Antigua Guatemala is a charming city that will transport you back in time with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture. The city, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is surrounded by three volcanoes, giving... more
Antigua Guatemala is a charming city that will transport you back in time with its cobblestone streets and well-preserved Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture. The city, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is surrounded by three volcanoes, giving it a picturesque setting. Visit the beautiful baroque churches, explore the vibrant markets, and enjoy a cup of the country`s renowned coffee. Despite several earthquakes, the city retains much of its colonial charm and is a delight to explore on foot. less
Named after Guatemala`s national bird, the Resplendent Quetzal, the Biotopo del Quetzal is a nature reserve dedicated to the conservation of this unique bird species. The cloud forest habitat is lush and vibrant, making it an excellent place for hiki... more
Named after Guatemala`s national bird, the Resplendent Quetzal, the Biotopo del Quetzal is a nature reserve dedicated to the conservation of this unique bird species. The cloud forest habitat is lush and vibrant, making it an excellent place for hiking and bird watching. Visitors have the opportunity to spot not only the Quetzal but also a variety of other bird species native to the area. less
The Lanquín Caves are a large network of limestone caves near the Q`eqchi` Maya town of Lanquín. Visitors can explore the cave system on a guided tour, which takes you through caverns filled with stalactites and stalagmites, bat colonies, and even a... more
The Lanquín Caves are a large network of limestone caves near the Q`eqchi` Maya town of Lanquín. Visitors can explore the cave system on a guided tour, which takes you through caverns filled with stalactites and stalagmites, bat colonies, and even a subterranean river. The caves are considered sacred by the local Q`eqchi` Maya people, and you`ll find an altar at the entrance where traditional ceremonies are still performed. less
Known as Chichi, this bustling market in the town of Chichicastenango is one of the largest and most vibrant in Central America. Local vendors sell everything from textiles and ceramics to medicinal plants and traditional foods. It`s a feast for the... more
Known as Chichi, this bustling market in the town of Chichicastenango is one of the largest and most vibrant in Central America. Local vendors sell everything from textiles and ceramics to medicinal plants and traditional foods. It`s a feast for the senses and a great place to interact with locals and learn about Guatemalan culture. The market is especially active on Thursdays and Sundays, making it a must-visit on those days. less
Located in Guatemala City, the Ixchel Museum celebrates Guatemala`s rich tradition of textile artistry. It houses a remarkable collection of indigenous textiles and clothing from various regions and eras. You`ll learn about different weaving techniqu... more
Located in Guatemala City, the Ixchel Museum celebrates Guatemala`s rich tradition of textile artistry. It houses a remarkable collection of indigenous textiles and clothing from various regions and eras. You`ll learn about different weaving techniques, traditional designs, and the cultural significance of various garments. The museum also provides insights into the daily lives and traditions of Guatemala`s indigenous communities. less
Located in the Western Highlands, Iximche was once the capital of the Kaqchikel Maya kingdom before the Spanish conquest. Today, you can explore its ruins, which include ball courts, a ceremonial plaza, and several temples and palaces. In addition to... more
Located in the Western Highlands, Iximche was once the capital of the Kaqchikel Maya kingdom before the Spanish conquest. Today, you can explore its ruins, which include ball courts, a ceremonial plaza, and several temples and palaces. In addition to its historical significance, Iximche is still considered a sacred site by the Kaqchikel Maya people, who continue to perform ceremonies here. less
Surrounded by mountains and three impressive volcanoes, Lake Atitlán is known for its natural beauty and the charming villages that line its shores. The deepest lake in Central America is also home to several indigenous communities that maintain thei... more
Surrounded by mountains and three impressive volcanoes, Lake Atitlán is known for its natural beauty and the charming villages that line its shores. The deepest lake in Central America is also home to several indigenous communities that maintain their traditional Mayan culture and customs. Each village has its own distinctive personality, and many visitors enjoy taking boat trips to visit multiple towns in one day. The lake offers a plethora of activities, including hiking, kayaking, bird watching, and visiting the local markets. less
In the town of San Juan la Laguna, the Living Maya Experience offers visitors an immersive look into the lives and traditions of the Tz`utujil Mayan community. You can participate in traditional activities such as backstrap weaving and tortilla-makin... more
In the town of San Juan la Laguna, the Living Maya Experience offers visitors an immersive look into the lives and traditions of the Tz`utujil Mayan community. You can participate in traditional activities such as backstrap weaving and tortilla-making, learn about medicinal plants, and enjoy a traditional meal. This community-based tourism project provides a deeper understanding of the rich Mayan culture while also supporting local families. less
Monterrico is a relaxed beach town on Guatemala`s Pacific coast known for its volcanic black sand beaches and a stunning nature reserve, Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii. This is a place to kick back, enjoy the sunsets, and perhaps partake in a turtle relea... more
Monterrico is a relaxed beach town on Guatemala`s Pacific coast known for its volcanic black sand beaches and a stunning nature reserve, Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii. This is a place to kick back, enjoy the sunsets, and perhaps partake in a turtle release project as the beach is a vital nesting site for several species of sea turtles. Note that the sea can be rough here, with strong currents, so it`s more for admiring than for swimming. less
Located in Guatemala City, Museo Popol Vuh houses one of the most extensive collections of Mayan art in the world. The museum`s displays encompass the Preclassic to the Postclassic period, and visitors can view an array of artifacts, including cerami... more
Located in Guatemala City, Museo Popol Vuh houses one of the most extensive collections of Mayan art in the world. The museum`s displays encompass the Preclassic to the Postclassic period, and visitors can view an array of artifacts, including ceramics, stone sculptures, and burial urns. The museum is named after the Popol Vuh, a text recounting the mythology and history of the K`iche` people, one of the Maya peoples, who inhabit the Guatemalan Highlands. less
For adventure seekers, a hike up Pacaya Volcano is a must. This active volcano offers a unique opportunity to see lava flows up close and experience the power of nature firsthand. The volcano is one of the most active in Central America, and while th... more
For adventure seekers, a hike up Pacaya Volcano is a must. This active volcano offers a unique opportunity to see lava flows up close and experience the power of nature firsthand. The volcano is one of the most active in Central America, and while the hike is challenging, it`s also incredibly rewarding, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. After the hike, enjoy a well-earned break and roast marshmallows over the heat from the volcanic rocks. less
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quiriguá is an ancient Mayan archaeological site located in the southeastern part of Guatemala. It`s renowned for its impressive series of carved stelae and sculpted calendars that date back to the 8th century. Des... more
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Quiriguá is an ancient Mayan archaeological site located in the southeastern part of Guatemala. It`s renowned for its impressive series of carved stelae and sculpted calendars that date back to the 8th century. Despite its relatively small size, Quiriguá stands as an important testament to Mayan civilization and its sophisticated understanding of astronomy, hieroglyphic writing, and monumental sculpture. less
Located on the slopes of the San Pedro Volcano, the Reserva Natural Atitlán is a private nature reserve that offers a host of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails weave through the reserve, leading you through coffee plantations, a butte... more
Located on the slopes of the San Pedro Volcano, the Reserva Natural Atitlán is a private nature reserve that offers a host of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails weave through the reserve, leading you through coffee plantations, a butterfly garden, and a nocturnal animal house. The hanging bridges and zip-lining course add a thrilling edge to your visit. This reserve is an excellent place to appreciate Guatemala`s abundant natural beauty. less
Rio Dulce is a river in eastern Guatemala that flows into the Caribbean Sea. Along its banks, you`ll find a rich variety of flora and fauna, hot springs, a Spanish colonial fort, and the town of Livingston, where Garifuna culture thrives. The river i... more
Rio Dulce is a river in eastern Guatemala that flows into the Caribbean Sea. Along its banks, you`ll find a rich variety of flora and fauna, hot springs, a Spanish colonial fort, and the town of Livingston, where Garifuna culture thrives. The river is a perfect destination for those who love boating, fishing, and exploring diverse ecosystems, as it is surrounded by a protected wetland where manatees sometimes can be seen. less
Santiago Atitlán is the largest of the lakeside communities around Lake Atitlán and is noted for its vibrant traditional Tz`utujil Maya culture. It`s home to the Cojolya Association, where you can learn about the centuries-old art of backstrap weavin... more
Santiago Atitlán is the largest of the lakeside communities around Lake Atitlán and is noted for its vibrant traditional Tz`utujil Maya culture. It`s home to the Cojolya Association, where you can learn about the centuries-old art of backstrap weaving and see artisans at work. Santiago Atitlán is also known for the Maximon shrine, a fascinating syncretic religious site where traditional Mayan and Catholic rituals are performed side by side. less
A natural monument in the Alta Verapaz department, Semuc Champey is a secluded paradise. This natural limestone bridge covers a portion of the Cahabón River, and atop it sit a series of stepped, turquoise pools that are perfect for swimming. The surr... more
A natural monument in the Alta Verapaz department, Semuc Champey is a secluded paradise. This natural limestone bridge covers a portion of the Cahabón River, and atop it sit a series of stepped, turquoise pools that are perfect for swimming. The surrounding area is full of lush vegetation and is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for nature lovers. less
Tikal National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Guatemala`s jungle region, and it`s one of the largest archaeological sites of the pre-Columbian Mayan civilization. The park spans over 575 square kilometers and is home to thousand... more
Tikal National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Guatemala`s jungle region, and it`s one of the largest archaeological sites of the pre-Columbian Mayan civilization. The park spans over 575 square kilometers and is home to thousands of structures, including six large temple pyramids. The Great Plaza with its stelae and altars, the North and Central Acropolis, and the Temple of the Jaguar are just a few of the must-see sights. Not only is the park full of fascinating Mayan history, but it`s also teeming with wildlife like monkeys, jaguars, and tropical birds. less
Yaxhá is the third-largest Mayan site in Guatemala, and yet it receives far fewer visitors than Tikal, giving it a much more peaceful atmosphere. The site is set amidst a lush jungle and features impressive structures, including a 30-meter tall templ... more
Yaxhá is the third-largest Mayan site in Guatemala, and yet it receives far fewer visitors than Tikal, giving it a much more peaceful atmosphere. The site is set amidst a lush jungle and features impressive structures, including a 30-meter tall temple with panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest and Yaxhá Lake. Sunset tours are particularly popular here, as they offer a chance to see the site in a different light. less
Zaculeu or Saqulew is a pre-Columbian Maya archaeological site in the highlands of western Guatemala, near the modern city of Huehuetenango. It was the capital of the Mam kingdom, and its architecture features a mix of Mam and central Mexican styles.... more
Zaculeu or Saqulew is a pre-Columbian Maya archaeological site in the highlands of western Guatemala, near the modern city of Huehuetenango. It was the capital of the Mam kingdom, and its architecture features a mix of Mam and central Mexican styles. Today, visitors can explore the site`s central plaza and the numerous temple-pyramids that surround it. Be sure to visit the on-site museum to see a variety of artifacts unearthed during excavations. less
