guatemala 3 tourist attractions

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.

1. Mayan Ruins of Tikal

2. antigua guatemala, 3. lake atitlán (lago de atitlán), 4. chichicastenango market, 5. quetzaltenango, 6. monterrico and the biotopo monterrico-hawaii (nature reserve), 7. pacaya volcano, antigua, 8. semuc champey, 9. livingston on the caribbean coast, 10. museo ixchel del traje indigena (museum of mayan costumes), guatemala city, 11. grutas de lanquín (lanquín caves), 12. museo popol vuh, guatemala city, 13. mayan ruins of iximche, 14. casa santo domingo museums, 15. 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.

More on Guatemala

Touropia Travel

Discover the World

15 Top Tourist Attractions in Guatemala

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The historic country of Guatemala is a testament to the ancient world. Home to some of Central America’s oldest Mesoamerican civilizations, Guatemala is dotted with crumbling ruins, stone temples, and age-old villages.

While many people come to explore the multitudes of archeological sites, Guatemala is also known for its spectacular landscape and natural tourist attractions. With black sand beaches, molten volcanoes, and dense, tree-lined jungles, you’ll be amazed at the diverse list of things to do in Guatemala.

The country also has a rich and distinctive culture from the long mix of elements from Spain and the native Maya people. Whether you’re interested in history or outdoor adventure, be prepared to be blown away by Guatemala.

15. El Mirador

Nestled deep in the heart of the Petén Jungle are the mysterious ruins of El Mirador. Many of the structures date back to the 6th-century BC, including the world’s largest pyramid from pre-Columbian America. Covered in a shroud of vines and dense vegetation, El Mirador is a rare glimpse into the history of the Mayan culture .

Due to its remote location, traveling to El Mirador requires a bit of planning. The village of Carmelita is the nearest point to the ruins that you can go by car. From there it takes a grueling trek of at least five days and four nights through the jungle with ants, ticks and mosquitoes that never relent. That said, people who make this journey will never forget it.

It’s recommended to visit El Mirador with a tour that can organize mule or horse transportation, as well as camping accommodation.

14. Livingston

The colorful beachside town of Lívingston is the perfect destination for a bit of relaxation. Lívingston is unlike other cities in Guatemala because of its laid-back tropical atmosphere, which is more reminiscent of a village in the Caribbean.

Besides sunbathing on the beach, you’ll have an entire outdoor world to explore during your visit. Explore the lush jungles on the banks of the Rio Dulce, cool off in the emerald pools of the Los Siete Altares waterfalls, or go snorkeling in the turquoise waters of Zapotillo Cayes.

Make sure to spend some time in the town itself, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and soak in the unique blend of these two different cultures.

The impressive structures at Nakúm are some of the best-preserved examples of Mesoamerican architecture. Although it’s one of the largest Mayan communities in the country, it’s often the least crowded due to its secluded location on the Holmul River. Because of the rough conditions, the road leading to Nakúm is only open several months out of the year and requires a 4×4 to reach.

The highlight of Nakúm is the South Acropolis. This raised platform consists of 12 courtyards and 33 individual buildings that were once used as homes during the Late Classic Period. You can also visit the different pyramids surrounding the courtyard of the Central Plaza.

12. Monterrico

Guatemala might not be known for its sun-soaked beaches, but Monterrico proves to be the exception. This laid-back town is world-renowned for its stark black volcanic sand beaches.

If you happen to visit Monterrico between June and December, then you have a good chance of spotting sea turtles, who come to the beaches to breed and lay their eggs. You can also visit Tortugario Monterrico (Monterrico’s turtle conservation center) to get up close and personal with the newly hatched babies. Every day before sunset, you can watch as Tortugario Monterrico releases the turtles back into the ocean.

11. Todos Santos Cuchumatan

Dive headfirst into local Mayan traditions with a visit to Todos Santos Cuchumatán. Due to the village’s remote location in the Western Highlands, it has managed to preserve century-old Mayan and indigenous traditions that have disappeared throughout the rest of the country. Most residents in the town are of Mayan descent. Not only do they still speak the rare Mam language, but they also tend to dress in traditional clothing.

The best time to visit Todos Santos Cuchumatán is in early November for the All Saints’ Day festival. This celebration is full of dancing, music, and traditional horse racing.

The colorful islet of Flores is marked by bright red roofs, narrow cobblestone streets, and beautiful colonial buildings. It’s located in Lago Petén Itzá and can be reached by the connecting road next to Santa Elena and San Benito.

You can walk around the entire island in just 20-30 minutes, although most tourists prefer to rent a bike or canoe and explore the area at their leisure. Besides admiring the historic architecture, don’t forget to stop by the Catedral Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios y San Pablo Itzá. This bright white cathedral is the highlight of the island.

9. Semana Santa

Guatemala during Semana Santa is one of the most festive times of the year. Also known as Holy Week, Semana Santa is celebrated widely throughout Latin American; however, the biggest celebration takes place right in Antigua.

The city is transformed by colorful decorations, live music, and endless amounts of food and drink. The main attraction of the festival is the Palm Sunday parade. During the processional, you’ll see dozens of parade floats, as well as people dressed up in purple robes with white waistbands.

8. Pacaya Volcano

The active Pacaya Volcano is one of the most stunning natural landmarks in Guatemala. After it’s 70-year dormant period, the volcano has been erupting continuously since the early 1960s, with the largest eruption occurring just in 2014. Despite the perceived danger, it remains one of the biggest tourist attractions in Guatemala.

A hike to the top of the volcano takes just around two hours and provides sweeping views of the entire surrounding area. You’ll even find food stands along the way selling marshmallows that you can roast over the heat of the volcanic rock!

7. Rio Dulce

One of Guatemala’s most beloved natural gems is the Rio Dulce. The river flows out of Lake Izabal, site of the Castillo de San Felipe de Lara, an old Spanish colonial fort built in 1644 to keep Caribbean pirates from the river.

The river today boasts one of the largest bridges in Central America. On one side of the bridge is Frontera, known for a vegetable market where many shoppers arrive in dugout canoes. On its journey to the Caribbean, the river flows through a high-walled spectacular gorge. The river enters near Livingston, a Garifuna town which can only be reached by boat.

6. Semuc Champey

Hidden among the limestone mountains and dense forest shrubs is one of Guatemala’s most breathtaking sights – Semuc Champey. With cascading turquoise pools, underground caves, and flowing waterfalls, Semuc Champey is a slice of paradise in the middle of the jungle.

Getting to Semuc Champey can be difficult. From the town of Lanquin, it’s either a 2.5-hour walk or a 4×4 taxi drive to the entrance of the falls. Along with your swimsuit, don’t forget to bring sturdy shoes, as the entire area can be rugged and slippery.

5. Chichicastenango Market

Every Thursday and Sunday, Guatemala throws the largest market in all of Central America. Located in the heart of Chichicastenango, this market is your one-stop-shop for all your shopping needs.

Stacked back to back are hundreds of stalls selling different Mayan handicrafts, like textiles, wood carvings, leather goods, and other souvenirs. You can also find a variety of snacks, fresh produce, and even livestock. It’s important to practice your bargaining skills and pay no more than 50% of the asking price.

If El Mirador piqued your passion for archeological sites, then you’ll want to add Yaxha to your Guatemala bucket list. It’s smaller than the more famous Tikal, but still the third largest Mayan ruins in Guatemala . Yaxha was the ceremonial center of the pre-Columbian Mayan kingdom. Its indigenous name translates as blue-green water, appropriate since it overlooks a lake.

From 250 – 600 AD, Yaxhá was one of the largest ruling civilizations in Mesoamerica. It was believed to have over 40,000 inhabitants living just within the kingdom itself. Nowadays, you can visit Yaxhá and explore more than 500 ruins that tell the story of this ceremonial and influential ancient city.

While you could easily spend an entire day in Yaxhá, there are a few sights you shouldn’t miss. The South Acropolis was considered the heart of the city and contains ball courts, elite residences, and several temples. You should also see Plaza A, which has one of the last remaining twin-peaked pyramids outside of Tikal.

3. Antigua Guatemala

The charming Spanish Baroque buildings and colorful colonial churches make the mountainous city of Antigua one of the most visited destinations in Guatemala. Marvel at The Catedral de Santiago, shop at the Handicrafts Market or hang out with locals in Parque Central.

Antigua was once the capitol city of Guatemala, up until the year 1773 when a massive earthquake decimated the town. In 1776, it was ordered abandoned and what had once been a buzzing and vibrant capitol city took on the aura of a quiet provincial town.

Make sure also to snap a few photos of the iconic el Arco de Santa Catarina. This bright yellow building was built in the 17th-century as a way for nuns to cross the street without going outside. With the cloud covered mountains in the background, it’s one of the most recognizable landmarks in all of Guatemala.

2. Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlán was described by Aldous Huxley as the most beautiful lake in the world. Situated in the Guatemalan highlands, the lake is a stunning exhibition of natural splendor and offers plenty of things to do in the outdoors.

Rent a boat and sail across the deepest lake in Central America, or strap on your hiking boots and hit the trails to explore the depths of the surrounding landscape. For something more adventurous, you can also soar high above the lake and valleys by paragliding off the cliffs of the mountains.

The lake is also near to several rural villages, including San Pedro and San Juan. Stop by for lunch, or simply to mingle with a few of the friendly locals.

The archeological site of Tikal is possible the most important attraction to visit in Guatemala . As one of the most powerful civilizations in the Mayan Kingdom, Tikal dominated the region for over 700 years, with most of the buildings dating back to the 4th-century BC.

Comprised of towering temples , massive royal palaces, and limestone pyramids, there are hundreds of structures to explore during your visit. The North Acropolis and Plaza of Seven Temples are two of the most impressive buildings on site. You should also visit Tikal Temple I, which was the tomb for King Jasaw Chan Kʼawiil I.

Map of Things to Do in Guatemala

Share this post:

10 Best Places to Visit in Central America

10 Most Amazing Volcanoes in Guatemala

10 Most Beautiful Ancient Mayan Temples

7 Most Amazing Places to Stay in Guatemala

10 Most Fascinating Mayan Ruins in Guatemala

The Colorful Chicken Buses of Guatemala

10 Best Places to Visit in Guatemala

14 Best Things to do in Antigua Guatemala

How to Visit Tikal from Flores Without a Tour Guide

How to Hike Acatenango to See Volcan de Fuego in Guatemala

Reader interactions.

May 10, 2017 at 1:51 pm

“Chichicastenango Market is gorgeous. It would be amazing to go there someday” (Alex). Amen to that! I love Chichicastenango Market with its vibrant colors.

November 5, 2016 at 7:19 pm

For kids, the Irtra attraction parks is a must to do. There’s no other place where you can find attractions with that mayan identity. There is a representation of the Great Jaguar, on Tikal. Also the San Felipe de Lara but with boats for kids and the hotels are relaxing for adults. Recently they open a local flight to save time travelling.

June 5, 2016 at 12:29 pm

I’m planning my first trip to Guatemala next summer with my 9 year old son. I plan to visit the ruins and other attractions. Especially looking forward to indulge in their culture and food.

August 29, 2015 at 7:15 pm

I spent a summer in Guatemala back in 85 as a foreign exchange student. So I not only did the tourist thing but my hosts took me all over the place and we did things like fishing in a beautiful river/stream off the beaten path. We also climbed volcano Agua 12,340 feet. More of a good hike than mountain climbing. Didn’t go to Tikal but went to most of the other places. The entire country is absolutely stunning and breathtaking with its natural beauty. I’ll never forget it and want to go back some day when I have the time.

May 20, 2015 at 9:25 pm

I was born and raised in the south of Guatemala and I have been living in California for 25 years. Guatemala is a beautiful country, I definitely recommend to visit Lake Amatitlan in Panajachel, the ruins in Tikal, Antigua Guatemala, Belice, Semuc champey, Esquipulas Temple, Xocomil in Retauleu.. Guatemala is an amazing country to visit and it will be a great experience for anyone who visits 🙂

February 15, 2015 at 6:51 pm

I love guatemala it is to me one of the most beutiful countries in the world

February 10, 2015 at 5:01 pm

Planning to backpack in Guatemala for a month next January. Is it safe? Areas to avoid?

April 22, 2014 at 4:14 pm

Chichicastenango Market is gorgeous. It would be amazing to go there someday.

September 15, 2013 at 12:05 pm

Great selections and definitely places to see, but you left out what is possibly the most beautiful place to see in Guatemala. Semuc Champey in Coban. If anyone is coming, definitely need to do some research and get there.

December 16, 2012 at 10:52 pm

I like beaches, the best time to capture beach image is sunset. This is an informative blog, sharing the Livingston and most visited spot in Guatemala are great.

December 16, 2012 at 2:33 pm

I lived in Guatemala for about a year when I was a kid. I returned about 30 years later. It was the happiest year of my childhood, and 30 years later, it was everything that I remembered. My trip to Tikal will go down in memory as one of the most exciting trips ever.

November 26, 2012 at 12:10 pm

Wow. That picture of Santa Catalina Arch reminds me so much of Leon, Nicaragua. I guess it must be the Spanish-type architechture. Looks amazing. Never been to Guatemala, but that place along with Lago de Atitlan look spectacular and definitely worthy of a visit!

October 1, 2012 at 7:48 am

Visiting Tikal is always been something I’ve wanted to do. I actually plan on heading there next year and can hardly wait for that to come. I’ll have to make sure I hit most of these other attractions as well.

September 17, 2012 at 12:23 pm

Would love to visit Volcan Pacaya. I’ve always wanted to see an active volcano erupt.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Top 20 Things to Do in Guatemala

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

Guatemala is a breathtakingly diverse country, where a new adventure awaits around every winding corner.

With lush jungles, pristine lakes, surf beaches, colonial towns, vibrant markets, and not one, not two, but 37 volcanoes, there truly is something for every kind of traveler in Guatemala.

Even the most experienced hiker will be tested by the altitude gain and temperature drop of Acatenango Volcano. Those in need of relaxation must be whisked off to the picturesque Lake Atitlán, and culture lovers will immerse themselves in the colonial charm of Antigua. From its Garifuna-infused Caribbean coast to the black sand surfers’ paradise of the Pacific, Guatemala satisfies any breed of the travel bug, offering up a harmonious mix of culture and nature.

With 42,043 square miles of adventure waiting to be uncovered, it’s hard to narrow down where to start, but here are our top 20 things to do in Guatemala to deliver the most enriching experience possible.

Sleep Next to an Active Volcano

The Acatenango Volcano trek is as challenging as it is rewarding, and it is a non-negotiable for adventurers visiting Guatemala. Hikers ascend Acatenango to camp at base camp as they watch and listen to the neighboring Volcán de Fuego erupt into the night.

Day two of the trek starts before sunrise when base campers head to the summit for sunrise. This is when all the cold, dampness, and exhaustion become worth it; the reward is an incredible sight of the sun and clouds highlighting the peaks and valleys of Antigua, as Fuego continues to put on its fireworks show in the background.

Adequate preparation is required to deal with the high altitude and cold temperatures of Acatenango, and tour companies like Tropicana will ensure hikers are equipped and prepared.

Stay at Zephyr Lodge

Tucked into the lush hillsides of Lanquín, there exists a jungle oasis by the name of Zephyr Lodge.

With a sunrise view over the river and sunset vistas past an infinity pool and into the tiered mountains, the views at Zephyr are second to none. The property features a swim-up bar, full-service kitchen, and tab system, and accommodation options range from dorm beds for as little as $15 per night to deluxe suites for those looking to spend a little extra.

Don’t Miss Lake Atitlán

This lake looks pretty in pictures, but it is mind-blowing in person. Soaring jungle-covered mountains and large volcanoes surround Lake Atitlán. Scattered throughout its shores are small towns filled with their own unique personalities, such as the bustling San Pedro or zen San Marcos.

Visitors can stay in a smaller lakeside village for pure serenity and immediate access to the water; recommended options are Free Cerveza (a glamping hostel with a fun-filled atmosphere) and La Iguana Perdida (a chilled out, hammock-adorned lodge), which are both located in the village of Santa Cruz. From here, guests can hop on one of the water taxis to visit the other towns for a cost of 15 quetzals (around $2).

Wine and Dine in Antigua

Antigua’s restaurant and bar scene are burgeoning, and visitors will come across some of the tastiest meals and quirkiest bars of their travels.

A quaint two-story hole-in-the-wall by the name of Por Qué No? features a funky and intricate design along with delectable meals. The shrimp and bacon tacos at Fridas , an artsy restaurant inspired by Ms. Khalo herself, are worth coming back for seconds. The eggs Florentine at Rainbow Cafe is the best way to start the day, and a healthy smoothie bowl at Acai comes with a highly Instagrammable setting.

A crafty cocktail tour must duck into the mezcal room at Café No Sé , and continue at ulew as accessed through the phone booth in Antigua Brewing Company —but not before catching the sunrise from said brewery’s rooftop.

Explore the Ruins of Tikal

Guatemala's top attraction for historic ruins, Tikal National Park is an impressive display of preserved Mayan handiwork. At 575 square miles, the jungle-covered park features six temples that have been excavated as well as many more left underground. Star Wars fans will recognize Temple IV from the episode "A New Hope."

Travelers who have visited the tourist-filled ruins of Angkor Wat or Machu Picchu will be delighted with the lack of crowds at Tikal, especially when arriving for sunrise. But this doesn't mean the park is empty; there are plenty of jungle creatures from coatimundi to the elusive puma, as well as howler monkeys heard screeching from the trees.

Go Surfing at El Paredon

Guatemala isn’t known as a surfing hub like its neighboring coasts of El Salvador, Nicaragua, or Costa Rica. Still, the Pacific Coast of El Paredon allures both beginner and expert surfers alike.

Surfers can rent a board for around $20 per day and ride the waves from sunrise to sunset as they ride along the vast, misty, black sand shores. Paredon Surf House is a beautiful beachside resort with an immaculate property, or backpackers can settle in at Driftwood Surfer next door. An ultra-chic option can be found in the boutique hotel Swell .

Visit the Falls of Semuc Champey

The photogenic falls of Semuc Champey are a refreshing and necessary stop on a tour of Guatemala. The cascading pools of turquoise water make for an incredible sight from the lookout point of El Mirador, and they provide an energizing dip to cool off while exploring the humid jungles of Semuc.

The hike up to the viewpoint takes about 30 minutes, and a less strenuous route to the pools comes by a ten-minute stroll around the hill.

Go Caving by Candlelight

K’an Ba Cave in Semuc Champey provides a caving experience unlike any other. Adventure lovers will repel along ropes through neck-deep waters, hoist themselves up slippery boulders, and free-fall down a pitch-black waterslide. If that didn’t sound difficult enough, cavers must hold an ignited candle in their hand to illuminate the space as they navigate it.

This caving adventure is challenging, thrilling, and at times downright shocking! Nearby accommodations such as Zephyr Lodge or Greengos Hotel will assist with booking.

Shop the Local Markets

Shopaholics will want to leave some extra luggage room for Guatemala because its vibrantly colored souvenirs make it hard to resist a shopping spree. Handcrafted textiles, pottery, carvings, and jewelry of all colors of the rainbow are found in tiendas and markets throughout the country, and they are simply stunning.

The most renowned market in Guatemala is hosted on Thursdays and Sundays in Chichicastenango, where a dazzling maze of artisanal goods and bright colors draws in masses of tourists and locals from surrounding areas.

Do Yoga in San Marcos

This lakeside town is known for its organic food, boho vibes, and delicious chocolate and coffee. The striking viewpoints and laid-back atmosphere make for a perfect spot to connect mind, body, and soul, and many yogis visit San Marcos to say “ommmm” overlooking the lake.

The Yoga Forest or Eagles Nest provide experiences from drop-in classes to immersive retreats, with incredible vistas to set the stage for rejuvenation.

Roast Marshmallows on an Active Volcano

Four volcanoes surround Antigua, and two of them—Fuego and Pacaya—are still active today. Pacaya is known for being a hotspot (pardon the pun) for s’mores lovers, as its volcanic activity provides the perfect amount of heat to use as an oven for marshmallow roasting.

At 8,300 feet, Pacaya is a very manageable hike that makes a perfect day trip from Antigua.

Visit Hobbitenango

Middle-earth fans don’t have to fly to New Zealand to visit a hobbit-style village; Hobbitenango hosts a collection of small round huts in the hillside, and it offers volcano views to boot.

The magic of Hobbitenango can also be experienced as a day trip, where visitors can enjoy the eco-friendly restaurant and bar, as well as plenty of games including mini-golf, ax throwing, and bow and arrow shooting.

Experience Garifuna Culture in Livingston

Originating from Africa and the Caribbean and now heavily concentrated in Belize and Honduras, the rich and vibrant Garifuna culture is also present in northern Guatemala’s coastal town of Livingston.

Garifuna culture is best experienced through a cooking class at culture center Rasta Mesa where aspiring chefs will create mouthwatering coconut-infused dishes, as well as the lively dancing and drumming to be enjoyed at the local bars and restaurants.

Witness the Release of Baby Turtles

Every morning at 6 a.m. from September to December, hundreds of newly hatched turtles are released on the beach of El Paredon. The hatchlings are carried over from the sanctuary and set on the sand, where they then waddle and scramble towards the sound of the waves.

Spectators are required to keep a safe distance as they watch an epic and adorable survival of the fittest: only one in a thousand turtles return to the same beach to lay eggs due to losses from pollution, fishing, predators, currents, and other obstacles.

The project is run by Consejo Nacional de Áreas Protegidas (CONAP), and sponsored by Driftwood Surfer .

Jump Off the Rope Swing in Flores

A charming island located on Lake Petén Itzá, Flores draws tourists primarily due to its proximity to the wondrous Tikal ruins. But with the heat and humidity that comes with its tropical climate, a dip in the lake is the perfect way to cap off a day of sightseeing.

A quick taxi boat, paddleboard, or kayak ride away from the island, Jorge’s rope swing and its surrounding area provide a relaxing and refreshing experience.

Experience a Hot Spring Waterfall

It’s not uncommon to find waterfalls in the tropical mountains of Guatemala, but what about one made up of steaming hot water?

A trip to the lakeside town of Rio Dulce is not complete without experiencing the thermal falls known as Agua Calientes. Located on a private property called Finca el Paraiso, the waterfall is heated by volcanic activity, delivering a stark contrast to the cold river at its base. With caves at the bottom and warm pools at the top, visiting the falls is a perfect way to spend an afternoon.

The falls are accessible using a public microbus or private taxi, and park entrance is approximately 20 quetzals per person.

Take Spanish Lessons in Antigua

While English is spoken fluently throughout Guatemala’s tourist hubs, knowing even a base level of Spanish will make traveling through the country mucho easier.

Antigua is a great spot to hone Spanish skills of all levels due to its accessibility and flexibility of scheduling. One-on-one tutor sessions held on rooftops or in gardens provide a comfortable learning atmosphere. Schools such as Ixchel or La Union allow students to choose their hours, and a five-day course (four hours per day) costs approximately $175.

Indulge in Chocolate

Widely recognized as the birthplace of chocolate, Guatemala has no trouble satisfying the sweet teeth of its visitors.

Located in the heart of Antigua with alternate locations in Guatemala City and Puerto Quetzal, ChocoMuseo is a must for chocolate lovers looking to indulge in education and workshops of their favorite treat.

Local farm Dalileo Chocolate produces ceremonial grade cacao and single origin chocolate, which is sold throughout the country, including their hillside storefront in San Marcos on Lake Atitlán.

Party in an Abandoned Pool or Mansion

Party people in Antigua will be drawn to the buzzed-about weekly events hosted a 30-minute drive outside the city center for DJs, food carts, bar service, and mingling.

"La Piscina" takes place every Saturday in an empty pool, and is traded for a mansion party on the last Saturday of the month. Don't expect things to get going until after 1 a.m., and don't expect to get much sleep that night.

Transfers are available from accommodation companies throughout Antigua, and taxis are aplenty at Parque Central.

Hike Indian Nose

Lake Atitlan boasts incredibly striking views from every angle, and one of the best might be from the top. A pre-sunrise wakeup call in San Pedro will delight hikers who take the 30-minute trek up Indian Nose to witness the sun’s first rays illuminate the lake’s peaks, valleys, and towns.

The Best Places to Visit in Belize

National Parks in Guatemala

The Most Popular Destinations on the Gringo Trail

Know Before You Go: Guatemala Travel Guide

Volcanoes and Hiking in Guatemala

Top 20 Beaches in the Caribbean

22 Best Things to Do in Belize

The 20 Best Things to Do in Hawaii

How To Choose The Right Caribbean Island For Your Vacation

Your Trip to Costa Rica: The Complete Guide

17 Best Romantic Things to Do in the United Kingdom

The 10 Most Romantic Adventure Trips You Can Take

The Top 20 Things to Do in San Diego, California

Top 20 Things To Do in Miami Beach , Florida

One Week in Guatemala: The Perfect Itinerary

9 Best Things to Do in St. Vincent, Grenadines

19 Best Things to do in Guatemala

Written By: Bailey Busslinger

Updated On: January 7, 2024

Guatemala has been gaining international attention as a top tourist destination. If you are looking for a trip out of the ordinary, make sure to add this beautiful country in Central America to your list.

This Guatemala travel guide was originally written by Daniel of  Destinationless Travel  who spent a month exploring the country. It has been updated by The Planet D who also spent a month in Guatemala and we’ve added some new tours and attractions for 2023 thanks to our team.

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Guatemala

As one of the most diverse countries in the world with 37 volcanoes, 360 microclimates, lakes, beaches, and land on both the pacific ocean and the Caribbean Sea, how can you not visit Guatemala? These are the best things to do in Guatemala to suit every type of traveler. Are you ready to fall in love with this amazing Central American country? Let’s get started.

1. Acatenango Volcano

If you speak to anyone who has completed this hike, you will likely have heard some rave reviews. Hiking the Acatenango Volcano is a hike unlike any other. Guatemala has 37 volcanoes and 3 of which are active volcanoes. During this trek, you will see one of the most impressive.

It involves hiking for 4-6 hours to a base camp on one side of the Acatenango Volcano. From this camp, it isn’t Acatenango that is impressive, it is the neighboring volcano called Fuego that really makes the overall experience.

Fuego is a very active volcano that sits parallel to the camps on Acatenango. It erupts every few minutes, putting on a show of exploding lava for all of the excited hikers to see. The volcano erupts roughly every 4 to 5 years and it was most recently active in December of 2022.

Several different tour companies offer two-day tours from Antigua for as little as $90 USD including camping equipment, food, and a guide. This highly rated overnight tour lets you observe sunrise and sunset from Acatenango where you’ll sleep at Basecamp in front of Fuego Volcano

Breakdown of Trip

• Day one consists of a short 1-2 hour drive to the base of Acatenango followed by 4-6 hours of hiking up towards camp.
• The afternoon and evening are spent around a campfire waiting for any clouds to part to reveal Fuego’s incredible show.
• The following morning starts at 4 am for a hike to the peak of Acatenango. From here, the sun rises above the cloud line and the Fuego volcano continues to erupt right in front of your eyes.
• Then, it is a hike back down the same way to the base of Acatenango. The short duration, cheap price, and tours including all equipment make the Acatenangovolcano hike a great activity for most travelers.

I would rate the Acatenango Volcano hike as one of the most exciting and unique travel experiences I have ever had. For more information about booking and preparing for the Acatenango Volcano hike  check out our blog here.

2. Antigua Guatemala

Often referred to as simply Antigua, Antigua Guatemala is probably one of the first stops you’ll make in the country. Most tourists are attracted to Antigua Guatemala as it is the city where Acatenango Volcano tours start, but it is much more than that. This colonial city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the former capital city of Guatemala.

Antigua Guatemala means Old Guatemala and today, it is a popular tourist hot spot for good reason. When visiting Antigua part of the charm is to get lost in its cobblestone streets as you enjoy historical tours of the city, museums, shopping, markets, amazing restaurants, and street food.

Iglesia de La Merced translates to the Church of Our lady of mercy was originally built in 1545. However, it was destroyed by two earthquakes and was later restored in the 1700s. It is said to be the largest in Central America and it is worth visiting for its Spanish baroque-style architecture with its beautiful yellow and white facades.

Where to Stay in Antigua

• Luxury: Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santa Domingo is just 10 minute’s walk from the city center. With 5-star luxury, it has a pool, spa, and gym.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Soleil La Antigua is just minutes from Antigua Guatemala Cathedral. There is a spa, free parking and an outdoor pool. Plus a free shuttle to Antigua Central Park. Breakfast and WIFI included.

Vibrant Culture of Guatemala

A great way to immerse in the culture of Guatemala is through food. This half day cultural tour takes you on a gastronomy and history tour all at once. Walk through its cobblestone streets as you admire its colonial architecture. You will then visit a food market before tasting local dishes and as you learn about Guatemala’s cuisine. Other sights you will see on this tour include the Santa Catalina Arch, and the Baroque Church, La Merced Church, one of the most recognizable buildings in Antigua.

Antigua has become very touristy, but that is not a bad thing, the high volume of tourists has made the city much wealthier, and therefore safer, than the likes of Guatemala City or other places in the country.

How to Get to Antigua

Antigua is only 1.5 hours from Guatemala City and there are even frequent Collectivos from the Guatemala City international airport to Antigua. Because Antigua is such a popular tourist destination getting there is very simple. Colectivos in Guatemala is frequent and cheap, allowing one to access the city from pretty much any other city in the nearby vicinity.

3. Chocolate museum / ChocoMuseo

No visit to Guatemala would be complete without tasting some chocolate. Learn about the history and cultural aspects of chocolate at the ChocoMuseo located in Colonial Antigua. A fun interactive hands-on experience that takes you through the process of transforming cocoa beans into delicious amazing chocolate. The chocolate museum has its chocolate processing factory where they make chocolate from Guatemalan cocoa beans.

They also offer a chocolate-making workshop where you get to play, eat and learn about the beautiful art of making chocolate. Taste raw and roasted cocoa beans, drink chocolate tea, and other different types of chocolate drinks. A fun experience that the whole family will love.

4. Tikal Mayan Ruins

Located in northern Guatemala sits what many consider to be the “best Mayan Ruins in the world.” I know we did! This is interesting considering  Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins are only a few hours from Tikal and were named one of the new Seven Wonders of the World.

After visiting Tikal and Chichen Itza, I and Dave and Deb would agree that Tikal has more to offer tourists. One reason is that the ruins are within the protected Tikal National Park. This is a special place filled with excavated and unexcavated ruins that are thick in the jungle. Because it is within a protected area, there are plenty of animals roaming around.

But the temples themselves are astounding. The North Acropolis 1 is the highest and most impressive, while the Plaza of the Seven Temples is one of the largest plazas in Tikal dating back to 600 and 900 AD.

People are also allowed to climb almost all of the ruins and we highly recommend going up for sunrise to listen to the sounds of howler monkeys roaring in the mist. The views are spectacular from above the jungle canopy. The whole experience feels authentic and is much more adventurous than most other ancient ruin sites I have visited in the past with many of the pyramids still buried under the earth.

How to Get to Tikal

Tikal is located only about an hour’s drive from the tourist town of Flores and can easily be visited on a day trip.

Day tours are cheap and easily arranged from Flores for about $10 USD. Flores has many budget hostels for backpackers as well as nice waterfront hotels for those looking for a bit more luxury.

I would recommend a guide as they will make the experience more significant offering lots of information and making sure you don’t get lost. It is also best to visit Tikal early in the morning when the animals are active. When I was there at 7 am I saw Toucans, Howler Monkeys, Spider Monkeys, and Peacocks.

Flores is 8 hours by Collectivo from Laquin(Semuc Champey) or 4 hours from Belize City making it easy to get to.

5. Lake Peten Itza

Located near Tikal is Lago Peten Itza (Lake Peten Itza), a scenic lake located in Northern Guatemala. It’s most famous for the city of Flores which is a good jumping-off point to explore the Mayan ruins of Tikal. When we visited Guatemala, we seemed to spend a lot of time in this laid-back town of cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are beaches and other Maya ruins located along its shores.

Today there are some luxury resorts on Lake Peten Itza making for a great stop on your Guatemalan adventures to sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery.

Paseo Cayala is just 20 minutes from Guatemala City and this small town attracts a lot of visitors due to its unique urban design. Designed to mimic European neighborhoods with lots of walkable spaces, hotels, lodges, and other residential facilities. Paseo Cayala is modern, cozy, and safe at all times. You can spend a whole day walking around. Lots of eateries to choose from all serving different cuisines.

6. Maya biosphere reserve

Maya biosphere reserve is the second-largest rainforest in Central America and the largest in Guatemala. Tikal is located within the massive reserve. This reserve is one of the most important tropical forests outside the Amazon.

It consists of four national parks and three wildlife reserves. There is only one way to describe the reserve – nature at its best. Spanning more than 2.5 million acres, it is home to elusive animals such as jaguars and pumas.

Expect to see lots of howling monkeys, spiders, parrots, crocodiles, and spider monkeys. If you’re lucky, you might even stumble upon a jaguar. Set aside a day or two for a full experience.

Spend a night at the jungle lodge and sleep to the sounds of nature and howling monkeys. A truly magical experience. This is also the best way to ensure you don’t miss out on the sunrise hike to the temple.

7. Lake Atitlán

Lake Atitlan is a unique spot in Guatemala. It is literally a huge lake surrounded by mountains and volcanoes. Small towns are located along its shores, making for a chilled-out area for travelers to relax for a couple of days.

The higher altitude of 1500m means it isn’t quite so sweltering hot. It is still warm enough for an afternoon swim in the lake though. Other popular activities around the lake include boat tours, kayaking, hiking, yoga classes, watching sunsets, and guided tuk-tuk tours.

Where to Stay at Lake Atitlan

There are plenty of villages located along Lake Atitlán and they are easy to travel within. Here are a few choices to help get you started.

Lush Atitlan is a boutique hotel in a beautiful setting with lake and volcano views. Rooms are basic but good value for the money.

8. San pedro la laguna

The town of San Pedro is the largest “backpacker-oriented town” with cheap food (lots of it), good shopping, and budget places to party at night. It isn’t the most relaxing area but definitely has a fun vibe. This small town located in the Southwest of Lake Atitlán has lots to offer for outdoor enthusiasts. Take Spanish language classes or a cooking class in a local home.

Take a horseback ride as you explore coffee plantations, or take the Indian Nose hike for scenic views of Lake Atitlán, and shop at local markets for fresh produce or handcrafted souvenirs. Spend a full day exploring and taking in the sights and sounds of the Lake.

This holiday home has a great location on the lake and is within walking distance of restaurants and shops. Newly renovated apartment with private balcony and a shared kitchen.

9. Towns Around Lake Atitlán

San Marcos is also located. on Lake Atitlan and is popular with tourists but is much smaller than San Pedro and more relaxed. San Marcos is commonly known as the “hippie town” which has attracted many yoga-enthusiast ex-pats.

The other less common options are Santa Cruz, which is mainly inhabited by locals with only a couple of accommodation options or restaurants, or Panajachel which is the biggest city without too much to offer tourists. You can also visit Santiago Atitlén and San Antonio which you can visit by boat.

Getting Around Lake Atitlan

The great thing about Lake Atitlan is that no matter where you choose to stay, it is easy and inexpensive to get around the lake. Transport around the lake is for locals and tourists alike in the form of boats that operate much like public buses in cities.

There are set fares from one destination to the next and set schedules. Locals jump on the boats with baskets of produce and sometimes live chickens while tourists lug on suitcases. The whole boat system as the main form of public transport is a fun and interesting experience in itself.

10. San Juan La Laguna

Not so far away from San Pedro is San Juan La Laguna also located Southwest of Lake Atitlán. This charming town is worth a visit when in Guatemala. San Juan La Laguna is often described as an artsy town as its full of streets with beautiful art murals painted in striking colors.

Lots of activities to do here such as; visiting Cerro de la Cruz for scenic views of the towns, enjoying locally grown artisanal coffee, visiting the local market, shopping for textiles, cooking classes, and visiting other local communities around Lake Atitlán.

You can book this highly rated tour to visit the mountain villages and the villages of Guatemala’s indigenous people. Tale a public boat across the lake to the colorful village of San Juan La Laguna. You’ll visit Santiago where people still live the Mayan culture and lifestyle dressed in traditional clothing. And the town still practices Mayan rituals. You’ll then head to Panajachel, a pre-Columbian town for lunch and more sightseeing.

11. Sign up for Spanish lessons

Learning Spanish is one of the best things you can do to make your trip memorable. Having a grasp of basic Spanish will make your interactions with locals much more pleasant and easier. There are lots of Spanish schools for foreigners. If you want you can also sign up and learn with locals in their homes. Besides, understanding Spanish is the first step to understanding Mayan culture.

Popular places to take Spanish classes are in Antigua Guatemala, Lake Atitlán, and Quetzaltenango (Xela). It’s easy to find a course once you are there.

12. Atitlan Nature Reserve

Located just outside Panajachel is the Atitlan Nature Reserve, a sanctuary that was built to help spread awareness and raise support for the conservation work being done by scientists and students.

Outdoor lovers will enjoy ziplining over waterfalls and coffee plantations. There is a butterfly dome for nature lovers. The walking trails are easy, well-maintained, and very relaxing. Walk down to the waterfall, or the beach. You can also set up camp on the grounds and sleep to the beautiful sounds of nature.

13. Semuc Champey Natural Monument

On the other side of the country is the famous National Park called Semuc Champey. Many travelers skip it due to the long bus ride from other destinations close to the Antigua area, which is a shame because it is fantastic! 

Semuc Champey is an area of bright turquoise water which flows through hundreds of small waterfalls and natural pools.. Between these waterfalls, visitors can swim in natural pools, jump off waterfalls, slide down them, or find small caves. There is also a short one-hour long hike to a viewpoint about the swimming pools offering some awesome photo opportunities.

One of the great things about Semuc Champey is that it can easily be enjoyed on a tour or independently. Tours run from hotels, hostels, or the nearest town of Lanquin.

Information and Costs for the Park

Tours offer transport to the park, a guide to explore the falls, a guide for the hike, and a caving experience. They are quite affordable at $25 USD for a full-day trip. However, for those on a tighter budget, it is possible to get public transport to the park for $2 and pay the entrance fee of $7.

The park is easy to explore independently as it is well-marked with English signs.

Accommodation options near the park also make for an exciting experience. There are a few budget eco-lodge-type places within walking distance of Semuc Champey.

These places are fun as they have little to no electricity and do family-style dinners and games. For those happier to stay in a town, the town called Lanquin is just over an hour’s drive from the park. Here there are affordable hotels with pools or budget backpacker accommodations. For more information on visiting Semuc Champey check out our blog here.

14. Pacaya Volcano

Pacaya Volcano is another active volcano that isn’t quite as difficult as the Acatenango hike, and you don’t need to stay overnight on the mountain. It is only a 2-hour walk to the summit giving you beautiful views of the volcanoes, Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango, the pacific lowlands, and even neighboring El Salvador. You may see small eruptions and even flowing lava.

Some people have been known to roast marshmallows in the steaming vents and warmed pizza on the hot lava rocks.

15. Xela (Quetzaltenango)

Quetzaltenango is often referred to as Xela (pronounced Shel-ha). This is the perfect place to get off the beaten path and explore the Guatemalan Highlands. There are plenty of volcano hikes here including the Tajumulco Volcano which is the highest peak in Central America.

The city itself is the second largest city in Guatemala after Guatemala City where you can enjoy plenty of outdoor markets including Chichicastenango Market, the largest outdoor market in Central America. Make sure to stop to see the Quetzaltenango Cathedral in Central Park (Parque Centro)

One of the most popular places to visit in Xela is Fuentes Georginas hot springs located in the town of Zunil.

16. Explore the Rio Dulce

In Rio dulce, you have two things. Water and a chance to explore local life inland. Start by visiting Castillo de san Felipe, a fortress that was built to protect Rio dulce against pirates. Interact with locals, learn about the local culture, and admire the wildlife and town before heading out to the river.

The river Rio Dulce also known as the sweet river is known for its calm waters and beautiful scenery. It also connects Lake Izabel, the largest lake in Guatemala to Guatemala’s Caribbean coast. Lots of birds such as pelicans overhead as you enjoy a boat ride. There are also hot springs inside the caves nearby. Rio Dulce should be on top of your list when visiting Guatemala.

The best way to experience Rio Dulce is to book a hut on the river. Boutique Hotel is a hotel and marina located on the river with water sports and jungle activities. There’s a terrace and bar and rooms range from private tree tents to jungle view rooms.

17. Monterrico Beach

If you are looking for some beach time in Guatemala, Monterrico Beach on Guatemala’s Pacific Coast is one of the most popular beach towns in the country.

The black sand beach makes for a great change of pace from exploring the highlands. You can enjoy the surf, watch for sea turtles or go for a paddle amongst the mangrove forest of Hawaii-Monterrico Biotopo. It’s a different vibe from the Caribbean Sea that is more wild and not exactly great for swimming. But it is a nice escape from the rugged volcanoes and treks you’ll be used to within the country.

18. Guatemala City

A lot of people don’t put Guatemala City on their best things-to-do lists, but chances are you’ll be flying into Guatemala City, so why not spend a day or two in the capital city before taking off to explore Guatemala?

This Guatemala City tour is a highly rated tour that lets you discover all of the highlights in one afternoon. Explore La Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción, the cultural, business, and religious center of Guatemala. Your guide will take you through the colonial architecture mixed with its modern building. There are plenty of museums and monuments to see. As the largest city in Central America, you’ll begin at Las Americas Avenue to Berlin Plaza and have a view of the Pacaya volcano. More modern buildings include the Supreme Court, City Hall, and the Bank of Guatemala.

Other stops include National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Centenarian Park, Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Central Market.

Spending time doing city tours is one of our favorite things when traveling to a new country and Guatemala City has plenty of attractions that are worth seeing.

19. Ride in a chicken bus

A visit to Guatemala will not be complete with a ride on the chicken bus. It’s easy to spot these buses with their loud music and bright colors. Also known as a Colectivo, for many Guatemalans, this is the most popular mode of local transport. As a visitor, this is a great way to experience modern-day Mayan culture.

The buses are known by foreigners as chicken buses as they often carry chicken as part of their cargo. Read more: Night Bus Travel: 11 Tips for Safety, Survival and Sleep

Why Visit Guatemala

From volcanoes to ancient ruins to gorgeous cities, Guatemala is the most diverse country in Central America with something to please everyone. I can see why it is becoming a popular travel spot.

I loved my time spent in Guatemala and will encourage anybody who is considering a trip to Latin America to plan for a good amount of time in Guatemala. It is still a destination that feels untouched and you’ll have many authentic experiences. If you want to get off the beaten path, Guatemala is the place to travel.

• 9 Fabulous Reasons to Visit Nicaragua – Aside from Surfing
• Nicaragua – A First Time Volunteer Experience
• More Than Cocaine – 15 Reasons to Visit Columbia
• Complete Belize Itinerary

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Sorry, no posts were found.

About Bailey Busslinger

Bailey and Daniel are travelling the world – one adventure at a time. On their Blog, Destinationless Travel, they write about their own adventures while providing relevant travel information for other backpackers. Bailey and Daniel are just wrapping up their 13 month trip in Latin America before their next adventure where they will live out of a van in New Zealand! Follow Bailey at DestinationlessTravel / Facebook / Instagram / YouTube

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

13 thoughts on “19 Best Things to do in Guatemala”

Thanks for the great post. Great work. keep it up!! As a beginner, it’s extremely useful to get as much basic info. I will use it for my new website.

Seems like some great places to visit, keep it up Dave & Deb! Can’t wait to read the next article.

These reasons are alone the best parts of Guatemala besides the food, the nice people, and the great culture. I had adventured to Pacaya the other volcano that is constantly erupting. The volcanoes are pretty awesome in Guatemala. Semuc Champey is so pretty. Thanks for the great post. Can not recommend it enough.

Seems like some great places to visit, keep it up Dave & Deb! Wondering if you have been back?

dave and deb ive been following this site for a while now cant get enough 🙂

keep up the hard work

Definitely worth a visit!

Guatemala looks amazing place to visit. This is great reason to travel in Guatemala. Thank you so much for sharing it.

Guatemala must have special attractions.

Guatemala looks awesome place to visit. You shared great reasons to travel guatemala. Loved your blog post! Thanks.

Seems like some great places to visit, keep it up Dave & Deb!

Guatemala looks really wonderful & these Great Reasons to to Travel Guatemala look really attractive.

Great work. keep it up!!

These are enough reasons to tell anyone that this is the thing for which you have to visit Guatemala. And Honestly, I love them all. It seems really very nice place.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Central America » Guatemala » 30 Epic Things to do in Guatemala

30 Epic Things to do in Guatemala

For such a small country, the list of Things To Do in Guatemala is endless. Within 42,042 square miles, Guatemala offers colonial cities, cobalt blue lakes, fascinating culture, lush jungles, ancient ruins, tons of volcanos (a few of which are extremely active), and plenty of underrated treks throughout the amazing countryside.

This is undoubtedly the most diverse country in Central America, and the experiences and landscapes you will find in Guatemala have been captivating travelers for decades.

I have visited Guatemala several times now, having extended family there, and backpacked the entire country twice.

On my most recent trip, I spent a month visiting the places that no one goes to… My adventures led me down rough roads to crystal clear swimming holes with no one else in sight, and to rural villages only reachable by foot.

In this guide, I will lay out the  most epic and incredible things to do in Guatemala.

Let’s get right to it…

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

30 Best Things to do in Guatemala

Final thoughts on what to do in guatemala.

You would think that after 12 plus visits, I would have checked everything to do in Guatemala off my list, but it seems that I leave with an even longer list for what to do in Guatemala at the end of each trip. There are so many hidden gems and undiscovered paradises here!

I absolutely love this country and never run out of things to do in Guatemala, but that’s not to say that backpacking in Guatemala doesn’t have its challenges.

The roads can be rough and the adventures can get pretty wild! Some areas are not as safe and, at the very least, you do have to keep your wits about you, but ultimately, this is one of the best countries to visit in the world. (And I say that as a woman traveler who has been to over 30 countries.)

There are few countries where I have encountered such rich (and authentic) indigenous culture and friendly people , sheer natural diversity, and rich (though turbulent) history jam-packed into such a small country.

There is no question that Guatemala’s star attractions include Lake Atitlan , Antigua, and Tikal, and you’ll soon see why.

But on this list for what to do in Guatemala, we’ll go much, much deeper than the top attractions. Some of my favorite places to go and things to do in Guatemala will take you from the border of Mexico and deep into the highlands to the Caribbean sea and jungles of Péten.

1. Explore the Villages around Lake Atitlan

While it is nearly impossible to pick my  favorite place in Guatemala, Lake Atitlan is definitely a close first. There is a reason many travelers consider Lago Atitlan one of the best places to visit in Guatemala .

It is a poetically beautiful: a 50 square mile deep blue lake surrounded by 3 volcanos and dozens of villages, each with its own unique atmosphere.

Because each village offers a completely different experience, exploring multiple villages around Lake Atitlan is one of the best things to do in Guatemala. The three most popular villages are Panajachel, San Pedro, and San Marcos.

You’ll probably start in Panajachel , as it’s the most convenient town to reach from the capital, airport, Antigua, and more. (You can also bus in and out of San Pedro.)

Pana has a nice mix of everything – good hotels, great location for sunset, a variety of restaurants and a decent market – but it’s also one of the more noisy and polluted towns, being the gateway of Atitlan and all.

Some people love Pana, and a lot of expats have been living here for years, but I would choose to stay elsewhere on the lake for a more relaxing visit.

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. I’m not really joking either. 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.

San Pedro is where you will find many Spanish schools, tourist offices, and plenty of bars and backpacker jaunts as well as cheap food and chill restaurants.

San Marcos is for all things alternative and cosmically aligned. It’s pretty stereotypical: think yoga classes, healthy cafés, dance circles, and cacao ceremonies. I’ve found that people either love or hate San Marcos. If it’s not your scene, it’s not your scene, though it’s my scene!

It is worth coming to San Marcos for a healthy lunch, at the very least, as the town also has some of the best views of the lake.

San Juan  is just a short boat or tuk-tuk from San Pedro. Here you’ll find some of the best textiles, weaving, art, and cooking classes. The locals are ultra laid back, and this is my favorite town, personally. If you are going to take Spanish lessons around Lake Atitlan, stay here versus San Pedro.

Just a tuk-tuk from San Marcos is the tiny town of Tzununa . Come here to visit Bambu Guesthouse and awesome permaculture farm, Atitlan Organics.

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. I have stayed at La Iguana Perdida before and really enjoyed relaxing in the hammocks after a tough trek, but there isn’t much to do here, and once the boats stop running you’re sort of stuck. I recommend a visit to the co-op restaurant, CECAP, at the top of the restaurant.

Across the lake is the town of San Antonio, known for its church, markets, and beautiful pottery.

There are other villages around the lake like Santa Clara and San Pablo , but there isn’t much to do here for tourists.

That said, I’ve heard really great things from a friend of mine about The Hermitude , a silent retreat center in San Pablo! Unfortunately, I heard about The Hermitude the day before I left, so I didn’t get to go, but such is Lake Atitlan. There is so much to discover here!

However, there are plenty more yoga retreats in the area, too.

I would allow at least 3 full days to visit Lake Atitlan, but you can easily spend weeks. It’s a good spot to base yourself for Spanish lessons too.

2. Overnight Hike up Volcano Acatenango

This is one of the best hikes in Guatemala, hands down. It’s also one of the toughest, simply because Volcano Acatenango’s sheer steepness that doesn’t really let off. The beginning is also one of the steepest parts of the hike, so that’s not great for morale.

Keep on trekking, though!

The hike to most base camps takes an average of 4-5 hours depending on your physical fitness. Badass trekkers might make it in 3 hours. From the base camp, you can set up camp and watch Volcano Fuego erupt throughout the night.

In the morning, you’ll hike up to the summit (which is often too cold to camp on) and watch the sunrise over Volcan Fuego. From there, you’ll go back to camp, break down, and get back to the bottom by midday.

No words can describe how epic this hike is. There are plenty of awesome volcanoes to hike in Central America , but this one tops the list for sure.

Volcan Fuego is erupting every 10 minutes at the moment of writing (April 2019)! There are some tours that will even take you on top of Fuego, but not without risks. A massive eruption killed hundreds of people just last year (June 2018).

3. Picnic in Tikal National Park

Undoubtedly visiting Tikal is one of the top things to do in Guatemala.

I have visited several Maya ruins in my time: Chichen Itza in Mexico (overrated compared to Tikal), Palenque in Mexico (still awesome just because of its remoteness), the Tulum ruins, and a few other ruins in Guatemala and Honduras, but none of them hold a candle to Tikal.

The remarkably restored temples stand tall over the jungle. Equally compelling is the diverse wildlife throughout the national park.

The 47 meter-high Tikal Temple 1 is impressive enough, but The North Acropolis and Plaza of Seven Temples are also breathtaking.

Best of all, the park is crowd-free (except for holiday weeks), so you can picnic in the lawns among Tikal’s grand ruins. It’s the perfect way to spend a relaxing day in Guatemala after a long and gnarly drive from the capital or Belize.

As I mentioned, the jungle itself is magical. You can spot toucans, spider monkeys, and maybe even a tapir or jaguar if you’re lucky!

4. Chase Waterfalls in the Alta Verapaz Province

Alta Verapaz is a province in Guatemala that is best known Semuc Champey , a series of cascading waterfalls and limestone pools.   Visiting these turquoise blue pools is a highlight for any traveler.

The waterfalls don’t stop at Semuc Champey, however. There are tons of other incredible places in this region but you will need private transportation. A few examples are Sacmok , Las Conchas , and Chixoy River .

As for your stay, I recommend Greengo’s Hotel . It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Semuc Champey. I extended my stay twice, and I bet you will too.

With a little imagination and adventurous spirit, you can chase waterfalls throughout Verapaz to your heart’s content.

5. Go on a Multi-day Trek

Oh boy, where do I even start?! There are so many amazing and incredible treks to do in Guatemala, but most tourists only go on the same 2 or 3. The most famous multi-day treks are overnight summits to Acatenango and Tajamulco, which are classic hikes that have received their own places on this “Top Things to Do in Guatemala” list.

Another famous trek is the 3-day excursion from Xela to Lake Atitlan , where you stay in Mayan villages connected by dirt footpaths.

I have done all of these hikes, and they are truly amazing, but if you have more than a couple of weeks in Guatemala, consider a few other lesser-known hikes.

You can do the overnight hike from Cerros Quemados to the Fuentes Georginas hot springs, the 3-5 day hike from Nebaj to Todos Santos, and a 5-day hike through the jungle to the El Mirador ruins, for example. There are dozens more, mostly in the Xela, Ixil, and Petén regions.

If you plan to get adventurous I highly recommend hiring a local guide. It’s safer and a better overall experience, as you’ll learn about the nearby culture and nature.

6. Explore Laguna Brava in Huehuetenango

Near the border of Mexico, Laguna Brava is a karstic lake fed by several streams. It is quite isolated from the rest of Guatemala, and it takes time and a four-wheel drive car to reach Laguna Brava. For that reason, most of the crowds stay far away, but this lake is one of the most beautiful places in Guatemala.

Once you arrive, you need to hike down to the shore. You can explore the waterfall on the lake as well as the cenotes by boat. I definitely recommend camping, though I am pretty sure you will need to set this up with a tour.

7. Take a Class in San Juan, Lake Atitlan

Guatemala’s textiles and fabrics are intricately woven into Maya history and culture (see what I did there!?). The handicraft production in this country is a part of the Mayas’ daily life, and the locals still wear their traditional clothing. Some of the best places to shop include Panajachel, Chichi, and Antigua, though my all-time favorite place is the town of San Juan.

San Juan is unlike anywhere else in Guatemala. The town grows its own organic cotton and dyes it with natural resources, such as flowers, peppers, and even insects. The entire cotton, dying, and weaving process takes months and as someone who took a crash course on spinning cotton, I can attest that it is not easy!

San Juan is also unique because of its various co-ops, where several to dozens of families come together to make and sell their products.

Make sure to visit San Juan on Lake Atitlan and at least get a demonstration of the weaving process! Even if you are not into weaving or fabrics, you’ll find the process super interesting, and I’m willing to bet you won’t leave empty-handed as their hand-made woven work is truly unbelievable!

8. Roast Marshmallows on Pacaya

Nothing screams epic more than toasting a marshmallow by the heat that radiates through an active volcano’s cracks.

Standing 2,500 meters tall, Pacaya is one of the 3 (well, technically 4) active volcanos in Guatemala. It’s also the “easiest” or at least the shortest volcano to climb, as it only takes a couple of hours to reach the top.

Towards the top, you can see glowing, molten lava flowing down the volcano in streams! One of the coolest and most unique things to do in Guatemala is roast marshmallows over the burning lava flow on Pacaya. I mean, how many places in this world can you do such a thing?!

9. Visit Authentic Maya Villages in the Mountains of Ixil

I briefly mentioned that you can hike in the Ixil region of Guatemala. This region is one of the most unique places I have visited in Guatemala, as it doesn’t get more authentically Maya than here.

Ixil has its own culture that you can experience through regional dishes like Boxbol, hiking to villages only reachable by foot, and shopping for food and textiles in the local markets.

Keep a look out for the women’s red skirts! This is a style very specific to Nebaj and the Ixil region! Most women learn to weave their own colorful clothing when they are quite young. The style of weave is called a huipil; skirts and dresses made out of cotton and natural dyes often woven with intricate designs native that represent their villages.

Aside from the beautiful culture, the nature and mountains around Ixil are breathtakingly beautiful. There are many hikes you can do in this area that take you through forests and up to mountains around 4,000 meters, stopping in Maya villages along the way.

The people here are very friendly, though are generally shyer. During the height of the Civil War in the 1980s, thousands and thousands of civilians were killed in genocidal acts, often because the villagers did not want to side with the military nor the guerillas, or simply because they were Mayan.

It is a dark time in recent history that people are still recovering from. That said, I urge you to explore this beautiful culture nestled among rolling green hills, jungles, and mountains, and learn a bit more about their history too.

10. Practice Yoga at the Bambu House and then Visit Atitlan Organics

I absolutely love the Bambu Guesthouse and Atitlan Organics . Everything they are doing here is incredible, for the locals, for the planet, and for your health! For one, the Bambu Guesthouse is built entirely out of natural materials, including the epic yoga deck.

The staff here goes out of their way to make the guesthouse feel like home. They also cook amazing, healthy, and organic meals from food grown at Atitlan Organics, or by other local farms. Just chilling out here for an afternoon is one of the most relaxing things to do in Guatemala.

If you do not know anything about permaculture, then a guided visit to Atitlan Organics is a must! Here, you can learn how to grow organic, sustainable food that works in balance with nature, not against it.

They lead permaculture design courses throughout the year and do an especially good job at teaching farmers how to actually yield a profit.

11. Swim in Laguna Lechua

While a bit of a trek to get here, this calcitic, bright turquoise lake is located in the middle of Laguna Lachua National Park. Visiting this oasis in the middle of the jungle is one of the most relaxing things to do in Guatemala.

You can hike around the lake as well and swim in the waters. It’s clean and well-protected too.

12. Go Shopping in Chichicastenango

More than just a place to shop, visiting Chichi allows you to peak into the daily life of indigenous culture at this spiritually charged town, the crossroads for different Maya communities, who all come together to sell and buy their foods, livestock, textiles, and pretty much anything else you can think of.

This is the biggest market in Central America, and definitely not to be missed! The market takes place twice a week: Thursdays and Sundays.

13. Soak in Hotsprings at Fuentes Georginas after a Hike

Deep in a misty forest, you’ll find volcanic hot springs known as Fuentes Georginas. This is a great place to spend an afternoon and escape the city of Xela. Even better, come here after a hike up Santa Maria to soak your sore muscles.

You can even hike  to Fuentes Georginas as part of an overnight hike!

14. Walk around Antigua

There is no denying Antigua’s beauty. Its colorful buildings and cobblestone streets will transport you back in time.

While a touristy city, some of the country’s best restaurants and shopping are found here. Moreover, the surrounding volcanic peaks and coffee-covered slopes are not only a sight for sore eyes, but provide plenty of awesome activities to do around Antigua.

You can easily spend months in Antigua, and many travelers do by accident. Between Spanish classes, exploring the culinary and nightlife scene, hiking, engaging in the shopping, and experiencing the vibrant expat life, you’ll never run out of things to do in Antigua.

15. Eat all the Tortillas and Drink all of the Coffee

These are the two staples of Guatemala cuisine ! Enjoy them!

A quick lesson on Guatemala’s tortillas: they are made out of three types corns: white, yellow, and blue!

While Guatemalans eat sweet corn off the cobb, called  elote , most corn is left on the plant much longer to create a dry kernel to make  masa  (dough).

To make the dough, the kernels are boiled in  cal  which is lime (calcium). This is the traditional Mayan way of making tortillas. Not only does it taste delicious, but actually allows nutrients in the corn, such as niacin, B vitamins, and amino acids, to be more easily absorbable. The  cal  also adds calcium into the corn.

16. Boat along the Mangroves of Río Dulce

Translating to “sweet river,” Río Dulce connects Guatemala’s largest lake with the Caribbean coast. It is surrounded by lush, green vegetation, birds, and locals who live their life with the flow of the river.

Taking a boat along the river through the mangroves, stopping for lunch on the river, and even visiting the nearby waterfalls and hot springs is definitely an incredible adventure that feels like a real-life jungle cruise.

My favorite part about Rio Dulce is experiencing the local people’s way of life.

17. Attempt a Thru-Hike of 7 Volcanos

The geographical line of volcanoes is sacred to the Maya and integral to the country’s history. They dominate the horizon in all throughout the Highlands, whether you are in Xela, Antigua, or Lake Atitlan. It would be a shame to visit Guatemala and not climb one, so why not climb 7!?

There are 7 volcanos that represent the ultimate hiking adventures: Pacaya, Acatenango, Fuego, San Pedro, Zunil, Tajamulco, and Santa Maria.

I dare you to hike all of these in one go, though you’ll need about 10 days with a couple of breaks in between!

18. Visit a (Fair-trade and Organic) Coffee Farm

Guatemala grows some of the best coffee in the world! You will be spoilt for choices throughout Guatemala, but do your homework.

Since coffee grows much better at higher elevations, I’d forego the lowland and coastal plantations and visit farms in San Juan, the Ixil or Huehue region, or near Cóban instead, though they’re much harder to get to… From what I’ve heard, however, many of the coastal plantations are spraying their coffee in massive amounts.

Conventional coffee sprays a shit ton of pesticides and fungicides, and well, not to get political, but big companies like Nestle and Starbucks come into these countries pay less than pennies on the dollar of what the crop is worth.

Support fair-trade and organic coffee whenever you can! It’s also more fun to see how these farms are operating, as they actually pay their employees fairly and are much more inclined to farm regeneratively and diversify their crops (better for the planet).

19. Hike up Indian Nose at Sunrise

If catching an amazing sunrise is on your list of things to do in Guatemala, then this hike is for you. It’s relatively easy but offers one of the best views of Guatemala’s volcanos.

Honestly, it is arguably the best view in the country as you can see around 7 volcanos including Volcan Fuego erupting on a clear day.

Safety note: there are always rumors floating around Lake Atitlan regarding travelers who have been mugged or pressured to pay on the way up. I have heard these rumors each time I visit, but then I also know people who go up on their own.

The risk is yours, though I would just find a group and hire a guide if you have never done it, as it can be difficult to know which footpaths to take at the beginning, especially in the dark.

If you know where you are going and have a group, then you can probably just wing it, though you’ll still be pressured to pay around 50Q at the top.

20. Take a Cooking Class

The best way to indulge in Guatemalan food is definitely through a cooking class! You will find some of the best classes around Lago Atitlan and Antigua.

21. Make Your Own Chocolate

The Mayans were the first to actually consume Cacao, or rather drink it! They believed that drinking pure Cacao (raw chocolate) was a sacred act among their social rituals. From there, the Aztecs in present-day Mexico also adopted Cacao into their rituals, adding spices to the drink.

The Spanish conquerors brought the cacao back to Spain and then added sugar. Eventually, Henri Nestle from Switzerland helped formulate added milk to the chocolate and, well, here we are.

If you want to learn how  real cacao and chocolate is made – you know, without the addictives and bs – Guatemala is a great place to do it! There are chocolate shops all over Antigua and Lake Atitlan that make amazing chocolate with cacao grown in the Verapaz region.

22. Summit Central America’s Highest Peak, Tajumulco

Volcan Tajumulco is a spectacle in itself. As the tallest peak in Central America, the views from the top are unsurprisingly epic. The hike itself is a tad challenging, but ultimately not as strenuous as Santa Maria or Acatenango.

Make sure to tackle this hike overnight, so you can watch the sunrise over Central America!

23. Read a Book on the Shores of El Remate

Most travelers find themselves passing through Flores, an island town in the middle of Lake Péten that tends to be the backpacker base for visiting Tikal and the surrounding area.

However, while staying in Flores, a lot of travelers happen to miss one of the most beautiful (and cleanest) spots on the lake: El Remate. There isn’t as much to do here, except soak up the views and maybe finish that book you’ve been putting off, but it sure is beautiful.

24. Visit a Cenote… in Guatemala

A cenote is a deep, clear, water-filled sinkhole created in limestone when an underground cave collapses. There are thousands of them in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, some of which have become extremely popular to visit in the last decade, especially around Tulum.

But, did you know that there are cenotes in Guatemala too!? A few include El Cimarron  and Cenotes de Candelaría in Huehue, and Crater Azul in Péten.

25. Eat Street Food and Explore the Night Markets in Xela

I love the gritty yet authentic city of Xela (Quetzaltenango). It’s not as aesthetically pleasing as Antigua, but the local culture is much more lively because locals can actually afford to live in the city center, unlike in Antigua. The university students intermingle with the Spanish school students a bit more, and the central square comes alive in the evening.

This is a great city to try different Guatemalan foods. Don’t miss out on the street food,  papusas , and night markets and fairs! If you are visiting on a second Friday, the central square is always popping.

26. Take Spanish Classes

Guatemala is one of the best places in the world to take Spanish lessons! Antigua and Xela are definitely the most popular places, though Lake Atitlan is as well. This is one of the best things to do in Guatemala, for by the time you’re done you can really immerse yourself in the culture by speaking the language.

27. Get Lost! And catch some Surf

When you think of what to do in Guatemala, I doubt surfing comes to mind, but there are some waves out there on the Pacific.

El Paredon is one of the best places to hang out on the coast. There isn’t much going on here except for a few hostels and inns, places to surf, and a couple of restaurants. That’s the point though. You come here to get lost, enjoy the waves, and disconnect from the world!

28. Paragliding over Lake Atitlan

From Santa Catarina Palopó you can take to the sky in one of the most thrilling activities to do in Guatemala. 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.

For another riveting, though less dare-devil like experience, consider kayaking or stand up paddle boarding on the lake instead!

29. Hike to the Sacred Site of Laguna Chicabol

This hike is one of my favorite day hikes in Guatemala for a few reasons. For one, it’s a volcano covered in forests and vegetation with a lagoon in the crater. Can’t really beat that.

Secondly, as a moderate trek, it’s more enjoyable than strenuous, so it’s a great way to spend a morning around Xela.

Finally, you might have an opportunity to witness a Mayan ceremony at the sacred shores of the Laguna. Though keep in mind that because this lake is sacred, no one is allowed to swim in the lake.

30. Go Bird Watching

There are 762 species of birds in Guatemala! On my most recent trip to Guatemala, I was able to see Quetzales in a biosphere outside of Quetzaltenango (Xela) – which literally translates to place of Quetzales.

If you’re even the least bit interested in birds, I definitely think birdwatching is one of the top things to do in Guatemala!

Tikal National Park is home to as many as 400 species of bird, including keel-billed toucans. The mangroves around Puerto Barrios and Rio Dulce are home to many swamp forest birds like egrets and herons.

Go to the border of Mexico and you can see endemic species like the pink-headed warbler. Because the highlands reach 2,500 to 4,000 meters in elevation, you will see an entirely different set of species here than say, the Biotopo del Quetzal  near Coban, home of the Quetzal.

Any active souls will find their agenda impossibly full in Guatemala. This happens to me every time I visit Guatemala, between the magnificent trekking routes up volcanos, over mountains, and through jungles, underdeveloped beaches, beautiful lakes and rivers, and incredible Maya ruins!

That’s why I created this list of the best things to do in Guatemala. I hope that it inspires you to travel to Guatemala time and time again.

Ana Pereira

Share or save this post

Hi, could you reccomands some fair-trade and Organic Coffee farms or other organic farms?

Hello, there are many organic coffee farms around Lago Atitlan. Specific names are escaping me at the moment, but you can find some in the hills around San Marcos and San Pedro.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Guatemala The perfect 3 days itinerary

Guatemala, a Central American country south of Mexico, is known for its Mayan sites, rainforests, and volcanoes. With a rich indigenous culture, the country offers a unique blend of Spanish and Mayan influences. From the colonial architecture of Antigua to the stunning Lake Atitlán , surrounded by volcanoes and villages, Guatemala is a country that promises an unforgettable journey.

What to do in Guatemala?

This 3 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Guatemala. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.

Day 1: Discovering the Colonial Charm of Antigua

Start your day by exploring the colonial city of Antigua , a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Santa Catalina Arch , a famous landmark in the city. Walk around the Central Park , a lively gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.

Visit the La Merced Church , a beautiful baroque church known for its intricate facade. Explore the ruins of the Capuchinas Convent , a well-preserved 18th-century convent.

Enjoy a traditional Guatemalan meal at a local restaurant. Try Pepian, a spicy stew that is considered the national dish of Guatemala.

Day 2: Exploring the Natural Beauty of Lake Atitlán

Take a boat tour of Lake Atitlán , surrounded by volcanoes and picturesque villages. Visit the village of Santiago Atitlán , known for its vibrant Mayan culture.

Visit the village of San Juan la Laguna , known for its textile cooperatives and art galleries. Learn about the traditional weaving process and buy some unique souvenirs.

Return to Antigua and relax at your hotel. Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 3: A Day of Adventure and Relaxation

Embark on a guided hike to the Pacaya Volcano , one of the most active volcanoes in Guatemala. Enjoy the stunning views from the top.

Visit the Santa Teresita Thermal Baths for a relaxing soak in the hot springs. The baths are located in a beautiful setting, surrounded by nature.

Return to Antigua and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Try Tamales, a traditional Guatemalan dish made of masa (corn dough) filled with meats, fruits, or nuts, and wrapped in a banana leaf.

Did you find this helpful?

10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions In Guatemala

Travel author

I have a passion for the English countryside and especially anywhere in Yorkshire. I drink far too much Yorkshire tea on my travels and even take it with me when abroad. My passion is to share travel experiences with my readers which may help them plan their holidays and save money.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases

Guatemala has become one of the places to be seen in Central America. More and more tourists are traveling here to experience the incredible sights and vibrant culture that this small country offers.

But while this may be a tiny nation, the tourist attractions are many, and if you are only visiting for a short time, it can be worth visiting the top-rated tourist attractions in Guatemala to get the most diverse and exciting experience.

The country is known for its incredible Mayan ruins, and Tikal remains one of Guatemala’s most visited places.

Yet the country is also home to many fascinating museums, natural beauty spots, and cultural experiences that are unrivaled the world over.

This can become quickly confusing for tourists, primarily since many tourist attractions are spread across the entire country rather than being centralized in its capital, Guatemala City.

In this guide to Guatemala’s best tourist attractions, I will share the top 10 that will give you a chance to explore the most fantastic attractions in the country.

Table of Contents

A Quick Introduction To Guatemala

Guatemala is located to the south of Mexico and is also bordered by Honduras, El Salvador, and Belize, with the north Pacific ocean bordering its western side.

It is a relatively small country that can be easily crossed in a matter of hours – this makes it ideal for a short exploration and perfect for backpacking.

The country’s history dates back many thousands of years, with some ruins dating back more than 1500 years. The Mayan heritage of the country is still very prevalent today, and the tourist industry here relies heavily on visitors to these sites.

But things have not always been so rosy for Guatemala. It has had several upheavals over the years, starting with the Spanish invasion in the 18th century, which saw the traditional Mayan culture crumble.

However, after just over a century of being ruled, Guatemala claimed its independence, but this didn’t prevent a devastating civil war that took place between the 1960s and 1990s.

After many years of trouble and challenges, Guatemala has begun to develop and grow, and the capital city is now thriving and the most largely populated in Central America.

What to Expect? Guatemala also attracts a lot of visitors, thanks to its incredible natural scenery. While many people may not immediately think of this country when thinking about panoramic views, many can be seen.

The most remarkable natural wonders here are the many volcanoes and the beautiful mountain ranges. Guatemala is one of the world’s highest altitude nations, and as a result, has a beautiful spring-like climate, despite being a tropical country.

One of the most exciting things about the tourist attractions in Guatemala is that they are so versatile.

From volcanoes and rainforests to ancient ruins and museums, there is something to sate every visitor’s desires.

It is worth noting that Guatemala city, in the south of the country, is a great place to start your exploration and provides an excellent base for exploring the far reaches of the rest of the country.

That being said, areas such as Lake Atitlan require a more lengthy stay, so basing yourself here for a week is highly recommended.

1. Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan is perhaps one of the most popular destinations for tourists coming to Guatemala.

This is not surprising when you look at the stunning natural beauty that can be found here.

As I detailed earlier, visiting this area requires at least a week, this is owing to the fact that there are many small villages and towns that surround the lake, and each of them has something new to offer.

Some of these villages have adapted to tourists’ needs, whereas others remain much more traditional, and it’s nice to see the eclectic mix.

You’ll get to the lake via a city called Panajachel , but after this, you will experience a more primitive way of life since many of the villages can only be accessed via a water taxi, which is a wonderful experience in itself.

• Things to Do In Panajachel

There are several ways that you can get involved in the culture here, such as attending one of the many Spanish classes or making the most of a spiritual retreat.

Many Mayan ruins are scattered all over Guatemala, but none are quite as spectacular and well-loved as those at Tikal, in the north of the country.

While the area goes by the name of Tikal in modern-day Guatemala, it is believed that back in its heyday, it would have been called Yax Mutal.

The ruined city lies in the heart of the lush green rainforest, so not only will you be able to appreciate the rich history of the country but also its natural splendor.

This is a UNESCO world heritage site and sits within the greater Tikal National Park, another area of notability in the country.

The site can also lay claim to being the most extensive Mayan ruins found in pre-Columbian culture, so there is a lot to explore here.

You will find magnificent pyramids and temples, all with the traditional Mayan architecture. There are many guided tours happening each day, allowing you to learn more about the history of these fascinating people.

It may come as a surprise that the Tikal ruins are now very easily accessible to tourists, unlike some of the other notable ruins like Peru’s Machu Picchu, which is notoriously difficult to get to.

However, if you also plan to explore the national park, it pays to remember that this is a very expansive area.

You may also like 📖

• When’s the Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu?
• Acatenango Volcano 2-Day Hike

One of the largest draws to Guatemala is its hugely volcanic landscape – although today, only three of the many volcanoes are active.

That being said, that isn’t to say that there aren’t some incredible sights to be seen.

Pacaya is perhaps the most visited volcano in the country, and it’s little wonder when you see the immense views from the top and the beautiful surroundings.

What’s More – This is one of the few active volcanoes in the country, its first eruption more than 20,000 years ago. The black, rocky terrain reflects the long history of this natural wonder.

More than 2550 feet above sea-level, you can appreciate that this is something of a serious hike if you are looking to go to the top.

Also read – Pacaya Volcano 2-Day Hike Guide

Still, once there, you will find stunning views out across the Pacific ocean and back across the country in the opposite direction.

4. Chichicastenango Market

There are fewer ways to get involved with the local way of life than by visiting one of Guatemala’s many markets.

There are many to choose from, but Chichicastenango is perhaps one of the most exciting.

The locals refer to the town as Chichi, and if you visit on any other day apart from Sunday or Thursday, you will be met with quiet cobblestone streets and sleepy locals.

However, come market day, the town takes on a whole new persona and is home to arguably the country’s busiest market.

Interacting with the locals and getting a flavor for their way of life could not be easier than at the Chichi market since all the stalls here are run by local people.

You will find people selling hand-crafted goods such as blankets and textiles and various types of food.

The sights, sounds, smells, and colors of a local Guatemalan market are things that absolutely must be experienced on a trip to this amazing country.

5. Rio Dulce

If you have a taste for all things aquatic, then visiting the most famous river in Guatemala is a must for your vacation.

The Dulce river, known locally as the Rio Dulce , is incredibly scenic and has plenty of things to keep even the most visitor entertained.

Historically, the river was known for its pirate activity, but thankfully, the modern-day experience is a lot less frightening.

You will find plenty of opportunities to get out onto the water either in a private sailboat or on a tour, and it is easy to spend an entire day here, relaxing in the beautiful surroundings.

The river stems off the Lake Izabal, and at this point, you will find the Spanish Colonial fort of Castillo de San Felipe De Lara, which is worth exploring.

Thanks to the plentiful jungle in this area, this is also an excellent option for anyone looking to explore the country’s wildlife and nature.

6. Semuc Champey

This is one of the lesser-known tourist attractions, but it still brings in quite a few visitors and is exceptionally well-loved by locals and visitors alike.

Semuc Champey is remotely located, so it takes a little effort to get here, but your efforts will be rewarded with the breathtaking sights that await you.

Several pristine turquoise pools cascade down an incline and are met at the bottom by a stunning limestone bridge.

Many people flock here to take advantage of the clear waters, which are ideal for swimming, but the beautiful jungle is also a massive draw, with many people enjoying the 45-minute jungle hike required to access the site.

Once here, there are many waterfalls and points where diving into the water is a highly-favored activity.

• 6 Best Guatemala Waterfalls You Should Visit

Even Better – If you want to continue your hike and view Semuc Champey from a higher vantage point, the El Mirador viewing point is an excellent way to do this.

7. Santa Catalina Arch

Located in Antigua, Guatemala, the Santa Catalina Arc is one of the most notable pieces of architecture in the country, and many people come to see its glory every year.

The iconic arch dates back to the 1600s and served a very different purpose to the one it does today.

The arch was erected initially to allow cloistered nuns to move between the convent and the connecting school without having to go out onto the street.

However, today, it boasts being one of the most recognizable sights in the city of Antigua Guatemala.

Read later – Antigua Volcanos 3-Day Hike

Its unique pastel colors and traditional architecture are reminiscent of the Guatemalan past, and the arch, despite its age, is exceptionally well preserved.

While passing through Antigua, you will also notice the wide variety of traditional and brightly colored buildings.

This is something of an architectural lover’s paradise. These striking buildings are set off by the quaint, narrow streets of the area – a real hidden gem.

The arch makes for one of the best photo opportunities in Guatemala’s built-up areas, and the market opposite the monument is well worth a passing visit.

8. Monterrico

There is no denying that there are some incredible cities and towns to visit while staying in Guatemala, but if you want to kick back and relax, there are fewer places more apt than the beach.

Monterrico and Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii is a breathtaking oceanside nature reserve that offers peace and tranquility to all those who veer off the beaten track.

Much of Guatemala benefits from the colder mountain climate, but as you come back down to sea-level, the weather changes to something much more tropical, so this is ideal if you’re something of a sun-seeker.

The nature reserve here is something unique and special and was designed as a way of conserving the sea turtles and the mature mangroves in the area.

There are plenty of opportunities to take a guided tour by boat to discover more about what goes on here and to get up close and personal with some of the wildlife.

You’ll see a variety of turtle species as well as some beautiful birdlife, and afterward, you can retire to a beachside retreat for some relaxation.

It is worth noting that, while there is a beautiful ocean here, the high level of surf means that it isn’t the best place to swim.

If you are looking for a swimming spot, you may be better heading to one of the less choppy beaches like Playa Blanca in Livingstone on the Caribbean coast.

9. Chicabal Lake

To fully appreciate the Mayna history of this country, exploring the things they left behind is essential.

One of the most beautiful places to do this is at Chicabel Lake, which was of particular significance to the Mayan people and is considered sacred.

The lake lies in the department of Quetzaltenango – the main town here is, without a doubt, worth checking out as you pass through, and is surrounded by gorgeous tropical rainforest.

You might say this is a hidden turquoise treasure in the heart of Guatemala – but it is so well-known that it often gets quite busy.

The lake was formed in a crater at an astonishing 2700 meters above sea level, and this means that the neighboring forest canopy is shrouded in cloud.

If you’re looking for a heavenly location that is great for photos, you’ll find it here.

Around the edges of the lake, you will find several Mayan shrines which are still used by people today, making this one of the most significant areas for people who still abide by the traditional Mayan customs.

10. National Palace Of Culture

One of the most interesting aspects of this building is the museum, which lies within, and this attracts many visitors, both from Guatemala and beyond.

However, you will also find many shows taking place here, including many musical events.

It may come as a surprise that music plays a huge part in Guatemalan culture, and this can be seen throughout its capital city with various concerts and street music being played.

The building is considered to be a symbol of Guatemala city, and this is because of the incredible architecture and intricate design.

It is home to the Guatemalan government and served as the home of the president for a period of time.

Guatemala is a Central American country that is flourishing more and more every year.

It is now seeing millions of visitors who flock here for the varied and diverse array of tourist attractions every year.

One of the most exciting things about this country is the sheer range of things there are to do here. Nowhere else on earth will you find such a contrast of beaches, volcanoes, jungle, ancient ruins, and vibrant cities – Guatemala has it all.

However, with this comes the puzzling choice of what to see and do while staying here.

You could easily spend a few weeks in this country and still now run out of things to do and places to go, but if you don’t have that kind of time to spare, my guide to the 10 top-rated tourist attractions in Guatemala will break it down for you.

Whatever you are looking to do, you can guarantee that Guatemala will cater to you.

Affiliate Disclaimer

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

Latest posts

Ulanzi U60 RGB Video Light Review: Top Vloggers’ Choice?

What Is Malta Famous For? Malta Local History and Past Events

Do IndiGo Airlines Provide Headphones? In-Flight Entertainment Explained

16 Unique and Unusual Things to Do in Guatemala

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 6th October 2023

Volcanoes wreathed with thick clouds and ready to be climbed. Rural towns and villages alive with chaotic but thrilling street markets, where locals dress in brightly coloured clothing whose patterns testify to the identity of their home towns.

The great, chugging bulks of monstrous Chicken buses that roar through the streets of colonial Antigua Guatemala. Crumbling Maya ruins dating over 1,400 years old retrieved from encroaching jungle.

While many tourists overlook Guatemala in favour of neighbouring Belize and Mexico, there are enough fascinating and unusual things to do in Guatemala to keep you occupied for weeks. 

I spent eight days in Guatemala back in October 2018, learning about new sustainable tourism initiatives across the Antigua Guatemala and Lake Atitlán regions .

However, those who follow the blog regularly will know that I aim to write about places where I’ve spent a significantly longer amount of time – ensuring that readers get the best, most detailed information about what to do and where to go in a country. 

It’s for this reason I’ve enlisted the help of a slew of other travel bloggers to find out, from their collective wisdom, exactly what they would consider to be the top things to do in Guatemala. 

I’ve also put together a travel itinerary for Guatemala , whether you’ve a week or two to explore the country.

1 . Make chocolate in Antigua Guatemala

James ian from travel collecting.

One of my absolute favorite things to do in Guatemala is taking a chocolate making workshop . 

The Maya have been drinking chocolate for hundreds of years (in fact, chocolate was first discovered in this part of the world) and cocoa beans, which chocolate is made from, are grown all around Antigua Guatemala. So what better place to learn how to make chocolate? 

The workshop starts with an overview of the history of chocolate, and then gets into the fun part. Participants roast cocoa beans and then separate the husks from the beans. The husks are used to make several chocolate teas – without sugar (very bitter) and with sugar (nicer!). 

The beans are ground into a paste using a traditional mortar and pestle; the chocolate is frothed by pouring the liquid from one container to another and back again, in quick succession; then the paste is used to make two types of hot chocolate. 

Mayan hot chocolate has chilli and water and again is quite bitter.  Spanish hot chocolate is made with milk and vanilla and is more what we are used to. 

Finally, the remainder of the chocolate paste is used to make chocolate candies in a mould, using a variety of different flavours and fillings.

This is a really enjoyable thing to do in Antigua Guatemala!

2. Explore the Maya ruins of Tikal

Halef from the round the world guys.

One of the most important pre-Colombian Maya ruins in Guatemala – and the country’s most famous tourist attraction – is Tikal. It is located in the eastern part of the country, and many people opt to visit Tikal from Belize City instead of the capital, Guatemala City.

The Tikal archaeological site is huge. The 100-square-mile city is still largely unexplored because of the dense El Petén jungle that still surrounds it. But those structures that have been excavated and restored are simply amazing.

Some of highlights of Tikal include the Temple of the Grand Jaguar and all of the numbered temples. Don’t miss Temple IV, where you can climb its wooden staircase to the mid-pyramid platform overlooking the thick jungle below. This was the setting for Star Wars – Episode IV: A New Hope.

One tip to help you experience Tikal to the fullest: stay in one of the three hotels inside Tikal National Park, such as the Jungle Lodge Hotel. At night, you can hear the sounds of the jungle with its famous howler monkeys. Be sure to arrange a sunrise tour before the park opens to the public.

3. Take a cooking class in San Pedro la Laguna

Katja from globetotting.

One of the best activities that we did during our trip to Guatemala was to take part in a cooking class on Lake Atitlán. The half-day class is run by a local woman, Anita, and takes place in her home in the village of San Pedro La Laguna.

Our lesson started with a trip to the local market to buy ingredients. The lively market is packed with dozens of stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables (many of them completely unrecognisable!) alongside vendors hawking rice, beans, meat and freshly made tortillas.

Ingredients bought, we headed back to Anita’s house and began cooking on her rooftop terrace overlooking the lake.

Together we made tortas de papa (potato pancakes), halacha (beef with potatoes, carrots and spices in a tomato sauce), tamales made with a leafy vegetable commonly used in Guatemala and, our favourite, rellenos de platano – banana balls filled with chocolate.

Once we finished cooking, we all sat down to eat together and enjoyed what was probably our best meal of our trip. What really made the experience, however, was Anita herself. She is incredibly entrepreneurial and her story is very inspirational.

For good food and great company, you should definitely make this cooking class part of your Lake Atitlan adventure. 

4. Dine at Tenedor del Cerro

Daniel james from layer culture.

When travelling to Guatemala and looking for new activities, get yourself up to Tenedor del Cerro in Antigua Guatemala.

Not only it is one of Guatemala’s best and most famous places for breakfast and dining, but it’s a cultural centre which marks the home to some permanent contemporary sculptures, urban art installations and other interesting mosaics that rotate throughout the year. 

The restaurant itself is located on a high mountainside with spectacular views of Antigua Guatemala and two volcanos.  

You’ll also be glad to find an open-air market that offers various products, souvenirs and local crafts for sale. You can easily spend a few hours without getting bored and have a great time here.

Tenedor del Cerro is a must visit destination for anyone that finds themselves in Antigua Guatemala with a half a day to spare, and there’s no need to learn Spanish as there are signs in English.

Getting here is a hard but wonderful hike if time permits you. If not, there is always the free shuttle bus option which leaves every hour on the hour and is provided free by Hotel Santo Domingo for anyone who wants to visit.

5. Explore the market in San Francisco El Alto

Wendy from the nomadic vegan.

Exploring Guatemalan markets is a great way to gain insights into the culture and see what life is like for the locals, and there’s no better place to go and do this in Guatemala than at the market in San Francisco el Alto. The weekly Friday market is one of the largest and most authentic in the whole country.

Whereas the markets in Antigua and other towns popular with tourists are filled with arts and crafts souvenirs, in San Francisco el Alto the market is really for the locals. People come from nearby villages to shop for fresh produce, housewares, and other basic necessities.

The region is known for its fabric industry, so you will see plenty of ready-made clothes as well as huge rolls of fabric for sale. The traditional Maya cloth comes in beautiful designs and is sold by the meter.

To get a bird’s-eye view of all the action, climb up to the roof of the 18th-century church in the town’s main plaza. From here, you’ll see stalls, vendors and shoppers spreading out in all directions.

One section of the market is dedicated to the sale of live animals, so vegan travelers or other travellers concerned about animal welfare may want to skip that bit.

6. Take a textile workshop in Santo Domingo Xenacoj

Steph, founder of worldly adventurer.

Just a forty-mind drive from the beautiful colonial city of Antigua Guatemala lies Santo Domingo Xenacoj, a small town of mostly indigenous inhabitants and just one of the sustainable tourism projects opening their doors to tourists in Guatemala .

Its main attractions include its buzzing traditional market where you encounter local foods or just spend the absorbing the chaos of a busy rural market.

Further into the town, the Consejo de Tejedoras de Santo Domingo Xenacoj (The Weaving Council of Santo Domingo Xenacoj) is another truly fascinating attraction for visitors.

The women who started this collective a few years back are working together to both revive ancient Maya textile patterns and ensure that the art of weaving using laborious, traditional back-strap looms is not lost.

They’ve founded a weaving school for young girls and women in the local area and have begun working with tourists to both educate them on the issues facing indigenous rights when it comes to textile production, as well as leading a workshop where you actually have the chance to weave your own textile. 

Local operator Guate4You lead English-language tours both to Santo Domingo Xenacoj and other sustainable tourism projects in the Guatemala.

If you’re interested in learning more about Guatemala’s textile tradition and want an adventure granting you exceptional proximity to local people in the country, readers of Worldly Adventurer can also get 10% off a women-only Guatemala trip being operated by the fantastic Purposeful Nomad team – just use discount code WORLDLY when you book.

7. Learn Spanish in Guatemala

Sarah from a social nomad.

Guatemala has been one of the best places in Latin America to learn Spanish for more than 30 years now! 

There are a number of reasons for this. The first is that the style of speaking is slow here – so it’s much easier to learn – along with the fact that the accent is very neutral. 

You’ll also find the cost of living extremely low here, and the cost of lessons also low compared to this high quality of teaching available.

Most Spanish schools – and there are lots – offer what’s called full immersion costs – the idea being that you speak no English at all during your time at the schools. 

Lessons in Guatemala are also traditionally one on one, or for couples or friends travelling together, one teacher per two people. This greatly increases the learning potential. 

You’ll find that Spanish language classes run five days a week for four or five hours a day. You’ll also be offered the chance to stay with a local family in a homestay – MORE learning!

We paid just US$125 a week for five hours of Spanish lessons five days a week – AND all our meals and accommodation at a homestay. Plus our school provided Spanish language activities six days a week!

There are schools throughout the country – from Antigua Guatemala to Lake Atitlan and our favourite, Quetzaltenango, where we recommend the school Sol Latino for great teaching and a superb social program.

Alternatively, this two- or four-week immersive Spanish language course is a great way of combining language learning with travel, as it takes you from Antigua to Lake Atitlan and then up to Shemuc Champey and Flores, giving you the chance to explore some of Guatemala’s most beautiful locations, go hiking through the jungle at the Mayan city of Tikal, and even take part in volunteering along the way.

The course includes accommodation, various activities, and transportation, plus small-group Spanish language classes across the two- or four-week program – just remember to use the code WorldlyAdventurer to secure a 5% discount.

8. Paddleboard on Lake Atitlán

Bradley williams from dream big, travel far.

One of the highlights from our time spent in Guatemala has to be when I went paddle boarding on Lake Atitlán , one of the country’s top vacation spots. I’d never tried paddle boarding before, so was pretty apprehensive when I first got on the board.

But after about five or 10 minutes of severe wobbling, I finally started to get my balance and relax. After that, it was so much fun!

Lake Atitlán is the perfect place to head out on a paddle board, as the water is so calm and peaceful and there is very little traffic around.

It was wonderful paddling further and further away from the shore until it was just me and the peaceful beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains. But do be careful, as there are ferries that pass by occasionally.

To make the most of paddle boarding here, it is a good idea to stay at a hotel or resort that has its own private dock. They will likely also provide free paddle boards so it’s a cheap and fun activity to try.

Better yet, ask the guys running it to show you the ropes as getting your balance can be surprisingly tricky at first!

9. Hike up Volcán Pacaya

Claudia tavani from my adventures across the world.

Much like the rest of Central America, Guatemala is scattered with volcanoes and one of the most adrenaline filled things to do here is going on a volcano hike. One of the best ones is Volcano Pacaya , which is within easy reach from Antigua Guatemala.

The hike has to be a guided one, as the volcano is highly active and regularly throws smoke and lava into the air.

The best time of the day to go on a hike is the afternoon, so that you can reach the highest point at around sunset time and you’ll be able to enjoy a show of smoke and explosions before heading back down, in the dark, using only a torch for light. 

It is not a strenuous hike, but the terrain is very sandy so you may find it difficult. It gets windy at the top, and chilly, so make sure to bring a wind proof jacket and an extra layer. 

The hike can take anything between four and six hours, depending on how fast you walk. Beware that there is an entrance fee to the national park, which is of about $7 USD. A guide can be hired at the information centre at the entrance to the park, or else you can join one of the main guided tours leaving every day from Antigua Guatemala, which usually include transportation. 

10. Summit Volcán Acatenango

Claire from claire’s footsteps.

Climbing to the summit of Acatenango Volcano is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Guatemala. With a guide, you’ll embark on an overnight trek to one of the base camps, from where you’ll watch Fuego (its neighbouring volcano) erupting.

After a night at base camp, you’ll get the chance to summit Acatenango volcano for sunrise. Two words of advice: DO IT. You do get the option to stay at camp, but sunrise at the top of the volcano is one of the most spectacular things I’ve ever seen and should not be missed on a trip to Guatemala .

After sunrise, and admiring the spectacular view over Antigua Guatemala and beyond (on a clear day you’ll be able to see all the way to Lake Atitlán), it’ll be time to descend back down to base camp and to the bottom of Acatenango Volcano.

The climb is difficult and really tests your endurance, but trust me – it’s worth it. It was without a doubt the best and most rewarding thing I did during my time in Guatemala.

Tours leave from Antigua; they are bookable from hostels, hotels or agencies. They include a tour guide, food, transportation and camping gear. I’d recommend shopping around to find the best deal.

11. Swim in Semuc Champey

Claire sturzaker, tales of a backpacker.

Semuc Champey is one of the most beautiful places in Guatemala and this natural wonder is the highlight of many people’s trip to this special country. 

In this natural park, turquoise water tumbles down a series of natural pools hidden in the middle of the jungle, creating a surreal destination that is as hard to get to as it is beautiful! 

A full day’s journey by bumpy shuttle bus from either Antigua Guatemala or Flores, you need to allocate at least three full days for visiting Semuc Champey, including two days of travel and a minimum of one day visiting the pools. 

Once you have reached Lanquin (the closest town to Semuc Champey) most people choose to take a tour to visit Semuc Champey, which also includes a visit to some nearby caves, tubing down the river and the chance to try a huge swing over the river, as well as entrance to the natural park and pools. 

You can also visit independently if you prefer, but the price of the tours is excellent value for what you get.  No matter how you choose to visit, don’t miss the hike up to the viewpoint for a stunning view of the pools from above.  For sheer beauty, Semuc Champey is hard to beat!

12. Paragliding in Panajachel

Mitch from project untethered.

Let me start out by saying that if you travel to Guatemala, you can’t miss Lake Atitlán – a mystical lake surrounding by mountains, volcanoes, and small traditional Mayan pueblos.

I was doing a homestay and taking Spanish classes in one of these pueblos, San Pedro, when a fellow traveller recommended I take a short (but choppy) ferry ride over to neighbouring Panajachel.

She had just gotten back from a once-in-a-lifetime experience paragliding over the gorgeous Atitlán. She said if I didn’t do it, I’d regret it forever.

I took her word for it.

To be honest, I was a bit nervous. After all, running off the side of a mountain in Guatemala doesn’t seem like the safest activity. But after researching the company my friend recommended, Real World Paragliding, I found only positive reviews.

This was before I started working on the road, and at a cost of 700 quetzales (~$90 USD), it was a little pricey for my tight backpacker budget. But let me tell you – it was worth every penny. I doubt you’ll find anywhere else you can paraglide in such a beautiful place for that price.

So, have I convinced you yet?

If so, all you have to do is visit the Real World Paragliding website to make a reservation.

And remember, even though the flight usually only lasts between 20-45 minutes, make sure you have an entire day dedicated to paragliding. Since flights depend on weather conditions, you might have to wait a few hours (that you can spend exploring the Panajachel markets).

My last tip: Don’t worry about taking pictures (they’ll take care of that). You’ll probably only paraglide over Lake Atitlan once in your life. Live in the moment. Soak up and enjoy every second.

13. Ride a Chicken bus

Eoin from dollysquest  .

Taking public transport when in a different country can always be an adventure. Especially when you don’t speak the language or are unsure how to communicate the destination you wish to visit.

But, one of the most fun and enjoyable ways is to take the local transport that might not exist in your home countries such as tuk-tuks or the metro. In Guatemala, the most unique and fun way I found to travel was via the infamous Chicken buses.

These are essentially old converted American school buses. They can be found in several Latin American countries but nowhere are they as prevalent as in Guatemala. These buses serve most of the major cities and some of the regional areas.

A favourite among locals and some of the more adventurous travellers, Chicken buses can be cramped, a little dangerous and not where you want to be if you follow the rules of the road.

A much cheaper alternative to private hires, Chicken buses can usually be boarded at the local bus stations or along designated streets in many popular locations. It is always best to ask a local where to find your bus. Then simply listen out and jump on board as fast as possible as these guys don’t like waiting.

I would recommend packing some snacks and holding onto your valuables as people jump on and off at a rapid rate and you don’t want to have your belongings go missing.

14. Birdwatch in San Juan La Laguna

Isabella from boundless roads.

I spent 3 months in Guatemala, housesitting in the colonial and charming Antigua and exploring the country. From Semuc Champey to Rio Dulce, Tikal and Lake Atitlán, the country is brimmed with spectacular natural monuments and history.

However, what I enjoyed the most in Guatemala was discovering off the beaten track places, such as San Juan la Laguna*, to me the most charming town on the shores of Lake Atitlán. It’s actually one of the most authentic and where the local communities strive to keep their precious traditions alive and to let the world know about them.  

When we arrived, we went directly to the local community association office where we were warmly welcomed and told about their homestay availability and the activities they offered.

My friend and I agreed to take a tour through the locals, both because we were curious and also it was a good way to support the community. 

We spent just one night and two days there and the highlight of the whole time was bird watching. Our host organized it for us and at 6am the following day we met our guide, ready to hike to the nearby Mirador La Cruz.

It was a short hike and on the way up we stopped to spot many different birds species and admire spectacular views. When we arrived to the top, I was really fascinated by the knowledge of our guide, a very young guy so passionate about his job and so excited to spot and show us all the birds species as much as we were to learn about them.  

By 10am we were back to hour breakfast in our homestay and then ready for the next stop. But I remember this hike at San Juan La Laguna as the best experience on the Lake Atitlán.

15. Explore the colonial town of Flores

Clare from travels in peru.

One of my favourite places to visit in Guatemala is Flores, in the Petén Department.

This beautiful little colonial town is on a circular island on Lake Peten Itza and as it is only one hour from Tikal, it attracts many tourists.

It was originally built by the Itza people after the collapse of Chichen Itza (a series of Maya temples built on the Yucatán Peninsula in what is now Mexico) and who the Spanish finally defeated in 1697.  The stones from the Mayan structures were used to build the Roman Catholic Church in the main square and it was during this period when the town was renamed Flores.

The towns’ streets go in circles and are cobbled.  Cars can come onto the island but luckily this is limited.  It is a great place just to walk around and explore. The old colonial buildings that were built on the island are very colourful and beautiful with wooden balconies.

In the centre of the island at the top of the hill, there is the main square and a beautiful historic church.

The town itself is very small and a great place to relax, go shopping or eat in one of the many restaurants.  Along the edge of the lake are some restaurants and bars with great views. 

If you want to be a bit more energetic then you can go swim in the lake from one of the many jetties, or rent a boat or canoe to explore the lake further.

16. Walk from Livingston to Seven Altars

Juozapas Žygas from nomad joseph  .

After visiting Antigua, Atitlan, climbing the Tajumulco and San Pedro volcanos and exploring Tikal (all of Guatemala’s most popular tourist attractions), you might want somewhere relaxing to rest for a while. Livingston might be the perfect place to spend a couple of days.

It is a town near the sea and it is only possible to reach Livingston by boat, although, there are tuk-tuks and cars in town. Livingston is a great place to eat sea food, enjoy relaxing vibes and rest.

One of most fun things to do while you’re here in Livingston is to visit Seven Altars which are natural water pools a little bit outside of Livingston. You can either walk for roughly an hour and a half from the center of Livingston or you can take a tuk-tuk for five quetzals to the bridge where the trail begins. From here, it’s only around a 30-minute walk along the beaches.

You will pass some restaurants and coconut water vendors until you reach the entrance to Seven Altars. The entrance fee to visit these fresh water pools is 20 quetzales per person. You can use toilet for this price and spend as much time as you want inside these fresh water pools.

After swimming you can either walk back to Livingston or return via tuk-tuk. They are waiting just behind the bridge.

Save these tips by pinning this post about unmissable tourist attractions in Guatemala!

• Central America
• 14 Must Visit Attractions In...

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.

1. mercado central.

2. 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.

3. 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.

5. Palacio Nacional de la Cultura

6. Metropolitan Cathedral

7. Guatemalan National Theatre and Miguel Ángel Asturias Cultural Centre

Natural Feature

8. 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.

9. 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.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Guides & Tips

7 activities that will teach you about the culture in guatemala.

Places to Stay

The best bed and breakfasts in guatemala.

How Latin America Is Coming Together to Help Aid Guatemala's Volcano Crisis

Why These Cuban Doctors Became Heroes During the Volcano Eruption in Guatemala

A Women-Only Indigenous Co-Op in Guatemala is Weaving To Protect its Community

Architecture

A look at the guatemalan town that is transforming into a work of art.

7 Inspiring Women From Guatemala

The Best Hotels in Monterrico, Guatamela, for Wildlife Fans

The Endangered Art of Agave Cactus-Weaving on Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

The Best Hotels in Lake Atitlán for Every Traveler

The Best Spa Hotels in Guatemala

The Best Hotels to Book Near Tikal National Park, Guatemala

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1609047
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

• BACKPACKERS WANDERLUST - AN AWARD WINNING TRAVEL BLOG
• Work With Me

• DISCLOSURE & PRIVACY POLICY
• United States
• Cook Islands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• Accommodation Goals
• Budget And Cost Of Travel
• Foodie Goals
• Packing & Planning
• Travel Inspiration
• Volunteering Abroad
• Working & Studying Abroad
• Other Travel Tips

3 Weeks In Guatemala Itinerary: Epic Route From North To South

Planning a trip to the incredible country of Guatemala, but not sure where to go? Then come check out my 3 weeks in Guatemala itinerary where we will explore the whole country from North to South.

Let’s talk about the best route, things to do, transportation, accommodation, and more during your time in Guatemala!

If you are looking for a destination that combines natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical legacy, look no further than Guatemala . This Central American country is a treasure trove of attractions and experiences that will captivate you from the moment you arrive.

No doubt you will have an epic time exploring the 3 weeks in Guatemala itinerary!

Guatemala is the heart of the Maya civilization, and you can witness its ancient glory in the numerous archaeological sites that dot the country. You can also learn about the contemporary Maya culture and traditions in the colorful villages and markets.

Enjoy the varied landscapes with volcanoes, lakes, rainforests, and beaches, where you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities and scenery. Guatemala is also a place of contrasts, where modern cities coexist with colonial towns and indigenous communities.

In this itinerary, you will discover the best of Guatemala in 3 weeks on the main tourist trail. You will visit some of the most popular and iconic destinations, such as Antigua and Flores , as well as some beautiful spots surrounded by nature like Semuc Champey and Lake Atitlan.

Oh, and we can’t forget to finish off this 3 weeks in Guatemala itinerary with some beach time in El Paredon. You will have a balance of guided tours and free time, so you can explore at your own pace, as well as have the opportunity to interact with the local people and learn about their culture and way of life.

If you are looking at getting off the beaten track and away from other travelers, then I will say it now; this is not the itinerary for you. This is assuming you are visiting Guatemala for the first time and want to see some of the best places it has to offer.

We will keep you on the well-trodden backpacking Guatemala route. Though with a few extra tips and tricks are thrown in to take your adventure to the next level.

This itinerary is designed for first-time visitors who want to experience the essence of Guatemala in a comprehensive and enjoyable way. You will be amazed by the diversity and richness of this country, and you will leave with unforgettable memories and stories to tell.

Now, let’s get into this 3 weeks in Guatemala itinerary with all the information you need to know to have the ultimate adventure.

3 Weeks In Guatemala: The Perfect Guatemala Itinerary For First Timers

Flores (day 1 – 3), semuc champey (day 3 – 6), antigua (day 6 – 12), lake atitlan (day 12 – 17), el paredon (day 17 – 20), antigua (day 20 – 21), extend your 3 weeks in guatemala itinerary.

🚗 How I Book Cheap Transport In Guatemala: GuateGo

Flores is a small town in northern Guatemala that occupies a tiny island on Lake Petén Itzá. It is connected to the mainland by a causeway that leads to the city of Santa Elena. Flores is known as the gateway to Tikal, one of the most impressive ancient Maya cities in the world.

But Flores is more than just a base for exploring Tikal. It is also a charming place to visit on its own, with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and stunning views of the lake. No doubt this is a great way to ease into your 3 weeks in Guatemala itinerary.

Flores has a rich history that dates back to the 15th century when it was founded by the Maya Itzá people who had returned from Chichen Itza in Mexico. They built temples, pyramids, and works of art on the island, and resisted the Spanish conquest for more than 150 years.

The island was finally captured by the Spaniards in 1697 and renamed Flores after the Spanish governor. The original Maya structures were destroyed and replaced by colonial buildings.

Today, Flores is a popular tourist destination that offers a variety of activities and attractions. Some of the things to do in Flores include :

Tikal: No doubt the top thing to do in Flores is to visit the famous Tikal Temple Complex . It is a bit of a drive away from the city center so unless you have your own transport, the majority of travelers visit on a tour.

I decided to do the morning tour, which allowed us slightly more sleep than the sunrise tour, but it was still too early for me. Honestly if you aren’t a morning person, screw it and book the later tour so you can have the most enjoyable experience.

Jorge’s Rope Swing : This is the perfect place for backpackers and adventurous travelers to relax and get to know one another. With music playing, affordable drinks on offer, the hot Guatemalan sun beating down, and the inviting waters, you can’t really say no.

Swim: There are lots of cool spots around the lake to go for a swim. You can either stick somewhere local, like at the dock on Flores which is a lovely spot to relax. Alternatively, if you are looking for something different and away from the crowds head to one of the nearby beaches.

Talk to any boat driver and they will be able to take you there.

Wander The Streets: Seriously this place is freaking beautiful and the perfect showcase of the gorgeous buildings in Guatemala. Cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, incredibly painted murals, and delicious eateries seem to be around every corner.

Go for a walk and simply get lost, this isn’t a large town, so you can never go far. Why start in Flores? I chose to start the 3 weeks in Guatemala tour in Flores because it has a domestic airport, so if you arrive in Guatemala City you can take another flight there. Also, you will be able to do this itinerary back to front, starting in Antigua and finishing in Flores.

Where To Stay In Flores

Honestly, Flores is a super small island, and as long as you are staying on the island itself you will be fine in terms of a good location. There is a bridge that connects it to the mainland, but basically, the tourist area is on the island of Flores itself.

I did end up on the other side a couple of times though, the first was arriving there at the bus station, and having to take a taxi the rest of the way, and the second was to visit the supermarket and buy some food for dinner since my hostel had a kitchen.

However, if you want to stay close to Tikal there are four hotels located right outside the entrance to the National Park. Here you will be surrounded by nature, right in the middle of the jungle, and it will be quite a different experience to staying in Flores.

These hotels offer comfortable rooms, restaurants, pools, and tours of the ruins. You can also watch the sunrise or sunset from the top of the pyramids and see wildlife such as monkeys and toucans.

I had an excellent time staying at Los Amigos , though it did kind of lack a social atmosphere if you aren’t into the party scene. There is a cute little hangout area with hammocks, but most people just seemed to sit there listening to music rather than talking to others.

Luckily for me, they had a few bunny rabbits hopping around and they became my friends. Personally, I found that booking my Tikal Tour through them allowed me to meet some friends who were staying there.

I stayed in the air-conditioned dorm, and this was freakin amazing, but the air conditioning is only turned on at night. They have an excellent onsite restaurant which was perfect for me since as a solo female traveler I don’t go out after dark by myself.

How To Get To Flores

As I said you can either start or end your itinerary in Flores, depending on which way you decide to do this itinerary.

If you are traveling from your home country straight to Guatemala one of your best options will likely be to catch a flight from either Guatemala City or Cancun in Mexico since both these locations have direct flights into Flores.

These airports are international hubs connecting to many regions around the world.

You could also have just finished your Belize itinerary and be making your way to Guatemala. The border town of San Ignacio in Belize, and Flores in Guatemala are only a couple of hours apart.

This makes it a super easy journey to travel from Belize to Guatemala and a great way to start off your 3 weeks in Guatemala itinerary.

Doing this is exactly the route I took and it was straightforward to get a taxi from San Ignacio to the border, exchange any USD I was using in Belize , cross over, and watch a collective to the town of Flores.

Semuc Champey is a natural wonder in Guatemala that attracts many travelers who want to experience the beauty and adventure of the country’s nature. It is located in the department of Alta Verapaz, about 11 kilometers from the town of Lanquín, which is inhabited by the Q’eqchi’ Maya people.

Semuc Champey consists of a natural limestone bridge that spans 300 meters over the Cahabón River , creating a series of turquoise pools on top of it. The name Semuc Champey means “where the river hides under the earth” in the Q’eqchi’ language because the river disappears under the bridge and reappears several meters later.

Semuc Champey offers a variety of activities and attractions for every traveler’s taste and preference. Some of the most popular things to do at Semuc Champey are:

Hiking to El Mirador: This is the viewpoint that offers a breathtaking view of the limestone bridge and the pools. The hike takes about 45 minutes and goes through the jungle, where you can see different plants and animals.

The trail is steep and slippery in some parts, so you need to wear good shoes and bring water. Once you reach El Mirador, you can enjoy the stunning scenery and take photos of the natural wonders.

Swimming: At Semuc Champey you can go swimming and sliding in the pools, which have different depths and temperatures. The water is clear and refreshing, and you can see fish and plants in it.

Some of the pools have natural slides that you can use to go from one to another, or you can jump from rocks into deeper ones. The pools are also connected by small waterfalls that create a relaxing sound.

You can spend hours swimming and sliding in the pools or just relaxing on the rocks or in the shade.

Caving : Exploring the water cave, which is a dark and wet cave that you can enter with a candle and a guide. You need to wear a helmet, a life jacket, and shoes. You also need to be prepared to get wet, as you will walk, swim, and crawl through the cave. Inside the cave, you can see stalactites, stalagmites, bats, and waterfalls.

You can also jump into a deep pool at the end of the cave, or climb up a rope ladder to exit. The water cave is an adventurous and thrilling experience that you will never forget.

Tubing: Tubing on the Cahabón River, is a relaxing and fun way to enjoy the river and the surrounding nature. You can rent a tube and float down the river for about one kilometer, passing by rapids, rocks, and trees.

You can also see local people fishing or washing clothes on the river banks. The tubing is safe and easy, as you will be accompanied by guides who will help you if needed. You can also stop at some places along the river to swim or rest.

Where To Stay In Semuc Champey

You will be spoilt for choice here in Semuc Champey in terms of accommodation . Though the first decision you need to make is whether you want to stay in the town of Lanquin or close to Semuc Champey.

In Semuc Champey a lot of the accommodations are set up like resorts, even hostels. Basically, there is minimal reason to leave the grounds except for tours, which you no doubt booked through your accommodation.

I know this can sound a bit daunting, especially if you are a chill backpacker who likes to explore and plan things last minute. Though I loved staying closer to Semuc Champey as you were right in nature and it honestly felt so peaceful.

Though air conditioning was nonexistent, and we only had power and wifi for certain times of the day.

If you want to experience more of the local side of life 100% it is recommended you stay in Lanquin. Here you will be able to try an assortment of restaurants and have a bit more freedom. You are more likely to be able to find rooms with air conditioning, 24/7 power, and wifi.

Personally, I stayed at Greengos Hostel and had an incredible stay. It is an excellent choice for budget travelers with an included transfer from the shuttle drop off, two pools, onsite restaurant, tours, and in the most beautiful location just a 10-minute walk from the entry of Semuc Champey.

How To Get To Semuc Champey From Flores

Now once you are done exploring the highlights in the North it is time to make your way from Flores to Semuc Champey . Though honestly, this journey is not for the faint-hearted. Luckily it is worth it thanks to the beauty to be found around every corner at Semuc Champey.

Now prepare to spend an entire day traveling from Flores to Semuc Champey. Keep things simple and don’t make any morning or afternoon plans, things always seem to take a little bit longer than expected here in Guatemala, so just enjoy the journey.

Be aware there is no option here to fly between these two destinations. Therefore you will need to take the road and there is no shortcut. The overall journey is basically split into three sections.

The first is from Flores to Coban, and second from Coban to Lanquin, and lastly from Lanquin to Semuc Champey which is usually organized directly with your accommodation.

Tourist Shuttle: Using a tourist shuttle all the hard work is done for you. There is no need to worry about transfers in different cities, and instead, you can just enjoy the pretty damn good views and sleep as much as you would like.

These tourist shuttles are super easy to book! You can either do so in advance online or instead wait until you are in Flores. If you have a set itinerary in Guatemala and know your dates it is best to book these tickets in advance online with GuateGo .

Chicken Bus: Starting from Flores you will need to head to the bus station on the mainland. This is located on the same road as the bridge if you continue following it, otherwise, any tuk-tuk driver will be able to take you there.

Once here you will need to board a bus going to the town of Coban. This will be the longest part of the journey so get comfortable as you will be here for a while. When you have arrived in Coban you will need to go from the long-distance bus station to the local bus station.

From here you will easily be able to get a bus to Lanquin. Though once arriving in Lanquin you will need to get a taxi to take you the remaining distance to Semuc Champey if you are staying close to the waterfalls.

Taxi: This is no doubt your quickest way to travel from Flores to Semuc Champey, though be aware it is pricey. If you can afford this I want to be your friend! If you want to just do a taxi, make sure you go through a reliable company.

Antigua Guatemala is a city that captivates visitors with its charm, beauty, and heritage. Located in the central highlands of Guatemala, Antigua was once the capital of the Spanish colony of Guatemala, which spanned most of Central America and parts of Mexico.

Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the legacy of its colonial past.

There are many things to do in Antigua Guatemala, a city that combines history, culture, and nature. Here are some of the most popular ones:

Learn Spanish: There are so many places in Guatemala you can learn Spanish, though I chose Antigua and found it was perfect. You can choose from different types of courses such as intensive, regular, private, or group classes, and customize your schedule according to your needs and preferences.

Acatenango Volcano Hike: One of the most popular and rewarding activities in Antigua is hiking the Acatenango volcano, which is the third-highest peak in Central America at 3976 meters above sea level.

The hike is challenging but rewarding, as it offers stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes, especially the active Fuego volcano that erupts frequently and creates an amazing spectacle of lava and smoke.

Pacaya Volcano Hike: Another option for volcano lovers is hiking the Pacaya volcano. The hike is easier than Acatenango but still exciting, as you will feel the heat and smell of sulfur. Though this volcano is nowhere as active so don’t expect rushing lava rivers.

Though you can eat a pizza cooked on the hot rocks or even roast marshmallows.

Shopping: Antigua is a great place to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products that reflect the culture and diversity of Guatemala. You can find many shops, markets, and stalls that sell items such as textiles, jewelry, ceramics, wooden carvings, leather goods, coffee, chocolate, spices, and more.

Hobbitenango : Hobbitenango is a unique and fun attraction in Antigua that will make you feel like you are in Middle Earth. It is a hobbit-themed eco-park that features hobbit houses, gardens, trails, views, and activities such as archery, horseback riding, ziplining, and more.

Being from New Zealand I thought the idea of Hobbitenango was kind of strange, and it is, but still, it’s worth a visit

Explore The Ruins: Antigua is a charming town that boasts some of the most impressive ruins in Central America. The city was once the capital of the Spanish Kingdom of Guatemala until a series of devastating earthquakes in 1773 left many of its churches and convents in ruins.

Today, these monuments offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture and a stunning contrast with the surrounding volcanoes. My personal favorites are Convento la Recoleccion and Convento Capuchinas.

Where To Stay In Antigua

I absolutely love Antigua , no doubt it was one of my favorite spots in Guatemala, and I would happily move here to live among the Volcanos. You commonly will find hotels and restaurants with the most incredible views of the valley, where you can even see the Acatenago Volcano erupting on a clear night.

There is an excellent hostel scene here in Antigua , and they are also very high-quality hostels. You will be able to find pod-style dorm rooms, cool common rooms playing Netflix, onsite bars, kitchens to cook in, and some even have pools.

Personally, I stayed at Maya Papaya hostel in Antigua, I even loved it so much that I booked 4 separate stays there over my month in the country. The staff are lovely, the beds are comfortable, and there’s a super clean fully equipped kitchen, awesome location, and chill hangout areas.

Be aware that the nicer hostels here can be on the pricey side where you will easily be paying upwards of $20.00 per night. My partner actually joined me partway through my adventures in Guatemala and we often found it was cheaper to book a nice guesthouse, rather than two hostel beds.

How To Get To Antigua From Semuc Champey

Once you have finished exploring the incredibly beautiful Semuc Champey, it’s time to continue with your adventures to Antigua. Though before you get too excited about the journey you should know it is a full travel day.

Therefore best to keep things simple and not make any morning or afternoon plans, things always seem to take a little bit longer than expected here in Guatemala, so just enjoy the journey.

Now there is no option here to fly between these two destinations. Therefore you will need to take the road and there is no shortcut.

The overall journey is basically split into three sections. The first is from Semuc Champey to Lanquin (1 hour), the second from Lanquin to Coban (1 – 2 hours), and lastly from Coban to Antigua (9+ hours).

Tourist Shuttle: Now the easiest and most straightforward way, though still on a budget, then definitely look at booking a shuttle. Using a tourist shuttle all the hard work is done for you. One thing to be aware of is that your driver may only speak a little bit of English, or literally nothing at all.

However, don’t worry as generally at least one person onboard will know enough Spanish to translate for everyone else.

Taxi: This is no doubt your quickest way to travel from Semuc Champey To Antigua , though be aware it is pricey. It is a good option if you are traveling as part of a larger group where splitting the price would work out to be similar to the price for a tourist shuttle.

Alternatively, if you are traveling at an awkward time of day when the shuttles aren’t running this also makes for a good choice.

Chicken Bus: The price will come out around Q100 / $12.60 but be aware this can change depending on how long it takes to fill the bus as it doesn’t leave until someone is in each seat. The total journey will be somewhere around 14+ hours.

This basically depends on how long you need to wait for the bus to depart. Starting from Semuc Champey you will need to head to the main town called Lanquin and make your way to the crossroads in the town center. Once here you will need to board a bus going to the town of Coban.

This will cost Q30 / $3.85 and take around 3 hours. When you have arrived in Coban you will need to go from the local bus station to the long-distance bus station. Once here you will easily be able to get a bus to Guatemala City.

It’s a pretty common route and buses typically leave on the hour throughout the day. Once in Guatemala City, it is time for your final bus to Antigua. These typically take just over an hour and can be found at the bus terminal.

Lake Atitlan is a lake in the Guatemalan Highlands of the Sierra Madre mountain range. It is one of the most beautiful and popular destinations in Guatemala, attracting visitors with its stunning scenery, diverse culture, and adventurous activities.

Lake Atitlan was formed by a volcanic eruption about 84,000 years ago, creating a huge caldera that filled with water over time. The lake is surrounded by three volcanoes: Atitlan, Toliman, and San Pedro, which add to its dramatic beauty.

The lake is also the deepest in Central America, reaching a depth of about 340 meters which attracts many scuba divers wanting to dive at altitude.

Seeing as Lake Atitlan is such a popular spot to visit in Guatemala you can be sure there is plenty of things to do here. Though many people simply enjoy relaxing here and exploring the different villages by boat.

I recommend picking three different locations around the lake and staying a night or two in each one.

Where To Stay In Lake Atitlan

There are plenty of lovely villages around Lake Atitlan where you can stay. I recommend choosing a couple you would like to visit and then checking out accommodation options.

Panajachel: Let’s start with the main city around Lake Atitlan called Panajachel. There always seems to be a constant stream of shuttles arriving and departing, with travelers walking on down to the docks.

I would say it is worth spending a couple of days here. It is an easy place to book tours and organize transport. There is some awesome shopping to be done down the main street called Calla Santander.

San Marcos la Laguna: Now if you are more of a free-spirited type of person or quite into the yoga scene you may want to think about basing yourself in San Marcos. There are so many accommodation options here, and truly some are incredibly beautiful with amazing views out to the volcanos.

This is also an excellent spot for some delicious vegan and vegetarian food.

San Pedro La Laguna: This is another popular town worth checking out. It is no doubt quite a backpacker hub with plenty of hostels and affordable cafes and restaurants.

This is the perfect town to position yourself in if you are planning to hike the San Pedro volcano or if you are perhaps looking for an easier hike you will also find plenty of tour agencies offering the popular Indian Nose Hike.

San Juan La Laguna: Undoubtedly this is the place to experience the arts of the area and is also a great place to do some shopping and buy some authentic souvenirs.

There are definitely fewer tourists here than in other villages around the lake, so it can be nice to get away from all the crazy and come here for a breather.

Santa Cruz la Laguna: Another popular spot is Santa Cruz la Laguna. This has grown quickly in popularity with backpackers over the last couple of years thanks to the affordable hostels on offer. You can find the popular Free Cerveza which gives summer camp vibes, and it is pretty cool you get to sleep in a teepee.

Secondly, there is La Iguana Perdida which was the first hostel in the area and has a really homely feel. One thing Santa Cruz is known for is its incredible views, from the lake, the volcanos, and the picturesque village, it is a feast for your eyes.

How To Get To Lake Atitlan From Antigua

Once you are done exploring one of my favorite cities in Central America of Antigua, it is time to head to the next spot on your Guatemala itinerary which is Lake Atitlan. Here you will find a beautiful lake, surrounded by 3 incredible volcanos, plenty of culture, and an excellent backpacker scene.

Luckily enough there are also plenty of transport options when it comes to traveling from Antigua to Lake Atitlan.

Tourist Shuttle: You have the choice here to book your tourist shuttle from Antigua to either Panajachel or San Pedro la Laguna. These both have multiple departures each day, and these are separate services, you won’t all be in one van and need to stop at the other town along the way.

Your journey will take between 2 to 2 and a half hours depending on how long the driver decides to stop for.

Chicken Bus: The price will come out around Q50 / $6.00 but be aware this can change depending on how many transfers you need to take. The total journey will be somewhere between two and a half to three and a half hours. Starting from Antigua you will need to make your way to the Antigua bus stop.

You can find this just behind the market and is pretty hard to miss thanks to the constant stream of buses entering and exiting. Take a chicken bus heading to Chimaltenango. This is a relatively short journey and should take around 35 minutes, though you may need to wait for the bus to leave.

Next up you will need to get another chicken bus from Chimaltenango to Los Encuentros. This is the longest part of the journey taking around 1 hour to travel this distance. Once you have arrived in Los Encuentros you will need to take another chicken bus 25 minutes to Solalà.

Finally, once in Solalà, you will take your last chicken bus to Panajachel which typically is a 25-minute or so drive.

Taxi: You can either choose to book a typical taxi or simply an Uber. If you want to just do a taxi, make sure you go through a reliable company such as Mariscal Taxis or Amarillo Taxis. Nevertheless, rates should be around $100.00 to $125.00, and you must remember to negotiate a price beforehand.

GuateGo offers private taxis that can be booked online, so you don’t need to stress about getting a decent price.

El Paredon is a small fishing village that has become one of the most popular surf destinations in Guatemala.

Located about two hours from Antigua and three and a half hours from the capital, El Paredon offers a laidback and off-the-beaten-path experience for travelers who want to enjoy the beach, the waves and the local culture.

Some of the best things to do in El Paredon, worth checking out are:

Surfing Lessons: You do need to be aware that this isn’t really the best learning beach for trying to surf, especially so if you are just planning to go out by yourself and wing it.

Though this is where a lesson or hiring an instructor comes in. You can expect to pay around Q200 / $25.00 per hour for a lesson. If you are an experienced surfer you will find many places along the beach hiring out boards.

La Choza Chula: Now if you want a bit more of a unique experience in El Paredon and are wanting to support the local community then booking a tour through la Choza Chula is the perfect option.

They are a nonprofit that works on improving the education and environment in and around El Paredon Guatemala. They offer a wide range of tours which will make you feel good to know your money is going back to uplifting the local community.

Check Out The Turtle Hatchery: Now unfortunately this activity isn’t available year-round, though that is mother nature. If you happen to be in El Paredon from September to December it is definitely worth checking out the turtle hatchery and watching a release.

This is run by the Driftwood Conservation Project and the 3 owners of the hostel are extremely passionate about the conservation of turtles here in Playa El Paredon.

Day Pass To Hostels & Hotels: Now if you are choosing to travel El Paredon on a budget you may find yourself staying in more basic accommodation. Luckily a lot of hotels, and hostels, offer day passes to use their facilities.

The hostel I stayed at Mellow Hostel , offers day passes to people who would like to come in and use their facilities. The price is Q150 / $19.12 which includes a Q100 / $12.75 bar tab that you can spend on drinks and food.

Sunset At The Beach: Now there is no better way to finish off your day in El Paredon than watching the sunset at the beach. Because the sand is black venturing onto the beach during the day is a risky venture, though once the temperature cools and the sun begins to drop the sand becomes a whole lot more bearable.

Where To Stay In El Paredon

El Paredon definitely surprised me with the large assortments of accommodation on offer. You can easily find gorgeous hostels, luxe hotels, and small bungalows.

Everything is actually really cute here, it reminds me of a mixture of old-school Sihanoukville in Cambodia, mixed with the aesthetic of Bali thanks to the bamboo used in the majority of buildings. Super aesthetic.

I stayed in Mellow Hostel which is located at the very start of El Paredon . It was an excellent place to stay, set slightly off the beach, and was the only accommodation that I could find at the time that offered air-conditioned dorm rooms (though seems like Cocori Lodge now have female air-conditioned dorms).

They have a huge pool with a nice shaded area so you don’t get too burnt while hanging out. They also accept credit cards which is great as there is no ATM in El Paredon, so if you overspend you will be in a pretty awkward position.

How To Get To El Paredon From Antigua

After you are done exploring the incredible colonial buildings of Antigua it is time to hit the road to your next destination in Guatemala . If you were like me and looking to get back to the sun and find a nice beach to enjoy, there is no better place than El Paredon.

This is a quaint coastal town that has very quickly popped up on the backpacking Guatemala trail.

Tourist Shuttle: This is the easiest option and the most popular is simply to take the tourist shuttle from Antigua to El Paredon. Your journey will take between 2 to 2 and a half hours depending on how long the driver decides to stop for.

You can check out the travel route Antigua to El Paredon on GuateGo ,  buy your tickets through them, and then they will email you a copy! Super easy!

Chicken Bus: Starting from Antigua you will need to make your way to the Antigua bus stop. You can find this just behind the market and is pretty hard to miss thanks to the constant stream of buses entering and exiting. Take a chicken bus heading to Escuintla.

This is a relatively short journey of just 36 kilometers. Next up you will need to get another chicken bus from Escuintla to Sipacate. This is a 90-kilometer journey though sometimes there are no direct buses so you may find yourself needing to transfer again to get to Sipacate.

Though once there you simply need to head to the tuk-tuk stand opposite the petrol station. From here you can easily catch a ride to El Paredon which should cost you Q20 / $2.55.

Taxi: You can either choose to book a typical taxi or simply an Uber. If you want to just do a taxi, make sure you go through a reliable company such as Mariscal Taxis or Amarillo Taxis. Nevertheless, rates should be around $80.00 to $100.00, and you must remember to negotiate a price beforehand.

I know, I know, you already went to Antigua so what gives! Well, since this is your last night on your 3 weeks in Guatemala itinerary you are best off to head to a central location where there are plenty of international connections.

I will explain exactly where you can go after the Guatemala itinerary, though this will be your best option whether heading home by plane or catching a tourist shuttle to another country.

How To Travel To Antigua From El Paredon

Luckily enough it is super easy to travel from El Paredon to Antigua. The journey is relatively straightforward taking approximately 3 hours.

The best way to get to Antigua from El Paredon is by tourist shuttles. There are numerous departure times daily so you should have no issues finding one to suit your plans.

I can recommend booking this journey with GuateGo . On their site, you will see all the companies available and be able to check out other travelers’ reviews so you know exactly what to expect.

Why not stay a little longer while you are here in the country? Make the most out of that CA-4 agreement where you have 90 days in Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua, and do some more exploring!

Domestic Options:

Xela: This is the second-largest city in Guatemala and a cultural and historical hub in the western highlands. It is one of the best places in Guatemala to learn Spanish thanks to its affordability.

You will find many language schools that offer affordable and quality courses. Also, Xela is close to several volcanoes that offer amazing hiking opportunities, including the highest peak in Central America, and a must-do for those interested in hiking.

Rio Dulce: Rio Dulce is a river and a national park in eastern Guatemala, connecting Lake Izabal with the Caribbean Sea. It is a place of natural beauty, wildlife, and culture, where you can enjoy the scenery, the adventure, and the history of this region.

The best way to explore Rio Dulce is by boat, as you can see the impressive canyon, the mangroves, the islands, and the villages along the river. You can also see many animals, such as manatees , crocodiles, monkeys, turtles, and birds.

International Options Include:

Nicaragua: Now this is a long journey so I would actually recommend stopping in Honduras or El Salvador to break up the trip. Nevertheless, some travelers decide to completely skip these and head straight to Nicaragua due to safety concerns.

If you are interested in exploring this incredible country find out more by reading these interesting facts about Nicaragua .

El Salvador: If this is your choice then it’s easy enough to continue your adventures on the Pacific from El Paredon where you can get a transfer straight to El Salvador without having to go back to Antigua. Enjoy some more time at the beach and check out some more volcanos in this underrated gem.

Belize: Doing this itinerary backward will be your best bet if you are wanting to do 3 weeks in Guatemala and Belize where you will end in Flores. This is a couple of hours from the border and you can easily grab a collective heading that way.

Enjoy pristine jungles, Mayan ruins, and more beach time, though this time in the Caribbean as you backpack Belize.

Honduras: This is actually where I went after my backpacking Guatemala journey had come to an end. I booked a bus to Copan Ruinas which is a popular tourist town near the border of Guatemala and Honduras.

In the country, you can experience wild nature, the best ruins I have seen, magical macaws, and the pristine waters of the Caribbean.

Mexico: Lastly we have Mexico, though be prepared for a pretty long journey, but this is a popular travel route. San Cristobal de las Casas in Chiapas state is your best bet if you want to travel overland is a 12-hour shuttle journey.

If you want to head to the Maya Rivera in Mexico then it will be best to fly to Cancun from Guatemala City.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tasha Amy | NZ Travel Blogger (@backpackerswanderlust)

Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!

LIKE IT? PIN IT!

Want more Guatemala Inspiration? Check out….

• ACATENANGO VOLCANO HIKE: TOP TIPS TO SUCCEED
• BEST HOSTELS IN EL PAREDON
• ANTIGUA TO EL PAREDON TRANSPORT GUIDE
• CAN YOU SWIM IN LAKE ATITLAN?
• EL PAREDON BACKPACKING GUIDE
• BEST HOSTELS IN LAKE ATITLAN
• PANAJACHEL TO SAN PEDRO & THE TOWNS BETWEEN: WATER TAXI LAKE ATITLAN
• ANTIGUA TO LAKE ATITLAN

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

Related Posts

Panajachel To San Pedro & The Towns Between: How To Travel Around Lake Atitlan

Come find out how to travel from Panajachel To San Pedro La Laguna and all [...]

Backpacking Antigua In Guatemala On A Budget: Top Tips For Travelers

Come check out all you need to know about backpacking Antigua on a budget in [...]

Best Hostels In El Paredon: 8 Hostels For The Perfect Stay 2024

Come check out the best hostels in El Paredon so you can have the perfect [...]

Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Phone / WhatsApp: (011) 502.5359.8328

[email protected]

Home / 3-Week Guatemala Itinerary & Backpacking Travel Guide [2023]

3-Week Guatemala Itinerary & Backpacking Travel Guide [2023]

In this blog, we'll share insider knowledge about Guatemala's best backpacking options, offering a 3-week itinerary that includes all of Guatemala's top sights and experiences like Antigua, Lago de Atitlán, Semuc Champey, Tikal & more.

Guatemala with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant culture offers an unforgettable experience for backpackers. From the colonial charm of Antigua to the breathtaking beauty of Lake Atitlán and the ancient wonders of Tikal. Whether you're seeking adventure, awesome landscapes, or cultural heritage, you have plenty of trails to choose from.

This comprehensive itinerary guides backpackers through the captivating highlights of Guatemala, from the cultural hub of Antigua to the ancient wonders of Tikal and the tranquil beauty of Lake Atitlán, offering a well-rounded exploration of the country's diverse offerings.

Following this itinerary will take you to the most popular villages and attractions, and will also get you well off the beaten path for some unique experiences and high adventure.

3-Week Guatemala Travel Itinerary

Days 1-5: Antigua

Days 6 to 10: Lago de Atitlán

Days 11-13: Quetzaltenango

Day 14: chichicastenango, day 15: coban & alta verapaz, day 16: lanquin & semuc champey.

Day 17-18: Tikal & Yahxá

Day 19-20: Rio Dulce

Day 21: end in guatemala city, or on to belize, days 1-4: arrival and antigua.

The first days of your Guatemala backpacking adventure are best spent exploring the enchanting streets of Antigua, uncovering the city's historical and cultural treasures while acclimating to the vibrant atmosphere. The UNESCO world heritage site is only 6 blocks square , making it easy to navigate, but packed into that small space are 33 historic churches, monestaries, convents, and government buildings. Many of them are in ruins, and give you a sense of Indian Jones excitement as you wonder through the fallen columns and enter the crypts in the incredible ruins. Some have been rebuild to their former colonial glory.

After you spend a day learning about the history and architecture you'll be ready for a meal and drink. Antigua is a gastronomic treasure with food from all around the world. Sample local recipes and street food at the mercado, or in front of the Iglesia de la Merced. Upscale versions can be found at La Cuevita de los Urquizú  or La Fonda de la Calle Real . There are countless cafes and restaurants offering international dishes. No matter what country you hail from, you are likely to find a restaurant offering your favorite comfort food.

DON'T MISS Acatenango Volcano Hike

During your time in Antigua you can't miss out on the once-in-a-lifetime Acatenango volcano hike. This exhilarating challenge will reward you with breathtaking views of the neighboring Fuego volcano as it actively erupts at a safe distance, spewing lava and releasing huge clouds of smoke.

Hiking the Acatenango Volcano offers a two-day experience like no other (yes, this hike includes one compulsory night of camping). From the 3,976-meter summit (13,041 feet), jaw-dropping views of neighboring Fuego await you. But this is no ordinary mountain view. Fuego is an actively erupting volcano with lava spewing every 10 minutes , all of which you can observe from a safe viewing distance at the base camp of Acatenango. It's one for the bucket list!

When hiking Acatenango, you have the additional option to hike Volcan Fuego. We highly recommend taking this since the additional cost is marginal (maybe 200Q depending on the tour company) and getting that bit closer to the eruptions offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

From the trailhead, the trek to reach the summit takes about 4-6 hours while traversing around 18 kilometers (11 miles) roundtrip in total . Temperatures here drop extremely low during sunrise so packing warm clothing is essential.

The optimum time to go on this hike is between November and April as it gives greater chances of staying dry amidst breathtaking landscapes. It’s required that you hike Acatenango & Fuego with a guide, so check out the Acatenango hiking tour with Kayak Guatemala

As far as accommodation, Antigua presents backpackers with a range of accommodation options, from charming hostels to boutique hotels, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay while exploring the city's many attractions.

Day 5: Travel From Antigua To Lake Atitlán

The journey from Antigua to Lake Atitlán is much more than a boring bus journey, it's an opportunity to witness the stunning landscapes of Guatemala, setting the stage for the natural and cultural wonders that await at the lake.

WE RECOMMEND Take The Shuttle Bus

Taking a shared shuttle bus is the best option, with travel time between 2.5-3 hours between Antigua and Panajachel, Lake Atitlán. The shuttle buses leave Antigua with the same schedule every day.

Tourist shuttle services can be found with almost all tour companies in Antigua and often offer hotel pickup for your convenience. Shuttle service can be found through hotels or through tour agencies and they are a safe, quick, and cost-effective mode of transportation from Antigua to Lake Atitlan. The shared shuttle service between Antigua and Lake Atitlán typically costs about $20 or Q150 one-way.

The final destination of the tourist shuttle will be Panajachel, one of the only towns on Lake Atitlán with road access. In Panajachel, you will be greeted by amazing views of the beautiful lake flanked by three volcanoes. There is no main bus station in Panajachel, so you will most likely be dropped off by the main dock. If you are staying in Panajachel, you can get a tuk-tuk to your accommodation location.

If you are staying in one of the other lake villages (San Pedro la Laguna, San Marcos la Laguna, Santa Cruz, la Laguna, San Juan la Laguna, etc) you can catch a public boat from the dock called Tzanjuyu (pronounced zan-hoo-you) for 25 quetzales. Your boat trip will be between 10 and 45 minutes, depending on which is your destination village.

Days 6 to 10: Lago de Atitlán (Lake Atitlan)

Nestled in the highlands of Guatemala, Lake Atitlan is a must-visit destination that will captivate you with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural experiences, and diverse activities for all interests. Formed by the eruption of Los Chocoyos volcano 84,000 years ago, Lake Atitlan Guatemala is the deepest lake in Central America , reaching a maximum depth of 340 meters (1,120 feet).

With more than 90% of the people living around the lake being Maya descendants, you’ll have the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in this ancient culture while exploring the different towns and villages surrounding the breathtaking lake.

Each of the tiny villages along the lake shore has something unique to offer, so make sure to explore them with a day tour or work it into your travel plan to check them out on your own. A cultural tour of Lake Atitlán can provide you with unique experiences learning about Mayan traditions- ancient weaving techniques in San Juan , Mayan cooking classes in Santa Cruz , or ceramic workshops in San Antonio Palopó .

Alternatively, this full-day trip of Lake Atitlan takes you from one end of the lake to the other by boat with an English-speaking guide and walking tours in each village.

DON'T MISS Atitlan Nature Reserves

The natural beauty of Lake Atitlan is nothing short of awe-inspiring. With its turquoise-blue waters framed by lush mountains covered in avocado and coffee trees, it’s no wonder that Lake Atitlan was recognized by National Geographic as the most beautiful lake in the world . The diverse flora and fauna around Lake Atitlan further contribute to its enchanting allure.

Lake Atitlan is a photographer's dream, with countless postcard-worthy lookout points and nature reserves with stunning vistas.

We recommend that you visit:

Atitlan Nature Reserve with its diverse flora and fauna, including unique plant species and exotic birds.

The panoramic views of Lake Atitlán and the surrounding volcanoes at Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve.

Tzantizotz Nature Reserve with its tranquil rivers, waterfalls, and natural water features.

Indian Nose (La Nariz) viewpoint , known for its spectacular sunrise and sunset views.

DON'T MISS Adventure Activities Galore

From heart-racing adventure sports to tranquil spiritual retreats, Lake Atitlan caters to a wide range of interests. Here are some activities you can enjoy when you visit Lake Atitlan:

Explore the lake’s many hiking trails and volcano treks such as the staggering 3,020m San Pedro Volcano .

Kayak, paddleboard , or swim in the inviting waters of the lake

Visit San Marcos La Laguna, known as the “hippie town,” for yoga retreats, meditation centers, and alternative therapies

No matter your interests, there’s an abundance of activities to choose from, ensuring that your Lake Atitlan adventure is truly unforgettable. Whether you’re shopping for local handicrafts, taking a cooking class, or simply soaking up the stunning views while sipping a cocktail, Lake Atitlan has it all.

WE RECOMMEND Cultural Experiences

Lake Atitlan is incredibly unique thanks to its population of majority indigenous people. The town is home to several Mayan communities, most notably the Tz'utujil and Kaqchikel people, so visiting the area offers countless opportunities to learn about these unique cultures.

Each town and village around the lake offers unique traditions and attractions that showcase the rich heritage of the Maya people. Learn how to cook authentic local dishes like Pepian de Pollo ( commonly referred to as Guatemala's national dish) at a cooking class , or watch how women create intricate and colorful textiles from hand-woven threads on a tour of San Juan la Laguna .

For a truly authentic experience, you can participate in a traditional Mayan ceremony at the Sacred Caves of Lake Atitlan where you’ll learn about the importance of the Mayan calendar, hike to a 200 ft waterfall, and witness the mesmerizing ‘Fire Cleansing and Protection’ ceremony performed by shamans.

Each of the towns and villages around the lake offer a unique glimpse into the local life, with bustling markets, vibrant festivals, and opportunities to engage with the local community. And each village is different from the next, so be sure to visit a few different towns to get the full experience.

Exploring the Towns Around Lake Atitlan

It's easy to explore the various towns and villages that surround the lake on your own, or you can take a deeper dive with a local guide. A tour to San Marcos, San Juan, and Santiago with a local guide will give you an understanding of the variety. Some of the towns and villages to explore include:

Panajachel: the bustling gateway town

San Marcos: a peaceful, spiritual haven*

Santiago Atitlan: known for its indigenous culture and traditional Mayan practices

Santa Cruz: a tranquil village with stunning views of the lake

San Pedro: a popular backpacker destination with a vibrant nightlife

Panajachel: The Gateway to the Lake

Panajachel, often referred to as the gateway to Lake Atitlan, is the main entry point for visitors and provides easy access to the other towns around the lake. As a well-developed town with plenty of resources for both locals and visitors, Panajachel is an ideal starting point for your Lake Atitlan adventure.

With its bustling main street, Calle Santander, Panajachel offers excellent shopping opportunities, including local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The town boasts a variety of bars and restaurants catering to all tastes and budgets, from traditional Guatemalan dishes to international cuisine. You’ll find plenty of delicious food options to satisfy your cravings.

Staying in Panajachel for a night or two allows you to take advantage of the numerous transportation options, making it easy to plan day trips and discover the unique experiences that await you around Lake Atitlan.

San Pedro: Backpacker's Paradise

San Pedro La Laguna, often referred to as a backpacker’s paradise, is a popular destination for budget travelers due to its affordable accommodations, lively nightlife, and a range of outdoor activities. San Pedro is the perfect place to make new friends from around the world.

During the day, you can explore the town’s colorful markets, take a horseback ride, sample local street food, or even visit a coffee plantation for a taste of the local agricultural scene. As the sun sets, San Pedro’s nightlife comes alive, with numerous bars and clubs offering a mix of local and international music.

If you’re looking for a more active experience, San Pedro also offers a variety of outdoor activities to suit every adventure seeker. From hiking the nearby San Pedro volcano to kayaking and paddleboarding on the lake, there’s no shortage of thrilling experiences in this vibrant backpacker haven.

San Marcos: Spiritual Haven

For those seeking a more tranquil and introspective experience, San Marcos La Laguna is the perfect destination. Known for its spiritual and wellness-focused atmosphere, this peaceful village offers yoga retreats, meditation centers, and alternative therapies that cater to visitors looking for personal growth and relaxation.

In addition to its serene ambiance, San Marcos is also home to a thriving community of artists, healers, and spiritual seekers, making it the ideal place to connect with like-minded individuals. Whether you’re interested in attending a cacao ceremony, exploring permaculture and organic farming, or simply relaxing in a peaceful setting, San Marcos provides the perfect setting for a restorative and transformative experience.

Santa Cruz: Scenic Beauty and Local Culture

Santa Cruz La Laguna is a picturesque town that offers arguably the most stunning views of the lake, a strong sense of local culture, and opportunities to engage with the community. This charming village is perfect for those looking to experience the authentic local lifestyle while taking in the breathtaking scenic beauty that Lake Atitlan has to offer.

As you explore Santa Cruz, be sure to:

Visit local non-profit Amigos de Santa Cruz , where you can shop for unique handicrafts and sample delicious local cuisine at their Cafe Sabor Cruceño.

Participate in community projects and workshops to learn new skills and contribute to local well-being with community guide cooperative, Santa Cruz Jo.

Learn traditional weaving, beading, and local recipes in a cooking class .

Rent a kayak or paddleboard, or experience a Kayak & Cliff Jump adventure with a local guide.

Quetzaltenango, also known as Xela, offers several attractions for backpackers. Before the conquest, Quetzaltenango had been the capital of a K’iche’ kingdom known as Xelajú, now shortened to Xela. Xela is situated at a lofty 7,656 feet (2,334 metres) above sea level, and surrounded by volcanos reaching much higher.

First, for historic sights, you can visit the majestic Iglesia del Espíritu Santo , an iconic yellow church with stunning architecture. The Parque Centro América is a great place to soak in local culture and observe the daily life of the city. Additionally, the Municipal Theater offers a glimpse into the city's cultural heritage with occasional performances and events.

The architecture in historic Xela is predominantly Greek Revival and Neoclassical rather than the Spanish Baroque style found in Antigua . This is due to the fact that Quetzaltenango was largely destroyed by a volcano fuego erupting in 1902. The coffee trade was booming at this time, and the finca owners and merchant trade was largely German and Italian. As a result, the city was rebuild using Germain and Italian architects.

When it comes to dining and nightlife, the city offers a variety of restaurants and bars. For a taste of local cuisine, head to the Mercado Minerva, where you can find authentic Guatemalan dishes . In the evening, explore the lively bar scene around the Parque Central , where you can find a mix of traditional cantinas and modern bars to unwind after a day of exploration.

For backpackers seeking to enhance their cultural experience, Quetzaltenango, or Xela, offers the perfect setting to learn Spanish and immerse in the local language and traditions, creating a deeper connection with Guatemala.

As for accommodation, Quetzaltenango has a range of options for backpackers. Hostels like Casa Seibel and Casa Renaissance offer affordable and comfortable stays with opportunities to meet fellow travelers. If you're looking for a more upscale experience, hotels like Hotel Modelo or Hotel Casa Quetzaltenango provide a cozy and convenient base for your adventures in the city.

Chichicastenango is a quaint Mayan village famous for its market on Thursdays and Sundays , where traditionally dressed villagers in a kaleidoscope of colors come to sell their very colorful textiles, fruits, vegetables, flowers, handicrafts, food, pottery, wooden boxes, condiments, medicinal plants, candles, pom and  copal  ( traditional incense ),  cal  ( lime stones  for preparing tortillas), grindstones, pigs and chickens,  machetes , and other tools. In the central part of the market plaza are small eateries (comedores).

Although parts of the market a very commercial, there is much mysticism in the air. You will be amazed by the religious blend that exists, where colonial Spanish Catholicism, modern evangelism and ancient Mayan tradition, blend in a uniquely harmonious fashion. There is something deeply moving about watching a Mayan Indian or shaman, engulfed by incense and surrounded by flowers, praying to a catholic God and at the same time practicing ancient Mayan rituals, all in an old Spanish colonial Cathedral.

Visit the colorful cemetery, the modern sculpture garden dedicated to the Mayan calendar cycles, the indigenous mayor’s office, and the sacred hill Pascual Abaj. Each December 21 is the festival “feria” of  Santo Tomás,  the patron saint of Chichicastenango. The days leading up to December 21 local dancers perform the Palo Volador.

The next travel segment is any backpackers dream, truly off the beaten path yet easy enough for any savvy traveler to accomplish. Plan on a full day of travel. The route from Chichicastenango to Coban and Alta Verapaz offers a scenic journey through Guatemala's highlands, showcasing the country's natural beauty and cultural diversity. Starting from Chichicastenango, the road winds through picturesque landscapes, passing through the charming town of Santa Cruz del Quiche. Here, you can explore the historic Spanish colonial architecture and visit the local market to experience the indigenous culture firsthand.

Continuing the journey, the route takes you through Uspantan , a town surrounded by lush greenery and steep mountains. This area is known for its coffee plantations, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for travelers. You can take a break to enjoy the local coffee and immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance before heading towards Coban and Alta Verapaz.

As you approach Coban and Alta Verapaz, the landscape transforms into a luscious, tropical paradise with dense forests and cascading waterfalls. This region is a gateway to ecotourism and adventure, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the rich biodiversity of the area. The journey from Chichicastenango to Coban and Alta Verapaz is not just a drive; it's an immersive experience that showcases the diverse beauty of Guatemala's landscapes and cultures.

If you are on a more relaxed schedule, you can end your days journey and stay the night in Coban. If you need to stick to the schedule outlined in this itinerary, then continue on beyond Coban to Lanquin, an additional 90 - 120 minutes ride.

Semuc Champey and the nearby town of Lanquin are a paradise, offering a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. The main attraction, Semuc Champey, is a series of stunning turquoise limestone pools formed by the Cahabón River. Backpackers flock here to swim, relax, and soak in the breathtaking natural scenery. The area also boasts lush tropical forests and impressive cave systems, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

One of the must-do activities in the area is the cave tour , which involves exploring the K'anba Caves by candlelight. This thrilling adventure includes swimming, climbing, and wading through underground rivers and chambers. The experience is both exhilarating and awe-inspiring, making it a highlight for backpackers looking for an adrenaline rush and a unique exploration of Guatemala's natural wonders.

For a more leisurely yet equally enjoyable experience, tubing down the Cahabón River is a popular activity in Lanquin. Travelers can rent inner tubes and float along the gentle currents in turquoise pools, surrounded by the lush jungle and serene landscapes . It's a fantastic way to unwind and take in the tranquility of the area while enjoying a refreshing and scenic journey.

Accommodations in Lanquin cater to backpackers with a range of options, including budget-friendly hostels and eco-lodges nestled in the heart of nature. These accommodations offer a laid-back, communal atmosphere, perfect for meeting fellow travelers and sharing experiences. Many places also organize group activities and excursions, making it easy for backpackers to connect and explore the area together.

Day 17: Travel From Lanquin To Tikal

Plan on another full travel day as you leave Lanquin and head to Flores and/or Tikal national park. Check with your hostel or lodge for departure times and to book a ticket on a shuttle.

Day 18: Tikal & Yahxá

Tikal and Yaxhá are two iconic Mayan archaeological sites that beckon backpackers with their rich history, majestic ruins, and immersive cultural experiences. Located in the heart of the Petén region, Tikal is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and most impressive Mayan cities, offering an awe-inspiring glimpse into ancient civilization. Backpackers are drawn to Tikal for its towering pyramids, intricate stone carvings, and the chance to climb to the top of the temples for breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle. The site also boasts abundant wildlife, allowing travelers to encounter howler monkeys, toucans, and other exotic species amid the ruins.

Yaxhá, another significant Mayan site nearby, offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience for backpackers seeking a deeper connection with history. The site encompasses impressive temple complexes, plazas, and ball courts set amidst the jungle, creating a sense of adventure and discovery. Yaxhá's serene ambiance and fewer crowds provide an opportunity for backpackers to explore the ancient structures at their own pace and immerse themselves in the mystique of the Mayan civilization.

Accommodations near Tikal and Yaxhá cater to backpackers with a range of options, including eco-lodges, jungle camps, and budget-friendly hostels. These lodgings often offer guided tours, cultural activities, and opportunities to connect with local communities, providing a holistic and immersive experience.

Travelers can also partake in activities such as birdwatching, nature hikes, and stargazing, making the region an ideal destination for backpackers seeking a blend of adventure, cultural exploration, and natural beauty.

TIP Book a Tikal tour in advance

Booking a Tikal tour in advance is recommended to secure a seamless experience and ensure access to this iconic archaeological site, allowing backpackers to fully immerse themselves in its historical significance. This is more important if you don't speak Spanish and want an English, German, or French speaking guide. The best bilingual guides are in high demand an book up well in advance.

Rio Dulce, Guatemala, offers an enticing array of activities and experiences for backpackers looking to immerse themselves in nature, culture, and adventure. Over the course of two days, travelers can explore this beautiful region, known for its lush landscapes, winding river, and vibrant local life.

On the first day, backpackers can start by taking a boat tour along the Rio Dulce to the Caribbean coast , marveling at the picturesque scenery and spotting diverse bird species as they glide through the tranquil waters. The boat ride can include a visit to the scenic El Boquerón canyon, where the river cuts through towering limestone cliffs, creating a dramatic natural spectacle. Travelers can also make a stop at the hot springs of Finca Paraiso, where they can relax and unwind in the rejuvenating thermal waters, surrounded by tropical vegetation.

For an authentic cultural experience, backpackers can visit the Caribbean coast town of Livingston, accessible by boat from Rio Dulce. This Afro-Caribbean community offers a vibrant blend of Garifuna culture, music, and cuisine, providing an opportunity to savor local delicacies and immerse oneself in the rhythms of traditional Garifuna music and dance. The Caribbean beaches near Livingston are absolutely stunning.

On the second day, explore the natural wonders of the area by venturing into the dense jungle of the surrounding El Boquerón National Park. Guided hikes through the park offer a chance to encounter diverse flora and fauna, including howler monkeys, exotic birds, and lush vegetation. Travelers can also visit the historic Castillo de San Felipe , a Spanish colonial fortress situated at the entrance of Lake Izabal, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's colonial past.

As the 3-week journey draws to a close, backpackers can choose to return to Guatemala City for departure or extend their adventure by venturing into the neighboring tropical paradise of Belize.

Guatemala Backpacking FAQs

When is the best time to visit guatemala.

Understanding the best time to visit Guatemala, considering factors such as weather patterns, festivals, and tourist influx, ensures that backpackers can optimize their travel experience and make the most of their journey.

What to pack for a trip to Guatemala?

Packing essentials for a trip to Guatemala, including lightweight clothing, sturdy footwear, insect repellent, and travel documents, ensures that backpackers are well-prepared for the country's diverse environments and activities. For more guidance read our guide "Guatemala Packing List Items for 2023 & What Clothes To Wear".

It it wise to travel by chicken bus in Guatemala?

Chicken buses in Guatemala, also known as "camionetas" are the main form of public transportation in Guatemala, and how most locals move from place to place. They are retired school buses that travel down from the US and they're noisy, packed full of people, and take speed limits as mere suggestions. If you like adventure, the chicken bus will certainly provide you with a bit of it.

It's not recommended to travel long distances with lots of luggage on the chicken bus because there is often little room and they strap your bags up over the roof, which doesn't always feel the most secure.

If you get motion sickness, a chicken bus from Antigua to Lake Atitlan is absolutely NOT the choice for you. A direct chicken bus from Antigua to Lake Atitlán does not exist, so you will have to make several transfers along the way. You have to get off the chicken bus and look for your change in Los Encuentros and again in Sololá before arriving at your final destination of Panajachel.

How much should I budget for backpacking in Guatemala?

A very frugal backpacker could squeak by on $50 a day with a $15 budget for a shared dorm room, $20 for meals, and $15 for transfers between locations whilst on the go, and use the same $15 for admission fees or entertainment. However increasing a daily budget to $75 or more would provide more creature comforts and a private room.

Kayak Guatemala

Kayak Guatemala is Lake Atitlan’s #1 base camp for exploration and adventure , offering activities like epic volcano hikes , family kayak tours , cooking classes , and village-to-village boat and walking tours . We employ and upskill underprivileged local people, plus a portion of our profits goes towards an NGO that works hard to alleviate poverty in Lake Atitlan.

For more help with planning your trip to Lake Atitlan, check out our "Top Tours & Things To Do In Lake Atitlan" guide .

Tours you might be interested in

#1 Lake Atitlan Tour: San Marcos, San Juan & Santiago

Our best-selling Lake Atitlan tour, this private boat trip allows you to explore the Mayan v...

San Pedro Volcano Hike

The #1 hiking expedition in Lake Atitlan. The San Pedro Volcano hike crosses cloud forest to...

Santa Catarina Tour & San Antonio Village

Visit the famous ceramics studio of San Antonio and the weaving cooperatives of Santa Catari...

Solola Tour With Street Markets & Sacred Caves

On the Solola tour you'll spend a day-in-the-life of the Kaqchikel Maya where the grocery sh...

Travel | Guatemala becoming tourism hot spot for young…

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)

• Food and Drink
• TV & Streaming
• Family Friendly

Things To Do

Travel | guatemala becoming tourism hot spot for young travelers, guatemala can be reached from denver in just two flights and six hours.

A question I fielded several times before my late February trip: Why Guatemala?

My partner and I have made a habit of planning at least one international trip each year. Actually, I’ll shoulder most of the blame — nothing scratches my travel itch like a new passport stamp. But because we’re early-career professionals, with limited stockpiles of paid time off and inevitable bills, a month-long vacation to Southeast Asia or Eastern Europe is out of the question (for now).

Last summer, I found myself in a rabbit hole of research: Panama, Aruba, Curaçao. Slowly, the pieces fell together for Guatemala.

Compared to my other potential destinations, Denver International Airport offers inexpensive connecting flights to Guatemala City that take a minimum of around six hours of travel time. I started to hear about this friend or that roommate who had visited — or even temporarily moved to — the Central American country over the past few years and couldn’t get enough of it.

Social media platform TikTok features videos of jet-setters of every creed successfully journeying through the tourist destinations of Antigua and Lake Atitlán, offering tips on how to navigate the nation. By August, our accommodations were booked.

Both sets of our parents initially balked at the idea. My dad had previously flown to Guatemala City on business, and was confined within the limits of Central America’s largest metropolis. Like others in the baby boomer and Generation X demographics, much of what they’d grown up hearing about the country was related to its conditions during the Guatemalan Civil War, which lasted 36 years.

However, over the past decade, the nation’s tourism industry has consistently grown — minus a setback during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to data-gathering platform Statista . And I was hearing piqued interest from millennials and zoomers about making the trip south. At the Cherry Creek Shopping Center days before my trip, a clerk peppered me with questions about my itinerary as she considered doing the same.

After my editors gave me the green light to briefly chase a story on the ground , the trip became both work and play — four days off, two days on. I took the necessary precautions learned on my last reporting trip to Peru in the pre-COVID era: monitor travel advisories with the U.S. State Department, submit my itinerary to the agency’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program and set an appointment with a travel clinic to get relevant vaccines.

With interviews set and bags packed, we hopped on our 6 a.m. American Airlines flight, then stopped briefly at the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, before touching down in the early afternoon at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. On the flight, our seat neighbor — a Guatemalan who planned to visit her family for a long weekend before heading back to the U.S. — excitedly shared her recommendations, then led us through the winding halls of the airport to customs and immigration.

Guatemala’s cash economy

After a quick and easy process, we were set to embark into a new country — and learned lessons pretty quickly. We brought cash because Guatemala is a cash-reliant economy, particularly outside of its capital city. The airport provides several opportunities to exchange dollars for quetzales, with $1 worth about 8 quetzales, as of mid-April. It’s best to fork over the added exchange fee there and avoid the inconvenience of hunting for a bank like we did later.

More than three million people reside in the city’s urban area, which is made up of 21 zones — some of which tourists are advised against visiting. We stayed one night in Zone 4, which a travel blog calls “ the upcoming hipster area .” Zones 9 and 10 come highly recommended, too. We felt safe and relaxed in the neighborhood around our Airbnb — a unit in a modern apartment complex, with its own private patio.

Our plans for that first day were ambitious: see the National Palace of Culture, stop by the city’s market and eat dinner at steakhouse Hacienda Real Zona 10. Instead, we took in the sunset views on the rooftop of restaurant Los Tres Tiempos in the city’s historical district, cocktails and croquetas de pache — mozzarella croquettes made of Guatemalan potato dough — in hand, before turning in. But if you’re short on time or not a big city person, then you can skip visiting the capital like most tourists do.

Disclaimer: I’m not sure what it would be like to travel through Guatemala without a Spanish speaker by my side. Spanish and even some Mayan dialects take precedence over English throughout the country. Because that’s my partner’s first language, I didn’t have to put my rudimentary skills to the test. However, I encountered plenty of Europeans and North Americans who managed to make it from Point A to Point B.

The next morning started with the one-hour drive west to the colonial city of Antigua. Visitors have several options for transportation. Uber is available, and we used it for a short ride in Guatemala City, but I’d read enough mixed reviews for me to largely opt against it. The bravest — and stingiest — of travelers sometimes ride the chicken buses: decorated buses that serve as public transportation. However, I’d also seen a litany of online grievances, as the buses can often run unreliably and feel crowded, with the risk of pickpockets.

Instead, we used private cars  and shared shuttle services to travel from town to town, which are affordable by American standards. Viator Travel served as a trusty resource for finding highly-reviewed drivers, who often arrived early and provided a smooth ride.

Our two nights in Antigua left us wishing for more time. There, activities abound — sightseeing at the famous Santa Catalina Arch and Central Park, bartering at the massive Mercado Central and eating so many piping-hot tortillas. My go-to breakfast for days in a row: plantains, refried beans, farmer’s cheese and eggs soaked in salsa, scooped into tortillas and washed down with that famous Guatemalan coffee.

Antigua is the place to buy souvenirs. I scored a Mayan cookbook, plus trinkets for my family like handmade worry dolls: tiny dolls that you tuck under your pillow to whisk away your stresses as you dream. It’s also the spot for nightlife, with several dozen bars and restaurants concentrated in a walkable area that’s both spotless and safe.

Speaking of walking, follow our lead and bring a duffle or weekend bag, instead of a suitcase. Otherwise, navigating the cobblestone roads can quickly turn into the bane of your existence. And wear comfortable sneakers. We walked almost 9 miles one day, but that’s the best way to find hole-in-the-wall joints like restaurant Cafeteria La Concepcion, which is where I tried the traditional dish of pepián de pollo, a Guatemalan chicken stew.

Depending on the timing of your trip, you could also experience a local festival. I was delighted to realize that we visited ahead of Semana Santa, or Holy Week, with Guatemala considered a deeply Christian country. Street vendors sell cheap delicacies, such as empanadas de leche, or sweet cream empanadas. Antigua residents wake up every Sunday during Lent and create alfombras — intricately designed “carpets” made of flower petals and sawdust dyed in every color — on the streets before the evening’s religious procession. Then, just hours later, the temporary creations are stepped on and swept up.

From Antigua, you can admire the surrounding peaks of towering volcanoes, and tour operators like OX Expeditions take hikers on excursions to Pacaya, Acatenango and Agua volcanoes. We signed up for an easy sunset hike up to Pacaya and its lava fields. The other two are known as longer, more intense endeavors. I would strongly advise any hiking hopefuls to cough up the money and join a group because robberies of solo tourists are common along the trails.

Lake Atitlán

My first work day was spent reporting in Jocotenango, a town on the outskirts of Antigua, with the team at the nonprofit Education for the Children Foundation. They run the School of Hope, a free private school for disadvantaged students . I chatted with pupils and teachers during the school day. Then, U.S. executive director Sara Miller drove me around town and up to La Vista Hermosa, a shantytown of homes built illegally on the hillside where about 150 of the school’s families reside.

As a journalist, I’m grateful to have spent those hours getting the perspective that tourists often don’t see, but, for that reason, I won’t highlight Jocotenango as a place that visitors need on their itineraries. Then, we hopped in a shared shuttle — a small van that fits 10 passengers — for the three-hour ride to Lake Atitlán. If you get car sick, then it is absolutely necessary to bring non-drowsy motion sickness medicine to survive the winding roads.

Lake Atitlán is often referred to as “the Lake Como of Latin America,” referencing the Italian lake in the Alps’ foothills. It’s also held sacred by the nation’s Mayan population — Guatemala’s largest Indigenous group . Outside of Guatemala City, Native people in their traditional garb are a common sight. A Mayan woman typically wears a corte (skirt), huipil (blouse) and faja (belt), and you come across shops selling the clothing in different colors and patterns.

Upon arriving at the lake, you’re typically dropped off in Panajachel — one of almost a dozen towns and villages sitting on the water’s edge. There, I spent my final day of reporting at the headquarters of nonprofit Friendship Bridge, which works with Indigenous women entrepreneurs to provide loans, business training and more.

Nicknamed Pana, the town is accessible by car, but several of the most popular destinations can only be reached by boat. Before departing Pana for other lakeside locations, stock up on sunscreen, beer or any other desirable products because the small stores in the remote villages offer limited stock.

Public and private lanchas, or boats, float at the main dock to ferry locals and tourists across the lake. Beeline for the cheap public option, which costs 10 to 25 quetzales, or you could be swindled by a private captain into paying hundreds of quetzales for your own boat. It’s a longer wait as the water taxi loads up on passengers, but it’s worthwhile for your wallet.

The lake is a place to relax, swim and hop from village to village, which is exactly what my partner and I did on our last day of vacation. Boats are ever reliable on the lake, and you can flag one down at the nearest dock. But I wanted to try out a tuk-tuk — a doorless, three-wheeled vehicle, manned by a driver, who can transport you between towns. I highly recommend the very Guatemalan experience.

Our favorite village: San Juan La Laguna, which bursts with art, restaurants and merchants. Our least favorite: San Marcos La Laguna — a hippie haven, known for its yoga retreats and meditation centers. However, it felt very gentrified to me.

We didn’t get the chance to visit Santa Catarina Palopó, where the houses are painted in eye-popping colors. Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve has a prime spot for cliff jumping into the lake, which I’d add to my list when we return.

And that’s “when,” not “if,” because I’d happily fly back to Guatemala for a much longer trip in the future. Not only did I feel welcome and safe during my travels, but I also experienced an adventure that I won’t soon forget.

Where to eat:

Los Tres Tiempos, 6ta. Avenida “A” 10-13 Zona 01, Azotea Del Edificio Centro Vivo, Cuidad de Guatemala: A chic rooftop restaurant, this is the ideal spot to watch the sun set in Guatemala City’s historical district. Enjoy 360-degree views of the Central American metropolis on the outdoor patio.

Cafeteria La Concepcion, H75F+5C4, Antigua: This unpretentious, hole-in-the-wall restaurant offers a limited menu for low prices, with top-tier Guatemalan food like pepián de pollo.

Restaurante 7 Caldos, 3a Calle Oriente 24, Antigua: Enter through the cobblestone street into an open-air restaurant where you can watch as your tortillas are made fresh. The expansive menu, which includes cocktails, is sure to satisfy most cravings.

Café 22, 6a Calle Poniente 8, Antigua: This small café feels like your own private courtyard. Stop by for a cup of Guatemalan espresso and lunch.

Casa Troccoli, H758+773, 5a Avenida Norte, Antigua: With its romantic architecture and expansive garden, date night should go smoothly at Casa Troccoli. Its red sangria is a great way to cool off, so check it out for a quick drink or a meal.

Subscribe to our weekly newsletter, In The Know, to get entertainment news sent straight to your inbox.

• Report an Error
• Submit a News Tip

More in Travel

Outdoors | Pikes Peak is getting “trashed” by overuse and blatant disregard for the environment

Travel | A road trip to Oklahoma, the path of totality, and making family memories

Travel | Eight Colorado hotels get new Michelin Keys

Restaurants, Food and Drink | Will DIA’s on-site brewery ever make beer again? The answer is up in the air.

Things to know before visiting Guatemala

Nov 2, 2023 • 7 min read

Guatemala is a fascinating country with so much to see – here are tips that will help you make the most out of your trip © Fernanda Reyes / Getty Images

Guatemala has been my second home for nearly two decades, and the country still captivates me: the landscape with its volcanoes and coffee trees, the 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. However, there's information travelers to Guatemala should know before visiting if you really want to enjoy all it has to offer. 

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 your typhoid, hepatitis A and B, rabies, flu and TDaP (tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough) shots. It’s best to visit a travel clinic at least a month before your trip if you need to get vaccinated so there’s enough time to give you full protection. Some vaccines, like hepatitis B and rabies, require follow-up doses.

Bring your own bug spray if you like it DEET free

Most of the things you may have forgotten at home are available 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. The mosquito-borne diseases of malaria, zika, dengue fever and chikungunya are all endemic in parts of Guatemala. 

Don't go without sunscreen

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 use it.

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.

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). 

When in doubt, cover up

Guatemalans tend to be religious: practicing Catholic, evangelical or, to a smaller 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 Ladino-dominated areas, 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 shorter than 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. However, 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 purified water: bottled water is readily available everywhere. 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 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, but 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 name instead. 

You may also find that Guatemalans like to ask personal questions: how old you are, how many children you have, where you are going. 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, 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 gracias  (thank you) show that you were raised right. If you learn to say thank you in the Mayan dialect spoken at your destination, it’s 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 drinking, 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 micro-aggressions 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. 

However, as a woman traveler, you may find real solidarity – 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 LGBTQI+ scene is small   

Same-sex relationships are legal in Guatemala but 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. Take your cues from your surroundings and watch how the local community behaves towards 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. However, 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 the 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 Nov 2, 2023.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Jan 7, 2024 • 3 min read

Honduras has a wealth of attractions awaiting you, so don't allow visa drama to delay your trip. Find out if you need one and how to get it.

Dec 26, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 7, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 5, 2023 • 11 min read

Oct 27, 2023 • 7 min read

Oct 18, 2023 • 7 min read

Oct 8, 2023 • 4 min read

Oct 5, 2023 • 6 min read

Aug 24, 2023 • 4 min read

Aug 17, 2023 • 5 min read