetzaltenango is the town’s colonial Spanish name, but Xela is its Mayan name, and that’s what locals call it (pronounced “Shay-lah.”). 

Some of the best things to do in Xela include visiting the churches, which really allow you to see how present the Catholic faith is in Guatemala. Some of the best churches to visit include the famous Quetzaltenango Cathedral and the colourful San Andres Xecul, which is just a short bus ride out of town. To experience the culture here, I’d also recommend visiting the traditional markets, trying the local cuisine, and practising your Spanish! 

In terms of nature near Xela, there are lots of things to do here, such as visiting Fuentes Georginas, the hot sulfur springs, or exploring Lake Chicabal, a huge crater lake. And, if there’s any chance you’re looking for a second volcano hike in Guatemala, Xela is the perfect place to start your hike up Volcán Tajumulco!

16. Try the local Guatemalan food e.g. Pepián

Food is an essential part of the culture wherever you travel, and Guatemala is no exception! Guatemalan cuisine is unique in that is has a mix of Mayan, Spanish, Mexican and Caribbean influences. One of the best things to do in Guatemala is trying some of the best local dishes, such as: 

• Pepian (chicken stew)
• Rellenitos (fried plantain pudding)
• Tostadas (fried, topped tortilla)
• Champurradas (big biscuit to go with coffee)
• Gallo en Chicha (sweet and sour rooster stew)
• Chuchitos (corn dough stuffed with tomato sauce and chicken)

17. Go caving by candlelight in Lanquín

If you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, one of the best things to do in Guatemala is to visit the bat caves in Lanquin. It’s really close to Semuc Champey so you could visit these at the same time. As part of the cave tour, you get to see all the bats flying around you – cool! 

18. Explore Rio Dulce National Park

One of the best things to do in Guatemala if you love nature is to explore Rio Dulce National Park. Rio Dulce (“Sweet River”) is a river in eastern Guatemala that starts near Livingston and runs inland. Surrounded by dense jungle, here you can explore the wilderness, take a boat ride, enjoy the natural hot springs of Finca Paraiso, and visit De San Felipe, as well as hiking, kayaking, swimming and more.

19. Give back to the local community

It’s very eay when you’re travelling to get caught up in what you want to do, how you want to do it, without a second thought to the locals around you. The local people in Guatemala are some of the nicest I have met, and giving back to the local community in an appropriate way is definitely one of the best things to do in Guatemala, whether you’re only on a short trip or you’re visiting for a longer time like I did. 

Support locals in Guatemala by:

• visiting the markets and buying local produce, woven Mayan handicrafts and more
• tipping the guides when you do expeditions and tours
• keep your eye out for ways to help in the community (without overstepping), especially if you’re staying somewhere for longer and you get to know the locals

Be aware of voluntourism as this doesn’t always beneift local communities in the best way. 

20. Party (or just relax) in San Pedro on Lake Atitlan

Another one of the towns on Lake Atitlan, San Pedro is popular with people who are travelling on a budget in Guatemala. Guatemala’s backpacker central is full of cheap accommodation, good restaurants, Spanish schools, and plenty of nightlife. 

Even if you don’t want to party, there are plnety of fun things to do in San Pedro, such as touring a coffee plantation, shopping at the local markets, hiking Volcan San Pedro, finding the local street art, and using it as a base to explore more of the towns on Lake Atitlan.

In your opinion, what are the best things to do in Guatemala?

Where are your favourite places to visit in Guatemala? Anything you’d add to this Guatemala bucket list?

Love as always and happy adventuring…

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IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

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Best things to do in Guatemala

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Spanning a mountainous slice of Central America, Guatemala is loaded with incredible natural, historical and cultural appeal. As the birthplace and heartland of the ancient Maya, the country is in many ways defined by the legacy of this early civilization. Here's our list of the best things to do in Guatemala.

1. Soak up breathtaking views from Acatenango

2. walk the streets of colonial antigua, 3. immerse into the remote ixil region, 4. try traditional sauna in todos santos cuchumatán, 5. visit maximón pagan shrine, 6. explore the magnificent tikal, 7. take spanish classes, 8. explore charming copán ruins, 9. take a boat cruise through the río dulce, 10. visit chichicastenango market, 11. see mayan artistry in national archeological museum, 12. watch eruptions of volcán de pacaya, 13. feel the guatemalan spirit in lívingston, 14. explore local nature in yaxhá, 15. be amazed by the beauty of lago de atitlán, 16. take a ride on the chicken buses, 17. watch semana santa celebration, 18. go hiking in highland region, 19. drinking flavorful local coffee - one of the essential things to do in guatemala, 20. spend a day swimming in semuc champey area, 21. hike through the untouched forests to el mirador ruins, 22. enjoy the panoramic views of the lake from castillo de san felipe, 23. taste local guatemalan food, travel ideas for guatemala, created by local experts.

Off the tourist trail and highlights of Guatemala and Belize

Meet school kids in Antigua and traders in Chichicastenango before learning ancient cookery and weaving skills and viewing a Mayan ceremony. This fascinating tour visits archaeological sites such as majestic Tikal before an idyllic private island stay off Belize’s Caribbean coast completes the trip.

The Best Of Guatemala & Belize

Visit Antigua with the nearby Pacaya volcano before heading to Lake Atitlán and further to Tikal, once one of the most powerful kingdoms of the ancient Maya. Afterwards, cross the border to Belize to visit the Caracol ruins and enjoying some sun & sand on Ambergris Caye.

Guatemala and Belize Family Adventure

Take a family-friendly adventure through Guatemala and Belize. Discover Lake Atitlan on kayaks, explore the active volcano Pacaya or play hide and seek in the large archaeological complex of Tikal before heading out to Belize for its fantastic underwater world and gorgeous beaches.

The Best Of Guatemala

You will visit the most popular destinations including the Western Highlands, Tikal and Antigua Guatemala. Enjoy the different types of activities like exploring the Mayan pyramids in the middle of the virgin jungle or having one of the best cups of coffee surrounded by a unique landscape.

Unparalleled Guatemala

Guatemala's culture and archaeology is one of the most fascinating ones in the world. On this trip, you will get to know the locals of several places: Mayan food in Antigua, the Quiché people in Chichicastenango, the Mayan ruins of Tikal and much more.

A true Mayan expedition

This trip takes you all over Guatemala, from Antigua over Chichicastenango to Lake Atitlán. Take a day trip across the border to Honduras to visit the Mayan ruins of Copán before continuing to Guatemala's Caribbean coast: Rio Dulce awaits before you head to the ruins of Tikal.

Climbing Acatenango in Guatemala is an unforgettable experience for any outdoor enthusiast. The volcano, which stands at an impressive 3,976 meters above sea level, is known for its stunning views of Fuego, another nearby active volcano.

The hike up Acatenango can be challenging, with steep terrain and a high altitude, but the reward of reaching the summit is well worth the effort. From the top, you can witness breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including lush forests, picturesque villages, and stunning sunsets over Fuego's smoking peak.

Camping overnight on the mountain is also a popular option, allowing you to witness the awe-inspiring sight of Fuego's lava flows in the dark.

Want some help? Our local experts can help you plan the perfect trip . Also for better planning, read our breakdown of how many days are optimal for visiting Guatemala .

The graceful former capital, with an incredible legacy of colonial architecture, is one of the most elegant cities in the Americas. Antigua has become Guatemala’s foremost tourist destination and favoured hangout for travellers. The beauty of the city itself is the main attraction, particularly its remarkable wealth of colonial buildings.

You’ll find the ambience unhurried and enjoyable, with a sociable bar scene and a superb choice of restaurants adding to the appeal. Antigua's language schools are another big draw. Students from around the globe come here for language learning — among the many things to do in Guatemala.

Most visitors race through Guatemala City , keen to get to Antigua’s colourful colonial streets but we strongly recommend that you stay in the Guatemalan capital a little longer. Our list of reasons to stay a while in Guatemala City will tell you why.

• Best for charming vibes: Ojala
• Best for the spa: Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo

Find more accommodation options to stay in Antigua

El Arco in Antigua © Shutterstock

The Ixil region is the Guatemalan highlands at their most bewitching. The costume and scenery of this deeply traditional Mayan region are astonishing. High up in the Cuchumatanes, in a landscape of steep hills, bowl-shaped valleys and gushing rivers. Here three remote and extremely traditional towns — Nebaj, Chajul and Cotzal — share a language spoken nowhere else in the country.

These lush, rain-drenched highlands are hard to reach and have proved notoriously difficult to control. Today’s relaxed atmosphere of highland Maya colour and customs conceals a bitter history of protracted conflict.

Are you already planning your trip? Read our Guatemala travel tips to be well prepared. Want to ensure a carefree vacation? Also, check out our important safety tips for Guatemala .

Nebaj © Milonk/Shutterstock

A fascinating highland Mayan town, home to one of the finest textile traditions in Latin America, which hosts a legendary fiesta — with a rip-roaring horse race. Men fill the streets with colour in their red-and-white-striped trousers, black woollen breeches, brilliantly embroidered shirt collars and natty straw hats. Women wear dark blue cortes and superbly intricate purple huipiles.

Todos Santos is a great place to simply hang out but it would be a shame not to try a traditional sauna (chuc; a small stone sauna, shaped like a beehive) while you’re here – most guesthouses will prepare one for you.

Going to Guatemala? Start preparing by familiarising yourself with things to know before you go .

Todos Santos Cuchumatan village, Guatemala © streetflash/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Visit the pagan temple of this liquor-swilling, cigar-smoking evil saint. The precise origin of Maximón, the evil saint, is unknown, but he’s also referred to as San Simón, Judas Iscariot and Pedro de Alvarado in Santiago Atitlán, and always seen as an enemy of the Church.

Throughout the year he’s looked after by a cofradía. Such is Maximón’s fame these days, and the number of tour groups visiting Santiago, that locals actually use one tourist-geared Maximón house (which outsiders are directed to) and a second location where they can pay their respects to the powerful folk sinner-saint in peace.

You’ll only likely be invited to the latter – a crepuscular pagan shrine where stuffed animals hang from the ceiling and incense and tobacco fill the air – if you have good local connections. Make a contribution to fiesta funds if you do get an invite.

Evil saint - Maximón © Carlos Tischler/Shutterstock

This unmatched Maya site has it all. Monumental temples and palaces set in a tropical forest — alive with spider monkeys and chattering parakeets. This is a truly must-see destination among the many things to do in Guatemala.

Towering above the rainforest, Tikal , 64km from Flores down a smooth paved road, is possibly the most magnificent of all Mayan sites. The ruins are dominated by five enormous temples, steep-sided limestone pyramids that rise to more than 60m above the forest floor.

Around them are thousands of other structures, many semi-strangled by giant roots and still hidden beneath mounds of earth. The site itself is surrounded by the Parque Nacional Tikal, a protected area of some 576 square kilometres that is on the edge of the much larger Reserva de la Biósfera Maya.

If you want to explore Mayan ruins that are little known to the general public, read our guide about discovering Mayan ruins at Lago de Petexbatún .

Where to stay near Tikal:

• Best for location: Jungle Lodge Tikal Hostal
• Best for comfort: Hotel Tikal Inn

Find more accommodation options to stay near Tikal

Tikal, Guatemala © WitR/Shutterstock

Guatemala has dozens of excellent language schools that offer one-on-one tuition and home-stay packages at rock-bottom rates. There are many places in Guatemala where you can take Spanish classes. Some options include language schools, universities, and private tutors. It's a good idea to do some research and compare different options to find a program that meets your needs and budget.

The Rough Guides to Guatemala and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Some factors to consider when choosing a Spanish language program in Guatemala may include the length of the program, the location, the teaching method, and the cost. It may also be helpful to read reviews from past students to get an idea of the quality of the program.

Learning Spanish is one of the things to do in Guatemala for self-development © Shutterstock

There’s a plethora of exquisitely carved stelae and altars, a towering hieroglyphic stairway and an outstanding museum at the magnificent ruins of Copán. Just 10km east of the Guatemalan border, the small town of Copán ruins is a charming place of steep, cobbled streets and red-tiled roofs set among the lush scenery of Honduras’s western highlands.

Despite a fast-increasing number of visitors from all over the world, it has managed to remain a largely unspoiled and genuinely friendly place. Many travellers are seduced by Copán’s delightfully relaxed atmosphere, clean air and rural setting.

This tailor-made Mayan expedition takes you all over Guatemala, from Antigua over Chichicastenango to Lake Atitlán. Take a day trip across the border to Honduras to visit the Mayan ruins of Copán before continuing to Guatemala's Caribbean coast: Rio Dulce awaits before you head to the ruins of Tikal.

Copan, Guatemala © Vladislav T. Jirousek/Shutterstock

Cruise up the jungle-cloaked gorges and estuaries of Guatemala’s “sweet river” by boat, and marvel at the scenery and birdlife. Reason enough to come to Lívingston is the spectacular trip through the Río Dulce gorge , a roughly 30km journey that eventually brings you to Río Dulce Town. From Lívingston, the river passes through a system of gorges with sheer, 100m-high rock faces draped in tropical vegetation and cascading vines.

The birdlife in this area is exceptional, with white herons, sea eagles, and squawking parakeets among the stunning tropical scenery. If you're very lucky, you may even spot a manatee – dawn is the best time to try.

Where to stay near Río Dulce:

• Best for eco stays: Boatique Hotel and Marina
• Best for relaxing stays: El Hotelito Perdido

Find more accommodation options to stay near Río Dulce

Kayaking in Rio Dulce © Daniel Andis/Shutterstock

For souvenir hunters, this twice-weekly highland market is unsurpassed. There’s been a market at Chichicastenango for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Despite the touristy side of the event, local people continue to come twice a week to trade their wares. On Sundays and Thursdays, Chichicastenango’s streets are lined with stalls and packed with buyers, and the choice is overwhelming.

Guatemala's culture and archaeology is one of the most fascinating ones in the world. On this tailor-made trip to Unparalleled Guatemala , you will get to know the locals of several places: Mayan food in Antigua, the Quiché people in Chichicastenango, the Mayan ruins of Tikal and much more.

Find some accommodation options to stay in Chichicastenango

Colourful Cemetery in Chichicastenango, Guatemala © Martin Froyda/Shutterstock

A wonderful collection of Maya artistry and breathtakingly carved monuments from many remote Petén sites. The Museo Nacional de Arqueología y Etnología (Archeological and Ethnological Museum) has a world-class selection of Maya artefacts.

The collection includes prehistoric sections, some wonderful stelae from Machaquilá and Dos Pilas, a re-creation of a royal tomb from Río Azul, spectacular jade masks from Takalik Abaj and a terrific replica of a beautifully carved wooden lintel from Tikal’s Temple IV.

Golden mask in National Archeological Museum © Shutterstock

Trek up this volcano for an unforgettable encounter with the lava-oozing cone of Pacaya, one of Central America’s most active. Rising to a height of 2250m, Volcán de Pacaya regularly spits out clouds of rock and ash in the country’s most dramatic sound-and-light extravaganza.

The current period of eruption began in 1965, and colonial records show that it was also active between 1565 and 1775. Today it certainly ranks as one of the most accessible and exciting volcanoes in Central America, and a trip to the cone is an unforgettable experience. The best time to watch the eruptions is at night when the volcano can spout plumes of brilliant orange lava.

Volcán de Pacaya © Shutterstock

Shake your booty to the hypnotic drum-driven punta beat in the Garífuna town of Lívingston. Enjoying a superb setting overlooking the Bahía de Amatique, Lívingston offers a unique fusion of Guatemalan and Caribbean culture where marimba mixes with Marley. The town acts as a hub for both the displaced Garífuna, or Black Caribs and also for the Q’eqchi’ Maya of the Río Dulce region.

Lívingston is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating places in Guatemala, with a distinct atmosphere and charm that draws in many visitors. While opinions about it tend to be sharply divided, with some enjoying its languid rhythm of life and slightly ramshackle appeal and others finding it shabby, it is still a must-visit destination among the many things to do in Guatemala.

Whichever your take, Lívingston certainly offers a welcome break from mainstream ladino culture: Carib food is generally excellent and varied, and Garífuna punta rock and reggae make a pleasant change from merengue and salsa.

Where to stay in Lívingston:

• Best for budget: Hotel La Casa Rosada
• Best for hospitality: Casa Nostra

Find more accommodation options to stay in Lívingston

Guatemala Livingston Garifuna village © Francky38/Shutterstock

This massive Mayan site, superbly positioned on the banks of Lago de Yaxhá, has dozens of large temples and impressive monuments. East of the Ixlú junction on the road to Belize, a paved road runs 65km to the Belize border. The main attraction in these parts is Yaxhá, a huge Maya city on the fringes of two beautiful lakes: lagunas Yaxhá and Sacnab.

The lakes are encircled by the dense jungle, swamps, savannah and wetlands of the Monumento Natural Yaxhá–Nakúm–Naranjo. The 370 square kilometres harbour big cats, two species of crocodile and dozens of other reptiles. The monument also houses prolific birdlife: spoonbills, the giant jabiru stork, eagles and vultures.

Pyramid Maler in Yaxha, Guatemala © Matyas Rehak/Shutterstock

Encircled by three volcanoes, the awesome crater lake of Lago de Atitlán was famously described by Aldous Huxley as “the most beautiful lake in the world”. Lago de Atitlán is astonishingly beautiful. Most people find themselves captivated by its scenic excesses, making it a top attraction among the many things to do in Guatemala.

Hemmed in on all sides by volcanoes and steep hills, the lake is at least 320m deep and measures 18km by 12km at its widest point. Depending on the time of day its waters shift through an astonishing range of blues, steely greys and greens as the sun moves across the sky. Mornings are usually calm, but by early afternoon the xocomil wind makes boat travel quite a rock’n’roll experience.

This perfect tailor-made Guatemala Family Adventure Tour takes you throughout Guatemala. Visit the active Pacaya volcano on an easy trek and watch the lava; enjoy a canopy ride through the middle of the rain forest and observe the nature just as the birds see it and enjoy Lake Atitlan by kayak.

Lago de Atitlán © Shutterstock

Garishly painted and outrageously uncomfortable, there’s never a dull journey aboard Guatemala’s iconic fume-belching camionetas. Second-class or “chicken buses”, known as camionetas, are the most common. These are easily distinguished by their trademark clouds of thick, black, noxious fumes and rasping exhausts.

Camionetas are old North American school buses, with limited legroom, and the seats and aisles are usually crammed with passengers. While travel by second-class bus may be uncomfortable, it is never dull, with chickens clucking, music assaulting your eardrums and snack vendors touting for business.

Taking a ride in chicken buses - one of the most unusual things to do in Guatemala © Eric Kukulowicz/Shutterstock

During Easter Week, head to either Antigua for its epic Catholic processions, or Santiago Atitlán to witness the symbolic confrontation between the pagan saint Maximón and Christ. Antigua’s Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations are perhaps the most extravagant and impressive in all Latin America – a week of vigils, processions and pageants commemorating the most solemn week of the Christian year.

The celebrations start with a procession on Palm Sunday, representing Christ’s entry into Jerusalem, and continue through the week, climaxing on Good Friday. It is a great honour to be involved in the procession but no easy task – the great cedar block carried from La Merced weighs some 3.5 tonnes and needs eighty men to lift it.

Jesus Christ with the cross in procession © Shutterstock

Explore the beguiling, lofty trails of Guatemala’s western highlands: the town of Quetzaltenango and Nebaj are good bases. Nebaj has undoubtedly managed to retain its highland charm and is becoming a popular base for adventure-minded travellers drawn by the opportunity to get off Guatemala’s main gringo trail.

With a temperate climate and gorgeous scenery all around, Nebaj makes a good base for hiking – Acul and Cocop are both within striking distance – though some places can also be reached by microbus if you’re not feeling so energetic.

You will visit the most popular destinations including the Western Highlands, Tikal and Antigua on this tailor-made trip to the Best Of Guatemala . Enjoy the different types of activities like exploring the Mayan pyramids in the middle of the virgin jungle or having one of the best cups of coffee surrounded by a unique landscape.

Quetzaltenango © Francisco Sandoval Guate/Shutterstock

Sample some of the world’s finest single estate roasts in Cobán , the easy-going capital of Alta Verapaz. Guatemala is known for producing high quality coffee. It is the largest coffee producer in Central America and one of the top 25 coffee producing countries in the world.

Guatemalan coffee is known for its rich, full-bodied flavour with a chocolate or nutty taste and hints of fruit or citrus. It is often described as having a complex flavour profile with balanced acidity. The coffee is grown at high altitudes on the slopes of the volcanoes that dominate the landscape of Guatemala, which helps to give it its unique flavour.

Coffee mugs with traditional bread from Guatemala © Shutterstock

Exploring the exquisite turquoise pools and river system around Semuc Champey, a natural limestone bridge, is a must-do among the many exciting things to do in Guatemala. This idyllic spot sits at the base of a towering jungle-clad valley and makes a wonderful destination for a blissful day’s wallowing and swimming.

Just a few years ago very few visitors made it to this remote part of Guatemala, but the secret is now definitely out, and the pools are very much a key stop on the Central America backpacking trail. That said, you can usually find a peaceful corner without too much difficulty.

Semuc Champey, Guatemala © Shutterstock

El Mirador is perhaps the most exotic and mysterious Maya site of all. Encircled by the Petén and Campeche jungles, this massive city surpasses Tikal’s scale although we are only now beginning to piece together its history. Mayanists are not even certain of its name – el mirador means “the lookout” in Spanish – but it could have been Ox Te Tun (Birthplace of the Gods).

Until the 1980s, it was assumed Mirador was a city from the Classic era, but this theory has been totally overthrown. We now know that Mirador was a Preclassic capital of unprecedented scale, and its fall around 150 AD was just the first of two catastrophic collapses suffered by the Maya civilization.

Mayan Pyramid in the forests of Peten, Guatemala © Shutterstock

Looking like a miniature medieval castle and marking the entrance to Lago de Izabal, the Castillo de San Felipe is a tribute to the audacity of British pirates, who used to sail up the Río Dulce to raid supplies and harass mule trains. The Spanish were so infuriated by this that they built the pocket-sized fortress here in 1652 to seal off the entrance to the lake, and a chain was strung across the river.

Inside there is a maze of tiny rooms and staircases, plus plenty of cannons and panoramic views of the lake, making it a must-see attraction among the many things to do in Guatemala. Beyond the Castillo de San Felipe the broad sweep of Lago de Izabal opens before you, with great views of the fertile highlands beyond the distant shores.

Fortress Castillo de San Felipe de Lara looking over Izabal lake in Guatemala © Shutterstock

Guatemalan food is filling, a good value, and can be very flavoursome. It is a great option to try while exploring the many things to do in Guatemala. The cuisine has evolved from Maya, Latin American and Western traditions. Though they usually overlap now to form what Guatemalans call comida típica.

Popular tourist centres tend to have more varied menus and plenty of choice for vegetarians, and in Antigua and Lago de Atitlán you can feast on a wide selection of global dishes. Most meals in Guatemala traditionally revolve around the basic staples of beans and maize, though diets are changing due to increased exposure to international cuisine.

Explore the fascinating city of Antigua and learn about local culture on this Gastronomic and Cultural Half-Day Tour . Your expert guide will expose you to the wonderful local foods found within the city. See the city's markets, visit traditional restaurants and admire the colonial architecture.

Guatemalan style enchiladas © Shutterstock

Find more inspiring ideas for your exotic journey in our guide to the most exotic places to travel in the world . When considering a Caribbean destination, take a look at Belize , where you will also find plenty of exciting things to do . Or make your choice using our guide to Central America: an adventure travel paradise .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Guatemala without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn a commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

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26 Must-Visit Attractions in Guatemala City

Freelance writer

As Guatemala’s capital, Guatemala City can often be overlooked by tourists in favour of colonial Antigua, beautiful Lake Atitlan, or pretty Flores, the gateway to Tikal. However, there’s more to this city than first meets the eye – whether you’re in town for a few days or more, here are 14 must-visit attractions to add to your list.

Mercado central.

La Aurora Zoo

The Guatemala City zoo is well maintained and organised, and if you’re an animal lover it’s a great way to spend a couple of hours. The zoo has several exhibit areas, including the African savanna, the Asian subcontinent, the Mesoamerican tropics, and a farm. The zoo’s proximity to the nearby Children’s Museum makes this a convenient day out if you’re travelling with kids.

Museo Popol Vuh

Located within the Fransisco Marroquin University, this stylish and modern museum documents the different stages of indigenous Guatemalan culture and history. Named after the ancient Mayan sacred book, Museo Popol Vuh showcases intricate pre-Hispanic figurines and statues, carved wooden masks, burial urns, traditional textiles, and many other Mayan artefacts, and also displays colonial paintings and gilded wood upon its walls.

Mapa en Relieve

Palacio nacional de la cultura.

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Metropolitan Cathedral

Guatemalan National Theatre and Miguel Ángel Asturias Cultural Centre

Natural Feature

Paradigma Café

Guatemala has long been known for exporting top quality coffee, but only recently has the national market enjoyed the beans. These days Guatemalans, and visitors, come from far and wide to sample the coffee at Paradigma Café , run by former barista champion Raúl Rodas. Geek out over the beans and brews, or simply enjoy an excellent array of coffees. Recommended by Jack Guy.

Museo Nacional de Arqueología y Etnología

Cervecería centroamericana.

Cervecería Centroamericana has brewed the large mainstay of Guatemalan beer since 1886, and most visitors to the country will have tried Gallo, its flagship beer. This brewery manufactures beverages that include Gallo Light, Victoria lager, the dark bock beer Moza, and Malta Gallo malt liquor, and offers fun, informative tours in both Spanish and English. You’ll need to make a reservation (at least a week in advance) but the tour itself is free – and ends with some free samples!

Museo Ixchel de Traje Indigena

Museo Ixchel de Traje Indigena offers visitors the chance to learn about Guatemala’s iconic Mayan textiles. The museum has excellent exhibitions showcasing indigenous dress and arts and crafts, and documents the history of these garments as well as the Mayan influence on the country’s history. It also has an art gallery downstairs, a children’s section, a café, library, and an ethical shop that sells textiles made by local weavers.

La Bodeguita del Centro

To discover the bohemian beating heart of Guatemala City, head to La Bodeguita del Centro. This creative hangout has live music from Tuesdays to Saturdays including everything from rock to jazz to classical, and there’s plenty of poetry readings, discussions and forums going on here too. The walls are adorned with prints of Che Guevara , Bob Marley , John Lennon and Vincent Van Gogh , and entrance is free every night apart from Fridays and Saturdays.

Biblioteca Nacional

Bookworms will be in their element at the sleek Biblioteca Nacional , which casts an impressively modern shadow in a plaza packed with colonial architecture. Built by famous local muralist, sculptor, engineer and architect Efrain Recion (who also built Guatemala’s National Theatre ), this library is home to over 150,000 books and newspapers, and also houses abstract concrete reliefs and façade work.

Iglesia La Merced

This pretty yellow church is based on the original church in Antigua, Guatemala, and even contains gold-plated Baroque altars from the original building. Built in 1918 in a neoclassical style, this church bizarrely became the headquarters of the Guatemalan police force, but is now a museum packed with elaborate paintings, religious statues and sculptures from the 17th and 19th centuries. A must for architecture fans.

Jardin Botanico

It may be small, but Guatemala City’s Botanical Garden is very, very pretty. Located at the northern end of Zona 10, the gardens contain an impressively extensive collection of plants that are managed by the Universidad de San Carlos. Your ticket price also includes admission to an adjoining natural-history museum.

Che Guevara reportedly used to drink here during his time in Guatemala City, and little has changed since. The decor remains the same, and the staff wear traditional whites. Sit down and order a beer and you’ll get free snacks at the same time. There are lots of screens around, too, so it’s a great place to spend a few hours if you’re into sports. Recommended by Jack Guy .

Guatemala City has several excellent museums that charge admission, but the best free museum is Casa Mima, a fascinating cultural centre housed in a 17th-century house. Exploring this museum is like stepping back in time to the 1870s; set up like a functioning home with original furniture, decorations, belongings, antiques and clothing from the period, the Casa Mima house gives you a unique insight into how an upper middle-class Guatemalan family would have lived. Walk through the kitchen, explore the living room and bedrooms, admire period costumes and old photographs, and get involved with the guided visits and cultural activities that take place every day.

If you’re someone who enjoys digging around thrift shops , Guatemala City’s Megapaca will leave you breathless. Megapaca is a clothing chain that relies on enormous loads of used clothes, usually donated from the U.S., to stock its stores. Unlike other thrift shops, a Megapaca only sells quality clothing; nearly 60% of Guatemalans live below the poverty line, so being able to purchase cheap-yet-decent clothing is essential. There are now over 50 Megapaca stores in Guatemala, but the one in the capital is the biggest and best. Take the time to wander through this maze of clothes and you’re sure to find some truly unbelievable bargains.

Genetic Majestic

Genetic Majestic club – previously called Pandora’s Box – has been the go-to destination for Guatemala City’s gay crowd since the 1970s. These days, however, the crowd is more mixed, although it’s still the largest gay hangout in town. It’s also the best place in the city to enjoy trance and dance music, and the two dance floors are almost always heaving. If you’re feeling more chilled, there’s also a rooftop patio and areas of the club that are more relaxed. For those people looking to party, Friday nights are all you can drink.

Las Cien Puertas

Las Cien Puertas (100 doors) is one of the oldest bars in Guatemala City, and it’s also one of the coolest. Located in a colonial arcade (Pasaje Aycinena in Zona 1) that’s said to have 100 doors (hence the name), this trendy bar is as eclectic as it is hip. Nearly every inch of the walls is covered in graffiti, and new patrons are invited to sign their names before leaving. In the early evening El Portal is a great place for a quiet drink with friends, but as the night goes on the late opening hours draw night owls from around town. Essentially a bar , cafe and coffee shop , having a drink here is a must.

The ‘Eiffel Tower’

Guatemala City obviously doesn’t have a replica of the Eiffel Tower, but a running joke among locals is that Zone 9’s Tower of the Reformer is the next best thing. Built in 1935 to honor 100 years since the birth of former Guatemalan President General Justo Rugino Barrios, the Tower of the Reformer pays tribute to Barrios’ liberal reforms and desire for social freedom.

The chicken bus

Guatemala is famous for its chicken buses , and these photogenic vehicles are the primary means of transportation for most locals. Donated from the US, these old school buses are customized in three ways: first they’re shortened, so they can better navigate Guatemala’s winding hills and roads, then a faster engine is put in, and finally they’re painted in a variety of bright colors and patterns. Because of the relatively low literacy rate, the buses are color-coded in relation to their destinations.

This cultural centre is housed in a cavernous building in the centre of Zone 4, and has forged a reputation for hosting innovative art shows, musical events , and other cultural happenings. Check out the programme at laerre.org. Recommended by Jack Guy.

Guatemala City is home to 23 public markets from which Mercado 24 buys its ingredients. In addition to this commitment to using local ingredients, the restaurant is known for its innovative menu. There aren’t many places in the capital where you will find calamari and snook tostadas on the menu. Recommended by Jack Guy.

Check out the events programme at the Trova Jazz music venue for the chance to see local acts in an intimate atmosphere. The drinks are cheap, the sound is good, and there are a variety of musical styles on show that go far beyond the eponymous jazz. Recommended by Jack Guy.

El Principe Gris

If craft beer is your thing, El Principe Gris is the place to be. Craft beer lovers aren’t exactly spoilt for choice in Guatemala City, but this little place is the epicentre of the movement. There are artisanal lagers, coffee stouts, and IPAs served up in a welcoming environment. Plus there are sausages for when you get peckish. Recommended by Jack Guy.

Places to Stay

The best hotels to book near tikal national park, guatemala.

The Best Hotels in Monterrico, Guatamela, for Wildlife Fans

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10 Days in Guatemala: The Ultimate First-Timer’s Guatemala Itinerary

last Updated: December 5, 2023 antigua flores guatemala lake atitlan

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Planning 10 days in Guatemala and looking for the best Guatemala itinerary out there?! Read on for everything you need to know – how to get around, where to stay, my favorite volcano views, and of course a crazy comprehensive 10 day Guatemala itinerary!

Imagine wandering around tiny colonial towns full of colorful homes and quaint, cobblestone streets. Sipping cocktails on a rooftop terrace while watching the sunset over a horizon full of volcanoes. Learning how to make traditional textiles and then finding the perfect pieces at a local market.

Listening to howler monkeys in the jungle at sunrise after climbing up a Mayan temple. Swimming in the clearest blue waters you’ve ever seen (true story). Zipping from colorful village to colorful village by lancha boat. 

That’s Guatemala in a nutshell. And it’s absolutely glorious.

If gorgeous natural lakes, delicious coffee, bustling outdoor markets, towering and impressive Mayan ruins, and hiking active volcanoes are your thing, I can guarantee that you’ll love Guatemala just as much as I did. Oh – you can’t forget about that Guatemalan cacao tea, all the fresh fruit juices you could want, and that sweet, sweet Guatemalan chocolate. Delish! Such a rich cultural heritage we couldn’t get enough.

I recently came home from 10 days in Guatemala and am urging everyone I know to get there sooner than later. Everyone heads to Panama and Costa Rica; Guatemala is unfortunately kinda forgotten about. But I have a feeling this Central American country is about to get a whole lot more popular!

Here’s everything you need to know to plan the absolute best Guatemala itinerary, promise!

10 Days in Guatemala Itinerary Logistics

Main regions visited on this guatemala itinerary.

• Lake Atitlan (plus Chichicastenago)
• Antigua (plus Pacaya Volcano)
• Flores (with a side trip to Tikal, obviously)
• Guatemala City (for a delicious dinner)

This Guatemala itinerary starts in Guatemala City (since it’s where most international flights arrive), heads over to Lake Atitlan for a few days, then makes its way back to charming Antigua.

With 10 days in Guatemala, you can also visit Flores and Tikal – the most impressive of the Mayan Ruins in all of Latin America.

If you’ve got your heart set on visiting Semuc Champey, you’ll need to add on an extra few days as getting there takes quite some time. I decided not to tackle the hella long bus ride on this trip – just gives me an excuse to visit Guatemala again in the future!

So let’s get to it – the most perfect 10 day Guatemala itinerary coming right up! But first, some important logistics!

Where is Guatemala and How to Get There 

Guatemala is located in Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north and west, Belize to the northeast, the Caribbean Sea to the east, Honduras to the east and southeast, and El Salvador to the south. 

Flying Internationally

You of course gotta get yourself to Guatemala! Flying is the most common and convenient way to get to the country, with two main international airports:

• La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City
• Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores

Many major airlines offer direct flights to Guatemala from the United States, Mexico, Central and South America, and Europe. 

For the sake of this 10 day Guatemala itinerary, you’ll wanna fly into La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City (the airport in Flores is about 10 hours away, haha). However, if you wanna do the itinerary in reverse, feel free to fly into Flores, although I suspect it’ll be way more expensive (if you’re not already in Central America).

Coming from San Francisco , my flight connected in Mexico City first, then we continued on to Guatemala. For reference, I chose to fly basic economy (the cheapest ticket you can possibly buy), and paid around $350 on AeroMexico round trip from the West Coast USA during Guatemala’s prime busy season of January/February. 

I thought flights were super economical, although I saw flights rise in price a week or so later. My advice – see a flight price you like? Buy it ASAP, like that very minute (then decide within 24 hours if you want to keep it). 

Coming from Elsewhere in Central America or Mexico

If you’re traveling from a neighboring country, you can also drive or take a bus to Guatemala. Guatemala shares borders with Mexico (you can easily take the ADO bus), Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador, so there’s plenty of border crossings available.

On my last trip to Guatemala, I actually took a shuttle bus from Belize City to Flores (a very common route)!

Visas : No visa is required for U.S. citizens traveling to Guatemala as long as a valid tourist passport and proof of onward travel is in possession, and you’re traveling to the country for 90 days or less.

How to Get Around During Your 10 Days in Guatemala

For our Guatemala itinerary, we used quite a few methods of transportation! Shuttles, taxis, Ubers, back of rickety pickup trucks (yup!), tuk-tuks, lanchas (boats), and our own two feet. You may even need to fly between some destinations that are terribly far by road.

Despite its small size, Guatemala’s infrastructure and transportation system are not up to par. Because of this, it’ll likely take longer than expected to get from one area to another, even if they look close on a map.

I’ll explain in detail how to get from place to place in the Guatemala Itinerary below, but here’s some info on each: 

• Tourist shuttles: Shared shuttles run all throughout the country, and are readily available to all major tourist destinations, including Guatemala City, Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and Flores. Find schedules and pricing info on GuateGo .
• Lanchas (water taxis): You’ll be using lanchas to get around both Lake Atitlan and Lake Peten in Flores.
• Uber : Uber operates in both Antigua and Guatemala City.
• Private transfer: This is how we primarily traveled around Guatemala – perfect if you’re traveling with a few others as the cost is obviously higher than booking yourself on a shared shuttle.
• Tuk-tuks: These are small, 3-wheeled vehicles used in the small towns/villages of Guatemala. You’ll see them around Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and Flores.
• Chicken buses: These are a popular and affordable mode of transportation in Guatemala, used mainly by locals. They’re essentially retired American school buses that’ve been brightly painted and decorated with various designs and slogans. They’re called “chicken buses” because they’re often used to transport not only people, but also livestock, including chickens! However, chicken buses are usually pretty crowded, so they’re not the most comfortable. Plus, safety can be a concern. If you can afford another way of getting from Point A to Point B, skip the chicken buses.
• Domestic flights: If you wanna squeeze Tikal and Flores into your 10 day Guatemala itinerary, it’s highly recommended to take a short 45-minute flight from Guatemala City.

When to Plan Your Guatemala Itinerary (Weather and Crowds)

Before planning your Guatemala itinerary, it’s important to understand the country’s weather patterns. Like other spots in Latin America, Guatemala experiences two distinct seasons, the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (May to October).

If you’re looking for comfortable temperatures and little to no rain, I highly suggest you visit during the dry season, which is actually Guatemala’s winter. Don’t be put off by “winter”, as the temperatures are still quite pleasant almost every day! 

Also, it’s worth noting that temps can vary depending on the region, so it’s important to pack smartly. The highlands (including Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and Guatemala City) can be quite cool, especially at night, while the lowlands (including Flores and Tikal) can be hot and humid year-round.

Dry season (November to April): Dry season is high season for a reason – the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it easier to travel and explore the country’s outdoor attractions, like hiking volcanoes and sightseeing around the colonial cities.

This is the busiest time of year in Guatemala (although it never feels crazy crowded), and there’s definitely higher prices for accommodations and tours (but nothing is crazy expensive in Guatemala so don’t worry).

The town is especially crowded over Christmas and Semana Santa (Holy Week), so you’ll definitely want to book accommodations and tours in advance. A few friends I met in Flores were headed to Antigua during Semana Santa and they had suuuuch a hard time finding rooms at the last minute. Book ahead of time (at least a month or so out) and you should be ok. 

For reference, I visited in February/March, and had almost perfect weather.

I was able to see the volcanoes in both Antigua and Lake Atitlan each and every day (they’re sometimes covered by low-hanging clouds/overcast skies), and temps were really comfy (never too hot nor too cold). Jacaranda trees (with those gorgeous purple flowers) were in full bloom in Antigua, and I couldn’t get enough. Absolutely perfect!

Rainy Season (May to October): It ain’t called rainy season for nothing! During these months (particularly June through August), frequent afternoon rain showers and occasional thunderstorms are common, with high levels of humidity. Thankfully these don’t last all day, and are typically followed by some sunshine!

While the rain can make some areas more difficult to access (think mudslides and flooding), it also means that the landscape is greener and the waterfalls and rivers are at their fullest. 

But honestly? If this is your first time to the country, I’d plan your Guatemala itinerary in the dry season to stay on the safe side. Can’t beat near perfect weather!

Are 10 Days in Guatemala Enough?

Yes…. but no?! The country isn’t very large (it’s about the same size as Tennessee, and slightly smaller than Ohio), so you can really see a whole lot within just 10 days in Guatemala.

It’s double the size of Costa Rica, and almost quadruple the size of Belize. So you’ll definitely want to allocate at least 10 days in Guatemala to see the main highlights. 4 or 5 days won’t cut it, unless you’re only visiting one (or max 2) region/s.

This Guatemala itinerary includes big city life in Guatemala City, sunsets over the lake in Flores , walks in the colorful colonial town of Antigua , village exploring in Lake Atitlan , and impressive Mayan ruins in Tikal. You can also visit Hobbitenango and Chichicastenango as day trips.

But with that being said, there’s SO much to see in Guatemala, you’ll 1000% wanna come back. I already have a list of spots I missed on this trip that I wanna see next time, including both Semuc Champey and the challenging Acatenango hike.

Guatemala Itinerary FAQS

Currency and Exchange Rates in Guatemala 

The local currency in Guatemala is the Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ). At the time of writing (April 2023), the quetzal is equivalent to 12 cents USD (or 1 USD = ~ 7.7Q). At first I found it kinda difficult to convert, but semi-figured it out within a few days. I thought of prices in 100Q’s and used that as my base, so for example: 

• 50Q ~ $6 USD
• 100Q ~ $12 USD
• 200Q ~ $25 USD

It takes a bit of practice but after a day or two you’ll be able to do the conversion quickly in your head. And if not, there’s always currency conversion apps (no shame).

I was surprised that a lot of market vendors and transport services accepted US dollars.

However, I strongly urge you to always pay in Guatemalan Quetzales – you’ll get the best price, no matter what. Most times, the price will be highly inflated if you pay in US dollars, and you’ll wildly overpay for the same exact service/good. If you get quoted in USD, always ask for the price in Q.

Cards vs. Cash in Guatemala: For this 10 day Guatemala itinerary, you’ll wanna have a mixture of both credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) and cash on hand.

You’ll need cash for street food, for shopping in the handicraft markets, to pay for taxis/shuttles/lanchas, for tips, and in remote villages. Look for the yellow 5B ATM machines – they’re common around Guatemala and typically accept foreign debit cards (while some others do not).

Plus, not all businesses accept cards, especially in more remote areas, so it’s a good idea to carry around some cash as a backup. Also, those that do accept cards sometimes impose a fee to use them (upwards of 5-8%), making the overall bill higher. I used cash whenever I could, and honestly spent way less than I initially thought. 

How to Get the Best Exchange Rate: I always take out cash at an ATM upon arrival in the new country I’m visiting, and never ever through an exchange desk or beforehand in my home country. ATMs provide the best exchange rate, always. 

If you want to avoid those pesky ATM fees every time you take out cash, simply look into a no-fee debit card, such as through Charles Schwab (which I have and love).

Language in Guatemala

Spanish is the official language of Guatemala, and I always recommend knowing some basic Spanish phrases when visiting the country. Make an effort; the locals will totally appreciate it! I tried brushing up on my Spanish before I left, and found it super handy.

Many individuals in tourism (at hotels, restaurants, shops, etc) speak some degree of English, and many younger locals speak some level of English as well.

However, don’t expect everyone to speak English, as some taxi/Uber drivers, local residents, and market/street food vendors only spoke Spanish (or Mayan). Even most staff at the main bank in Antigua didn’t speak a word of English.

A few helpful phrases to start you off:

• Hola = Hello
• Adios = Goodbye
• Buenos dias = Good morning
• Buenas tardes = Good afternoon 
• Buenas noches = Good night
• Cuanto cuesta? = How much does it cost?
• Cómo te llamas? = What is your name?
• Me llamo… = My name is…
• Soy de… = I am from…
• Cerveza = Beer
• Margarita = Margarita
• La cuenta, por favor? = The check, please?
• Muchas gracias = Thank you so much
• Para llevar = take away

In addition, there’s also 22 (!!!) different Mayan languages plus two other Indigenous languages (Garífuna and Xinca) spoken in various parts of Guatemala. Since many indigenous Maya people live in the country, you’ll hear some of these Mayan languages as well (although Spanish is the primary language spoken in the country). 

For reference, we heard the most Mayan at Lake Atitlan. A few times that I attempted to use my broken Spanish, I later realized the person possibly spoke Mayan, whoops! 

Safety in Guatemala

I know what you’re thinking – is it even safe to travel to Guatemala?! What’s the point of this whole Guatemala itinerary anyways?! 

That was the #1 concern of my friends and family when I told them I’d be traveling there. Understandably, since Guatemala is one of the poorest countries in Latin America, with high levels of poverty, violence, and social unrest.

Unfortunately, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and muggings do happen quite frequently, including to tourists.

I’m not gonna lie – it’s not the safest country in the world, but I didn’t feel threatened or concerned about my safety once while there. As always, use normal precautions like elsewhere in the world. A few tips to help ensure your safety, which make sense no matter where you’re traveling:

• Let friends/family back home know where you’re traveling
• If you’re taking a taxi/Uber alone, send the taxi # and/or license plate to a friend/family member.
• Be extra cautious when visiting local bars and nightclubs. Know your alcohol limit.
• Don’t make yourself an easy target. Keep expensive jewelry/watches at home, and keep those electronics hidden. Ladies – wear your bags cross-body, and men – keep your wallets in your front pockets.
• Be extra careful and observant at banks and ATMs.
• Don’t buy or do drugs, ever – plain and simple.

Also, before traveling anywhere, I always check safety warnings and scams on travel.state.gov . This is not to scare you or deter you from going on your trip, but knowledge is power my friends.

If you do find yourself in danger, get in contact with Guatemala’s National Tourist Assistance Program ( PROATUR ). They provide 24-hour emergency assistance and routine guidance to tourists.

PROATUR also provides additional security in locations frequented by tourists. The call center is staffed with Spanish and English speakers and can be reached 24/7 by calling 1500 or +502-2290-2800.

Is Guatemala safe for a solo female traveler? After my few times in the country, I’d say yes, but for experienced solo travelers only. I wouldn’t make Guatemala the first place you ever travel solo. 

For reference, I traveled with a group of friends for part of my Guatemala itinerary ( Lake Atitlan and Antigua ), and then solo for the remaining bit ( to Flores and Tikal ). During my time solo in Guatemala, I met over a half dozen females traveling by themselves.

If you stay on the main backpacker trail (Antigua, Lake Atitlan, Flores, and Semuc Champey), you’ll undoubtedly run into tons of other solo travelers. Would I go back to Guatemala solo? Totally.

Health and Food in Guatemala

First of all, know that you absolutely cannot drink the water here in Guatemala – you’ll need to stick to bottled/purified water, which most restaurants and hotels have. Also, make sure all ice is purified (which it typically is in tourist areas, but it never hurts to double check if you’re not positive). 

In terms of food, know that normal stomach problems are unfortunately pretty common here. I have a bunch of friends who traveled to Guatemala before me and they all had stomach issues… I didn’t want that happening so I was very particular about what I ate.

My friends and I were extra, extra careful – probably overkill, but we didn’t get sick once. We stuck to restaurants with high reviews, didn’t eat many uncooked veggies, and ate relatively healthy in general.

When it comes to street food, you always wanna look for vendors that are busy and have a high turnover of food. Always avoid food if it’s been sitting out in the sun for a while.

And now, what you’ve been waiting for, a complete 10 days in Guatemala itinerary!

The Perfect 10 Days in Guatemala Itinerary

A few notes about this Guatemala itinerary: 

• This Guatemala itinerary assumes you have a full 10 days in Guatemala. Meaning if your flight arrives mid-day or late at night, you’ll want an extra day in order to see and do all the things on this itinerary.
• It’s very GO GO GO and busy. I tend to travel quite fast. If you’d prefer a more relaxed type of trip, I recommend leaving off an entire region entirely (skip Tikal and Flores). While the country isn’t huge, it does take time to get from place to place, which can sometimes mean waking up early to get to the next destination with enough time to explore a bit afterwards.
• Most people visiting Guatemala start in Antigua and make their way to Lake Atitlan afterwards. While you can technically go from Guatemala City → Antigua → Lake Atitlan, I chose to head to Lake Atitlan before Antigua. Why? To get the long drive out of the way first. I think it just makes more sense this way, especially when you’re battling jet lag and/or are tired from a long travel day.
• These 10 days in Guatemala don’t account for any long hikes, including the popular Acatenango Volcano Hike. If you’ve got this on your bucket list and wanna see everything else on this itinerary, consider spending an additional day or two in Antigua (where the hike begins).

10 Day Guatemala Itinerary At-A-Glance

This classic 10 day Guatemala itinerary packs in the key highlights of the country, including Lake Atitlan, Chichicastenango, Antigua, Flores, and Tikal. 

• Day 1: Guatemala City to Lake Atitlan
• Day 2: Lake Atitlan
• Day 3: Lake Atitlan
• Day 4: Antigua

Day 5: Antigua

• Day 6: Antigua 
• Day 7: Transfer to Guatemala City; fly to Flores
• Day 8: Tikal
• Day 9: Flores
• Day 10: fly to Guatemala City; depart home

Part 1: Lake Atitlan!

Ah, Lake Atitlan! One of the most beautiful and enchanting places in Guatemala. Picture this: you’re standing on the shore of Lake Atitlan, the sun is shining, and the water is crystal-clear. There’s volcanoes and colorful villages and it’s such a good time. It’s a breathtaking sight and one of my favorite places in all of Guatemala!

Lake Atitlan is located in the highlands of Guatemala, about 1500 meters above sea level. It’s a large volcanic lake, formed thousands of years ago, and it’s considered one of the deepest lakes in Central America.

It’s full of natural beauty, surrounded by lush green hills and VOLCANOES – makes sense that it’s considered one of the most scenic destinations in the entire country. I visited for 3 days and wished I had at least a week!

And while the lake itself is impressive, it’s the traditional Mayan villages surrounding the lake that really got my attention. Each has its own unique charm and character, distinct cultures and traditions, and personality and vibe. You’ll wanna visit quite a few!

Where to Stay in Lake Atitlan

When deciding where to stay in Lake Atitlan, there’s lots of things to consider! All the towns have their own unique feel, and where you stay makes a huge difference. 

Do you wanna be closer to all the action in Panajachel, have a more remote/romantic stay in a small hotel right on the lakefront, or spend your few nights in a buzzy, eclectic town with lots of backpackers?

Do you want your choice of restaurants for dinner and be able to easily take cheap, public lanchas or want some privacy and romance with your partner? All questions you gotta ask yourself.

We stayed at La Fortuna at Atitlan , a gorgeous eco-hotel right on the lake with only 5 suites/bungalows. We loved the private dock, eco-luxury bungalows, fantastic dinners, sauna inside an old-school VW bus (yup, really), and impressive pool overlooking the lake. It’s great for photography and chilling out in the sun for a few mornings.  

While we loved our stay overall, there were definitely a few cons. Since La Fortuna’s pretty remote, there were no restaurants/food options nearby; thankfully we loved all the meals at the hotel. Also, it was difficult to get public lanchas to pick us up, so we relied on using private boats which were more expensive. Nothing too horrible for a short stay!

Hotel Options in Panajachel: Pana has all the facilities any traveler could want or need and tons of restaurant options, but it’s much more chaotic than the other villages surrounding the lake. You likely won’t need to take a lancha to your hotel as shuttles and private transfers go directly to Pana. 

There’s loads of hotel options here, with Selina Atitlan being one of the best hostels (my friend stayed there so of course I had to peek in), and Hotel y Centro de Convenciones Jardines del Lago , Hotel San Buenaventura de Atitlán , and Porta Hotel del Lago being some great affordable luxury spots!

Hotel Options in/near Santa Cruz: This village is way more peaceful, and doesn’t really see many tourists since there’s honestly not tons to do here. Get a hotel right on the lakefront and you’ll get great views of all three volcanoes! Note that you’ll need to plan in advance for food/make restaurant reservations here since it’s pretty remote. 

• La Casa del Mundo : Technically in Jaibalito, this resort is perched on a secluded cliff, has gorgeous gardens, and even has a hot tub hanging over the lake. I heard SUCH good things about it and kinda wanna stay here on my next trip to Lake Atitlan.
• Casa Prana Hotel : A STUNNING luxury hotel located next to the town of Santa Cruz, but crazy expensive by Guatemala standards (~$300/night). Probably one of the bougiest spots on the lake – I’m sure my husband would love it, haha. And who wouldn’t? There’s panoramic views of the magnificent Lake Atitlan and its surrounding volcanoes, a saltwater pool with plenty of sun beds, wellness facilities, and even a helipad! 

I also heard good things about Atitlan Sunset Lodge and La Iguana Perdida !

Hotel Options in San Pedro La Laguna

San Pedro is Lake Atitlan’s backpacker hub, with many amenities like Pana has, but it’s a tad more relaxed and not as chaotic (although still very busy). It’s also on the other side of the lake, with lots of nightlife and cheap places to stay. There’s always something going on here.

• Sababa Resort : Ready for a high-end resort with trendy, boho-chic decor? Stay here! We wandered through, had one look at the pool, and never wanted to leave. There’s dorm beds as well as private rooms, all with access to the hotel’s stunning outdoor pool and hammocks. Book early as it’s easily the most popular hotel in San Pedro. I can totally see myself staying here next time I visit Lake Atitlan.

Other great options include Hotel Mikaso , Amigos (great for solo travelers), and El Delfin Hotel .

How to Get Around Lake Atitlan

Lanchas : Since there’s no road that connects all the villages, you’ll be relying on lanchas. These are public water taxis in Lake Atitlan, and you’ll use them to get between the different villages on the lake.

They’re cheap, only a few quetzales (15-30Q), and while they don’t really have a set schedule, they generally run between 8am and 6pm.

Do note the lake is quite large, and it takes about 45 minutes to get from one end to the other (Pana to San Pedro). Lanchas are not always the most comfortable and can be quite choppy and bumpy (especially later in the day), but they’re cheap and efficient.

Tuk-tuk: We took a tuk-tuk between Panajachel and Santa Catarina, and it was only a few quetzales. You can also take tuk-tuks around the larger villages themselves.

Walk : Many of the villages are quite small, so you can easily walk around to all the attractions once you get there.

A few things to know about Lake Atitlan

• Don’t hike between villages without a local – the pathways between them are not always the safest (although there are a few exceptions). Armed robberies have occurred.
• Cash is king here; I don’t think I used a credit card once in Lake Atitlan! You’ll wanna stock up on cash in either Panajachel or San Pedro before visiting other towns though, since not all towns have ATMs! 
• Lake Atitlan is home to a primarily Indigenous community. You’ll hear a few Mayan languages spoken all throughout the villages – so don’t assume everyone speaks Spanish. Also, Mayan men never catcall or hit on non-Mayan women.

Day 1: Arrive in Guatemala City and Transfer to Lake Atitlan

Depending on when you arrive at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, kinda determines when you’ll transfer to Lake Atitlan. If you land at night, you’ll wanna wait until the next morning (roads are safest during daylight hours).

Our flight landed at around 11am, and after all was said and done, we didn’t get to our hotel in Lake Atitlan until a bit before sunset. 

Unfortunately, traffic is kinda a gamble. It took us FIVE hours (yes, 5) to get from the airport in Guatemala City to Lake Atitlan, although it’s only supposed to take about 3 hours with private transport. We sat in over 2 hours of traffic (it literally didn’t move for almost the full 2 hours), and we were ready to pull our hair out. 

Thankfully, once we made it there, Lake Atitlan was well worth the drive, but I say this so you’re well prepared. Bring snacks, ask your driver for bathroom breaks if you need it, and stay patient. It’s best not to plan too much on this first day of your Guatemala itinerary just in case you find yourself in our shoes sitting in crazy amounts of traffic.

You’ll most likely arrive in Panajachel (the main village in Lake Atitlan and where most of the shuttles/private transport end), and then need to take a lancha (local boat) over to where your hotel is. You’ll find these at the public dock waiting for tourists for only a few Q (15-35Q depending where you’re going).

If you’ve traveled to Lake Atitlan the day before, you’ve got the entire day to explore (look at days 2 and 3 for ideas)! And if you made it here this afternoon, well, maybe you’ve still got some time to hang out.

Settle in to your hotel, wander around your village/resort, and have dinner while watching the sunset over Lake Atitlan. You’ve certainly earned it!

Days 2 and 3: Explore Lake Atitlan

You’ve made it to the lake (one of my favorite in the world) – now time to explore!

Explore the Villages!

Besides relaxing and taking in views of the volcanoes, the main draw of Lake Atitlan is exploring all the villages surrounding the lake . And there’s quite a few – we LOVED exploring a whole bunch, and since they’re all so unique, our exploring never got old! We somehow managed to visit 6 different villages in only a few short days.

You can easily visit 1-2 villages a day, possibly 3 if you really wanna squeeze them in. With two full days exploring the villages, I recommend the following: visit Panajachel, Santa Catarina Palopo, and San Marcos in one day, and San Pedro, San Juan, and Santiago Atitlan the next.

You can easily get between Pana and Santa Catarina Palopo by tuk-tuk, and San Pedro and San Juan are super close to each other.

Here’s a brief overview of each:

Panajachel : Panajachel (commonly known as Pana) is the largest town on the lake and is a great starting point for exploring the area. It’s known as the gateway to Lake Atitlan, and you’ll probably get dropped off here upon arrival in Lake Atitlan. Pana is also where you’ll find most of the ATMs and banks in the area.

Here you’ll find a thriving tourist town, filled with plenty of restaurants and cafes, plus shops selling souvenirs, handmade crafts, and textiles. We loved wandering the stalls – so much beautiful, colorful stuff! I should have totally brought an extra suitcase because I wanted to buy IT ALL. 

Definitely go shopping on Calle Santander (the main street in Pana), take a walk on the lakefront boardwalk, have a coffee at Crossroads Cafe (the best coffee in Pana), and take pictures with views of the lake. If you’re up for some adventure, you can even go paragliding! 

Have more time? Take a short tuk-tuk ride to Reserva Natural Atitlán and Mirador del Lago Atitlán – two spots I missed that are high on my list for next time!

Santa Catarina Palopo: This village is a great place to escape the crowds and experience a more traditional way of life in the Mayan highlands. It’s smaller than the other villages and there’s honestly not tons to do here, so it’s perfect for a quick wander through town.

We loved walking around Santa Catarina Palopo with no plan, and photographing all the blue buildings with their traditional Mayan motifs. 

Don’t miss the Pintado el Cambio, Central Culturo, and nearby Mirador Santa Catarina (a 15 minute hike for great views of the blue town). I recommend heading here before/after Pana, as it’s easily accessible by tuk-tuk for a few Q’s.

I loved this tiny village so much that I wrote an entire post on it! Come check out everything you need to know about Santa Catarina Palopo .

San Pedro La Laguna: San Pedro is a popular backpacker destination with a lively nightlife scene – there’s always something going on here! It’s one of the buzziest towns around the lake, and I kinda wish I stayed here! The main street is lined with restaurants and bars, and there’s plenty of affordable accommodation options.

The town is known for its many Spanish language schools, Los Termales (heated thermal pools overlooking the lake you can soak in), and La Sababa resort (looks super fun and where I’d stay in San Pedro). 

You can also hike Indian’s Nose at sunrise (for spectacular views of the lake), relax at Parque Puerta Hermosa (don’t miss the charming white church over here), and even swim at a black sand beach (easy to get there by tuk-tuk). 

San Juan La Laguna: Ohh… San Juan. One of the most colorful villages on Lake Atitlan; and one I was most excited to visit. Everywhere you look you’ll see vibrant murals, funky art pieces, and tons of Mayan culture. 

The village is full of weaving associations, hidden cafes, and tons of color (after a walk down La Calle de los Sombreros I was in heaven!). I loved watching the tuk-tuks drive down the instagram-worthy umbrella street – what a scene that was! 

It’s known for its traditional textiles, art galleries, and organic coffee farms (which you can tour). Don’t miss a weaving demonstration (at either Casa Flor Ixcaco or the Lema Association), a visit to Liccor Marron Chocolate Factory for a chocolate demonstration, and an information session on Mayan bees and honey (at Abejas Nativas). 

I learned so much in San Juan, and wish I had longer to explore. You can easily visit San Juan from San Pedro, as they’re a short distance away from each other.

Santa Cruz: Santa Cruz is a quiet village located on the northern shore of the lake. While there’s honestly not a ton to do here, it’s perfect for a lazy afternoon of lake viewing, SUPing/kayaking, and taking in the stunning scenery. 

It’s true – Santa Cruz may just have the best views of all the villages in Lake Atitlan. The village is built on a hill, and there’s only a few small shops and restaurants.

Santiago Atitlan: Santiago Atitlan is a traditional Mayan town located on the southwestern shore of the lake. It’s actually the largest of all the towns, and has a much more local feel (it’s not visited by many international tourists – we only saw one other group of tourists besides us).

I appreciated getting a glimpse into the more traditional way of life of the Mayas, and felt it was authentically different from the other villages around the lake (there’s nothing purposefully attracting visitors here).

We visited a bustling local market (full of possibly everything and anything you can think of), and were able to see both women and MEN in their traditional outfits (not super common anymore). You can also visit the main church, Saint James the Apostle, visit the deity Maximón inside a local family’s home, and do a lot of people-watching.

San Marcos: San Marcos isn’t everyone’s cup of tea – and I can see why. It’s got an active meditation and New Age community, and it’s kinda over the top all-things-hippie. You’ll see tons of flyers advertising unity circles, tarot card and chakra readings, reiki massages, and lots, lots more.

Makes sense since San Marcos is known for its spiritual and healing centers, yoga centers (Eagle’s Nest is a popular spot), and there’s plenty of vegetarian and vegan restaurants to choose from. I swear I had the best energy ball of my life at Samsara’s Garden (honestly, I thought that thing had magical powers…).  

You can also swim at Cerro Tzankujil Preserve, a natural reserve with hiking trails and stunning views of the lake. Instead, we had sunset drinks at Kula Maya, a boutique hotel right on the lake since the mirador and preserve were unfortunately closed that day.

Read Next: 10 Epic Lake Atitlan Towns You Need to Visit

Optional day trip to Chichicastenango: If you’re interested, you can also take a day trip to the Chichicastenango Market, the largest and most colorful outdoor market in all of Latin America. If you’re looking for some culture and don’t mind a lot of chaos, this is the place to be! 

Chichi (as it’s commonly called), is a little over an hour away from Panajachel, meaning you can easily visit for a half day or so. 

Make sure to visit on famous market days – Thursday and Sunday mornings. Vendors sell everything under the sun (figuratively and literally), including (but not limited to) candles, handicrafts, food, spices, masks, pottery, medicinal plants, machetes, pigs, chickens, and baby kittens. Yes, you read that right. Nothing will surprise you after walking through the market a few times.

It honestly doesn’t get more authentic than this! Visiting Chichicastenango was one of the most epic days of my life — it’s just so, so, so hectic! 

Part 2: Antigua

Up next — the cute colonial city of Antigua !

Antigua is full of Spanish colonial architecture (gorgeous red-tiled roofs and intricately carved wooden doors), a vibrant cultural heritage, stunningly beautiful churches, quirky Hobbitenango , and tons of gastronomic delights.

There’s also a whole bunch of amazing coffee shops and cafes (many with volcano views!), the iconic yellow Santa Catalina arch, vibrant markets and street performers, and leafy green gardens and plazas.

There’s a reason it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site afterall!

There’s just something so electrifying and unique about Antigua – maybe it’s the romantic atmosphere, lush gardens, or colorful artisanal crafts (I couldn’t get enough). Or just the fact that there’s volcano views everywhere around town. You’ll love it, I promise!

Where to Stay in Antigua

Antigua’s got a wide range of accommodation options, from colonial-style luxury hotels to cute trendy boutiques to inexpensive yet design-forward hostels. If your aim is to check off a bunch of fun things to do in Antigua, stay in the center of town. Thankfully, there’s tons of choices!

We stayed in a private room at Ojala Hostel , which was honestly more like a boutique hotel, and loved our King size bed, steamy showers (with amazing water pressure I might add), and flower-filled gardens. 

The fact that we could see the fiery red lava from volcano eruptions at night from the common space right outside our room made it all that much more special. Ojala also has dorm beds, which is perfect if you’re rocking solo and on a budget.

Other affordable luxury hotels on my list were Good Hotel Antigua , Porta Hotel , El Convento Boutique Hotel , and Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo – but we booked too late and those were all already sold out! If you’re coming between February and April, I’d make sure to book a few months in advance. I was honestly really surprised just how fast accommodations sold out.

On a budget? I’d also look at Selina Antigua , Maya Papaya (Ojala’s sister hostel), Casi Casa , and Barbara’s Boutique Hostel . So many amazing options!

How to get around Antigua

Easy — On your own two feet! We were able to walk practically everywhere during our 3 days in Antigua, besides a few spots further afield. 

The town is compact and easy to navigate, with most of the major attractions located within walking distance of each other. I loved wandering around town, soaking up the atmosphere of Antigua’s colorful streets and colonial architecture. Bring comfy shoes – we walked a ton! 

You’ll also see some tuk-tuks and thankfully, Uber works in Antigua which we used to head to Hobbitenango and El Hato Verde one morning (although it’s not always the most reliable).

Day 4: Transfer to Antigua, then spend the rest of the day exploring 

It’s time to head to the little colonial city of Antigua! Many visitors head to Antigua from Lake Atitlan, which is actually what we did! It should take about 2 to 3 hours to get from Lake Atitlan to Antigua, depending on traffic (and sometimes there’s lots of it).

But if you get an early-morning transfer from Lake Atitlan to Antigua, you’ll have lots of time to explore! 

Note that Uber DOES NOT operate in Lake Atitlan (like it does in Antigua and Guatemala City), so don’t rely on that to get to Antigua.

How to get to Antigua from Lake Atitlan:

There’s private and public shuttles from Panajachel (the main tourist village in Lake Atitlan), and which you decide to use solely depends on how many people you’re traveling with. Since we were a group of 5, we opted for a private shuttle (since it was actually less expensive than each of us paying for a seat on a public shuttle). 

For reference, we paid about $100USD (total) to get from Pana in Lake Atitlan to our hotel in Antigua, Guatemala. Our hotel in Lake Atitlan was able to set up a private shuttle for us – ask your hotel; they’ve typically got reliable drivers they work with. A great option if you’re splitting the cost with a few friends like I was. 

You can also pre-book a private minivan from Lake Atitlan to Antigua ahead of time if you’re not comfortable waiting until you arrive in Guatemala like we did. You can also take a chicken bus but it’s not as comfortable and safe, and takes much longer.

On your first official day in Antigua, I recommend the following:

Hill of the Cross

Why not start off your few days in Antigua with one of the best panoramic views in all of the city? Head on over to Cerro de la Cruz (also known as Hill of the Cross in English). From up here, you’ll get a stunning panoramic view of Antigua, the surrounding mountains and volcanoes, and even the Antigua Guatemala Cathedral. 

The trailhead is located just a few blocks from the main park in Antigua, and you can either walk or take a taxi to reach the start of the trail. To reach the top of the hill, you’ll need to walk up a semi-steep trail (only ½ mile out-and-back), taking about 20-30 minutes roundtrip. Don’t worry – there’s plenty of lookout points along the way if you get tired! 

Wander around Historic Antigua

One of my fondest memories of Antigua was simply wandering around the old colonial streets, camera in hand. I swear, around every bend there was something to photograph in this charming city.

As I was wandering the cobblestone streets, I felt like I was transported back in time to the colonial era, with beautiful architecture, vibrant colors, and stunning colonial-style buildings around every corner.

Exploring the historic center can be easily done in an afternoon since it’s relatively small. To gain deeper insights into the city’s distinctive history and geography, I suggest signing up for a walking tour on your first day in Antigua.

Many of the buildings date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, and their ornate facades and intricate details are a testament to the city’s rich history and culture. You’ll see everything from brightly colored colonial-style homes and shops to grand churches and public buildings, all with their own unique stories to tell. 

A few special spots not to miss:

• Santa Catalina Arch (obviously!)
• Parque Central
• La Merced Church
• The Santa Clara Convent
• San Francisco Church
• Tanque la Union

Rooftop Terrace in Antigua for Sunset

End your first night in Antigua with drinks at sunset on a rooftop terrace. Trust me, there’s no better way to soak up the beauty of this charming colonial city than by grabbing a drink or a bite to eat while taking in the stunning views from above. There’s plenty around the city, many with volcano and city views. 

I recommend Antigua Brewing Company (a craft brewery with volcano views – get a flight to sample a few beers), Cafe Sky (easily the most popular rooftop in the city), and Rooftop Antigua (such a lovely space with views of the ruins and volcanoes).

Keep your eyes peeled – you may even see Fuego, one of those magnificent volcanoes, erupting right before your eyes.

Morning: Hobbitenango and/or El Hato Verde

Hobbitenango is a really cool and unique attraction located just outside of Antigua, Guatemala! If you’re a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” or “The Lord of the Rings,” you’ll definitely want to add this spot to your 10 day Guatemala itinerary.

Hobbitenango is truly where fantasy meets reality. It’s perfect for Middle Earth fans, and seriously one of the quirkiest spots I’ve ever been to. So enchanting and off-the-grid; it totally feels like stepping into another world. Such a great little escape from the city. 

What is it exactly?! A hobbit-themed eco-park (!!!) that’s nestled in the lush green hills overlooking Antigua. The park features a few hobbit-style houses built into the hillsides that you can explore – we loved going inside; it had such a magical and whimsical atmosphere!

There’s also plenty of hikes (with lots of scenic views), fun and quirky photo spots (including the famous Hobbitenango hand – don’t miss a photo on it!), a giant tree swing, and some archery games.

​​I loved Hobbitenango so much I wrote an entire post on it – check that out over here (including how to take the shuttle to Hobbitenango, ATV tours that head there, the #1 mistake you don’t wanna make – that I made, haha, and way more).

On the flip side, El Hato Verde is a chic space up in the hills –  you get to hang out and relax in cool nets and tree houses overlooking the volcanoes! And it was super spectacular to say the least – I’ve never done anything like it in my life.

We had a perfect view of the lush, green countryside and it felt absolutely wild sitting/relaxing on the nets staring at the volcanoes in the distance. Wow! What an incredible view and place they have created. Such a special memory. 

Getting to El Hato Verde is a tad confusing. You first need to call an Uber or taxi which will take you up the mountain to their parking area (or drive yourself), and then you’ll be greeted by El Hato Verde staff who take you up in golf carts to the viewpoints and restaurant. We didn’t know this at first so we were kinda confused!

Afternoon: Markets, Ruins, and Cafes 

Once you’re back from your morning adventures, it’s time to explore the markets, check out some ruins, and relax at some cafes ! And thankfully, Antigua has plenty of each! 

They’re all scattered around the city, and there’s quite a few so you won’t have time to visit each and every one, but here’s a quick sampling of my favorites (find even more info in my huge guide to Antigua ).

• El Gran Cafe: A super aesthetically pleasing little shop, with baristas who are super passionate about their job. I picked up a bag of beans here!
• 12 Onzas: Another gorgeous spot, and they have a full brunch and lunch menu with super friendly staff. Really beautiful interior with turquoise tiles and a gorgeous back courtyard.
• Artista de Cafe: Great ambiance and great coffee! I unfortunately didn’t make it here, but it’s firmly planted on my list for next time!

Interested in Antigua’s cafe culture? I wrote an entire post on the best coffee shops and cafes in Antigua – check that out for lots of caffeine!

• Mercado de Artesanias (Artisan Market): This is a popular market filled with stalls selling a wide variety of products, from textiles to leather goods, and it’s a great spot to bargain with local artisans for the best prices. Don’t miss the beautiful fountain in the middle! 
• Mercado de Artesanias El Carmen (Carmen Market): El Carmen is a lesser-known artisan market in Antigua, but definitely worth checking out. We actually liked this one much better than the Mercado de Artesanias, as it seemed much cleaner and easier to navigate. 
• Mercado Central: This large open air market is jam-packed with all sorts of vendors selling EVERYTHING under the sun — fresh produce and meats, flowers, spices, electronics, clothes, and tons more! I won’t lie, it was a bit overwhelming to navigate since it’s so huge, but trust me, it’s worth it!

• Convento Santa Clara: This convent and church, founded in 1699 by nuns from Puebla in Mexico, is known for its amazingly beautiful ornate facade and the amazing courtyard with its fountain in the middle. 
• Catedral San Jose: If you make it to one ruin, make it this one. It was completed in the 1680s, and damaged by earthquakes in the 18th and 19th centuries. It’s now a popular tourist attraction known for its towering columns, picturesque giant pillars, intricate stonework, and collapsed ceiling. Psst – it’s also called “Antigua Guatemala Cathedral” and “Catedral de Santiago” – this confused me a whole lot!
• Casa Santo Domingo Hotel: This hotel is located in a former convent and monastery, which was founded in the 16th century and partially destroyed by earthquakes in the 18th century. Casa Santo Domingo features a museum of colonial-era artifacts, and we loved wandering around the property. 

Night: Dinner at Frida’s and Drinks at Ulew

Head over to Frida’s for dinner – we loved this trendy spot and everything we ordered was top notch! Plus, the bar area was oh so fun!

Afterwards, head to Ulew. A spot I don’t think I ever could forget. I absolutely loved this place – the vibe, the atmosphere, the wacky decor, the bartenders, and of course the drinks. It’s by far the best speakeasy in all of Antigua, and I could have come here every single night of my trip. 

Here’s the kicker – there’s no menu, so the bartenders make you whatever you’re in the mood for. The cocktails are some of the most creative and innovative I’ve ever seen, and the presentation was second to none. My drink was even served on a snow globe coaster!

Day 6: Antigua

Morning: Caoba Farms for Breakfast

If you’re a foodie like me, you’ve got to get yourself over to Caoba Farms. This special spot is a sustainable organic farm known for its delicious farm-to-table dining and DIY farm tour.

We came here for breakfast one morning and absolutely LOVED our visit – our dishes used the freshest ingredients and the beautiful surroundings of the farm just made our visit even more exceptional!

We loved wandering around the farm, admiring all the colorful flowers, leafy green plants, and plenty of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Plus, those tiny piglets were oh so cute!

Do note that Caoba Farms is located just outside of the city center of Antigua. We walked there (only about a 20 minute walk or so), but you can also take a tuk-tuk or quick taxi/Uber ride.

Early Afternoon: Chocolate Making Class

Guatemala is known for their chocolate, so what better way than to lean into this by making your own chocolate IN Guatemala itself?! 

The chocolate making class at ChocoMuseo is an incredible experience, and was one of my favorite things we did in Antigua! We learned all about the history of chocolate and how it’s made, from the cacao tree to the final product. Our class was led by an expert chocolatier who guided us through the process step-by-step.

The class took about two hours, and at the end, we got to take home our own handmade chocolates. Book a class in advance as they do in fact sell out – they’re popular for a reason. I took home the most delicious bag of chocolates, plus some cacao tea (which I now drink on the regular). Reason enough to visit Antigua in my opinion!

Late Afternoon/Night: Sunset Hike to Pacaya Volcano

One of the most popular day trips from Antigua is to Pacaya Volcano , and lemme tell you, it’s an absolute blast! I did this on my first trip to Antigua, and if I had more time, I would have totally done it again. 

Plus, how many of your friends can say they’ve been hiking on an active volcano?! Yup, you read that right – you’ll be hiking on an ACTIVE volcano. 

Pacaya Volcano is located about 19 miles (30 km) southwest of Antigua and is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America. Thankfully, the volcano hike isn’t too strenuous, but it can be steep and rocky in some parts, so definitely wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.

The hike usually takes around 1 ½ to 2 hours (with the hardest portion being a 15-20 minute steady incline). You’ll be rewarded with some incredible views of the surrounding landscape.

As you get closer to the top, you’ll be able to see steam rising from the volcanic vents, and you might even be able to feel the heat coming from the ground. Whoa! Something you don’t see every day!

And the best part? Roasting marshmallows over the hot volcanic rocks! How cool is that? Trust me; they taste amazing with that smoky flavor from the volcanic heat.

Since you can’t hike Volcano Pacaya independently (you need a certified guide with you at all times, because, ya know, it’s an active volcano and all…), it’s best to book a tour in advance.

I recommend this Small-Group Sunset Pacaya Volcano Tour from Antigua . My friends climbed up the volcano just before sunset – and their photos were absolutely beautiful. Plus, you get to stop for a freshly prepared picnic to enjoy along with views of nearby volcanoes Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango! Doesn’t get better than that!

Part 3: Flores and Tikal

Next stop on this 10 day Guatemala itinerary — Flores and Tikal !

As soon as I got to Flores, I was in love. Located in the heart of Lake Peten, this tiny island (known as Isla de Flores) is full of colorful colonial-style houses, cobblestone streets, and a laid-back attitude – three of my favorite things. It actually reminded me a bit of Guatape in Colombia , another colorful town set on a lake that has so much character.

It’s also a great base for exploring the nearby Tikal National Park, one of the largest and most important Mayan archaeological sites in the world.

During your few days in Flores, you can explore ancient ruins (hello Tikal National Park!), take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, and simply sit back and enjoy a cold beer or two at the plenty of waterfront restaurants and bars (or in my case – a whole lot of watermelon juice).

But whatever you do, don’t miss the island’s sunsets as they’re simply breathtaking! I loved wandering the town – it’s got such a charming atmosphere. 

Where to Stay in Flores:

For such a tiny island, there’s quite a lot of accommodation options!

I booked a private room at Los Amigos Hostel (with a stunning view of sunrise over the lake), and I swear it’s the most eclectic hostel I’ve ever stayed at. Oh so colorful and hip and fun. 

The garden restaurant looks straight out of a jungle – don’t miss one of their famous smoothie concoctions here! Los Amigos gets booked up fast (it’s crazy popular for a reason), so reserve your bed or private room ASAP. There’s also a travel agency right inside the hostel if you’ve got time for extra activities. 

I originally wanted to stay at the hip and trendy Hotel Isla de Flores , but the rooms were already all sold out. If you want beautiful lake views, check out Hotel Peten and Casazul (I almost stayed here!). 

Hotel Casa Turquesa is another great option that doesn’t break the bank, but do note it’s next to a nightclub with music blasting for hours so keep that in mind. 

How to get around Flores:

• Lanchas : If you want to explore the lake (which you should), you can hire a lancha (water taxi) to take you around the island, making stops at the different tourist attractions nearby.
• Walk : Isla de Flores is small enough that you can easily explore it on foot. The streets are paved with cobblestones, so I’d recommend having comfy shoes.
• Tuk-tuks and taxis : There’s also motorized tuk-tuks and taxis (you can usually find them parked near the main square) that can take you around the island quickly and affordably.

A few things to know about Flores:

• There’s only a few ATMs on the island, and they frequently run out of cash. Aim to carry enough cash with you for your few days in Flores, juuuust in case. If all else fails, there’s more ATMs across the causeway at the Maya Mall.
• While the infrastructure is decent, it’s not uncommon for the island to lose power. During my 3 days in Flores, the entire island lost electricity a few times. Just something to keep in mind. They’re all very used to it, and the power typically comes back within an hour or so.
• Skip the night market on the bridge connecting Isla de Flores to the mainland. I heard it’s not very sanitary and I wouldn’t risk the possibility of getting sick.

Day 7: Transfer to Guatemala City; Fly to Flores

If you’ve only got time for 10 days in Guatemala (and wanna see the impressive Tikal ruins in the northern part of the country), you’ll need a quick way to get there. Driving takes over 10 hours, on a good day (it’s usually more like 12-13). But thankfully, there’s quick and easy nonstop flights! Phew!

Today’s a travel day, and you’ll need to get yourself back to Guatemala City (easy from Antigua), and then onto a flight to Flores. If I had an extra day to allocate to your Guatemala itinerary, this is where I’d add it – juuuust in case something happens with your flight (like if it’s canceled or delayed).

Look at TAG airlines and Avianca – there’s a few flights per day, so if you book early you’ll have some options.

Think you’ll want more time in Antigua? Book a late afternoon flight. Want to get a head start on exploring Flores? Schedule an early morning flight to Flores to spend the bulk of the day there.

Regardless of when you arrive in Flores, have some dinner and sunset drinks on the lake – you’ve surely earned it! I recommend Sky Bar, Terrazzo, and the Rooftop Bar at Hotel Isla de Flores.

Day 8: Explore the colorful town of Flores and Lake Peten

After a somewhat hectic and tiring travel day yesterday, take today to rest up a bit and explore the colorful town of Flores. Most people head to Flores en route to Tikal (on tomorrow’s agenda, don’tchu worry!), but the colorful island and its surroundings are definitely worth checking out too!

To say I loved this tiny island (Isla de Flores) is an understatement – I could have easily stayed a week and gotten into a routine of wandering the cobblestoned streets, having brunch overlooking the lake, and watching the sunset with a watermelon juice in hand every single night.

There’s just something so special about this tiny island, I can’t put my finger on it.

Morning: Wander Isla de Flores

The tiny island of Flores (Isla de Flores) is super small so you can practically see all of it in a single day. I must’ve walked every single street a few times!

This morning, take a stroll around the charming island, checking out the colonial-style architecture, all the colorful doors and buildings, and of course admiring the beautiful views of the lake from the malecon (the lakefront boardwalk surrounding the island).

There’s no reason to really plan out your walk in advance – just take your camera, throw on some comfy shoes, and start walking.

A few of my favorite foodie spots not to miss:

• Maracuya : The best place on the island to stop for some brunch, or simply a smoothie and/or snack. I sat on the airy terrace overlooking the lake, but there’s also a bunch of other spaces to hang out in, including a real-life butterfly exhibit!
• Delirio Bakery : As soon as I saw this soft-pink cafe, I knew I had to pop in. And what a great choice I made – indulging in some passion fruit pie was the perfect break from all my exploring. 
• Maple y Tocino: Another favorite of mine – a great spot for a lazy lunch with a perfect view of the lake. My avocado toast with beans and plantains was delish; next time I wanna try the epic Four Seasons waffle.

Afternoon: Scenic boat trip on Lake Petan

You’re on an island – get out on the lake itself for a few hours! You’ll find plenty of exciting things to see and do surrounding Isla de Flores, so I recommend hiring a lancha for a few hours to take you around.

The cost depends on how many stops you want to make, and will typically cost less per person the more people joining you! I took a scenic trip on Lake Peten with a few girls I met at my hostel, and we each paid about 200Q ($25) to go to Jorge’s Rope Swing, the mirador, and Playa Chechenal with a local on his boat. 

For a PRIVATE 5 hour “tour”, we thought this wasn’t bad at all! We even watched the sunset on the boat as we were heading back to the island – so super spectacular. 

You can also visit ARCAS (an animal sanctuary) and the Zoologico Petencito Flores Peten (Flores Zoo), but we decided to skip these as I had heard mixed reviews and I don’t find zoos of any nature to be ethical. 

A few stops not to miss:

Jorge’s Rope Swing: What’s better than swinging out over the water on a rope swing, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding jungle. The entire establishment is actually a family’s business, and they sleep there at night! Just imagine waking up to peaceful sunrises on the lake every morning, without a soul in sight. 

And don’t worry – it’s still super fun even if you don’t jump into the lake. Watching all those brave souls was good enough for me! There’s hammocks and areas to chill out, plus beers and snacks for purchase. And only a five minute lancha ride from Flores!

Mirador de Canek: This scenic lookout point/observation deck has panoramic views of Lake Peten Itza and the surrounding jungle, and it’s absolutely gorgeous, especially on a sunny day. You’ll need to do a short hike to get up here (don’t be like me and wear sandals…), but it’s not too bad! The views from the top are well worth the effort!

Playa Chechenal: This is one of the only true beaches near Isla de Flores, and it’s packed with locals enjoying the sun. I was honestly a bit disappointed with Playa Chechenal, as it was crazy crowded when we visited and there were no picnic tables near the water left for us. 

Plus, the beach was super rocky and it really hurt walking into the water! We loved hanging out on the rainbow dock taking pictures though, haha. If you just want a quick look at it and aren’t planning to swim for long, I’d say an hour or so at Playa Chechenal is enough.

Day 9: Sunrise at Tikal; relax in town 

Ohhhh Tikal – the main reason for heading all the way up to Northern Guatemala.

Imagine this: Towering ancient temples amongst the thick jungle landscape. Listening to howler monkeys wake up and then watching them play in the trees. Climbing up ruins before sunrise in the heart of the Guatemalan jungle. Watching colorful toucans and parrots fly from tree to tree. That’s Tikal for you, and you cannot miss it.

This complex of over 3,000 Mayan ruins deep in the rainforests of northern Guatemala is 100% pure magic. It’s one of the major sites of Mayan civilization, inhabited from the 6th century B.C. to the 10th century A.D. 

I’m sorry Chichen Itza, but Tikal is easily one of the best sights in all of Latin America, and a definite highlight of Guatemala. I can’t imagine a complete Guatemala itinerary that didn’t include the impressive Tikal. 

Tikal is absolutely enormous, and you can spend hours exploring and climbing the temples, plazas, and other ruins that date back to over a thousand years ago. One of the most iconic structures is the Temple of the Giant Jaguar (Templo 1), which towers over the jungle (but you unfortunately cannot climb this one).

I also checked out the Gran Plaza, surrounded by impressive ruins such as Templo II (Temple of the Masks) and the central and north acropolis. I loved the Plaza of the Lost World and feeling so tiny beneath Templo 5.

But Tikal isn’t just about the history – it’s also a nature lover’s paradise! The surrounding jungle is home to a variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and colorful parrots (I saw a whole bunch!). You might even catch a glimpse of a jaguar or a puma if you’re lucky.

And while there’s lots of day trip options, if you want a magical experience like no other, I highly recommend heading to Tikal for sunrise.

Yes, we had to wake up at 3am and were exhausted the rest of the day, but listening to those howler monkeys wake up in the jungle and wandering around the almost-completely empty sites was simply breathtaking. An experience I’ll never forget. 

Book your sunrise tour to Tikal here (don’t wait on this – this is a small-group tour with space for a max of 9 guests).

If your idea of fun doesn’t include an early morning wake up call, you can certainly visit later in the morning or midday. Just note it’ll undoubtedly be much, much more crowded, and a lot hotter and stickier. Because of that I recommend taking a sunset tour to Tikal – you’ll get the best of both worlds; no waking up early, fewer tourists, and even cooler temperatures.

Once you’re done at Tikal, spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at your hotel and wandering the town – I was so tired I even took a midday nap! Something I NEVER do!

Day 10: fly to Guatemala City, depart home

Phew, what a jam-packed 10 days! You’re most likely flying home from Guatemala City, so on the last day of your 10 day Guatemala itinerary, you’ll need to get yourself back to Guatemala City of course!

Thankfully, the flight from Flores to Guatemala City is less than an hour, so you can make it back to the city in no time. This means you can either spend an extra morning or so in Flores, or head back to Guatemala City in the AM.

TAG has numerous nonstop flights a day, and last I checked, Avianca has at least one. If you’re flexible on time and book in advance, you may even be able to get a flight for $50! Can’t beat that!

If you catch a morning flight and your flight home doesn’t depart until later that night, I highly recommend having a meal at Sublime Restaurante or Flor de Lis in Guatemala City. Both are super inventive spots with impeccable tasting menus. 

Our 12-course tasting menu at Sublime was easily one of the best 10 meals I’ve ever had… in my life. Yes, it actually beat out all those wondrous tasting menus in Mexico City – I was shocked! And it costs us less than $90, drinks and well-deserved tip included.

Psst – If you’ve got an extra day to spare, you could totally spend it in Flores and the surrounding areas. I took a day trip to Crater Azul , and was seriously stunned at just how turquoise blue the water was.

Hope this helps you plan the best possible 10 day Guatemala itinerary! Are you traveling there soon?!

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March 9, 2024 at 11:23 am

I sponsor a girl in Guatemala city and have been wondering if I should visit. Guatemala is so colourful and inspiring. Thank you so much for this very informative article Caroline ❤

March 10, 2024 at 11:01 am

Wow that is so special — you should definitely go visit! Guatemala is so underrated and such a special place.

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23 Best Places to Visit in Guatemala for the First Time

Posted on Last updated: March 19, 2024

Home » Destinations » Central America » Guatemala » 23 Best Places to Visit in Guatemala for the First Time

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Are you thinking about planning a trip to Guatemala but aren’t sure what to see? Keep scrolling to check out the best places to visit in Guatemala that are worth checking out!

This list of the best places to visit in guatemala was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

The best places to visit in Guatemala are scattered around the Latin American country, so it might be hard to catch them all in one trip.

But if you’re traveling to Guatemala and want some inspiration for your travels, you’re in the right place! You can explore Tikal National Park’s ancient ruins , kay around the beautiful Lake Atitlan, walk the cobblestone streets of Antigua, and do so much more in this beautiful country.

Guatemala has a shocking range of climates, too. The beaches and jungle are warmer and more tropical. At the same time, the Guatemalan highlands are cooler, and the tropical jungles around the lakes are usually warm and sunny during the day and breezy at night.

If you’re wondering where to go in Guatemala, check out these 23 best places in Guatemala to help you plan your next adventure.

23 Best Places to Go in Guatemala

Antigua guatemala.

Antigua, Guatemala, is a quintessential town with narrow cobblestone streets and charming colonial architecture. And there’s a lot to do in Antigua , from the incredible volcano hikes to the neighboring coffee plantations to visiting local markets.

The small town of Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it’s an important historical piece of Guatemala. The colorful colonial buildings characterize it. The Spanish colonial town has maintained most of its charm over the years despite a surprising number of fast-food chains in the city center.

The Santa Catalina Arch is the most recognizable part of Antigua. Not only is the Santa Catalina Arch the perfect spot for a photo session but it’s also lined with handicraft stores and souvenir shops.

The Antigua Guatemala Cathedral (Catedral de Santiago) is another important monument in Antigua and a Guatemala must-see while exploring this small town.

Cerro de la Cruz

Cerro de la Cruz is a must-visit while in Guatemala. It’s a hill overlooking Antigua, with Volcano Agua in the town’s backdrop.

There’s a large cross at the top of the hill, benches, local vendors, and small trails to different viewpoints.

You can walk up the hill from the center of Antigua or take a taxi or tuk-tuk straight to the top. There are stairs at the base of the hill leading up to the central point. It takes about 30 minutes to walk to the top of the hill from Antigua. Otherwise, it’s a quick 5 or 10-minute taxi ride.

Pacaya Volcano

Pacaya Volcano is another popular excursion from Antigua and the best volcano hike for families. Although it’s an active volcano, it’s relatively safe as you don’t get too close to the eruptions.

Pacaya volcano is considered medium difficulty. The hike has no technical portions, but it’s rather steep for much of the 3.2-mile (5.1 km) trek. However, horses are usually for rent at the beginning of the hike.

The horses can’t go to the top, where it gets sandy and more complex, but they’ll carry you most of the way. This is what my friends and I did and it was such a unique experience.

There are some great Guatemala sights and views beyond throughout the hike, but the top of the hike treats you to even better ones, complete with roasted marshmallows off the hot lava rocks.

Whether or not you see lava depends on the day you go and the volcano’s activity. Some days, you’ll only be walking on hot lava rocks. On other days, you may see the lava stream slowly flowing down from the volcano’s peak.

Acatenango Volcano

Acatenango is the more challenging volcano hike near Antigua. It’s not as popular with families and children as Pacaya Volcano, as it’s significantly more difficult and requires staying overnight on the volcano. That said, some people may feel adventurous and energetic enough.

Acatenango is an active volcano, with the last eruption in 1986. Its sister volcano, El Fuego, is an active volcano with frequent eruptions every 15 to 30 minutes.

You can hike up Acatenango, stay the night at the top, and admire El Fuego’s marvelous volcanic eruptions. If you go with a tour company, you can hike up to El Fuego and get closer to the action.

This isn’t entirely recommended for families, as it can be dangerous. However, tour companies are going up every day, and there are rarely any problems.

Just keep in mind that it’s also a challenging hike. You’ll have to prepare for 6-8 hours of hiking at high elevation, going straight up almost the entire time. But if you decide to go this route, either with your family or on a solo trip, the absolute magnificence of El Fuego is worth the effort.

Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlán is one of Guatemala’s most popular tourist destinations, with many of the top tourist attractions in Guatemala, and there isn’t anything like it in Central America. There are tons of things to do in Lake Atitlan .

Lake Atitlan spans over 50 square kilometers and reaches a depth of over 1,000 feet (340 meters). It’s a volcanic lake created by the past eruptions of the nearby volcanos towering around the lake.

Around twelve distinct villages around the lake, some more popular for tourists than others. And there are dozens of great hikes and fun activities.

Panajachel is considered the “city” of Lake Atitlán, located on the northeastern side of the lake. It’s an enjoyable place with coffee shops, markets, and other activities.

Most people don’t like to stay in Panajachel, even though it’s the main arrival and departure port around Lake Atitlan, because of the “city” vibes. But it’s worth a visit, even if you don’t plan to stay there.

San Pedro La Laguna

San Pedro la Laguna is one of the most popular small villages along the lake. It’s on the opposite side of the lake as Panajachel and is about a 30-minute boat ride.

San Pedro la Laguna is one of the most “tourist-friendly” towns, with many restaurants, shops, and artisan shops. There are also many places to rent kayaks, hostels, and hotels.

The village is close to some fantastic hikes, as well. Not surprisingly, it’s the closest village to San Pedro volcano, making it a great starting point. But there are several other nearby hikes, as well.

Indian Nose (La Nariz del Indio) is the best sunrise hike around Lake Atitlan, with unbeatable views. The hike itself is only about 30-45 minutes. While it’s straight up the entire time, it’s still doable for families and children with a guide.

If you’re hiking around Lake Atitlan, it’s strongly suggested to go with a local guide for safety reasons.

San Marcos La Laguna

San Marcos La Laguna is another popular village for tourists. It’s on the same side of the lake as San Pedro, about a 10-minute boat trip from San Pedro.

This town is known more as a “hippy” town, as it’s home to some of the best yoga studios, hostels, cafes, and handicraft shops.

There’s a narrow alleyway from the boat dock into town filled with great shopping points. Next to the docks is a small park called Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve. This is an excellent spot for swimming, walking, and lounging.

You can also join boat tours to explore the rest of the lake. It’s worth exploring every corner, as each village has a unique personality and vibe. You’ll quickly find, the villages around the lake are one of the top things to see in Guatemala.

Chichicastenango

Chichicastenango is the perfect small village for culture seekers and explorers. It’s located in west-central Guatemala, in the Guatemalan highlands.

Chichicastenango (often shortened to Chichi) is a unique place where Christianity and Mayan cultures blend more than in other Guatemala areas.

The Chichicastenango market is the most famous place in Guatemala for markets, but there are a few other things to do, possibly making a night or two here worth it.

There’s a small archeological museum of the region, beautiful murals in the main plaza, and a haunting, yet mesmerizing, cemetery near the town center.

Chichicastenango Market

Whether or not you spend a night or two in Chichi, you should try to visit the Chichicastenango Market. It’s an easy trip from Lake Atitlán, only taking about two hours by car.

This is one of the largest markets in Guatemala and likely the most colorful market. The market has great cultural significance, as it was a central market for the Mayan civilizations long before Spanish colonization.

You can find almost anything here, so bring plenty of money and space to bring trinkets back home.

The market is only open on Thursdays and Sundays.

Lake Peten Itza & Flores

Lake Peten is in northern Guatemala, in the Guatemalan lowlands. It’s not too far from the Mexican border (albeit it’s nothing but lush jungle on this side of the border) and the Belize border.

The lake is one of the calmest lakes in the country, making it an excellent spot for swimming. But it was also the home base of the Maya Itza, the very last indigenous group conquered by the Spanish.

This region is full of so much Mayan culture and some of the best Mayan ruins in the country, making it perfect for those looking to explore temples and learn about the intricate history.

Other popular activities around Lake Peten Itza include walking the quiet streets, kayaking around the mellow lake and over to the little island, and visiting museums and local artisan shops.

The best place to stay around Lake Peten Itza is Flores. Flores is a small island connected to the Peten region via one short bridge.

Flores has several hotels, restaurants, and shops. It only takes about 15 minutes to walk around the island, and it has a very laid-back vibe.

There usually aren’t many people around Flores during the door, and most are embarking on day trips to nearby Mayan ruins or other Guatemala top attractions.

Tikal National Park

If you’re in Peten, visiting Tikal National Park is one of the top things to do in Guatemala, as it’s one of the most famous places in Guatemala.

El Tikal National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most fascinating Mayan ruins, rich with Mayan history, magnificent pyramids, and nature.

Tikal dates back to the 1st century A.D., though it flourished from 200 to 850 A.D. It’s believed to have been the largest city in the Maya lowlands.

Today, the site’s major structures include five pyramids and three large complexes (often called acropolis).

Tikal is thoroughly excavated, and it’ll take at least a few hours to explore every open piece of these Mayan ruins. But it’s worth it.

Temple IV is the largest temple in Tikal, standing at 212 ft (64 meters) high. Temple IV is one of the three major temples you can climb.

The Plaza of Seven Temples is another major complex in Tikal. This complex is southwest of the Great Plaza and west of the South Acropolis. There are some immaculately preserved masks, temples, and intricate history.

The Temple of the Great Jaguar is one of Tikal’s most iconic images. It’s located on the eastern side of the Great Plaza in the North Acropolis of Tikal.

Visiting Tikal is one of the best things to do in the country and a must-do in Guatemala for culture and nature lovers.

After all, the Mayan ruins are surrounded by lush rainforests, with the chance to spot wild monkeys and other animals roaming the national parks in Guatemala.

El Mirador is less suited for children and families, but it’s one of the most exciting excursions in Guatemala for outdoor lovers.

El Mirador is one of the most recently discovered Mayan ruins deep in the jungle canopy of northern Guatemala. To reach El Mirador, you’ll have to trek five days through the jungle for hours daily.

The jungle trek includes more Mayan ruins, lots of Mayan culture, and a chance to get off the beaten path in Guatemala.

You’ll climb several more pyramids, wake up to howler monkeys every morning, and even hike alongside monkeys in the trees throughout the journey.

This is a challenging 5-day adventure, but worth it if you want to get lost in the lush jungle (with a guide, of course).

The trek isn’t recommended for kids, as it’s physically challenging to walk through the jungle 6-8 hours a day with mosquitos, mud, and other animals.

Cobán

Cobán is a city in the central highlands of Guatemala, about four hours from Guatemala City.

Cobán was once the center of a large colony of German settlers who came to Guatemala to grow coffee. It was also one of the major hubs in northern Guatemala for Mayan trade and settlement. Because of this, the city boasts a unique culture mixed with Mayan ruins not too far from small coffee plantations.

The city is also a nice escape from the active volcanoes in western Guatemala. Instead of hiking volcanoes, Cobán is just a few hours from Guatemala’s stunning surrounding mountains and tropical jungle.

Cobán is a popular starting point for more remote tourist destinations in Guatemala, like Semuc Champey, Candelaria Caves, Rio Dulce, and Laguna Lachua National Park.

Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey is one of the best Guatemala beautiful places and a must-see for anyone visiting the country. It has blue pools, small waterfalls, caves, a significant limestone bridge, and several lookouts to take it all in.

Semuc Champey is most known for its layers of striking turquoise and emerald pools that flow through the jungle canopy. It’s an excellent spot for swimming and exploring the beautiful country of Guatemala.

You should consider visiting Semuc Champey, as certain areas of the beautiful region can be dangerous. A tour group can also take you to more hidden gems around the area, where you can make the most of the long journey here.

Semuc Champey is about 45 minutes from the nearest town, Lanquín. Lanquín is about eight hours from Antigua and Flores and five hours from Cobán.

It’s one of the most remote places to visit in Guatemala, but it’s worth the travel time due to the stunning beauty and isolation of the pools.

Rio Dulce is another amazing hidden gem in the remote jungle of Guatemala. Rio Dulce, which translates to “Sweet River” in English, is often considered a natural jewel of the Caribbean coast.

The river serves as a gateway to the Caribbean Sea. Near the gateway, there are beautiful canyons and extraordinary wildlife surrounding the river. You might even be lucky and spot a few local spider monkeys swinging through the trees.

The river runs 26 miles(43 km), and one of the best activities is to join a boat ride down the river’s length. You’ll be able to spot some of the local wildlife, including crocodiles, monkeys, and dozens of different bird species.

You’ll also pass by some indigenous villages, which allow a unique peek into this vibrant culture in Central America.

This region has been thriving for many years and remains relatively untouched. Mayan culture is prevalent in rural communities in architecture, art, and traditions.

Like Semuc Champey, Rio Dulce is pretty isolated. Despite being one of the major tourist attractions in Guatemala, it’s four hours from Flores and five hours from Cobán.

El Boqueron Canyon

El Boqueron Canyon is another beautiful destination in Guatemala, often overlooked by travelers. But it’s one of Central America’s most unique and memorable canyons, so it’s worth the visit if you have the time.

El Boqueron Canyon is more of a large gorge than a canyon, and most people choose to explore by boat down the narrow pathways and rapids. You can also go tubing, hike the surrounding trails to various lookouts, or picnic at one of the recreational areas in the large park.

El Boqueron Canyon is north of Lake Izabel, and visiting from the small town of Rio Dulce is best. It’s about an hour from Rio Dulce but fairly far from other popular places in Guatemala.

Candelaria Caves

The Candelaria Caves are set within Guatemala’s limestone mountains in northern Alta Verapaz. The flow of Rio Candelaria formed the caves, stretching over 18 miles (29km). You can explore the caves on foot or with a raft down some portions.

This is more of an adventure, not for the faint of heart, as cave exploring can be dangerous and exhilarating simultaneously.

However, if you’re up for the challenge, you’ll get lost in the mesmerizing beauty of Candelaria Caves, with their neverending length, great height, and unique rock formations.

The caves were also sacred to the Q’eqchi Mayans, so it’s one of the best places to visit in Guatemala to learn more about their culture. The caves were considered an opening to the underworld, and Mayans used the caves as a prominent place of worship.

The caves are only a few hours from Cobán, so it’s best to visit on a day trip from the city.

Laguna Lachua National Park

Laguna Lachua National Park is a hidden gem and one of the best places to visit in Guatemala for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and “off-the-beaten-path” travelers.

Laguna Lachua is often called “a little piece of the Caribbean coast” because of the turquoise waters and natural swimming pools. But there’s so much more. Howler monkeys are roaming the trees, over 300 bird species, well-maintained jungle trails, and even some great camping near the lake.

Laguna Lachua is only about three hours from Cobán, so visiting on a day trip or for a few days after exploring the city is best. There’s a small town near Laguna Lachua National Park, but if you plan on staying the night, you should consider camping within the park.

Pacific Beaches

Most people don’t set aside much time for Guatemala’s Pacific coast, but it’s a great rest stop for ocean lovers.

The Pacific coast isn’t as striking as Guatemala’s Caribbean coast, but it’s still home to beautiful black-sand beaches, small beach towns, and some great surfing spots that make it home to the ultimate Guatemala vacation spots.

Monterrico and Paredon are the two most popular Pacific beaches in Guatemala, and they are easy to get to from Antigua or Guatemala City. They aren’t super popular amongst international tourists, but they are very popular Guatemala tourist attractions for locals.

Monterrico is a small beach town known for its black-sand beaches and the annual arrival of sea turtles along the coast. It’s also a popular destination for Guatemala City residents during long breaks and holidays.

Monterrico is only about two and a half hours from Antigua and Guatemala City.

El Paredon is another beautiful beach spot in Guatemala. The small fishing village has rustic charm, a quintessential city center growing each year, and some of the best wave breaks for advanced surfers.

El Paredon is about two hours west of Monterrico. But it’s also only about two hours from Guatemala City and Antigua.

Quetzaltenango (Xela)

Quetzaltenango (locals call it Xela) is a small city in Guatemala. It has a cute town center, with a central park and plenty of restaurants and shops. It’s one of the best cities to visit in Guatemala because of the authentic feel.

Fewer tourists visit Quetzaltenango than places like Antigua, so it also feels more authentic and cultural.

This city is known for its outstanding Guatemala scenery, rich culture, and neoclassical architecture, much of which it has preserved.

There are also some great day trips from Xela, making it a good home base for those who want to explore the volcanos or hot springs nearby.

Xela is also very popular for Spanish schools, so consider this small city a home base if you want to practice your Spanish more.

Georginas Hot Springs

Georginas Hot Springs is another popular tourist destination. It consists of four thermal pools warmed by the nearby volcano Zunil.

The springs are located in the western Guatemalan highlands and are most accessible to visit on a day trip from Quetzaltenango (otherwise known as Xela).

There are walking trails around the hot springs, as well. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the tropical jungle, just walking distance from endless lush vegetation and great views of the nearby mountains.

Guatemala City

Guatemala City is the capital city of Guatemala and is not known as a great tourist destination. It’s a large, bustling city, similar to any other in Central America.

However, you’ll likely fly in and out of Guatemala City, and there are still some interesting points of interest in the capital city.

Guatemala City is divided into zones, which represent various neighborhoods. The best places to visit in Guatemala City are Zone 1, Zone 4, Zone 10, and Zone 13.

Zone 1 is home to the historic city center, where you’ll find many of the best museums, parks, and street food. It also has more affordable accommodation and hostels. Zone 10 is the commercial district in Guatemala and is a little more upscale and comfortable for families.

You can still admire the colonial architecture around Guatemala City and learn even more about the Mayan culture and history of the country.

Beautiful Places to Visit in Guatemala FAQs

What are some of the best places to visit in guatemala for history lovers.

Almost all of Guatemala is perfect for history lovers. I’d recommend at least one day exploring Guatemala City and some museums around the city, as this is an excellent introduction to Guatemalan history.

Afterward, Tikal National Park is one of the best places to visit in Guatemala to learn about Mayan history and its significance. However, there’s a lot of history and culture in every corner of the country, so you can’t go wrong.

Are there hidden gems among the best places to visit in Guatemala?

Some might say that all of Guatemala is a hidden gem, as it isn’t as popular for tourists as its neighbors, Mexico and Belize. Guatemala City, Antigua, and Lake Atitlan are the most beautiful places in Guatemala.

If you go to any other place in Guatemala, you likely won’t see too many other tourists. Rio Dulce, Candelaria Caves, and Laguna Lachua National Park are some of the most underrated places to visit in Guatemala, however.

What are the best cultural sites in Guatemala?

El Tikal is the best cultural site in Guatemala. Many are around the area, but Tikal is nicely excavated and easy to explore. You can climb up pyramids, walk up steps to some incredible viewpoints, and learn all about the intriguing history of this Mayan civilization.

What are the best places to visit in Guatemala to hike active volcanoes?

Antigua Guatemala is the best place to visit in Guatemala to hike volcanoes. The best one for families and day hikes is Pacaya Volcano. Acatanengo is also a popular overnight hike, though it’s much more challenging, especially for families.

Is it safe to travel to popular tourist destinations in Guatemala?

Generally speaking, it is safe to travel to popular places in Guatemala. Guatemala is not the safest place in Central America; it has its problems related to crime and drugs, but it’s relatively safe if you’re a savvy traveler.

The U.S. Department of State lists several travel advisories and tips for people who plan to visit Guatemala. For example, they advise against going to Zone 18 in Guatemala City, warn travelers not to swim in the Pacific Ocean because of currents, and encourage travelers to go to Guatemala with a tour agency or travel around the country with tours.

That said, the popular tourist hot spots are usually safe for travelers.

What are the best places to visit in Guatemala for a family vacation?

Guatemala is not your traditional family vacation location, but that doesn’t mean it can’t make for a great family vacation. Antigua Guatemala is one of the best locations in Guatemala. There are some great hikes, day trips, and coffee plantations that are all popular for families.

Lake Atitlán is another great spot for families, depending on where you stay.

Top Places to Visit in Guatemala Wrap-Up

Guatemala is the place to go for adventure. Antigua is a beautiful town with colorful colonial architecture and amazing hikes.

Lake Atitlán is also a popular spot for swimming and hiking, with one of the most beautiful lakes in Central America. Flores, Guatemala, is another unique location and a great starting point to learn about Mayan history.

But there’s even more than that. There are hidden gems tucked away in the Guatemalan highlands and many underrated places to explore and travel.

If you take the time to explore, you’ll find your most beautiful place in Guatemala (because it’s different for everyone)! If you’re having a hard time deciding where to visit in Guatemala, just know, you can’t really go wrong.

Most things to do in Guatemala are active and fast-paced, and living is very different from what you might be used to. For this reason, it isn’t as popular for family vacations and travel. But it’s perfect for those who want something different, more eye-opening, and challenging.

Looking for more Guatemala travel resources? Check out 39 Incredible Things to Do in Lake Atitlan Guatemala , 10 Helpful Guatemala Travel Tips for First-Timers , 24 Things to Know Before Visiting Tikal National Park in Guatemala , 5 Best Hotels in Antigua Guatemala Worth Booking , and 25 Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala for First-Timers !

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Guatemala highlights & best places to visit

Guatemala is a country that seems to contain several different worlds within its borders – from steamy jungles and ancient Mayan ruins to quaint colonial towns and landscapes dotted with volcanoes.

I spent six weeks exploring Guatemala and had the most amazing time getting to know its beautiful nature, history and culture. This small Central American country is full of exciting places to visit and has something to offer to every type of traveler. In this blog post, I’ve compiled a list of the top 12 Guatemala highlights to help you plan your own dream trip to this captivating country.

At the end of this blog post, I’ve also included a map of the highlights of Guatemala, which gives you an easy overview of where each of these destinations is located.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

Top 12 highlights of Guatemala:

1) tikal national park.

Tikal National Park is undeniably one of the top attractions in Guatemala and it’s easy to see why.

Nestled in the tropical rainforests of northern Guatemala, Tikal was one of the most important cities of the Mayan Empire. Home to thousands of years old ruins, it’s a fascinating archaeological site where you can walk among incredibly well-preserved temples and pyramids. 

In addition to exploring the ancient Mayan ruins, you can also spot a variety of exotic wildlife in Tikal. During my visit, I saw different types of monkeys, coatis, toucans, macaws, deer and several other animals – it was like being in a nature documentary!

Read my ultimate guide to visiting Tikal , which includes all the information you need to plan your visit – from tips on how to get there and where to stay to which ruins to visit and much more. 

Where to stay: Jungle Lodge Tikal

The beautiful colonial town of Antigua is the former capital of Guatemala and one of the most visited places in the country. 

Located in a scenic valley surrounded by volcanoes, this charming historical town is definitely one of the highlights of Guatemala. I totally fell in love with Antigua and ended up visiting it several times during my Guatemala trip.

Despite its popularity among tourists, Antigua has managed to maintain its authentic charm. Thanks to its gorgeous colonial architecture, countless ruins and cobblestone streets, the whole town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s like one big open-air museum with something exciting to explore around every corner.

Some of the most notable attractions in Antigua are Santa Catalina Arch, the ruins of Antigua Cathedral and the Iglesia de la Merced church. Be sure to also visit Casa Santo Domingo , a museum and a hotel set on the ruins of an old convent. You can explore the beautiful hotel grounds even if you’re not staying in the hotel.

Where to stay: Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo

3) Acatenango Volcano

Hiking to the summit of Acatenango Volcano is undoubtedly one of the highlights of Guatemala and an experience that should be on every adventure lover’s bucket list. 

Standing 3,976m (13,000 ft) tall, the majestic volcano towers over the town of Antigua and is usually visited on a guided two-day trek . It’s a challenging and steep hike to the summit, but once you reach it, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of the highlands of Guatemala. 

The most exhilarating part about the hike though is seeing the highly active neighboring Volcan Fuego , which frequently spews lava and giant columns of ash into the air. Sitting at our camp and watching a volcano erupt in front of me was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay in my memories forever!

In my detailed guide to the Acatenango hike , you’ll find everything you need to know to prepare for this epic trek, including what to expect, best time to do it and what to pack.

Where to stay: Before the trek, stay in Antigua since that’s where most of the tours depart from. During the trek, you’ll stay at a cabin at Acatenango Base Camp (organized by your tour company).

4) Lake Atitlan

Situated in a giant volcanic crater in the Guatemalan Highlands, this picturesque lake sits at 1550m (5085 ft) above sea level and is the deepest lake in Central America. With its shimmering blue waters and cone-shaped volcanoes dominating the scenery, Lake Atitlan is a place of great natural beauty and a wonderful addition to any Guatemala itinerary .

Around the lake, there are several traditional Mayan towns, each with its own character and charm. For colorful street art and handicrafts, visit San Juan La Laguna. For yoga and wellness, head to San Marcos La Laguna. Looking to party and meet other backpackers? Then San Pedro La Laguna is your place.

One of the experiences you definitely shouldn’t miss at Lake Atitlan is doing the Indian Nose hike . It’s a short hike that leads you to the best sunrise viewpoint over the lake and offers an epic panorama of the surrounding volcanoes and towns below.

Where to stay: Kula Maya

5) Flores & Lake Peten Itza

Another one of the best things to do in Guatemala is to explore the colorful little town of Flores. Set on an island on Lake Peten Itza in northern Guatemala, Flores is mostly known as the gateway to the Mayan ruins of Tikal but the town itself is also worth a visit.

Characterized by well-preserved colonial buildings, cobblestone streets and a peaceful atmosphere, this tiny lakeside town is the perfect place to spend a few relaxed days. Wander around the picturesque streets, marvel at the vibrant facades and enjoy a meal with a sunset view in one of the town’s waterfront restaurants. 

While you’re here, you should also explore Lake Peten Itza, Guatemala’s third-largest lake, and take a dip in its clear warm waters. There are boat tours that take you to the best spots around the lake but you can also rent kayaks or SUPs to discover the lake on your own.

Where to stay: Hotel Isla de Flores

6) Semuc Champey

Misty waterfalls, mountains covered with jungle and a series of natural pools full of turquoise water – this is what you can expect when visiting Semuc Champey, another one of Guatemala’s highlights. Thanks to its unique and idyllic setting, this remote nature reserve is often considered one of the most beautiful natural attractions of Guatemala.

The most outstanding feature of Semuc Champey is its 300m (980 ft) limestone bridge under which the Cahabón River flows. On top of the natural bridge, there are several tiered pools full of crystal clear water perfect for swimming. There’s also a viewpoint and a network of caves that you can visit.

Because of the time-consuming and somewhat difficult journey to get to Semuc Champey, many travelers decide to skip it. But if you have the time and patience to take the trip there, you’ll be rewarded with a blissful day in this little slice of paradise.

Where to stay: Guayaha

7) El Paredon

If you’re looking to spend some time by the beach, then El Paredon is where you should go. This tiny laid-back surf town lies on Guatemala’s Pacific coast and features a long beach with black volcanic sand, hotels with a tropical vibe, cool beach bars and mesmerizing sunsets. 

It is known as the surfing capital of Guatemala and has some of the most consistent waves in all of Central America. If you’re not into surfing, there’s still plenty to do in El Paredon – from mangrove tours and Guatemalan cooking workshops to baby turtle releases and yoga classes. 

Be sure to read my complete El Paredon travel guide , where I’m sharing all of the top things to see and do in this little beach town, the best hotels to stay, general travel tips and more.

Where to stay: Swell

8) Pacaya Volcano

The 2,552m (8.400 ft) tall Pacaya Volcano is one of the youngest and most active volcanoes in Guatemala. Located just an hour’s drive from Antigua and Guatemala City, it’s a popular day trip destination that most people visit on a guided tour.

While the hike to Pacaya Volcano is one of the least challenging volcano hikes in Guatemala, it’s still a great adventure and offers wonderful views of otherworldly volcanic landscapes.

During a Pacaya Volcano tour , you’ll get to walk through vast dried lava fields, see clouds of smoke emerge from the crater and the ground around you, toast marshmallows above volcanic vents and enjoy fantastic views of the nearby Agua, Fuego and Acatenango volcanoes.

Where to stay: Since most Pacaya Volcano tours depart from Antigua, I recommend staying there.

9) Chichicastenango

For those looking to immerse themselves in the traditional Maya culture, one of the most interesting places to visit in Guatemala is Chichicastenango. This small town in the western highlands of Guatemala is home to the indigenous Mayan K’iche population and hosts Central America’s largest open-air market. 

Bursting with bright colors, sounds, and smells, the Chichicastenango market is a real feast for the senses. You’ll be surrounded by fresh produce, flowers, traditional medicine and all kinds of art and handicrafts – from vibrant textiles and jewelry to ceramics, paintings and carved masks.

If you want to buy some souvenirs during your Guatemala trip, Chichicastnenago is definitely the place for this. Don’t forget to haggle! It’s a totally normal thing to do here and expected by vendors.

The Chichicastenango market is held every Thursday and Sunday and is usually visited on a full-day tour from Antigua , Guatemala City or Lake Atitlan.

Where to stay: If you’d like to spend the night at Chichicastenango, I’d choose Hotel Museo Mayan Inn .

10) Rio Dulce

If you enjoy being surrounded by lush tropical greenery and want to see a different side of Guatemala, far from the typical tourist trail, then consider visiting Rio Dulce.

Located in eastern Guatemala, Rio Dulce is a small town and a river with the same name. While the town of Rio Dulce is not particularly charming, it’s the natural setting around it that makes this place attractive.

Here you can unwind on one of the area’s tranquil eco-lodges or jungle retreats, explore the peaceful waterways on a kayak or an SUP, go for refreshing dips in the river and, if you’re lucky, spot some wildlife. The region is home to a variety of birds, monkeys and even manatees.

Other popular activities in the area include visiting a hot spring waterfall , exploring the San Felipe Castle and taking a boat to the Afro-Caribbean town of Livingston.

Where to stay: Boatique Hotel and Marina

11) Guatemala City

Guatemala City is the capital of Guatemala and the largest city in Central America. It was founded in 1776 after the previous capital Antigua was destroyed by a series of earthquakes. While the city doesn’t have the best safety reputation , it is still possible to visit it safely by simply avoiding the dangerous neighborhoods and not walking around at night.

In Guatemala City’s historic downtown, you can visit Plaza de la Constitucion, the city’s main square, and see the beautiful colonial architecture of the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture. The nearby Mercado Central is also worth checking out for an authentic market experience.

However, my favorite place in all of Guatemala City is the Cayala district . It’s a relatively new, clean and very safe neighborhood with lovely architecture, cobbled pedestrian-friendly streets, great restaurants and cafes, and just a really charming atmosphere overall. It kinda reminded me of the historical towns in southern Europe. 

Where to stay: Good Hotel

12) El Mirador

Hidden deep in the dense jungles of northern Guatemala, the ancient ruins of El Mirador is a destination for true adventurers. Built more than 2000 years ago, it is one of the largest known Maya sites and is often called the cradle of Maya civilization. 

The archaeological site boasts several thousand ancient structures, many of which are still largely overgrown by thick vegetation. The most outstanding monument in El Mirador is the colossal La Danta pyramid, towering 72m (236 ft) above the ground.

Because of El Mirador’s remote location, you can only get there by either hiking for two days through the jungle or taking a helicopter tour . 

The trek there and back takes around 5 days to complete and is only recommended if you’re in good physical shape. Along the way, you’ll camp in the jungle with your tour group. If I ever return to Guatemala, I would absolutely love to do this epic trek!

Guatemala highlights map

On the map below, you can find the locations of all the Guatemala highlights listed in this blog post. Click on the icon in the top left corner of the map for more details.

Best places to visit in Guatemala: Final thoughts

And that’s it! These were the best places to visit and things to do in Guatemala. I hope that this post gave you some ideas for planning your holiday in this beautiful and diverse country. 

Don’t forget to also read my Guatemala itinerary post where I’m sharing the perfect 10-day travel route through the country.

For more useful Guatemala travel tips, check out my other blog posts:

• How to visit Tikal
• Travel guide to El Paredon
• Indian Nose hike at Lake Atitlan
• Staying at Hotel Casa Santo Domingo (Antigua)
• Acatenango volcano overnight hike

Have you been to Guatemala and would you add anything else to this list? Let me know in the comments.

Enjoyed reading about Guatemala highlights? Pin it!

Volcan Acatenango hike: A bucket list adventure in Guatemala

10 days in Guatemala: An unforgettable Guatemala itinerary

Indian Nose hike in Guatemala: Best sunrise view at Lake Atitlan

Why you should visit El Paredon, Guatemala + best things to do

Visiting Tikal in Guatemala: Everything you need to know

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11 Best Things To Do in Guatemala City

So you’ve found yourself in Guatemala City, and you’re wondering what to do – we’ve got you.

Guatemala City is the bustling capital of Guatemala and has a long historical significance and deep culture just waiting to be explored. The city is often overlooked by tourists, who favor nearby hubs Antigua and Lake Atilan. However, Guatemala City has a variety of awesome things to do, from exploring ancient ruins to shopping in local markets.

So whether you’re ready to explore Guatemala on a deeper level or are just passing through, here are the best things to do in the Guatemalan capital. 

Facts about Guatemala City

• Guatemala City is the largest city in Central America, with a population of more than 3 million people.
• The city was founded in 1776 after a massive earthquake destroyed the former capital, Antigua, Guatemala.
• Guatemala City is located in a valley surrounded by three volcanoes: Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango .
• The city is home to several museums, including the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of Mayan artifacts.
• Guatemala City has a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and art museums showcasing both traditional and contemporary works.
• The city is known for its vibrant street markets, where you can find everything from handmade textiles to fresh produce.
• Guatemala City is also home to several universities, including the Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala, which is the oldest university in Central America.
• The city has a tropical climate, with temperatures averaging around 80°F (27°C) year-round.
• The official language of Guatemala is Spanish, but there are also over 20 Mayan languages spoken in the country.
• Guatemala City is a hub for transportation in Central America, with an international airport and several major highways connecting it to other countries in the region.

Getting around Guatemala City

Getting around Guatemala City can be daunting for first-time visitors, but with a few tips and tricks, it can be a breeze – it’s also very cheap! Here are the best ways to get around Guatemala City:

• Public transportation: Guatemala City has an extensive public transportation system, which includes buses and microbuses. The buses are typically larger and follow a set route, while microbuses are smaller and more flexible. Both options are affordable and convenient, but they can be crowded during peak hours.
• Taxis: Taxis are a popular way to get around Guatemala City, especially for tourists. They are readily available and can be hailed on the street or through an app. However, it’s important to negotiate the fare beforehand and ensure that the taxi is licensed and registered.
• Uber: Uber is also available in Guatemala City and can be a safer and more reliable option than traditional taxis. The fares are generally lower than taxis, and you can track the driver and route on the app.
• Walking: If you’re staying in a central location, walking can be a great way to explore Guatemala City. It’s free, healthy, and allows you to see the city up close. However, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary safety precautions. We do not recommend walking around the city after dark.
• Private car: If you prefer the comfort and convenience of a private car, you can hire a driver or rent a car. This option is more expensive, but it allows you to travel at your own pace and explore the city on your own terms.

1. Visit the National Palace

The National Palace, or Palacio Nacional de Guatemala, is a must-see attraction in Guatemala City. Built in the 1930s, the palace houses the offices of the President of Guatemala and is open to the public for guided tours. The building is impressive, with beautiful architecture and intricate details that showcase the country’s history and culture.

During your visit, you’ll learn about Guatemala’s government and see impressive murals depicting the country’s history. The tour is offered in both English and Spanish, and it’s a great way to learn about the country’s past and present.

2. Explore the Historic Center

The Historic Center, or Centro Histórico, is the heart of Guatemala City. This area is home to many of the city’s most important landmarks, including the National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Central Market.

Take a stroll around the Historic Center and take in the sights and sounds of the city. You’ll find street vendors selling food and souvenirs, colorful buildings with beautiful architecture, and plenty of opportunities for photos.

3. Visit the Metropolitan Cathedral

The Metropolitan Cathedral, or Catedral Metropolitana, is a beautiful church located in the Historic Center. The cathedral was built in the 18th century and is a stunning example of Spanish Baroque architecture.

During your visit, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details and beautiful artwork inside the church. Climbing to the top of the bell tower is allowed. It has one of the most stunning views of the city.

4. Shop at the Central Market

The Central Market, or Mercado Central, is a bustling marketplace located in the heart of Guatemala City. Here, you’ll find a variety of goods for sale, including food, clothing, souvenirs, and more.

Take your time browsing the stalls and haggling with vendors. You’ll find plenty of unique items here that you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

5. Visit the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology

The National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, or Museo Nacional de Arqueología y Etnología, is a fascinating museum located in Guatemala City. The museum showcases the country’s history and culture, with exhibits on ancient Mayan civilization, traditional dress, and more.

During your visit, you’ll learn about the country’s past and gain a deeper appreciation for its culture. The museum is well-curated and offers both English and Spanish exhibits.

6. Explore the Kaminaljuyu Ruins

The Kaminaljuyu Ruins are an ancient Mayan site located in the heart of Guatemala City. These ruins date back to the Preclassic period and are thought to have been an important trading center.

During your visit, you can explore the ruins and see the remains of temples, pyramids, and other structures. The site is well-maintained and offers a glimpse into Guatemala’s ancient past.

7. Visit the Relief Map

The Relief Map, or Mapa en Relieve, is a unique attraction located in Guatemala City. This massive map of Guatemala is built on a 1:10,000 scale and offers a detailed view of the country’s terrain and topography.

During your visit, you can walk around the map and appreciate its size and detail. It’s a great way to learn about the country’s geography and topography in a fun and interactive way.

8. Take a Coffee Tour

Guatemala is known for its coffee and taking a coffee tour is a great way to learn about the country’s coffee industry. There are several coffee farms and plantations located just outside of Guatemala City that offer tours.

During your tour, you’ll learn about the coffee-growing process, from planting to harvesting and roasting. You’ll also get to taste different types of coffee and learn about the different flavors and aromas.

9. Hike the Pacaya Volcano

For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking the Pacaya Volcano is a must-do activity. The volcano is located just outside of Guatemala City and is one of the country’s most active volcanoes.

During your hike, you’ll climb to the top of the volcano and see stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll also get to see the volcano’s crater and lava flows.

It’s important to note that hiking the Pacaya Volcano can be challenging, and it’s recommended to go with a guide. You’ll also need to wear appropriate hiking shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

10. Enjoy Guatemalan Cuisine

Guatemala is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of restaurants and street vendors in Guatemala City where you can try local dishes.

Some popular Guatemalan dishes include pepián, a stew made with chicken, vegetables, and spices, and chiles rellenos, stuffed peppers filled with meat and vegetables. You should also try the country’s famous coffee, which is known for its rich, bold flavor.

11. Take a Day Trip to Antigua

While Antigua is not technically in Guatemala City, it’s only a short drive away and is a popular day trip destination for visitors.

Antigua is a charming colonial town with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a lively market. The town is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Santa Catalina Arch and the ruins of the San Francisco Church.

During your visit to Antigua, take your time exploring the town and soaking up its charm. You can also visit one of the town’s many coffee shops and sample some of the country’s famous coffee.

Guatemala City is a vibrant and exciting destination with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or food, there’s something for everyone in this bustling metropolis.

From visiting ancient ruins and museums to hiking a volcano and trying local cuisine, Guatemala City has plenty of activities to keep you busy. So the next time you’re planning a trip to Central America, be sure to add Guatemala City to your itinerary.

Jase is a tireless traveler who has explored the world through a vegan lens. With a deep appreciation for animal rights and ethical travel, his adventures have taken him to far-flung destinations where he has immersed himself in local cultures and cuisines. He scribes about his travels via his blog, Roaming Vegans .

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Is Guatemala Worth Visiting? 7 Reasons to Travel

Full of smoky volcanoes, giant markets and some of the most novel culture, Guatemala is a must-visit when in Central America.

Here we can see many incredible bucket-list destinations such as Lake Atitlán, Acatenango Volcano and Tikal Ruins , and you could easily overstay here once you get into the swing of things.

In this article, we’ll list some of the best reasons to visit Guatemala, as well as cover any other important information you’ll need to know.

What's in this guide?

Is Guatemala Worth Visiting?

Quick answer: Yes, we 100% believe it is! Along with the diverse nation of Costa Rica, Guatemala is one of the most popular countries you can visit in this region.

The variety of sceneries you can see here is definitely one of the biggest pulls, which includes ancient Mayan ruins within the jungle as well as giant volcanoes around the Guatemalan highlands.

We can also visit black-sand beaches on the Pacific coast, and explore historical towns such as Antigua and Chichicastenango.

Despite so many tourists coming, this country still keeps its raw culture in spades too . You’ll be able to board a Chicken Bus with locals in traditional clothing to get around the cities, and also head into markets to try local cuisine such as Chiles Rellenos and Pepián de Pollo.

Where is Guatemala?

Guatemala is located in the far north of Central America, and is bordered by Mexico to the north, Belize to the east as well as Honduras and El Salvador to the south. It has quite a varied climate, with jungle, highlands and beaches found throughout the diverse nation.

The best time to visit Guatemala is during the dry season, which runs from November until April. This period has little showers and lots of clear blue skies, making it perfect for outdoor exploring. Ideally we’d suggest visiting in November or February which aren’t as busy. You can see this guide on the best time to go to Guatemala for more advice.

Is Guatemala Safe?

An important part of your trip planning is knowing how to stay safe, and also to be aware of any particular risks here in Guatemala.

Most touristy areas (such as the safe Lake Atitlán , Antigua and Flores) are fine for you to walk around with little issues, although pickpocketing can still be a risk. Always take care when heading on public transport and visiting busy markets, and never leave any personal belongings out of sight .

If visiting Guatemala City then you’ll want to be extra careful given robbery and violent crimes are more likely.

We suggest staying in Zones 4, 9 and 10 which are the safest, and also to leave anything valuable back in your apartment when heading out to explore the city.

Got travel insurance for Antigua, Guatemala?

7 Reasons to Visit Guatemala

Are you still wondering if Guatemala is really worth the visit? Here’s 7 awesome reasons why you should explore this iconic Central American nation.

1. Explore Tikal Ruins Within The Guatemalan Jungle

The ancient Maya were a formidable civilisation that existed for thousands of years, and ruled an area that stretched from modern-day Yucatán in Mexico down to El Salvador.

There are many incredible ruins to visit within this region, however you can’t get any better than those of Tikal . Located in the north of Guatemala near Flores, here we can climb giant pyramids and see legendary creations whilst also exploring the wild jungle.

We highly recommend heading on this all-inclusive day tour from Flores , which includes all transport, lunch and a private guide to teach you everything you need to know about this historic Mayan site.

2. See the Colonial Highlights of Antigua

Once the capital of Guatemala, Antigua is full of beautiful architecture which you could spend days wandering around.

The Santa Catalina Arch is perhaps one of the most famous , which is yellow-stained with an old clock on its face.

Whilst mazing around its various cobblestone streets, you can also visit the Parque Central which is home to many important and picturesque buildings (such as the Palacio de Ayuntamiento and the Catedral San José).

When in Antigua be sure to also hike up to the viewpoint on Cerro de la Cruz , where you can see everything in perspective with the giant active volcanoes looming in the background. Which leads well onto our next point…

3. Visit the Black Sand Beaches along the Pacific Coast

Whilst Guatemala is rightfully known for its diverse landscapes and scenery, little attention is paid to the Pacific Coast (where travellers tend to instead head south to the beaches of La Libertad in El Salvador).

However there are some really iconic beaches to visit around here, and especially so since they have black sand which was caused by volcanic activity in the surrounding areas .

Monterrico Beach is one of the best to visit here, as well as El Paredón which are both just a couple of hours away from Antigua.

Monterrico has more of an authentic feel and is cheaper if you are looking to stay for a couple of nights, whilst El Paredón is easier to get to. Regardless of which beach you pick, be sure to charge your phone up in order to take some really memorable coastal photos!

4. Hike the Fiery Acatenango Volcano

Guatemala (and much of Central America) is home to many outstanding volcanoes – however Acatenango easily takes the cherry of them all.

Still active to this day, we can often see spurts of lava and ash from atop which make for some truly unbelievable photos .

We highly recommend joining this overnight hike where you’ll camp at the top of an adjacent volcano. Not only will you see bright red lava from atop, you’ll also be met with an incredible sunrise before starting your descent back down.

As well as including your transport to and from the volcano, you’ll have all meals, a sleeping bag, a tent as well as a comfortable mattress all included. They even provide hot drinks too which is perfect for when sitting out at night gazing at Acatenango and the starlit sky.

5. Learn Spanish with a novel Homestay Experience

Did you know that Guatemala is one of the best places to learn Spanish within Latin America?

Not only is it full of culture and easy on the wallet, friendly locals also open their doors to curious travelers who want to have an authentic homestay experience.

Here you’ll also have Spanish lessons to pick up some basic lingo, which will come in very handy whilst traveling around the rest of Guatemala and Central America . Overall it’s a great way of complimenting your trip, and changing things up instead of just seeing sight after sight as usual.

You can learn more about Dan’s Guatemala Homestay Experience , where he also made some pretty tasty chocolate too.

6. Head on a Boat Tour around Lake Atitlán

No trip around Guatemala can be truly complete without visiting the sacred Lake Atitlán. Surrounded by towering volcanoes, just sitting by the lakeshore can be entertaining for hours as you get the perfect photo shots.

However we can also explore various Mayan towns around the lake by boat. This includes San Marcos, San Pedro La Laguna as well as Santa Cruz, which all have a different vibe and are worth getting to know (ideally you can spend a full day at each to really get a feel for each one).

Those who are in nearby Antigua can head on this epic day tour , where you’ll visit various ancient towns along your itinerary. As well as all transport to and from Lake Atitlán, you’ll also have included all boat transfers between the towns.

7. Search for Beautiful Garments and Handicrafts within the Chichicastenango Market

The largest market in all of Central America , Chichicastenango is a real beast that really kicks into gear in the late week and weekends.

Here you can see stalls that seemingly go on forever, and inside it’s easy to spend hours browsing incredible souvenirs and garments for great prices.

Textiles are definitely the most popular buy here (including woven bags and colorful rugs), not to mention you can find some really well-made wooden handicrafts too.

You’ll encounter plenty of local foods worth trying here, although be sure to only eat at busy places to avoid catching any stomach bugs (remember that locals know best!). Chichicastenango Market is best to visit on Thursdays and Sundays, which are prime market days.

And that’s all for our guide on why you should visit Guatemala.

Everyone should visit Guatemala at least once in their lifetime , where we can hike fiery volcanoes and try some of the best coffee around.

There’s also heaps of ancient Mayan ruins here, and we can also walk around beautiful towns from the more recent Spanish colonial period.

Be sure to read our Backpacking Guatemala Itinerary for more ideas on how to plan your own route around this diverse Central American country.

👉🏽 P.S. If you’ve found this guide helpful, buy us a coffee here to say thanks! Or, support us by downloading our South America Travel Bible to get our best content.

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Visiting Guatemala? Read these tips before you set off

Aug 14, 2024 • 7 min read

Before you set off to explore Guatemala’s volcanoes, Maya ruins and cities like Antigua (pictured), read these tips to make the most out of your trip. Getty Images

Guatemala has been my second home for nearly two decades, and the country still captivates me: landscapes with volcanoes and coffee trees, lakes and rivers and tropical beaches, Mayan ruins peeking out above the treetops. 

Mayan traditions are still alive and well, and the weather’s almost always fine in the Land of Eternal Spring . Before you set off to enjoy all this magical country has to offer , you’ll want to keep the planning tips below in mind. 

Get your shots before you leave

If you come in from a country where yellow fever is endemic, you’ll need to be vaccinated against this mosquito-borne disease. It’s also recommended that you’re up to date with shots for typhoid, hepatitis A and B, rabies, flu and TDaP (tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough). We recommend visiting a travel clinic at least a month before your trip if you need to get vaccinated, which will allow time for the full immunization to get in. Some vaccines, like hepatitis B and rabies, require follow-up doses.

Bring your own bug spray if you like it free of DEET

Anything you forget to pack you should be able to buy once in Guatemala – but some items are more difficult to find or very expensive. Bug spray is easy to find but usually contains DEET. The locally produced DEET-free repellents aren’t very effective, so you’ll want to bring a good brand from home. And, yes, you will want to reapply frequently: the mosquito-borne diseases of malaria, zika, dengue fever and chikungunya are all endemic in parts of the country. 

Pack lightweight clothing

Because Guatemala’s weather is mainly warm and humid, light clothing that dries quickly is more useful than jeans, which are heavy, too warm for the climate and take forever to dry. For cooler days, a light sweater or jacket is generally sufficient. If you need more clothes than you brought or just a wardrobe revamp, most towns have a paca , a place where you can buy secondhand clothing for as little as Q5 (less than US$1). 

Don’t go without sunscreen

In Guatemala as everywhere, sunburn is a real risk if you spend time outside. Some of the larger stores and pharmacies sell chemical sunscreens, but these generally don’t have an SPF higher than 25. The stronger stuff and natural mineral sunscreens are normally only available in a handful of specialty health stores, with limited options and much higher prices. Pack enough of your favorite sunscreen, and remember to apply it regularly.

Your preferred feminine hygiene products might be hard to find

In terms of feminine hygiene products, most shops stock pads only; some larger stores and pharmacies stock tampons with applicators. You might find the kind without an applicator, as well as menstrual cups, in specialty health stores, but the price will reflect the fact that they’re imported.

When in doubt, cover up

Guatemalans tend to be religious, with Catholic and evangelical traditions predominant, as well as, to a lesser extent, traditional Mayan belief systems. That deep-rooted faith also means that they are generally more socially conservative, especially in Maya-dominated communities. 

Men don’t go shirtless unless they’re at the beach. Women prefer knee-length shorts and oversized t-shirts to bathing suits. In the large cities and areas with large Ladino (non-Maya) populations, people are more open to shorts, shorter skirts and tank tops. In the Maya communities, however, the women usually wear traditional clothing in public, and their cortes – a garment worn as a skirt – always fall below the knee.

If you’re not sure whether your clothing is appropriate, it’s best to cover up: put on a shirt and don’t wear anything that falls above the mid-thigh. If you visit a church or other spiritual site, it’s respectful to cover your shoulders and arms.  

Avoid illegal drugs

Some bars and hostels turn a blind eye to the use of marijuana and other illegal drugs. Yet police raids on bars and hostels aren’t uncommon, and if you’re found with any illegal substances in your possession, you will be arrested. 

Don’t drink the water

Tap water in Guatemala is not safe to drink. To reduce your risk of getting parasites, stick to bottled or purified water. Hostels and restaurants will usually let you refill your water bottle, sometimes for a small fee. You may also want to skip the raw salad unless you’re sure that purified water was used for washing produce. 

If you do contract parasites, a trip to the pharmacy is often all you need to get the right treatment.

Guatemalans can get personal – but don’t mean any harm

It’s not unusual in Guatemalan culture to call people by some physical attribute. Being called guapo or guapa (attractive one) can feel uncomfortable at worst; being called gordo or gorda (fat one) may sting. If you don’t like the nickname you’ve been given, try not to act offended. The trick is to let it slide and to tell the person your real name instead. 

You may also find that Guatemalans like to ask personal questions: about your age, your family, your itinerary. If you answer in the negative as to whether you have a spouse, this may even lead to questions about the status of your virginity, no matter your age. If you feel uncomfortable, remain polite, make a joke – and change the subject. 

Politeness goes a long way – most of the time

Guatemalans appreciate politeness. A friendly “ buenas ” (good morning/afternoon/evening) or “ hola ” (hello) creates a good first impression. “ Por favor ” or simply “ porfa ” (please) and “ thank you ” (thank you) show that you were raised right. A thank-you in the Mayan dialect spoken at your destination is guaranteed to elicit a smile. Ask locals how to say “thank you” in their language, repeat the phrase back to them and then use it for as long as you’re in that town.

One area where being too polite will do you no good, though, is standing in line. People will patiently wait in line in a more formal setting, such as at the clinic or a government office. At the market or in a neighborhood tienda (corner store)? If you don’t speak up, somebody may very well step in front of you as if it’s the most normal thing in the world – and in Guatemala, it is. 

The travel experience might be different for female visitors 

The culture of machismo is rife in Guatemala. Local women generally don’t frequent bars and cantinas on their own because of the risk of sexual harassment and violence. Even in pairs, women may face harassment. If you want to go out for drinks, it’s best to do it in a mixed group: the presence of men in your group will deter those who won’t take no for an answer.

Women travelers may also encounter microaggressions like being talked over or ignored in favor of the men in their group. They’re also held to a higher standard than male travelers when it comes to dress or how they behave in bars and at parties. Sexual harassment and violence are real risks, and the conviction rate for offenders is low. 

There’s an upside, though: as a woman traveler, you may find real solidarity, as local women tend to be protective of female tourists traveling on their own. If a situation makes you feel uncomfortable, try to move closer to groups of other women. And who knows: you might make some real connections and make some new friends.

The LGBTIQ+ scene is small   

While same-sex relationships are legal in Guatemala, they’re frowned upon. The LGBTIQ+ scene in the country is small and mostly confined to the largest cities and tourist areas. While violence against LGBTIQ+ tourists is rare, local activists have been attacked in the past. Take your cues from your surroundings and watch how the local community behaves toward transgender people or public displays of affection between same-sex couples, for instance. If you’re unsure, err on the side of caution. 

Always hike with a local guide

Some tourists who come to Guatemala climb volcanoes on their own with no issues. Still, hiking alone is not a good idea because of the risk of getting robbed, injured or lost. Use local guides and follow their instructions: if they say they’re not going any farther, turn around with them. Guides know what the risks are – and those risks are very real: Guatemala has seen several high-profile deaths of hikers in recent years. Rescue teams are normally made up of volunteers using donated gear. When they have to risk their lives to rescue you, the decent thing to do is to reimburse them for their trouble.   

To stay safe, don’t take unnecessary chances

Is Guatemala safe? As a tourist, you’re unlikely to run into serious trouble. That said, listen to local advice about areas to avoid, always be aware of your surroundings and never leave your belongings or your drinks unattended. 

Guatemala has a reputation for corruption and poor enforcement of laws. You may hear of travelers who bribed officials and got away with it. You may also hear of travelers who weren’t so lucky. So just don’t do it. 

This article was first published Mar 3, 2022 and updated Aug 14, 2024.

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