3 cool places to visit in guatemala

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Home » Central America » Places to Visit

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

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

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

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

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

The BEST Places to Visit in Guatemala

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Attractions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Traditional markets and shopping.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Xela

Hostel: Casa Seibel

Hotel: Casa Morasan Hotel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Livingston

Hostel: Casa De La Iguana

Hotel: Casa Nostra

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

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

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

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

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

#12 – El Boqueron Canyon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Antigua

Hostel: El Hostal BNB

Hotel: Selina Antigua

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Village on Lake Atitlan
• Cheap shopping and markets

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Panajachel

Hostel: Hostal Dulces Sueños

Hotel: Hotel Utz Jay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

#19 – Sierra Del Lacandon National Park

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

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

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

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

#20 – Ixil Region – Places to Visit in Guatemala with Culture and Hiking

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

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

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

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

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#21 – Flores – The Gateway to Tikal National Park

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Flores

Hostel: Hostel Yaxha

Hotel: Ciao Cacao

#22 – Rio Dulce – An awesome place to visit in Guatemala for half a day!

• The main connection to Livingston.

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

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

#23 – Zone 4, Guatemala City

• The artistic hub of Guatemala City
• Great for nightlife

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

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

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

Get insured for your trip to Guatemala!

Make sure you get insured if you’re ever going to Guatemala – or anywhere for that matter. It’s a no-brainer really.

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

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Guatemala

What are two popular tourist destinations in Guatemala?

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

Is Guatemala a safe place to visit?

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

What is Guatemala famous for?

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

What are places to avoid in Guatemala?

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

Now that you know a little more about Guatemala, you can see how this stunning country is rich in history and overflowing with some of the most abundant landscapes in the world. With tons of outdoor activities and iconic attractions, we hope you feel inspired to visit this often overlooked destination!

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

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Claire Martin

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

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

What does a trip to Guatemala on average cost?

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

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The 17 Absolute Best Places to Visit in Guatemala 

Some of the best places to visit in Guatemala are relatively unknown to the wider world. Though the country is firmly on the backpacker route of Central America, many never make it past Lake Atitlan , Tikal , and Antigua . But that doesn’t begin to cover the best places to visit in Guatemala! There’s so much more to do in this diverse country. 

Guatemala is a nature lover’s paradise, with lush rainforests, epic waterfalls, active volcanoes, and clear blue cenotes. Though neighboring Belize and Mexico take much of the limelight, Guatemala has its own treasure trove of Mayan history, Spanish colonial cities, and pristine jungle-backed beaches. Plus Guatemala is often a lot more affordable than its Central American neighbors.

So if you’re planning a trip to Guatemala, make sure not to miss these absolute best places to visit in Guatemala.

The Best Places to Visit in Guatemala

The mayan ruins of tikal .

Visit one of the most important cities of Mesoamerica, the ancient Mayan city of Tikal . Lost within the dense jungles of the Mayan Biosphere Reserve in northern Guatemala, Tikal is one of the most visited sights in the country. It’s easy to see why it is one of the best places to visit in Guatemala.

Tikal was once home to the largest ancient civilization in Mesoamerica, the Maya, famous for their dark rituals involving human sacrifice. Now it’s a more peaceful place, alive with wildlife like monkeys, toucans, coatis, and jaguars. 

Lake of Peten Itza and Flores

Lake of Peten Itza (located in the amazing city of Flores) is another of the best places to visit in Guatemala. You can stay in Tikal National Park overnight but many choose to base themselves in nearby Flores. This small touristy island is thought to have been the last Mayan city to be conquered when the Spanish came to Guatemala in the 1500s.

It’s full of interesting alleyways and multicultural restaurants with amazing views of the stunning Lake Peten Itza. Visit Arcas , a non-profit animal rescue and rehabilitation center, to see the jungle’s wildlife up close and to support their vital work.

Semuc Champey and Lanquín

East of the highland city of Cobán lies the popular tourist town of San Agustín Lanquín , one of the best places to visit in Guatemala for outdoor activities. Go rafting, explore the many beautiful bat-filled caves, and go hiking in Parque Nacional Grutas de Lanquin. But the main reason so many people visit Lanquin is Semuc Champey.

Well known as one of the best things to do in Guatemala, Semuc Champey is a series of gently cascading waterfalls set in a remote part of the Guatemalan jungle. Go river tubing, explore the nearby cave by candlelight, or hike to the mirador (viewpoint) to get a better perspective of the scale of this natural wonder. Stay at Greengo’s Hotel to explore the falls, or take a bone-shattering 4×4 drive from a hotel in town.

El Retiro Lodge is also a great place to stay in Lanquin, located right on the river’s edge.

Parque Nacional Sierra del Lacandón

Swim in cenotes and visit Maya ruins in Parque Nacional Sierra del Lacandón . Located in the Peten Department west of Flores, it’s about as out of the way as you can get. The 202,865-hectare national park is the second largest in Guatemala and one of the most biodiverse, home to endangered animals, such as pumas, jaguars, and scarlet macaws. The main activities here revolve around the rainforest and the Usumacinta river basin.

Parque Nacional Laguna Lachua

For one of the best “off-the-beaten track” places to visit in Guatemala, head to the coffee-growing region of Alta Verapaz. The vast national park is home to howler monkeys and tarantulas, as well as a crystal clear swimming spot surrounded by the jungle. 

Lake Lachuá is just a two-hour drive from Coban, then it’s a moderate trek through the jungle to the camping lodge where you can stay overnight. Facilities are basic (you will need to bring in your own food and equipment), but you are rewarded with a picture-perfect turquoise lagoon and complete tranquility.

Everyone visiting Guatemala will end up in Antigua at some point or other. As the transit hub for the country, it’s a short 45-minute drive from Guatemala’s main international airport in Guatemala City . The entire city oozes colonial charm and there are so many things to do including the iconic Arco de Santa Catarina, Convento Santa Clara, and the Cerro de La Cruz lookout over the terracotta rooftops of the city.

Streets are filled with traditional Mayan crafts like jewelry made from jade, wooden masks, and hand-woven purses. For some of the best, head to Mercado de Artesanías where you can expect to haggle for your purchases, it’s common practice and the prices reflect this.  Check out a full list of things to do in Antigua Guatemala here .

The food is also something not to be missed in Antigua with arguably some of the best places to eat in Guatemala. Head to Angie Angie Cafearte for some of the best pizzas in town, Pappys BBQ for perfectly grilled meat, or Los Tres Tiempos for delicious Guatemalan food.

More Posts About Antigua

10 of the best hotels in antigua guatemala, 24 unique things to do in antigua guatemala, pacaya volcano .

Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes in total, but the most popular one to climb is Pacaya Volcano . Its proximity to Antigua combined with its easily reachable summit, make it unmissable on the list of places to visit in Guatemala. It’s also one of the most active volcanoes in Central America. Ash clouds regularly erupt from the summit and lava flows can be seen from the hike to the top of the crater.

Another option for those interested in geothermal activity is hiking up the more strenuous Acatenango Volcano. It involves an overnight hike to the summit to watch the frequent eruptions of the neighboring Volcano Fuego, the erupting lava glowing orange against the dark night sky.

Quetzaltenango 

For exploring the western highlands Quetzaltenango, also known as Xela, is another one of the best places to visit in Guatemala. This high-altitude city feels like a small town with cozy cafes, friendly locals, and lively restaurants that spill out onto the street. Many visit to learn Spanish in one of the local schools or to join a volunteer program.

But that’s not all there is to do here, the city is a gateway to some of the best hiking in Guatemala. Take a guided 5-hour hike to visit Laguna Chicaba. This sacred lake is high on the side of a volcano so can be challenging to reach. But the views make every step worthwhile!

You can also take a day trip from Quetzaltenango to the mountain hot springs at Fuentes Georginas, or hike the twin volcanoes of Santa Maria and Volcán Santiaguito.

Chichicastenango

Visit Chichicastenango, a two-hour drive east of Quetzaltenango, on a Thursday or a Sunday and you will be treated to one of the largest open-air markets in Guatemala. The craft market is a fantastic showcase of indigenous Maya culture. Everyone from shop owners to local farmers seem to get in on the action, with busy stalls filling up every corner of the city center.

Other sights in town include the 16th-century Maya/Catholic Santo Tomás Apóstol Church, the Rossbach Archaeological Museum, and the Maya shrine of Pascual Abaj.

Lago de Atitlan and Panajachel

Some of the best things to do around Lake Atitlan include paragliding, paddle boarding, and hiking, but many come just to marvel at the views. You could easily spend a week just staring at the cobalt blue lake and the surrounding volcanic mountains.

If you’re looking to brush up on some Spanish, San Pedro has many language schools and a matching student nightlife scene. Or for a more relaxing stay, San Juan is the perfect spot for yoga, vegetarian cafes, and local culture.

Base yourself in the beautiful Spanish colonial town of Pana (Panajachel) for unbelievable views of Lake Atitlan. It’s the perfect place to stay for tours of the lake as well as day trips to all of the lake villages . Purchase artisan wares from local merchants during the day then spend the night enjoying the city’s varied nightlife.

Ixil Region and Nebaj 

The remote and rural state of Quiché is one of the best places to visit in Guatemala but is off the beaten path. Visit the Ixil Triangle for unique hikes and jaw-dropping landscapes you won’t find elsewhere. You can explore the remote highlands of the Cuchumatanes Mountains here. They form the tallest mountain chain in Central America. 

The Mayan mountain city of Nebaj is over 2,000 years old and is the main base for exploring the area, and is home to many archaeological remains of the pre-Columbian civilization. One of the most popular hikes in the region is Nebaj to Todos Santos . The journey can take five to six days but is filled with history, jaw-dropping cliffs, and local communities that have thrived in these remote areas.

Todos Santos Cuchumatan 

Todos Santos Cuchumatan is another one of the best places to visit in Guatemala. It’s located near Nebaj and is a charming village that has managed to maintain its culture. If you ever wanted to have a genuine local experience in Guatemala, this is the place to do it. Todos Santos Cuchumatan is known for its Day of the Dead celebrations that are held annually on All Saints Day. The main attraction is a heavily intoxicated horse that runs through the town streets. It’s definitely an experience not to be missed! 

Did you know that Guatemala is home to some beautiful beaches? The small town of Monterrico is located on the Pacific Coast of Guatemala and its black sand beaches make it one of the best places to visit in Guatemala. If you visit between September and January, you’ll get the chance to release baby sea turtles back into the ocean. Relax on the volcanic beach or even take a boat trip into the Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii Nature Reserve . There you can also go ziplining, spotting the many tropical birds in the high canopy as you glide through the trees.

Two hours west of Monterrico is the small surf town of El Paredon in Guatemala. The city isn’t known for its abundance of activities but that’s where the charm of the town lies. Spanish classes, surfing lessons, and lively evenings are the most popular way to pass the time in this laid-back destination.

Looking for a place to stay in El Paredon? You’ll definitely want to consider Pacifico El Paredon !

El Boqueron Canyon

El Boqueron Canyon is one of the most underrated attractions in the country but is definitely one of the best places to visit in Guatemala. The narrow canyon is tucked away in the lush green jungles of Guatemala and is filled with hidden corners that are perfect for exploring. While you’re there, take a local boat tour and paddle upstream to see the steep limestone walls of the canyon. After a long day of exploring, visit the Aguas Termales y Spa for beautiful waterfalls and a refreshing dip in the hot springs.

The Rio Dulce, or “sweet river” in English, is as wonderful as its name suggests. The river starts from Lago Izabal, Guatemala’s largest lake, and passes through Fronteras (also known as Rio Dulce confusingly) and Livingston into the Caribbean Sea. There are plenty of things to do in and around Rio Dulce. 

Don’t miss the Castle of San Felipe of Lara, a colonial fort on the banks of Lago de Izabal, you can also see manatees and go boating on the lake. Another site nearby is Quirigua, a Mayan city dating back to 400 BC. Lesser known than Tikal, it’s famous for its intricately carved stelae and statues.

Right on the beautiful Caribbean coast of Guatemala at the mouth of Rio Dulce, is the relaxed town of Livingston. Best known for its population of Garifuna people descended from Africans and indigenous Caribs, the town is alive with music and dance; both essential parts of the lively culture. 

Originally from St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the Garifuna people now live in a few settlements along the Caribbean coasts of Nicaragua, Honduras, Belize, and Guatemala. Hotel Casa Nostra is a great place to call home for a few days, with a scenic dock over the river and terrific food like the ‘house shrimp’ on offer.

You can’t go wrong with any of these locations when seeking the best places to visit in Guatemala. Which is on your list?

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The top things to do in Guatemala, from cultural experiences to volcano treks

Oct 10, 2023 • 8 min read

Guatemala offers a diverse array of travel experiences you'll be sure to remember © mystockimages / Getty Images

Guatemala is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventurers, and while the country has no shortage of outdoor adventures, it offers so much more than volcanoes and jungles.

From studying Spanish in the mountain town of Quetzaltenango to experiencing a sacred Maya cacao ceremony at Lago de Atitlán, Guatemala serves up plentiful opportunities to forge a deeper connection with the people and the land.

Here are our top 12 things to do in Guatemala.

Paraglide over Lago de Atitlán

The astounding beauty of Lago de Atitlán is usually appreciated from its serene shores or from the peak of the San Pedro volcano, but a more unusual way to take in all of its beauty is by paragliding over the placid waters.

Real World Paragliding will take you on a soaring flight that offers bird’s-eye views of the deep crater lake and the towering trifecta of volcanoes that surround it. The tours take about 45 minutes and start in the village of Santa Catarina Palopo, near Panajachel , or from the village of Santa Clara La Laguna, closer to San Pedro La Laguna .

Surf on a black-sand beach at El Paredon

The black-sand beaches of Guatemala's Pacific coast are growing in popularity as great places to surf. The laid-back fishing village of El Paredon is less crowded than other surf beaches in Central America, and it has waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. The long-established beachfront El Paredon Surf Camp offers basic accommodations, surf lessons and board rentals.

Visit the women weavers of San Juan La Laguna

Made on traditional backstrap looms, Guatemalan textiles are some of the most beautiful in the world, and if you spend any amount of time in this country, you’re bound to become curious about how these colorful patterns are made. The lakeside village of San Juan La Laguna is the perfect place to take a deep dive into the world of weaving while indulging in some socially responsible shopping at the same time.

The narrow streets of San Juan La Laguna are lined with dozens of women’s cooperatives where Mayan weavers create gorgeous, intricate textiles. Arrange a tour through a company such as Casa Flor Ixcaco to visit one of these co-ops and learn how the weavers use local organic cotton and natural dyes made from fruits, vegetables, plants and herbs to create the fabrics. A visit is an excellent way to learn about Guatemalan culture, support local artists, and find some ethical souvenirs to bring back home.

Study Spanish in Quetzaltenango

The mountain town of Quetzaltenango is full of Spanish schools and cafes where you can swot up on grammar dot its rustic, charming cobblestone streets. With a cooler climate than the rest of the country and more economical prices than Antigua , it’s the perfect place to stay and study Spanish in a town less frequented by tourists.

Spanish schools offer homestays and lots of activities to complement in-class learning, including visits to nearby hot springs, volcano hikes and cultural evenings to learn about the history of the region from guest speakers. Proyecto Lingüistico Quetzalteco has been operating its socially responsible language program for many years, and it’s run by a collective of excellent teachers – courses here are highly recommended for those who want to learn more about the social, political and economic realities of life in Guatemala.

Experience a cacao ceremony in San Marcos La Laguna

For a different kind of travel experience, join a hot chocolate ceremony. This activity is gaining popularity in the town of San Marcos La Laguna , where ceremonial circles gather to drink Guatemalan-style hot chocolate under the counsel of a local guide. Cacao has been cultivated in Guatemala since before the conquistadors arrived, and many believe Guatemala to be the original birthplace of chocolate. This ancient foodstuff was used as currency before money was introduced, and it has long been revered as a health elixir and aphrodisiac.

During a cacao ceremony, a Mayan spiritual guide will prepare a drink prepared with ground cacao, sweetenings and spices. The ceremony that follows introduces those in the circle to the sacred and medicinal properties of the cacao bean. Cacao is traditionally known as a heart-opening beverage that helps those who drink it to connect with nature, one another and themselves.

Visit a coffee farm from historic Antigua

Thanks to their lofty elevation, moderate temperatures and mineral-rich volcanic soil, the highlands of Guatemala produce some of the best coffee in the world. Many of the country’s coffee farms are located in the hills around Antigua , making for a perfect day trip from this charming city.

Visitors can take a luxury tour of famous Finca Filadelfia , a gorgeous sprawling plantation that’s more than 140 years old, or opt for a smaller co-op such as De la Gente , where community tours are led by the coffee growers themselves. Both experiences take visitors through the entire coffee-making process from seed to cup, with an opportunity for coffee tasting at the end.

Climb a volcano and roast marshmallows over lava

It can be hard to choose which volcano to climb in Guatemala, but Volcán Pacaya is a good bet for almost everyone. This moderately paced hike starts close to Antigua and can be completed in a day, with the added excitement of seeing fresh lava at the top.

Because Pacaya is a designated national park, plenty of amenities are available including stands where you can rest and buy local treats along the way. But the best snack break happens near the top, where everyone pulls out marshmallows to roast over the cooling lava. Hiking Volcán Pacaya is an easy day trip from Antigua, and the experience is best booked through a local agency.

Shop around in the Chichicastenango market

Nestled in the green mountains of the western highlands, the town of Chichicastenango hosts a famous artisans’ market every Sunday and Thursday. It should be on every serious shopper's list of things to do in Guatemala. The historic market was once the main trading center for the Quiché region before the conquistadors arrived, and the tradition of people coming from surrounding villages to sell goods continues to this day.

Expect to find a labyrinth of stalls piled high with gorgeous textiles – the most popular items are huipils , the traditional blouses woven and worn by Mayan women. Other crafts that can be found at the market include wood carvings, masks, leather goods, pottery, jade and silver and gold jewelry. A visit to the market is an easy day trip from Quetzaltenango or Lago de Atitlán .

Drink at the oldest bar in Guatemala City

Rumored to have been the favorite watering hole of Che Guevara during his many visits to Guatemala City in the 1950s, El Portal was the first proper bar to open in the capital in 1932. It’s tucked in the heart of the historic center, and stopping in for a drink feels like stepping back in time. The menu hasn’t changed much over the years either, and you can sidle up to the old wooden bar and drink a cold pint of Gallo beer while listening to marimba music and enjoying the friendly atmosphere.

Birdwatch in the cloud forests of Alta Verapaz

Teeming with orchids, ferns and bromeliads, the cloud forests of Alta Verapaz are an untouched wilderness and a birdwatcher’s paradise. The best place to spot birds is in the Biotopo del Quetzal , a nature reserve dedicated to protecting Guatemala’s national bird – the striking red and teal-colored quetzal. The pine, cypress and eucalyptus trees host many other species of tropical birds, including the emerald toucanet and forest falcons. The best time of year to see quetzals is in March or June, just before or after the nesting season.

Visit the jungle ruins of Tikal

The ruins of Tikal are buried deep in the jungle in El Petén , surrounded by lush vegetation and stalked by screaming howler monkeys and colorful toucans. Once the most important city in the Maya world, this impressive ancient site is home to more than 200 structures, some of which are still completely or partially swallowed by jungle.

The most dramatic building is Templo IV , a pyramid rising 65m (213ft) above the grassy courtyard below – it’s the perfect place to watch the sunrise. Exploring the ruins takes a full day, and it’s a standout experience not only for its archaeological wonders, but also for its exceptional biodiversity. The surrounding jungle shelters hundreds of species of tropical birds, crocodiles, snakes, coatis, monkeys and even the occasional jaguar.

Swim in the otherworldly pools of Semuc Champey

The tiered turquoise pools and natural limestone bridge at Semuc Champey make the perfect destination for water lovers looking for epic photo opportunities. This national monument is a natural paradise reached via a moderate hike that snakes through lush vegetation and ends at a breathtaking viewpoint looking out over the striking pools and the green gorge beyond. The nearby K’anba Caves are a popular add-on to the hike, and local tour agencies offer candle-lit swims through the underground river cave system.

This article was first published May 2022 and updated October 2023

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19 Best Things to Do in Guatemala for an UNFORGETTABLE Trip

Planning a trip to Guatemala, eh?

Guatemala is the bomb dot com—hands down one of my favorite countries in Latin America.

There are TONS of cool things to do in Guatemala. I spent over two months there and barely scratched the surface .

The best part is, most of the top things to do in Guatemala are super close together. So if you’re short on time, you’ll still be able to visit loads of amazing places (and not waste your whole trip traveling).

So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

As you’ll see, most of the popular things to do in Guatemala are all located close to each other in a centralized area.

Guatemala Digital Nomad Outlook: You won’t find blazing fast internet speeds here. But if you’re looking for a cheap place to live oozing culture, natural beauty, and fun—Guatemala is right up your alley. Antigua has a small digital nomad community with a coworking space that offers internet speed of 20mbps. But anywhere else, you can expect around 4-5mbps. If you don’t care about community and want somewhere peaceful and nature-y to focus on remote work , check out the villages surrounding Lake Atitlán.

Table of Contents

Map of Best Things to Do in Guatemala

#1.) explore the tikal jungle ruins, #2.) wander around the colorful island of flores, #3.) soak up caribbean vibes in livingston, #4.) tarzan through the jungle at semuc champey, #5.) get your big city fix in guatemala city, #6.) bust out your photography skills in iconic antigua, #7.) scramble up active volcanoes, #8.) learn spanish in san pedro la laguna, #9.) take a guatemalan coffee tour in san juan, #10.) hike indian nose for sunrise, #11.) relax at la iguana perdida in santa cruz la laguna, #12.) do hippie stuff in san marcos la laguna, #13.) parasail over the lake in panajachel, #14.) kayak and paddleboard on lake atitlán, #15.) get your haggle on at the chichicastenango (“chichi”) market, #16.) visit the iximche mayan ruins, #17.) volunteer in the community, #18.) visit a black sand beach, #19.) take a chicken bus adventure, guatemala packing list – important items you can’t forget, insider guatemala travel tips, how to stay safe in guatemala, what to do in guatemala recap.

I created this handy map to help you plan out your Guatemala itinerary. It includes all the places mentioned in this post.

To keep things organized, I’ve grouped the activities into zones based on their location (from north to south). If you already know where you will be traveling in Guatemala, you can click the links below to jump to a specific zone.

Northern Guatemala Central Guatemala Antigua + Guatemala City Lake Atitlán Southern Coast

Money in Guatemala: To help you estimate the prices given in this article, $1 USD is roughly 8 Quetzales (GTQ). You can check the current exchange rate here .

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Northern Guatemala

Most of the fun things to do in Guatemala are located in the southern half of the country. That said, there is one BIG reason you’ll want to visit the north—that is Tikal.

Tikal is the top tourist attraction in Guatemala. It covers 575.83 square kilometers (over 200 square miles), is the largest archeological site of pre-Colombian Mayan civilization, and—fun fact—was used to film Star Wars Episode IV.

The crazy part is, a huge portion of it is still unexplored. They are still unearthing new structures as we speak.

The highlights of Tikal are the Temple of the Grand Jaguar and the different numbered temples. One of my favorite spots was dragging myself up the steep steps of Temple IV to enjoy the view of the jungle.

If you decide to visit, I highly recommend taking a guided tour. Tourism is important in this area, helping support the locals. Not only that, but the fascinating stories the guide shares makes the ruins really come to life.

That said, if you don’t care about history and just want to take epic selfies without getting photobombed, here’s how to explore the Tikal ruins without a tour.

To get to there, you’ll need to arrive in the town of Flores via flight or bus. Since Flores is in Northern Guatemala, it is actually closer to Belize City than Guatemala City. Once in Flores, it’s another hour and a half shuttle ride to the Tikal National Park entrance.

I personally bused from Belize City to Flores, stopping in San Ignacio, Belize (border town) for a couple nights on the way. Side note : San Ignacio supposedly has some cool caves to explore, but they were closed when I went thanks to the stupid amount of rain dumping on the city.

Where to stay in Tikal: You have two options: #1 – Stay in the hotels within Tikal National Park itself . This is more expensive, but I heard the jungle sounds at night + the sunrise over the temples is freaking amazing. #2 – Stay on the nearby town of Flores (more on Flores in a sec) and take an 8-hour guided tour with transport included. This was the option I chose because I was/am a cheap backpacker.

If you’re visiting Tikal, you’ll probably be spending the night on the tiny island of Flores, situated on Lake Peten Itza.

There’s not much to do in the town itself other than stroll around the island, taking pictures of the pretty colorful houses and enjoying the sunset over the lake.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a canoe and paddle around the lake for a couple bucks an hour (the water is calmer in the morning).

And if you have even more time, there are a bunch of fun activities a short bus/ferry ride from Flores—the Uaxactún ruins, Jorge’s famous rope swing, ziplining in Ixanpajul Natural Park, and the quick hike up to El Mirador del Rey Canek.

Money-saving tip: When booking tours out of Flores, always shop around to get the best price.

Where to stay in Flores, Guatemala: #1 – Los Amigos Hostel – The main backpacker hub. Nice place. But my experience was tainted when I woke up at 2am to my drunk bunkmate pissing into my backpack as if it were the toilet. 🤬 #2 – Hotel Mirador del Lago – Cheap and somewhat dingy, but it has a nice view of lake from bar and offers free kayak rentals. Good option if Los Amigos is full (or you’re scared of getting your bag peed on).

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Central Guatemala

There are two main destinations in Central Guatemala: Livingston (east coast) and Semuc Champey (smack dab in the middle). Livingston is only accessible by boat and WAY off the beaten path. Semuc is a perfect stopping point—and 1000% shouldn’t be miss— if traveling between Northern and Southern Guatemala by land.

I didn’t make it to Livingston myself, but I met a handful of travelers who did. Here’s what they had to say…

Livingston is WAY different from the rest of Guatemala. Situated on the Northeast Caribbean tip of Guatemala, Livingston is cut off from the rest of the country (only accessible by boat), and is strongly influenced by the Afro-Caribbean Garifuna culture.

Contrary to popular guidebook advice, if you want to visit Livingston, go for the culture, not the beaches (you’ll be underwhelmed).

Taste the delicious Garifuna cuisine (like Tapado and coco bread), watch the Garifuna drummers (or try it yourself!), and soak up the Caribbean vibe.

To get to Livingston, you’ll need to take the riverboat from Rio Dulce (~125 GTQ) or the boat from Punta Gorda, Belize (~$30 USD).

Where to stay in Livingston , Guatemala: Casa Nostra – Gorgeous waterfront view, free bikes, and kayaks Hotel La Casa Rosada – Small private beach area, nice tours, peaceful, cute puppies Casa de la Iguana – #1 party hostel in town, cool jungle treehouse vibe, but kinda dirty

Semuc Champey was hands down one of my favorite things to do in Guatemala.

Most people go for the pretty turquoise pools you see on Instagram, but that is only one of many exciting activities jam-packed into your day.

Most hostels in Lanquín can hook you up with a day trip that includes the famous natural pools of Semuc Champey, an adrenaline-filled candle-lit swim through the KanBa Cave, bridge jumping and tubing down the river, fun rope swings, and best of all, little kids selling you cold beer all day long.

You can skip the tour and visit the pools on your own (to avoid the crowds), but you’ll miss out on the other fun-filled activities. Yes, you’ll get a better photo of the pools if you go solo. But are you traveling to take perfect photos, or are you traveling to make unforgettable memories?

Getting in and out of Semuc takes one full day and is somewhat of an ordeal (but worth it). You need to bus to the “town” of Lanquin, and will probably be coming from either the South (Guatemala City, Antigua, Atitlán) or the North (Flores/Tikal). Either way, the bus takes at least 8 hours to Lanquin.

From Lanquin, you’ll need to find transport to your accommodation. In most cases, this involves getting packed like sardines into the back of an open pick-up and driven along bumpy dirt roads through the jungle (FYI it’s all fun and games until it starts pouring rain).

Since it’s such a pain to get in and out, I recommend staying for a few days for a digital detox. You’ll need 2 nights minimum. But I recommend chilling out for 3 or 4.

If you stay longer, you’ll have time to take Spanish lessons, get your yoga on, and learn how to make your own chocolate from scratch.

Where to Stay in Semuc Champey: Utopia Eco Lodge – This is where I stayed. Highly recommended. They had hammocks when I went, but I don’t see that option anymore. Zephyr Lodge is a popular choice for party animals. But I’ve heard many stories of food poisoning (which is NOT fun to have stranded in the jungle), so I cannot recommend it.

Pro tip: If you’re staying in an open room and it starts raining, watch out for tarantulas who wanna snuggle.

Antigua + Guatemala City

Now we’re moving down to the South, where you’ll find most of the top places to visit in Guatemala grouped close together.

I’m not a big city guy and generally recommend skipping big Central America cities altogether. That said, there are a few interesting things to do in Guatemala City.

If you’re a museum person, there are lots to choose from here. Three of the most popular are the Museo Popol Vuh, the Ixchel Native Costume Museum, and the Museo Ixchel de Traje Indigena. I opted out of visiting them because, to be honest, I’m not intellectual enough to genuinely enjoy museums (I pretend to like them so people think I’m smart). But if it’s your thing, you’ll probably like them!

One crazy place you used to be able to visit is this giant sinkhole in the middle of the city . Apparently, the earth just decided to suddenly swallow up a bunch of houses one day (looking at those pics kinda makes you feel super vulnerable, doesn’t it?). Fortunately for the city (and unfortunately for curious tourists like me), the sinkhole has since been filled in.

If you like Geography, another cool place to visit in Guatemala City is La Mapa en Relieve. It’s a huge topographical model of Guatemala, built to scale, showing all the cities, mountain ranges, and volcanoes. I didn’t have high expectations when going to visit, but ended up being pleasantly surprised—it’s pretty neat to see everywhere you’ve traveled through the country.

Other than that, take advantage of Guatemala City to hit up the malls and stock up on any specialized supplies you need. Shopping options are slim everywhere else.

Where to Stay in Guatemala City : I was actually dating a girl from Guatemala City (spoiler alert: didn’t end well), so I stayed with her family. But here are some other places I’ve heard good things about: Capsule Hostel – Most popular by far, pancake breakfast, great location in the historic center Tequila Sunrise Hostel – Breakfast buffet, close to airport, restaurants, and bars Quetzalroo – Cozy homey vibes, yummy breakfast, great location in zone 10

If you’re after those iconic photos of Guatemala, Antigua is your place. Here you’ll find one of the most distinguishable landmarks in all of Guatemala—the yellow Santa Catalina arch framing Volcan de Agua in the background.

But the photo opportunities don’t end there.

You’ll also find great shots of the ruins of the original town (decimated by an earthquake in 1773), the Cerro de la Cruz (“Cross Hill”) viewpoint, La Merced Church, and many other monuments. With the cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and massive volcanoes towering in the background…you’ll find great photos at every turn.

That said, Antigua is one of the most touristic towns in Guatemala. If you want photos that aren’t filled with people, be prepared to drag yourself out of bed at the keistercrack of dawn.

Bonus: If you want some truly unique photos and don’t mind crowds, schedule your trip for Semana Santa (Holy Week).

Where to Stay in Antigua, Guatemala: Tropicana Hostel – Popular party hostel. Great place to meet people. Not a great place if you’re recovering from Chikungunya. Cucuruchos Boutique Hostel – Great breakfast and afternoon cake. Shockingly high ratings and reviews. Selina Antigua – Beautiful courtyard, nice hot showers, and rooftop yoga.

Volcano hiking is one of the most epic travel hobbies for all my adventure lovers out there. And volcanoes in Guatemala don’t disappoint. Every traveler I’ve met who has done a volcano hike in Guatemala has said it was easily the highlight of their trip.

I was stoked to experience it for myself, but a few days before I was scheduled to climb Acatenango, I came down with a gnarly case of Chikungunya and had to cancel. (Btw, Chikungunya BLOWS. Always wear skeeter spray.)

Luckily (and somewhat irritatingly), I spoke with tons of travelers who were able to experience this unforgettable adventure . Here’s the info I gathered…

The two most popular volcano hikes are Volcan Pacaya and Volcan Acatenango. Guided tours for both can be arranged from Antigua.

The Pacaya hike lasts 6-7 hours and is the easier of the two volcanoes. Tours leave from Antigua in the morning and afternoon, but if you want to see lava, I recommend the afternoon hike—you’ll reach the summit at sunset and be able to see it better (make sure to bring a headlamp for the hike down!). Most tours include roasting marshmallows over the lava fields, and some even offer a sandboarding experience.

Climbing Acatenango is a much more challenging and can be done as a day hike (12 hours) or overnight hike (recommended). If you opt for the overnight hike, you get to camp near the top of Acatenango, overlooking its often-erupting neighbor, Volcan Fuego. Then, the next morning, you climb to the summit of Acatenango for sunrise. If you go this route, here are two important recommendations:

#1 – Research your guide – Not all guides are created equal. This is a long, strenuous hike, and your guide can make or break your experience. Try to find one with the best ratings.

#2 – Check the weather – My lil’ bro got caught in a torrential wind/rainstorm and almost died (at least that’s how he describes it). After reaching the campsite, everyone was soaked and shivering, so they decided to turn back—hiking all the way back down in the dark.

There are plenty of hiking stats out there showing the risks, so don’t take them lightly!

Lake Atitlán + Nearby Areas

Lake Atitlán is magical a magical place. It is the deepest lake in Central America and is thought to have mystical powers (and beasts) within. I spent 5 weeks living in a homestay and studying Spanish along the lake, and it was an experience I’ll never forget.

I traveled from Antigua directly to San Pedro La Laguna (the village I studied in) via shuttle bus. However, the path down to San Pedro is RIDICULOUS, and I only recommend this option if you want to die.

For those who want to live, you can catch a shuttle, chicken bus, or private car from Antigua to Panajachel—the biggest town on the lake. From there, take a quick ferry ride to any of the other towns. Here is a handy map to show you what I’m talking about.

Here are some of the best activities in each of the surrounding villages.

San Pedro is, in my opinion, the best place to learn Spanish in Guatemala.

As I mentioned, I spent 5 weeks living with a beautiful Mayan family, studying Spanish each day with a stunning view of the lake. And you won’t believe what it cost me…

My package with Cooperativa Spanish School included five hours of private classes per day, a private room in a complete immersion homestay, and three delicious home-cooked meals per day…all for a grand total of $200/week.

It doesn’t get much better than that.

Antigua and Quetzaltenango (Xela) are two other popular towns to study Spanish—Antigua for its party scene and Xela for its immersion. But I wouldn’t trade my experience in San Pedro for the world.

In San Pedro, you get the best of both worlds. If you want immersion, you stay in the local side of town. If you need a break from Spanish and want to party, you can head down to the “Gringo Strip” for the night.

Even if you don’t have time to do a longer stay like I did, I still highly recommend taking classes for a few days. If you’re going to be traveling in Spanish-speaking countries, learning the basic Spanish phrases and practicing your comprehension skills will go a long way.

Where to Stay in San Pedro La Laguna: I highly recommend staying in a homestay and taking Spanish classes for at least a week. But if you’re short on time and just stopping by San Pedro for a few nights, these are the top places to stay: Hostel Fe – Popular party hostel, close to main bar, Bar Sublime. Hotel Mikaso – Another great budget option with a sweet rooftop hot tub to watch the sun setting over the lake. It’s further away from the bars and not as noisy as Hostel Fe. For longer stays (if a homestay isn’t for you), you can rent studio apartments with beautiful lake views for as little as $200 per month.

One of my favorite parts of my homestay (apart from the beautiful family, of course), was the delicious 100% organic Atitlán coffee my homestay mom prepared for me every morning. The coffee beans she used came straight from her father’s coffee farm nearby.

In this region, coffee is a way of life. My 8-year-old homestay sister drank 10 cups per day. They even gave coffee to the baby!

If you visit San Juan, you can take a two-hour tour of La Voz Coffee Cooperative and learn all about the maturation, roasting, and packaging process of organic Atitlán coffee.

San Juan is a quick tuk-tuk ride away from San Pedro, and can also be reached by ferry from Panajachel.

While in San Pedro, Hiking to La Nariz del Indio (“Indian Nose”) for sunrise is something you won’t want to miss.

I was this close *holding fingers super close together* from skipping this hike thanks to some “fragile” stomach problems I was dealing with. I’m glad I powered through.

It’s one of the best views of Lake Atitlán you’re going to get. You can set up a tour from San Pedro for ~100 quetzales ($13), which includes transportation and a guide. Going without a guide is not recommended unless you like getting robbed.

Plus, while we were waiting for sunrise, our guide even started a fire and made coffee to warm us up!

I only spent one night in Santa Cruz, but I wish I would have had time for more. Santa Cruz is the least touristy of the villages surrounding Lake Atitlan, and it is only accessible by boat.

The main draw to this town is La Iguana Perdida hostel located on the waterfront. It’s the perfect place to disconnect, meet new friends, and relax in a hammock overlooking the water.

It has a real family feel. When I went, we had a communal BBQ dinner followed by a costume dance party. Not a get-blasted-be-obnoxious-and-break-stuff type dance party, but a strangely freeing, non-judgemental we’re-ten-traveling-strangers-at-a-beautiful-secluded-hostel-in-the-Guatemalan-jungle-on-a-mystical-lake type dance party (if you know what I mean).

Other than chilling out at the hostel, you can hike up into the village for gorgeous views of the lake or even scuba dive on the lake with the hostel’s dive shop.

If you aren’t familiar with the ways of the hippie, you will find San Marcos to be a peculiar place (as I did). If you’re a hippie, welcome home!

For non-hippies, keep an open mind. I’m not saying you have to buy any crystal chakra spirit-cleansing amulets, participate in cacao group energy transfers, or become a vegan. But just approach it with a sense of wonder.

Practice some yoga at the Yoga Forrest, join the drum circle, do some tantric meditation (I guarantee it’s something you’ll never forget)…

Try new things—no matter how wacky you think they are. The more bizarre experience, the better the story. 

Where to Stay in San Marcos La Laguna : Hostal del Lago – Very popular with budget backpackers that offers yoga classes, mediation sessions, waterfront dock, and more. Eagle’s Nest Atitlán – Waterfront dorms and private rooms, sauna, spectacular views For more privacy (or if you want to stay longer), there are tons of beautiful lakefront apartments, cottages, and bungalows available for rent (like this one 😍). They normally get booked out way ahead of time, so make sure to reserve in advance.

If you go to Lake Atitlán, you HAVE to go paragliding in Panajachel. It’s non-negotiable. It’s easily one of the top things to do in Panajachel, and honestly, is one of the funnest activities to do in Guatemala as a whole.

At first, I was a bit skeptical. After all, launching myself off a cliff strapped to a human kite in a third-world country sounded mildly unsafe. But after some convincing, I took the plunge, and am glad I did.

If you’re up for some adrenaline-filled fun, I recommend going through the company Real World Paragliding . They’re the real deal.

The cost is around 700 Quetzales (~$90), and your flight will last 20-45 minutes depending on the wind and you’re weight. My fat ass lasted 20 minutes.

Insider Tip: Don’t worry about taking pictures or videos. They’ll take care of it for you. I was so obsessed with getting the perfect shot, that I forgot to relax and enjoy the moment. And in the end, the shots that the guide took were way better than mine anyway.

Where to stay in Panajachel , Guatemala: Dreamboat Hostel – Great social environment, best place to meet people in Panajachel Selina Atitlan – Clean, organized, work stations, internet, and swimming pool PanaHouse – Cozy atmosphere, tucked away in a quiet alleyway away from street noise, great value

No matter which village you’re staying in, make sure you schedule some time for fun Lake Atitlán water activities—namely kayaking or paddleboarding.

I rented a kayak in San Pedro, but there are places to rent equipment all around the lake (many accommodations even offer free rentals).

This is one of the best ways (aside from perhaps Parasailing) to get breathtaking 360 views of the lake and surrounding mountains. You’ll also be able to explore flooded structures, local properties, and other nooks and crannies otherwise inaccessible.

If you decide to kayak Lake Atitlán, morning is best. Afternoon waters tend to be a bit choppier. Regardless, always pay attention to the water and wind. If the wind is at your back while you’re paddling out and everything feels super easy, that means it’s going to be BLEEPING difficult and take 3x as long to paddle back (not fun, trust me).

The Chichi Market is the biggest market in Central America. And it’s not for everyone.

You won’t find the best deals here. You’ll probably have to deal with pushy sellers and kids asking you for handouts. And you’ll want to make sure you guard against pickpockets…

That said, it’s definitely an adventure. If you’re looking for a crazy, overwhelming, yet memorable experience—The Chichi Market could be for you.

The market takes place every Thursday and Sunday starting at 9:30am. You can get there via a tourist shuttle from Lake Atitlán or Antigua, or you can take much cheaper (and adventurous) chicken buses. The journey takes around 1.5 – 2.5 hours depending on your starting point.

Visiting the Chichi Market can be done as a day trip, but if you want more time to explore other parts of the town (like the famous colorful cemetery), there are plenty of accommodation options to make it an overnight trip.

Where to Stay in Chichicastenango , Guatemala: There aren’t many hotels you can book online in Chichicastenango: Casa en Chichicastenango – Cheapest, breakfast included Hotel Chalet – Medium-priced, I’d only book here if Casa en Chichi is full Hotel Museo Mayan Inn – Most expensive

Iximche was the site of the first capital city of Guatemala (The second was Ciudad Vieja, which was destroyed by the eruption of Volcan de Agua. The third was Antigua, which was destroyed by an earthquake. The fourth is present-day Guatemala City. History is interesting, innit?)

The Iximche Ruins is a well-preserved archaeological site located in Tecpán. It is WAY less touristy than places like Tikal. When I went, I practically had the whole place to myself!

Well, almost.

While exploring the ruins, I accidentally stumbled on a tiny costumed man performing a chicken sacrifice ritual to mischievous Saint Maximón. I was told to refrain from photography, but…I couldn’t help myself #secretshot

Tecpán and the Iximche Ruins are located right in the middle of Antigua, Chichi, and Lake Atitlán, and can be easily reached from any of these towns via private transport or chicken bus.

There are many ways to volunteer your services in Guatemala—you can work with kids in orphanages, help build houses for the poor, teach English, work to protect animals, and more.

In 2012, I went on a church mission trip to Guatemala to build houses in a poor community and teach the kiddos about Jesus.

It was a life-changing experience.

I ended up sponsoring a child from the local church to help pay for his schooling. Then, 5 years later when on my backpacking trip, I got to meet him and stay with his family for a couple days.

It’s easy as travelers to always take take take (I’m certainly guilty). If you ever get the opportunity to give back, I bet it’ll be one of the most meaningful travel experiences you ever have.

Southern Coast

Alrightyyy, making our way down to the DEEP south. These spots are pretty far off the beaten path, close to the borders of Mexico and El Salvador. But if you’re traveling by land along the coast (or you happen to meet a Guatemalan girl on Tinder who invites you to spend New Years at her family’s beach mansion on a military base), then they are great places to stop.

If you’ve never been to a black beach before, you’re in luck. Guatemala’s Pacific coast is full of black sand hidden gems.

Three of the most popular beaches in Guatemala are Monterrico, Champerico (“Champe”), and Playa Tilapia.

Monterrico Beach : One of Guatemala’s most popular beaches. Laidback and rustic vibe. 2.5 hours south of Antigua. The best budget option in Monterrico is Black Sand Beachhouse . If you can splurge, here are some stylish high-end options .

Champerico: Great for surfing. 2 hours from Quetzaltenango. The only place in town you can reserve in advance is Hotel y Restaurante el Diamante .

Playa Tilapa: Quiet beach in small, off-the-beaten-path fishing village. 3 hours from Quetzaltenango, on the border of Mexico and Guatemala. There’s really no place to stay in Tilapa other than these two beach houses (which are almost always booked). Your best bet is staying in Coatepeque , 45 minutes away.

Whichever beach you choose, there’s a good chance you’ll have plenty of black-sanded paradise all to yourself.

I’ve mentioned chicken buses a lot in the article. And if you’re still feeling uneasy about taking one…I get it.

Antique school buses with bald tires driven by maniacs on sketchy roads… They’re dangerous. There’s no question about it.

That said, some routes are a lot safer than others (stay away from anything going down to San Pedro). And it’s a unique experience I think everyone should have at least once.

I’ve seen some crazy stuff on chicken buses, including people riding on the roof, an entire stuffed pork (head and all), and —you guessed it—old ladies carrying around rambunctious chickens.

Plus, you’ll spend a fraction of what it costs for a tourist shuttle, allowing you to splurge on other fun activities.

If you’re still not convinced, check out the Chicken Bus Song 🐓↓

Here are a few Guatemala packing essentials you won’t want to forget.

Strong mosquito spray – Let me tell you, Chikungunya is NOT pleasant. Make sure to protect yourself with Ben’s mighty insect repellent .

GoPro – You’re going to want a rugged GoPro to capture footage of cave swimming, volcano hikes, river tubing, bridge jumping, sandboarding, and all your other adventures.

Water shoes – If you’re going to be tubing, caving, and rope swinging into rivers, some sturdy water shoes are a good idea (or anything that dries quickly).

Rain jacket / Windbreaker – Your future self will thank you for packing this if you plan on doing any volcano hikes ( this is the one I use…I actually picked it up in a second-hand clothing store in San Pedro for five bucks. STEAL!).

First aid kit – Since many of the best places in Guatemala are out in the jungle, it’s best to have a basic kit with you ( like this one ) to treat small injuries (and prevent them from getting infected).

Headlamp – This will come in handy on hikes that start before dawn or go after dark. They’re also handy to have since you never know when you’ll lose power. I recommend Black Diamond headlamps for their durability and power.

Secret pocket shirt – These are awesome for crowded markets, chicken buses, or if you have to walk around at night ( here’s a bunch of different styles ). An alternative is to have a seamstress sew pockets inside your pants. I had this done in San Pedro for $5.

Money belt – Not your typical money belt. This belt is a great place to hide cash, and it doubles as an actual belt (unlike normal touristy money belts).

Packing cubes – Don’t leave on any trip without packing cubes . They’re AMAZING.

Quick dry towel – If you’re still traveling with a normal, bulky, dank-smelling towel, get with the times, my friend! A quick-dry microfiber towel makes your life easier.

Pacsafe – If you’re a digital nomad or travel with expensive equipment, I always recommend a PacSafe Travel safe . It’s basically a wire mesh bag that you can lock to a stable fixture wherever you’re staying to keep your valuables secure. Oftentimes your accommodation will have some sort of locker, but when it doesn’t, you’ll be glad you brought this.

Safetywing Travel Insurance – Don’t leave yourself unprotected. No matter how careful you are, there are too many things that are out of your control—chicken bus crashes, tainted food, and water, faulty adventure equipment… grab some travel insurance and give yourself some peace of mind (see box below for instant quote).

When at the market, don’t be afraid to haggle and always shop around. The vendors always start with an outrageous price to see what you’re made of. That said, don’t fight for pennies. Spending an extra dollar here and there won’t break your bank, but it’ll mean a world of difference for them. Do not drink tap water or any fruits, veggies, or drinks prepared with tap water. They might look delicious, but you’re gonna pay for it in the bathroom. Spanish is the official language in Guatemala, but 25 other indigenous languages are also spoken. If you hear something that doesn’t sound like Spanish, it probably isn’t. Also, if you take Spanish classes, you might find the accent to be slightly off. Guatemalan kids like firecrackers. At first, you’ll think they’re gunshots. After a while, you get used to it. Always have small bills on hand. Most small shops, restaurants, tuk-tuks, etc. won’t be able to break large bills. Whenever you’re in a supermarket or somewhere that moves a lot of money, make sure to break those bills. To save money, try to eat the menu of the day (“menu del dia”) for lunch. Also, buy food from local markets instead of tourist cafes.

• Be careful which ATMs you use and when you use them. If possible, try to only use highly trafficked ATMs in public places during the day (ex. In supermarkets, banks, and tourist areas).
• Don’t buy bus tickets from people in the streets. Always buy in the terminal (or on the bus itself).
• To make sure you’re not overcharged for bus fares, taxis, entrance fees, etc simply ask the locals standing around you (“ Disculpa, Cuanto cuesta?” ).
• If you want to take a chicken bus, research other people’s experiences online for the route you’re looking for. Some routes are extremely dangerous, while others are more relaxed.
• Be careful when drinking and partying. Don’t walk around at night.
• Make sure someone always knows your travel plans.
• Use your best judgement and common sense.
• NEVER TRAVEL WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE. NOT WORTH THE RISK! (Said the man who has been to the hospital too many times to count while traveling). It’s super cheap . Just buy it and travel protected.

▢ Explore the Tikal jungle ruins ▢ Wander around the colorful island of Flores ▢ Soak up Caribbean vibes in Livingston ▢ Tarzan through the jungle at Semuc Champey ▢ Get your big city fix in the capitol, Guatemala City ▢ Bust out your photography skills in Antigua ▢ Climb the active Pacaya and Acatenango volcanoes ▢ Learn Spanish in San Pedro ▢ Take a Guatemala coffee to in San Juan ▢ Hike to La Nariz del Indio for sunrise ▢ Relax at La Iguana Perdida Hostel in Santa Cruz ▢ Do hippie stuff in San Marcos ▢ Parasail over Atitlán in Panajachel ▢ Kayak and paddleboard on Lake Atitlán ▢ Test your haggling skills at the Chichi Market ▢ Visit the Iximche Mayan Ruins ▢ Volunteer in the Community ▢ Visit a black sand beach ▢ Take a chicken bus adventure

I hope this post helps you create an unforgettable Guatemala itinerary! If you found it helpful, I’d be psyched if you shared it using the buttons below. Peace! ✌️

Like it? Pin it! 😎

Mitch is your typical nomadic backpacker. Or at least, he was . But after stopping in Colombia to take “one week” of salsa lessons, his life took a sharp left turn. He met a cute Colombian girl in dance class, fell in love, and got married. Over half a decade has passed since he left his career to travel the world as a digital nomad, and he’s never looked back.

Nowadays, he’s the blogger behind Project Untethered — where he runs an awesome email newsletter and Youtube channel teaching adventure-craved wanderlusters how to escape the rat race, earn money from anywhere, and build an “untethered life”.

His advice has been featured in Forbes, USA Today, Yahoo, MSN, Reader’s Digest, Condé Nast Traveler, and more.

Mitch's Travel Recommendations: Travel Planning Resources - Everything you need to plan your trip on one convenient page. Going Cheap Flights Newsletter - Get flight deals from your airport up to 90% off sent straight to your inbox. Safetywing Insurance - This cheap travel insurance has saved me over $15,000 in medical bills. Booking.com - Book accommodation without adding your credit card (in case you need to cancel). Trusted House Sitters - Take care of pets in exchange for free (sometimes luxury) accommodation. Flexjobs - Find remote jobs without having to sift through crappy ones. Skillshare - Free trial to take unlimited classes that teach digital nomad skills. Wise - Send and receive money abroad cheaply (great for freelancers).

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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.

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12 unique and unforgettable things to do in Guatemala

Guatemala offers more cultural and historical attractions than almost any other country in Central America. Discover the 12 best things to do in Guatemala, perfect for adventurers and budget travelers.

Gabrielle Budget Travel With Gabby

Jan 21, 2023

Trying to plan a trip to Guatemala?

Feeling overwhelmed at the amount of things to do in Guatemala and struggling to pick the best ones? 

You're not the first one to go through this. Guatemala is one of those countries that seems small and straightforward, but once you actually research it you realize it is pretty big and extremely diverse. 

It has a wide variety of natural beauty and a thriving Mayan culture, so connecting with nature and immersing in local culture are the top things to do in Guatemala .

For any travelers looking for a bit of insight into this colorful Central American country, this article is for you. In addition to listing and describing the best things to do in Guatemala , I'll explain how to get around the country as well as provide some budget travel tips throughout the article.

Why you should travel to Guatemala

Some say Guatemala is the most diverse country in Central America .

Its landscape ranges from active volcanoes and mountains, to gorgeous beaches and coastal towns, to big cities and tiny villages, to lush rain forest and ancient Mayan ruins. The country is physically stunning, with different spectacular sights of natural beauty scattered all over the place.

Aside from the tangible beauty of Guatemala, the local culture brings history, traditions and a zest for life to the communities around the country. From the colorful woven clothing, to the Mayan rituals and languages, to the majestic churches and traditional markets, every local town in Guatemala is insightful and fascinating for curious travelers.

So whether you are backpacking or volunteering in Central America or simply flying in and out of the country for a quick, culturally enriching trip, definitely make a spot for Guatemala on your travel bucket list .

Luckily for budget travelers, Guatemala is a very affordable destination. Before listing the best things to do in Guatemala , I'll briefly describe how to travel around the country on a budget . That way, you understand the different methods of transport and what they cost, and you can plan your journey accordingly.

And if you are concerned about safety, check the article Is it safe to travel to Guatemala? for more details.

Transportation in Guatemala

Getting around Guatemala is very straightforward and cheap. If you are traveling overland, there are buses and shuttles to every destination in the country and they are never too expensive. 

Here is a breakdown of the different ways to travel around Guatemala . 

Chicken Buses

Chicken buses are a popular method of transport for the locals and some travelers like to have this experience. Chicken buses are old recycled school buses from the USA that have been repainted and transformed into local transport.

This is the cheapest way to travel around Guatemala , though it isn't the most comfortable. There is no maximum capacity for chicken buses so you can be crammed in between huge crowds, and they usually take longer to reach your destination because locals stop anywhere they want.

Shuttle Buses

Most travelers prefer taking shuttle buses. These small buses or mini vans are faster than chicken buses and though they are a bit more expensive, they are still overall very affordable .

For example, a three hour shuttle bus from Antigua to Lake Atitlán costs around 75 Q ($9), and an eight hour shuttle bus from Lake Atitlán to Semuc Champey costs around 200 Q ($26). Given the comfort of the shuttles and the distances they cover, the prices are amazing.

In any given destination, you can take tuk tuks to travel short distances. Usually you can walk everywhere, but if you want to get home quickly after a long volcano hike or after a fun night of partying, a cheap, 10 Q ($1.30) tuk tuk ride can be a life saver.

Air Travel in Guatemala

If you are just flying in and out of Guatemala, you can find very cheap flights into La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. 

Most travelers skip Guatemala City, the capital of the country, because it's a bit overwhelming and crowded and not as impressive as Guatemala's other gems. But I know plenty of people who enjoyed the city, so it's up to you if you want to stay or not. Otherwise, the city is only useful for flying in and out of the country.

There are a few other small airports around the country, but the cheapest way to get around is just flying in to Guatemala City and taking shuttle buses to other destinations from there.

Once you understand how to travel around Guatemala, you can start planning your adventures!

There are so many fun things to do in Guatemala that it can be hard to plan a trip. The amount of things you can do depends on how long you have in the country. All the major attractions that I'll list are quite spread out and it can take a full day to get from one place to the next.

Just research the travel time between attractions and try not to spread yourself too thin. Even visiting just one of the places I mention will give you an incredible experience, so pick the attractions that intrigue you the most and really enjoy them. 

If you want an even deeper cultural experience, try traveling with  Worldpackers exchange experiences in Guatemala . You can stay in one place for a couple weeks, live with locals for free and learn new skills while working in fun and interesting jobs.

So whether you have a month or more to really experience the culture and travel all around the country, or you're just stopping by and are trying to pick the best place to go, I hope this article is helpful!

Here are the best things to do in Guatemala for travelers on a budget.

12 best things to do in Guatemala

• Sightsee in Antigua
• Hike a volcano
• Explore Lake Atitlán
• Visit Xela (Quetzaltenango)
• Shop at Chichicastenango Market
• Surf in El Paredon
• Experience bliss at Semuc Champey
• Marvel at the Mayan Ruins of Tikal
• Experience a melting pot of cultures In Livingston
• Explore the wilderness near Rio Dulce
• Learn Spanish
• Try a Worldpackers experience

Top things to do in Guatemala

1. sightsee in antigua.

Very few travelers leave Guatemala without having stopped in Antigua. This used to be the capital city of Guatemala during colonial times, but the capital was moved to Guatemala City in 1773 after a massive earthquake struck Antigua. Despite the destruction, Antigua still has many architectural remnants of its past significance.

There are so many  things to do in Antigua, Guatemala that are historically insightful and affordable. Sightseeing is the best way to explore Antigua and see its colonial past with your own eyes. Noteworthy sights include the Santa Catarina Arch, Iglesia de la Merced, and the hilltop viewpoint , Cerro De La Cruz.

See the remnants of the 1773 Earthquake by visiting the Ruins of the Church of Candelaria, the Ruins of Santa Rosa, and Capuchins Monastery . You can also visit the local market for cheap produce, tour the Chocolate Museum , relax in the Central Park , and simply wander through the streets admiring the majestic, European like architecture.

Antigua is a great starting point for a trip to Guatemala.

There are countless cheap backpacker hostels and the city is small enough to enjoy on foot. All amenities you may need, like banks, ATMs and currency exchanges, or medical centers and pharmacies, are within reach in Antigua.

Be sure to check out  Worldpackers exchange opportunities in Antigua before planning your trip.

Budget Travel Tip for Antigua: 

Check if your hostel has any special deals and discounts around town. There are too many good hostels in Antigua to list, but most of them offer discounts at partnering bars, cafés and restaurants and sometimes discounts on tours as well. 

2. Hike a volcano

Because Guatemala is located on the verge of two tectonic plates, the shifting of these plates over the years has caused the Earth's surface to bend and shape into amazing formations. Nowadays, Guatemala has about 37 volcanoes , three of them active. This makes for some incredible hiking opportunities and breathtaking natural scenery.

Obviously there is no shortage of volcano hikes to do in Guatemala . I'll list a few of the most popular ones for those adventurous travelers who love a challenge .

Volcán Tajumulco

Volcán Tajumulco is the highest volcano in Guatemala , and in all of Central America. 

It stands at a whopping 4,220 meters tall, so you may want to spend a few days in mountainous areas before you hike so your body has time to adjust to the altitude. The hike up Volcán Tajumulco actually starts at around 3,000 meters above sea level, so you don't have to climb the entirety of the volcano to reach the summit.

You can hike in one day, though it is recommended to do an overnight hike so you don't need to rush and you have more time to enjoy the views. The closest city to Volcán Tajumulco is Xela, also known as Quetzaltenango, so you can start your hike from here (I'll discuss Xela in more detail later on). 

There is no official entrance fee for this volcano, so it is great for budget travelers!

Volcán Acatenago

Another popular volcano hike to do in Guatemala is Volcán Acatenago, which stands at 3,975 meters tall. 

This hike can also be done in one day, as it takes about 5-6 hours to reach the summit from the start of the hike. The starting point of the hike is about a 1 hour drive from Antigua. But most people opt for an overnight hike , because at night time you can see Volcán Acatenago's neighbor, Volcán Fuego erupting and spewing lava in the distance .

If you have your own camping gear you can do the hike yourself and just pay the 50 Quetzales entrance fee . Most travelers in Central America don't have tents, sleeping bags and winter clothes with them, so you can always book an overnight tour with a local company that provides these things. It can get extremely cold sleeping atop a volcano at night, so definitely make sure you are prepared.

Budget Travel Tip for Hiking Volcán Acatenago: 

The cheap overnight tours go for around 200 to 300 Q, but their food and equipment isn't as high quality as the more expensive tours that cost 400 Q. Because the hike is very challenging and it gets really cold, it can be smart to use the pricier tour companies. The price isn't too much higher and in this situation, spending a bit more money for a better experience is actually worth it.

Don't miss out:  What is like to hike an active volcano in Guatemala? The Acatenango experience .

Volcán Pacaya

If you are staying in Antigua and want to do a less extreme volcano hike , you can also hike Volcán Pacaya. 

At 2,552 meters tall, you can only hike this volcano with a guide because it is still active and had a big eruption in 2010. Backpackers still hike the volcano every day, but having a local guide with you ensures you feel safe.

Hiking Volcán Pacaya can be done in one day so you don't need to camp overnight, and at the top you can roast marshmallows over the heat of the volcano .

Volcán San Pedro

The last noteworthy volcano hike in Guatemala that I will mention is Volcán San Pedro, located in Lake Atitlán. 

Hiking up Volcán San Pedro, which stands at 3,020 meters tall, will bring you through thick jungle for about three hours. You can hike with or without a guide, but the entrance fee is 100 Quetzales and it usually costs the same to hike with a guide so you might as well have an experienced local with you.

There are plenty of other volcanoes to hike in Guatemala, but I'd say these four are the best . 

Tajumulco and Acatenango are fitting for the more experienced hikers who want a challenge, and Pacaya and San Pedro are fitting for those who want an adventure that isn't as tiring.

3. Explore Lake Atitlán

Lake Atitlán has a thriving sense of Mayan culture and an abundance of natural beauty, so exploring here is definitely one of the best things to do in Guatemala .

Take the local boats from town to town to soak in the lifestyle. Must-see towns in Lake Atitlán include Panajachel , which has the best local market, San Pedro , which has an amazing lookout and lots of backpackers, San Marcos , which has many yoga retreats, health food stores and spiritual centers, and San Juan , which has vibrant street art and lots of local handicrafts.

These four towns are quite touristy, but worth it. To witness the more local side of Lake Atitlán , venture to smaller towns such as Santa Catarina, San Antonio, Santiago Atitlan and Santa Cruz .

You can also get active while exploring Lake Atitlán . Paddle board, kayak, wake surf or cliff jump in the lake. Go paragliding over the lake or zip lining in the Nature Reserve. Hike one of the three volcanoes surrounding the lake, or embark on a sunrise hike up the small mountain known as Indian's Nose.

There is no shortage of fun things to do in Lake Atitlán . I recommend staying for at least three days, though a week is more ideal for full enjoying everything the area has to offer. 

Worldpackers offers several incredible experiences around Lake Atitlán , like the opportunity to work for an NGO in Santa Cruz , work in hostel management in San Pedro La Laguna , help run an eco hotel in San Juan La Laguna , and more.

Budget Travel Tip for Lake Atitlán: 

While walking to the boat dock to take the water taxis in between towns, don't let any local guys walk you there. They'll tell you the boat is more expensive than it is, and keep a commission for themselves. The boat docks are very easy to find yourself so you don't need someone to take you.

Just ask around or research online what the boat price between towns should be , and double check with the boat driver before you pay that he is charging you the right price.

Also keep in mind, locals pay less than tourists for boat rides. This isn't unfair, it's just that the locals ride the boats every day for work and don't need to pay as much as travelers just passing through.

4. Visit Xela (Quetzaltenango)

As I mentioned earlier, Xela is the perfect town to begin a hike up Volcán Tajumulco. But visiting Xela is also a great gateway into authentic Mayan culture . Quetzaltenango is the town's colonial Spanish name, but Xela is its Mayan name. So most locals will call it Xela, pronounced "Shay-lah."

As Guatemala's second largest city, there are so many things to do in Xela . After hiking a volcano, relax in the hot sulfur springs known as Fuentes Georginas or venture to the massive crater lake known as Lake Chicabal .

Aside from these natural wonders, Xela is mostly known for its culture. There are lots of churches in town that showcase the strong Catholic faith in Guatemala, including the Quetzaltenango Cathedral . Take a short bus ride outside the city to visit the colorful church known as San Andres Xecul .

Spend the rest of your time in Xela visiting local markets, eating traditional food and practicing your Spanish. You don't need to spend more than a day or two here, but it is conveniently located near Lake Atitlán and Chichicastenango Market so it can fit nicely into a trip around Guatemala .

Check out Worldpackers exchange experiences in Xela to explore all that this unique cultural hub has to offer.

5. Shop at Chichicastenango Market

Located about two hours away from Xela, Chichicastenango Market is one of the best things to do in Guatemala to enjoy the traditional Mayan culture . This is one of the largest markets in all of Central America and is open on Thursdays and Sundays . There are plenty of shuttles here to and from surrounding towns in Xela and Lake Atitlán, or you can take a chicken bus with the locals.

Once you arrive in Chichicastenango, spend hours wandering through the gigantic outdoor market . You can find ready to eat local meals, fresh produce and other food items in addition to all the local handicrafts. If you want some authentic Mayan souvenirs to take home after traveling Guatemala, this is the place to buy them.

Every piece of clothing, every handbag or wallet and every hat or accessory is delicately woven with beautiful, colorful threads. The crafts here are truly stunning, and it is amazing to see how the locals make a living off of selling their art to tourists.

6. Surf in El Paredon

After hiking and experiencing the culture inland, head to Guatemala's coast for some sunbathing and surfing. You can take chicken buses or direct shuttles to this small town on Guatemala's Pacific Coast , and stay in a cheap beach hostel when you get there.

El Paredon is the perfect place for people who want a break from the hustle and bustle of traveling. There isn't a lot to do in El Paredon besides spend quality time with the ocean, but a few days of soaking in the sun on a pristine beach is amazing for the soul.

Surfers flock to El Paredon for the fun waves, and beginners can take surf lessons and learn how to ride the waves. As the beach faces west, you can also catch some beautiful sunsets from here.

One of the best things to do in El Paredon besides surfing is watching the turtles hatch, as this is one of the few places where lots of turtles lay their eggs. From June to November you can watch the baby turtles hatch and head for the sea , which is an adorable and magical sight.

Be sure to check out  Worldpackers experiences in El Paredon  before planning your surf trip!

7. Experience bliss at Semuc Champey

Deep in the jungle of Guatemala lies Semuc Champey, a series of natural pools filled with crystal clear waters . It is a marvel to look at and a true joy to swim in.

Getting to Semuc Champey is no easy feat . It is located in a very remote area with virtually nothing else around it. You can take a shuttle bus from most other destinations, like Rio Dulce, Flores, Antigua and Lake Atitlán. But the drive is at least 8 hours from all of these places and most of the roads are unpaved and bumpy.

Most shuttles drop travelers in Lanquín first, the closest actual town to Semuc Champey. You can either book accommodation in Lanquín and take a public bus to Semuc Champey, or you can stay overnight in one of the hostels and lodges close to the pools. I recommend staying as close to the pools as you can, so all you have to do is wake up and walk to this gorgeous natural attraction.

It costs 50 Q to enter Semuc Champey , and inside the park you can hike up to the viewpoint and spend the day swimming and sunbathing. You don't have to book a guided tour, but if you do they may include tubing down the river Cahabón.

For 75 Q you can also enter the nearby caves for swimming and exploring. Most guided tours also include the caves.

If you want to take your time in this incredible destination, Worldpackers offers several dreamy  experiences in Semuc Champey .

Budget Travel Tip for Semuc Champey: 

There are no shops in Semuc Champey, so I recommend bringing your own water and snacks for the day . Most hostels and hotels have their own restaurants and bars, but the food is way overpriced and usually not that great. Just save the money and buy your own food from the supermarket before you leave for Semuc Champey.

8. Marvel at the Mayan Ruins of Tikal

One of the best things to do in Guatemala that attracts travelers all year round is the marvelous Mayan Ruins of Tikal. Also located kind of in the middle of nowhere, Tikal is quite far from all the other attractions I've mentioned so far.

The closest city to Tikal is Flores , which is still about a one hour drive from the ruins. But if you are backpacking through Guatemala and have the time to spare, venturing up here is definitely worth the travel time.

Similar to other famous Mayan Ruins like Chichen Itza or Teotihuacan in Mexico, Tikal offers the same magnificent ancient architecture and sense of history with far fewer crowds. Though it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Sight since 1979, Tikal is still not as well known as Mexico's Mayan Ruins, so it is a great place to step back into history without fighting through crowds of tourists.

You can visit Tikal with or without a guide . Having a guide can help you navigate your way around the massive grounds and learn more about the significance of the ruins, but going without a guide allows you more flexibility and saves you a bit of money.

It costs 150 Q to enter Tikal , but make sure you bring enough cash to last your trip because there are no ATMS in Tikal. Make sure you have your passport as well because you need it to buy a ticket.

The ruins are open from 6 am until 6 pm, and if you show up early you are more likely to have the place to yourself. I also recommend bringing your own water and snacks for your day if exploring as there is only one restaurant/convenience store near the entrance that is overpriced and crowded.

There are plenty of budget accommodation options and Worldpackers experiences in Flores , you just have to travel to the ruins on the day of exploring. You can also stay in a hotel right at the entrance to the ruins but it costs a bit more than a cheap hostel in Flores. 

Budget Travel Tip for Tikal: 

If you have camping gear, you can camp close to Tikal if you want to save a bit of money on accommodation. Just beware of how hot the temperature can get; it is the middle of the jungle after all.

9. Experience a melting pot of cultures in Livingston

As a very unique destination in Guatemala, Livingston serves as a cultural blend of Guatemalan, African and Caribbean . Set at the mouth of the Rio Dulce River on the Caribbean Sea , this city has a vibrant culture and a laid-back but welcoming vibe.

Located all the way on the east coast of Guatemala, Livingston makes a convenient stop for travelers traveling to and from Honduras or Belize. But you can only reach Livingston by boat from Rio Dulce or Puerto Barrios, as it is located on a peninsula. This just makes the isolated culture even more special.

The local culture in Livingston is a mix of African, Caribbean and Guatemalan. Centuries ago a ship carrying slaves from western Africa crashed near the Caribbean island of St. Vincent. Since then, this Afro-Caribbean culture was displaced due to European colonists and planted its roots in Central America, where the unique culture continues to develop.

Nowadays, these multicultural people are known as Garifuna , and they have their own distinct cuisine, music and dance, language and lifestyle. Be sure to try gifiti, the local rum, and tapado, a local stew with seafood and coconut.

Explore the natural beauty of the area by visiting Punta de Manabique, a famous place for birdwatching and spotting other forms of jungle wildlife like monkeys, jaguars, iguanas, turtles, reef sharks and crocodiles. You can also walk along the beach for about an hour to reach Los Siete Altares, a series of low lying waterfalls and natural pools perfect for swimming, relaxing and connecting with nature.

10. Explore the wilderness near Rio Dulce

Rio Dulce, which literally translates to " Sweet River ," is a river in eastern Guatemala that starts near Livingston and runs inland. The dense jungle that surrounds the river provides endless opportunities for adventure. Travelers can enjoy Rio Dulce by exploring the wilderness and taking day trips to the majestic natural wonders around the river.

For example, you can take a boat ride though the impressive El Boqueron Canyon for only 20 Q or bathe in the natural hot springs of Finca Paraiso for only 10 Q. Because these attractions are made in nature, the admission fees are very cheap so travelers on a backpacker budget can easily afford these activities.

You can also explore the Rio Dulce National Park , which is free to enter. In the park you can rent kayaks, hike to little villages, swim, relax and soak in the serenity of nature. 

For 20 Q, you can enter the Castillo De San Felipe . This old fortress was built by the Spanish during colonial times to protect their important trading port along the river. Now it is a cool piece of history that tourists can visit in the midst of the Guatemalan jungle.

11. Learn Spanish

A great way to experience a culture is to learn a language while traveling .

Learning a bit of Spanish is one of the best things to do in Guatemala because it allows you to connect more with the locals . It also makes traveling easier so you can ask necessary questions, read street signs, bus schedules and menus, and navigate your way around the country better.

Antigua is probably the most popular place to study Spanish in Guatemala. There are tons of affordable Spanish schools , with Antigüeña Spanish Academy and Don Pedro de Alvarado Spanish School, being two of the best. 

Xela is another great place to study Spanish, as it is a very local community so you will be surrounded by more native speakers than in Antigua. But you can also find Spanish schools in Lake Atitlán and Flores.

12. Try a Worldpackers experience

Doing a work exchange  is an amazing way to save money while traveling  in Guatemala. If you live and work with locals, you can also improve your Spanish and learn more about the Mayan culture.

There are work opportunities scattered all over the country, just begging for budget travelers to come have an incredible experience.

For example, you can spend more than just a day in Guatemala's famous turquoise pools  by working for various Worldpackers hosts in Semuc Champey . You can bartend at a hostel , work as a yoga teacher , help out on a cacao farm , or volunteer as an event coordinator , a l l within the beautiful jungle surrounding one of Guatemala's best attractions.

If you are venturing up north to explore Tikal, why not spend more time volunteering in Flores so you don't have to rush to explore the ruins? There are lots of Worldpackers exchanges in Flores that cater towards the tech-savvy, including using photography and social media skills at a hostel , working as a web developer , and helping out with SEO and online marketing .

Want to spend more time surfing and enjoying the beach life in El Paredon ? Volunteer in a beach front hostel for a few weeks. 

Want to dive deeper into the local culture of Xela ? Help out with basic cleaning, housekeeping and reception in a hostel there. If you have a few months to spare, try working as a volunteer hiking guide in the Guatemala Highlands near Xela.

If you want to hang out in the beautiful Lake Atitlán for longer, there are plenty of work exchanges there as well. Help out a local NGO in Santa Cruz La Laguna with videography and photography, or assist an eco hotel in San Juan La Laguna with reception, cleaning and gardening.

All of these work exchanges allow travelers to either develop and practice existing skills or learn new skills. 

Travelers can save money by earning their own free accommodation, and they can spend more time exploring and getting to know these stunning areas of Guatemala.

So those are the 12 best things to do in Guatemala! 

Adventure around freely and explore everything Guatemala has to offer, or slow travel  and live in the unique culture by working with a Worldpackers host. 

Whatever you choose to do, I am sure that Guatemala will amaze you.

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Gabrielle Boucher

Budget Travel With Gabby

Hello! I am a 25 year old from the USA with a knack for traveling on a budget. I fell in love with traveling while studying in Europe, and that love grew even more when I started volunteering abroad in South America. Since then, I've worked odd jobs and volunteered all over the globe while cultivating passions for hiking, wildlife photography, food, wine, animals, permaculture, and more!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Guatemala

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

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

10. Semuc Champey [SEE MAP]

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

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

9. Todos Santos Cuchumatan [SEE MAP]

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

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

8. Livingston [SEE MAP]

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

7. Quetzaltenango [SEE MAP]

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

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

6. Monterrico [SEE MAP]

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

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

5. Flores [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

4. Chichicastenango [SEE MAP]

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

3. Panajachel [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

2. Antigua Guatemala [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

1. Tikal [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

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

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

Map of Guatemala

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15 Cool Places to Visit in Guatemala

Guatemala is a country full of culture, natural beauty and adventure around every corner. There are a lot of cool places to visit in Guatemala that adding this country to the top of your travel bucket list wouldn’t be a bad idea.

What to see in Guatemala? Guatemala is such an underrated travel destination. There’s many reasons to love this country – the food, the volcanos, the culture, the natural wonders and the ancient ruins. I could go on but you get the idea.

In this article , I’ll go over all the top places to see in Guatemala and at the end of the post, I’ll add any necessary tips that will aid you in your travels to beautiful Guatemala.

For full transparency,  I have sprinkled some affiliate links in this post which gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you if you decided to make a purchase. As always, I would never recommend a product or service that I didn't truely believe in. If you find this post useful, you can also treat Jess to a cup coffee by clicking the icon on the bottom of the page. This will allow me to continue to create more content for you to enjoy ☕️. 

Table of Contents

Are These Places to Visit in Guatemala Worth it?

With so many amazing destinations to travel to in the world, you may be wondering, is Guatemala worth visiting? And the answer is absolutely, Guatemala is worth visiting for a variety of reasons.

The country offers a diverse range of experiences, blending natural beauty, culture and history all into one. I spent just under 2 months here and still had so much more exploring to do. Here are a few of the compelling reasons to consider going to Guatemala.

• 🐒 Mayan Ruins: Guatemala is home to some of the most impressive Mayan ruins in the world.
• 💦 Natural Beauty: From the stunning Lake Atitlán, to the diverse landscapes of Semuc Champey, Guatemala boasts a wide array of natural wonders.
• ⛪️ Colonial Cities: Antigua, Guatemala is the best example.
• 🧶 Cultural Diversity: Experience traditional Mayan customs, colorful textiles, and unique handcrafts.
• 🌋 Adventure Opportunities: Can we say sleeping atop a volcano to watch an active volcano erupt through the night?
• 🙂 Friendly Locals
• 💰 It’s affordable! Guatemala tends to be more budget-friendly compared to some other Central American destinations.
• 🫔 The food! Local cuisine is diverse and flavorful, influenced by Mayan and Spanish cultures.

Best Places to Visit in Guatemala Quick List

Below I have listed the best places to visit in Guatemala for easy viewing. If you would like more information about a specific place in Guatemala, click on the blue links below for more details.

• Volcán Fuego

Tikal Ruins

Semuc champey, chichicastenango market, volcán tajumulco.

• Lake Atitlan
• El Mirador Ruins

Pacaya Volcano

Lake peten itza, guatemala city.

I couldn’t make a best places to visit in Guatemala post without starting off the list with Antigua. Antigua is the most popular, most loved and best cities in Guatemala.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture. Cobblestone streets lead to charming colonial buildings, vibrant markets, and the iconic Santa Catalina Arch.

Beyond its architectural splendors, this charming colonial town is a gateway to outdoor adventures, with opportunities to explore nearby coffee plantations, hike to panoramic viewpoints, or visit the ancient Mayan ruins of the surrounding highlands.

With its timeless allure, Antigua invites travelers to wander through history, savor the flavors of local cuisine, and create memories that will last forever. Check out the guides below to help plan your trip to Antigua.

31 Awesome Things to do in Antigua 15 Best Hotels in Antigua Best Restaurants, Cafes & Bars in Antigua How to Get from Guatemala City to Antigua

Fuego Volcano

The hottest place to see in Guatemala is Fuego Volcano. Volcan Fuego is one of Guatemala’s most active and predictable volcanos, with live eruptions happening about every half hour.

The best way to witness Fuego in all of its glory is by embarking on an overnight trek to hike Acatenango, which you’ll be rewarded with a front row seat the raw forces of nature up close and all night long.

The trek to the summit of Acatenango is challenging, marked by steep ascents through diverse landscapes. This is one of the best things to do in Guatemala and being prepared will dramatically increase the enjoyment level of this journey.

Book a Tour →

🌋 Read Full Post:   Everything you Need to Know About the Overnight Acatenango Trek

The Tikal Ruins is one of the most famous places in Guatemala. This archaeological marvel takes you back in time to the heart of ancient Mayan culture.

Located in the northern jungles of Petén, Tikal stands as one of the most significant archaeological sites of the ancient Mayan civilization. The towering pyramids and temples rise above the lush canopy, providing a glimpse into Guatemala’s ancient past.

The site is renowned for its wildlife, and the sounds of howler monkeys and exotic birds echo through the ancient ruins. Between the jungle and Indiana Jones vibes, Tikal is one of the coolest places to visit in Guatemala.

🐒 Read Full Post : Tikal Travel Guide | Everything you Need to Know Before you Go 

Semuc Champey is one of the most remote places to visit in Guatemala. Tucked away, deep in the rainforest, this geological marvel consists of a series of terraced limestone pools, each filled with turquoise water.

The natural limestone bridge, invites you to swim in the refreshing waters, hike to panoramic viewpoints, and bask in the tranquility of this remote paradise.

Most travelers visit Semuc Champey in route to Tikal from Guatemala City or Antigua. The journey is long, windy, and bumpy but this natural masterpiece is worth the effort.

💦 Read Guides: Semuc Champey Travel Guide How to Get from Antigua to Semuc Champey

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Coming in at the tallest place to visit in Guatemala is Volcan Tajumulco. Did you know that the tallest peak in Guatemala is also the tallest peak in Central America?

Tajumulco Volcano stands at an elevation of 13,845 feet, located in southwestern Guatemala, near the border of Mexico. The gateway town to hiking this impressive volcano is Quetzaltenango, also known as Xela.

It is possible to hike Volcan Tajumulco independently, but I’d recommend hiring a guide as hikers often choose to camp overnight to be able to watch sunrise from the summit. A guide will help arrange this for you.

Book a Private Guide →

The Chichicastenango Market is one of the best places to visit in Guatemala for a taste of indigenous traditions and culture. Every Thursday and Sunday, Chichicastenango often referred to as Chi Chi , hosts one of the most vibrant and largest markets in Central America.

The market is a kaleidoscope of colors, offering an array of textiles, handicrafts, and local produce. When you visit this place in Guatemala, you can immerse yourself in the culture and witness the spiritual ceremonies take place at the Santo Tomás Church.

🏺 Read Full Post: Visiting the Chichicastenango Market in Guatemala

The most isolated place to visit in Guatemala is Livingston. This lively town can be found on the Caribbean coast and can only be accessed by boat.

The town is nestled at the mouth of the Rio Dulce, surrounded by rainforests and mangrove swamps. As you navigate the waterways to reach Livingston, you’ll pass by wooden houses, lively markets, and the rhythmic beats of Garifuna music.

The town’s laid back atmosphere invites you to kick back, relax and get your groove on. Don’t leave town without trying the local dish tapado  (seafood coconut soup) and experiencing the lively Garifuna drumming and dance.

This is where to go in Guatemala for an off-the-beaten path adventure. Book a three day tour and experience all that the Caribbean side of Guatemala has to offer.

Lake Atitlan | Beautiful Guatemala

Next on our Guatemala places to visit list is Guatemala’s second most visited destination behind Antigua, Lake Atitlán. Get ready for unparalleled natural beauty of the Western Highlands.

Surrounded by three towering volcanoes – San Pedro, Tolimán, and Atitlán – the beautiful lake is often hailed as one of the most stunning places in the world.

The shores of Lake Atitlan are dotted with adorable towns, and each lakeside village, such as Panajachel, San Pedro la Laguna, and Santiago Atitlan, has its own unique character.

Boat rides across the lake provide epic views of volcanoes, while hiking trails lead to elevated viewpoints and panoramic vistas. Lake Atitlan is a must visit destination in Guatemala for healthy retreats, cultural charm, and a beautiful setting.

🛶 Lake Atitlan Travel Guides:

10 Thrilling Things to do on Lake Atitlan How to Get to Lake Atitlan Best Places to Stay in Lake Atitlan

One of the best places to go in Guatemala for a coastal escape is El Paredon. Located on the Pacific Coast of Guatemala, El Paredon is a charming seaside town and where to go surfing in Guatemala.

The main reason to visit this sleepy beach town is for the waves, but there are a handful of other things to do in town if surfing isn’t your thing.  Whether you kayak the mangroves, party at a beach front hostel or simply to relax and soak up the sun, the sunsets of El Paredon won’t disappoint.

🏄‍♀️ El Paredon Travel Guides:

El Paredon Travel Guide | What to do, Where to Eat, Stay & More 11 Charming Places to Stay in El Paredon

Speaking of the waterway that connects Livingston to the rest of the country. The Rio Dulce, meaning “Sweet River,” flows gracefully from Lake Izabal to the Caribbean Sea, carving a stunning route through dense rainforests and limestone cliffs.

This is not only one of the best places to go in Guatemala but it’s a boat journey to hidden hot springs, old colonial forts along the river banks, and a chance to spot wildlife.

This riverine adventure unveils a side of Guatemala where nature, history, and local traditions converge along the enchanting waters of the Rio Dulce. Consider a homestay in one of the Mayan villages along the river.

El Mirador Ruins | Remote Places in Guatemala

If you have ample time to travel Guatemala and don’t mind putting in the steps, trekking to the remote El Mirador Ruins are a must visit in Guatemala. A journey into the heart of ancient Mayan civilizations, offering a rare archaeological adventure.

Located deep in the northern Petén jungle, El Mirdor is home to some of the largest and earliest Mayan structures, including the iconic La Danta pyramid.

The multi-day trek requires an expedition through dense, pristine rainforests, where howler monkeys and exotic birds accompany your journey. The perfect place to visit in Guatemala for the archaeology enthusiasts and adventures spirits alike.

Pacaya Volcano, or Volcán Pacaya , is one of the coolest places to visit in Antigua Guatemala. It’s also one of the most popular places to visit due to its proximity to Antigua and that it can be hiked in a half a day.

Volcan Pacaya is one of three active volcanoes that surround Antigua. The trail up the volcano eventually turns into lava rock. Don’t forget to bring your marshmallows so you can roast them over the volcano when you reach the lava field.

🥾 Read the Full Guide:  Hiking Volcán Pacaya

Lake Petén Itzá is the second largest lake in Guatemala and is a tranquil oasis in the northern Peten region. Flores is the gateway town for exploring Tikal National Park and Flores Island sits within the lake.

Flores Island is connected to the mainland by a causeway and has some of the most colorful buildings in the country. There are many ways to explore the lake, kayaking, a boat tour, jet skis, and even paddle boarding.

Visit this Guatemala destination for vibrant sunsets, natural beauty, and adventure at your fingertips.

📍 Read Next:

Best Things to do in Flores 15 Charming Hotel on Lake Peten Itza

The most popular town on the shores of Lake Atitlan is San Marcos. This adorable town is a tranquil and spiritual haven, drawing travelers seeking a serene escape.

Known for its laid-back vibes and stunning lake views, San Marcos has earned a reputation as the “hippie” town of Lake Atitlan. The village is dotted with yoga studios, holistic healing centers, and meditation spaces.

The town’s narrow pathways lead to charming cafes, artisan shops, and holistic retreats, all framed by the majestic backdrop of the lake surrounded by volcanos. Don’t miss out on this Guatemala place to visit if you are seeking relaxation or self-discovery.

☕️ Read Full Guide: San Marcos Travel Guide

Finishing off our 15 cool places to visit in Guatemala list is Guatemala City. If you are traveling to Guatemala, chances are very high that you’ll be passing through the city at one point.

Guatemala City is the capital and largest city of Guatemala. Known for its culture, historic sites, and modern amenities, Guatemala City will more than likely be your entry and exit point.

The city’s historic center, Zona 1, features the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture. Whether you explore the city or fly in and out, Guatemala City provides a gateway to explore all the best places to see in Guatemala.

🛵 Read Next: 10 Best Day Trips from Guatemala City

Guatemala Travel Vlogs

Would you rather see what traveling Guatemala is like? Joe and I spent 7 weeks in Guatemala eating, exploring ancient ruins and hiking volcanos. It was an epic adventure.

Check them out after you read this post and please subscribe or give us a thumbs up. It doesn’t cost you anything and really helps us be able to continue creating free content for you to enjoy 🙂.

🎥 Watch our Guatemala Series on YouTube

Guatemala Tours

Guatemala is a smaller country and you can cover a lot of ground in a couple weeks, especially if you have someone work out the transportation, accommodations and logistics for you.

Going on a group tour through Guatemala is a great way to see the highlights, meet a group of alike minded travelers and experience the culture of Guatemala.

📌   Here are a few great Guatemala Tours to check out:

• 14 Days Private Sightseeing Tour in Guatemala
• 11-Day Mayan Ruins Tour: Guatemala and Copán
• Visit Guatemala 9 Days
• Guatemala: See & Experience it ALL in 8 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

Guatemala Travel Tips

• Sunscreen – This is my go to reef safe sunscreen I use daily.
• Mosquitos are swarming, make sure to apply mosquito spray if you don’t want to get eaten alive.
• Book your accommodations in advance if you are traveling here during high season.
• Get an eSIM for your phone to stay connected with a local high-speed data network while you travel.
• Tap water is not safe to drink in Guatemala (or most Central American countries for that matter).
• Travel Insurance – It’s very affordable when you consider the alternative.

📌 Read Next: 30 Guatemala Travel Tips to Know Before you Go

Final Thoughts on these Places to Visit in Guatemala

Guatemala is a hidden gem, but I have a feeling that it won’t stay hidden much longer. From remote waterfalls tucked away in the rainforest to trekking through the jungle to the tallest pyramid in the world, its safe to say that there are some incredible places to visit in Guatemala.

Make Guatemala your next vacation destination for the affordability, outdoor adventures, and tasty cuisine. Colonial cities, ancient Mayan ruins, and natural wonders are a few of the many surprises that await you.

If you found this article useful, let fellow travelers know in the comments below 👇.

 Guatemala Travel Guides ↓

The Ultimate Guide to Guatemala (coming soon) 

22 Epic Things to do in Guatemala 

What to Pack for Guatemala (coming soon) 

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The Must See Places in Guatemala

Guatemala is a beautiful country with a rich history. It is a great travel destination with a lot to offer and incredible places to visit.

In this article, I want to highlight the most beautiful places in Guatemala that you really don’t want to miss.

Guatemala was my first solo travel experience.

I was 17 years old and decided I wanted to learn Spanish somewhere unique. Back then, almost 20 years ago, nobody I knew had ever been to Guatemala so that sounded exotic enough to me!

So off I went: to Guatemala for 6 weeks with 2 weeks of Spanish classes planned and 4 weeks to explore, maybe volunteer somewhere or who knows…

It turned out to be my most memorable travel experience !

My first time leaving Europe, my first time in a developing country with a culture so different from my own. It’s an experience I will never forget.

That young, naive 17-year-old girl got a quick lesson about how different life can be, how welcoming people can be even if they have very little, and how happy and fulfilling life can be no matter how much or how little you have.

Guatemala and its people will forever have a special place in my heart.

But, because this was so many years ago I never felt I could write about the main places to visit in Guatemala.

So to create this article I’m working with other passionate travelers and travel bloggers who have been to Guatemala recently.

I asked them what the best places to visit in Guatemala are, and to write down what exactly makes them must-see places.

This has created a great list with a lot of practical travel tips for anyone visiting Guatemala.

If you’re looking for somewhere friendly, beautiful, interesting, exotic, and affordable to explore then you don’t want to miss out on Guatemala!

The Best Places to Visit in Guatemala

1. antigua guatemala.

By: Chelsea from Heart of Travel .

Antigua is high on most travelers’ lists of places to visit in Guatemala.

A UNESCO World Heritage site , it’s almost impossible to escape cliché when describing La Antigua Guatemala: it’s that storybook of a place.

Sitting 5029 feet (1535 meters) above sea level and surrounded by three volcanoes, La Antigua Guatemala was the former capital of the Kingdom of Guatemala which encompassed the present-day nations of Costa Rica , Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Belize, and Guatemala, along with Mexico’s southern state of Chiapas.

Antigua initially draws people in for its cobblestone roads, beautiful examples of Spanish-Baroque architecture, and former churches and palaces left in ruins after various earthquakes.

Its beauty, safety and close proximity to the Guatemala City airport make Antigua a logical starting point for most travelers in Guatemala.

And you can easily book a tour to anywhere else in the country through one of the town’s many travel agencies.

As you meet fellow travelers and Guatemala City transplants, you will find that beyond the charm of the superficial characteristics of the town Antigua possesses an inexplicable magic.

Like a vortex, this town tends to suck people in and keep them there for much longer than they anticipated.

Perhaps it’s the sound of marimba music that floats through town on Sunday afternoons, the taste of mezcal inside local bars, or the smiling faces of women selling chuchitos, tostadas and pan con chile on the sidewalk.

Go and see for yourself, just don’t be surprised if three years from now you’re fluent in Spanish and own a bar with your Guatemala lover. It’s been known to happen once or twice 😉

2. Petén & Tikal National Park

Tikal is world famous and will be on every list of best places to visit in Guatemala.

Unfortunately though, most travelers breezing through Guatemala on limited time make the long journey to the Petén region to visit the famous Mayan ruins inside the Tikal National Park only to turn around and move on to the next place.

However, there’s much more to see and there are more places to visit in the department of Petén.

And, since it’s a bit of a journey getting there, it’s worth lingering around a while longer to explore.

An easy way to see all that the region has to offer is to set up a home base in the island town of Flores .

Originally inhabited by the Mayan Itza ethnic group, who had come down from the Yucatan region, they were able to resist the Spanish Conquista all the way up until 1697.

Eventually, the Spanish did colonize the town, giving birth to the cheerfully painted colonial buildings and the narrow cobblestone roads that offer a more vibrant and tropical feel than colonial Antigua.

While in Flores you can enjoy affordable accommodation, international cuisine, handicraft and textile shopping, and upbeat nightlife complete with live music on rooftop terraces looking out over the water.

My personal favorite way to end the night is with a lazy stroll along the malecón accompanied by some street food .

From Flores, you can easily visit the nearby Tikal ruins as well as the lesser-known Mayan archaeological sites Yaxha and Uaxactun which all give you a glimpse into the past of the ancient Mayan civilizations as well as the opportunity to appreciate the jungle and all of its plants and critters.

Tip: book a tour to visit Tikal at sunrise . You’ll avoid most of the crowd this way, but watching the sunrise from the top of a temple is also an unforgettable experience!

If you’ve really got some time on your hands you could go all the way north to El Mirador, a site that many are speculating to be the largest Mayan city in existence .

As of now, however, visiting El Mirador requires entry by helicopter or a fairly gnarly 3-4 day hike in rugged jungle so it’s not for the faint of heart or those low on funds.

In addition to the national parks, the Petén region also has some great lakes and caves to explore and your visit wouldn’t be complete without stopping to zipline through the jungle just outside of the main entrance to Tikal!

3. San Juan La Laguna, Lake Atitlán

Located on the southern shore of Lake Atitlán, the community of San Juan is almost 95% Tz’utujil, one of the 22+ different indigenous Maya groups living in Guatemala today.

The town itself is nothing short of charming with vibrant murals painted along the walls of the steeply inclined road that looks out over Central America’s deepest lake.

Here in San Juan, you can participate in a variety of free workshops to learn more about the local culture, history, and economy be it through a coffee tour, a chocolate-making demonstration, or a tour of a medicinal plant garden.

It is the people, however, that make San Juan La Laguna truly one of the best places to visit in Guatemala. They greet you with a warmth and authenticity that is hard to come by in most parts of the world these days.

And nowhere in the town is this more true than at the women-led textile cooperative Casa Flor Ixcaco .

The women behind this impressive community effort will gladly give you an in-depth presentation on all the steps that go into producing their intricately woven products. From growing and harvesting the cotton to removing the seeds, spinning it out into yard, dying it naturally, and the actual process of weaving with a backstrap loom.

Take a day trip into town or, if you really want to have an immersive experience, do an overnight stay with one of the families from the Casa Flor Ixcaco community!

Also Read: What is Ecotourism & How to Be a More Sustainable Traveler

4. Santiago Atitlan

By: Erin from Pina Travels 

Santiago is one of the larger towns on Lake Atitlan . Like most towns on the lake, it’s easily accessible by water taxi.

This town is known for being a focal point of Indigenous resistance to right-wing government forces during Guatemala’s civil war.

But it’s also famous for being where you can visit the Mayan folk saint, Maximón .

Maximón is a liquor-loving, chain-smoking saint who is recognized in Guatemala within the traditions of Indigenous Mayans.

He’s represented by a wooden statue that is dressed and decorated, seated on a chair. Throughout Guatemala, you’ll notice effigies of him all over the place, even in bars and restaurants.

Santiago is a must-visit place in Guatemala because it’s where you can actually visit Maximon.

People from all over the world travel to Santiago to pray to Maximon, typically asking for general things like wealth or protection.

Every year, Maximón is moved to a new ceremonial house in Santiago. He is kept in that home under the care of several men who sit vigil with him all day long. 

To visit Maximon, you’ll need to know what home he’s currently being cared for in. The best way to figure this out is with the help of a local.

Hop in any tuktuk in Santiago, and ask in Spanish to be taken to Maximon’s ceremonial house. If you don’t know Spanish, just say “Maximon.”

When visiting Maximon it’s important to be respectful. Dress modestly and bring an offering of candles, cigarettes, or liquor. If you’d like to take photos, pay the small photo fee to Maximon’s caretakers.

5. San Marcos La Laguna, Lake Atitlan

By: Andrew from Flights and Footsteps

If you’re walking the streets of San Marcos and ask anyone you see what makes San Marcos special, they’ll certainly tell you that it’s the energy.

It might sound a little new age to some people, but once you get there, there’s no denying that San Marcos feels special.

The locals both native and relocated (and there are a LOT of relocated locals) will tell you that the town’s position on the shore of the lake, and amidst the volcanoes make it an energetic vortex.

This being the case, it attracts a certain type of person to visit or live here. It’s incredibly easy to approach people and talk to them in San Marcos. There are a lot of English speakers and the town is full of genuinely kind people, many of them you’ll see walking around barefoot.

Walking down the streets of San Marcos you’ll come across a lot of vendors selling locally-grown produce. This will be some of the freshest you’ll eat while in Guatemala.

Then, make sure to stop by Circles cafe for a coffee and sampling of local food.

If you’re looking for something to do, San Marcos is a great place to take a yoga class . From beginner classes to advanced retreats where you can learn to be a teacher, there is something for everyone, no matter where you are on the yoga spectrum.

Even if this doesn’t sound appealing to you, I’d still recommend visiting San Marcos for a half day and opening yourself to San Marcos and what it has to offer.

6. Río Dulce

If peace, tranquility, and being one with nature are what you seek then look no further than Guatemala’s expansive Río Dulce.

Flowing out of Lake Izabal and ultimately spilling into the Caribbean Sea, a boat ride down the river and through its impressive gorge is nothing short of idyllic. Make sure to spend an entire day out on the water stopping along the way to visit the area’s attractions.

Start by visiting the Castillo de San Felipe, a former fortress designed to fight off pillaging pirates that was later used as a prison before becoming a historical landmark.

Next up you can cruise by the Island of the Birds to observe a variety of different species before taking a leisurely ride through the mangroves adorned by thick fields of lily pads.

Here, you will get a first-hand look at life on the Río Dulce for most of its inhabitants as they sit on the porches of their wooden homes perched on stilts just feet above the water.

Women and children will paddle up to you in wooden canoes in hopes of selling handicrafts while the men cast their fishing nets where the river widens further downstream. The wooden crafts and woven baskets being sold are fairly unique to this area so it’s a good opportunity for those who like to get their shopping on.

Another must-see along the river are the natural hot springs where you can pop off to drink fresh coconut juice (order a coco-loco if you want them to fill it up with rum) while you relax riverside in the steamy hot springs.

Finally, make sure you stop in the Garifuna town of Livingston , close to Belize. A former British slave-trading port, Livingston has a unique history and is unlike any other town in Guatemala.

Learn about Garifuna language and culture in Livingston and enjoy Afro-Caribbean drum music. Try the local dish “tapado” which is a coconut milk based seafood stew served with a side of freshly made coconut rolls!

A good place to stay on the Rio Dulce is Boatique Hotel and Marina , from where you can organize a boat ride down the river.

I’d highly recommend spending at least one night in Livingston. Hotel Villa Caribe is a popular place to stay in Livingston.

7. Semuc Champey

Are you a lover of adventure, nature, stunning turquoise water pools, and meeting new people over a couple of beers at Guatemala’s coolest lodge?

If yes, then Semuc Champey is the place for you.

Located in the department of Alta Verapaz, Semuc Champey is definitely one of the more off-the-beaten-path places in Guatemala with the last leg of the journey requiring piling into the back of a pickup truck for an off-roading adventure.

You’ll soon discover that the bumpy ride is well worth it when your trek through the sticky hot jungle rewards you with a spectacular view of cascading waterfalls and sparkling natural pools . It’s paradise!

After a few hours splashing around with new friends or a nice spiritual solo float session, you can really ramp up the adventure factor by spelunking in the nearby caves.

Equipped with a long dimly lit candle in one hand you’ll start out walking through the bat-filled caves as the water slowly rises to your knees.

Before you know it you’ll really get your workout on as you paddle through the cave and keep your head, and light source, above water.

Bats, climbing up rickety old ladders, unsure footing, and flickering candlelight that’s bound to blow out at least once definitely don’t make the caves at Semuc Champey the most relaxing, or safe, destination but man is it a fun adventure and a great story to take home.

As long as you’re a good swimmer and reasonably fit you should make it out feeling more alive than ever.

Be sure to finish your time in Semuc tubing down the river, bridge jumping or rope swinging from the trees into cool fresh waters.

Semuc Champey is one of the places in Guatemala where it’s highly advisable to plan ahead in order to make the experience as enjoyable as possible.

So take the time and the extra cash to book a shuttle and lodging in advance and get a local guide for the cave exploration part of your day, it’ll be well worth it. Check out Zephyr Lodge for accommodations, tours, and transportation options!

7.1 Use Lanquín as a Base

By: Daniel from Layer Culture

Lanquín is a small town located in the northern lowlands. It is a base for visiting popular Semuc Champey which is located around 7 kilometers away (4.3 miles), and a pit stop before or after visiting Cobán.

With the issue of travel safety in Guatemala when doing long road trips or excursions, rest assured that you can relax traveling to Lanquín because it is located on one of the country’s most popular backpacking circuits.

Some of the things to do in Lanquin include a visit to Grutas de Lanquin which are large limestone caves that you can visit at dusk, as well as river tubing (often combined with a tour of Semuc Champey).

To get to Semuc Champey from Lanquín, there are no buses, only pickup trucks that are easily found from around town. The ride is a bumpy one and costs around 15GTQ each way.

Most visitors to Lanquin look forward to a stay at El Retiro lodge which offers a series of straw huts to stay in, located next to the river and in the middle of the lushest landscape.

With a restaurant and bar on-site, the surroundings are perfect for those who want to rest and relax, or, organize a day tour through the property.

From Lanquín, there are regular mini-buses to Cobán so if you want to get to the Parque Nacional Las Victorias or spend a night in one of the centrally located hotels, the guys at El Retiro will help you organize your transport.”

8. Chichicastenango

By: Daria from The Discovery Nut

Located in Guatemala’s Western highlands, Chichicastenango is a popular day trip from Lake Atitlan .

Shortly called Chichi, this town is one of the most important places in Guatemala because it’s home to the Quiché civilization , the largest ethnic group of Mayan descent.

Chichicastenango Central Market is a place where you can buy anything from fresh produce to souvenirs, clothing, and Mayan textiles. It’s often called one of the best indigenous markets in Latin America , and when you come here, you will quickly realize that it’s true.

The town is also known for its wood carvings, especially ceremonial masks used in traditional Mayan ceremonies which you can also buy at the market.

Chichicastenango was a main trading center before the conquistadors arrived in the Americas, and to this day the ancient traditions are alive and well here.

The Pre-Colombian rituals still take place here, as Quiche people are deeply connected to their roots.

If you want to watch the ancient rituals , you can do it in several places: the Church of Santo Tomás and Chichicastenango cemetery along the western end of 8a Calle street.

If you are visiting the area for the first time, it’s a good idea to hire a guide who can give you an overview of the history and culture of this place.

9. The Acatenango Volcano

By: David & Intan from The World Travel Guy

The Acatenango volcano hike is an amazing trek in the Soledad area of Guatemala, not far from Antigua.

It’s a tough hike that requires some fitness and determination, but at the top of Acatenango you get to see an erupting volcano up close!

The Volcan De Fuego puts on a spectacular show, with small eruptions every 15-30 minutes, and you can watch them safely from your overnight camp at Acatenango base camp, which is located on the adjacent mountain.

You can do the Acatenango trek in 1, 2, or 3 days , although most people do it in 2 days and 1 night, since this is usually plenty of time to see some eruptions from the Fuego volcano in the daytime and also at night, when you can see it shooting out red lava.

If you do a 2 or 3-day Acatenango hike, you also have time to hike over to the main saddle of the Fuego volcano, where you can see the eruptions from even closer!

It sounds dangerous, but the guides have a lot of experience doing this trek, and they know all the safest places to stand and take pictures.

For Acatenango base camp, you’ll want to bring plenty of snacks and water. For an extra charge, you can also hire a porter to help carry your supplies to the top of the mountain, which gives employment to the local community and also makes the hike a bit easier since you don’t have to carry as much.

All in all, it’s one of the best things to do in Guatemala!

10. El Paredon

By: Zoe from Zoe Goes Places

El Paredon is Guatemala’s go-to destination for lovers of the outdoors, surfing, and partying .

Just two hours from Antigua, the town is popular with both domestic and international visitors.

Aside from surfing and partying, there isn’t loads to do in El Paredon. But, that is all part of the charm of this rustic Pacific coast town. And if you’re visiting for less than a week, you probably won’t get bored.

During the week, El Paredon is a quiet little town with nothing out of the ordinary. But, on the weekends, the party scene really comes to life.

Given the small size of the town, it’s easy to find parties. Simply follow the music and lights! And if in doubt, head to the beach where there always seems to be a party.

However, if you’re seeking a quieter time, there are cooking and craft classes available . Plus, you can go out on a boat with locals to fish in the Pacific.

Other popular activities include watching the sunset, releasing newly hatched turtles, and dowsing yourself in bug spray. Yes, unfortunately, El Paredon is full of mosquitos and sandflies that love the wet and hot coastal conditions.

But, if you come prepared with repellent, use mosquito nets and cover up around sunset, it shouldn’t ruin your experience, and El Pardeon really is a great place to visit in Guatemala.

Also Read: Surfing Tips for Beginners

11. Biotopo Del Quetzal

By: Tanya Korteling from Can Travel Will Travel

Biotopo del Quetzal is one of the best places to visit in Guatemala because the reserve is home to the resplendent quetzal bird, the reserves namesake, and the beautiful national bird of Guatemala.

Located between Antigua and Semuc Champey , the reserve is the perfect spot to break up the long bus journey between the two.

Biotopo del Quetzal covers 2,580 acres of protected cloud forest and aims to protect its endangered, rapidly shrinking cloud forest and inhabitants.

Spotting the elusive quetzal bird with its iridescent green and red plumage and spiky hairstyle (and the male with its very long streamer-like tail feathers) is the highlight of a visit to the reserve, although a sighting isn’t guaranteed.

Even if you don’t spot a quetzal bird, the reserve is still worth a visit. There are all kinds of other fauna and flora including lots of other species of birds, butterflies, insects, trees, orchids, and ferns.

Visitors can only explore a small area of Biotopo del Quetzal, but, there are two well-maintained trails that circuit through the cloud forest. There are also a couple of waterfalls , one that you can swim in.

Being a bit out of the way, accommodation near Biotopo del Quetzal is limited. However, I recommend Ranchitos del Quetzal, the family-run lodge where we stayed. It’s right next door to the reserve and also runs interactive workshops, serves traditional food, and has two hiking circuits that pass by waterfalls you can take a dip in.

The added bonus of staying here is there’s a good chance of spotting quetzal birds above the restaurant in trees.

Biotopo del Quetzal is definitely worth a visit especially if you’re interested in wildlife or seek out more off-the-beaten-track places.

12. San Andrés Xecul

By: Bella from Passport & Pixels

The quirky little town of San Andrés Xecul was completely off the tourist radar until Lonely Planet decided to put it on the front cover of their 2010 Guatemala travel guide, and catapulted it to fame.

The reason they did this is because of its church. Not just any grey old house of worship, the church at San Andres Xecul is probably the most quirky, colorful, and memorable religious building in the whole of Guatemala, if not Central America.

The now-famous church is an eye-bending confection of vivid yellow, covered with brightly-painted moldings featuring iconography from both Catholic and Maya cultures.

There are saints, angels, flowers and fruits, and even a pair of jaguars – all highlighting the fascinating way in which Guatemala’s Maya heritage mixes with later Spanish and Catholic influences.

But this church is not the only reason to visit .

San Andres Xecul is an unspoiled, vibrant Guatemalan town, full of friendly people wearing traditional Maya dress.

What’s more, there are actually two churches, with a second, much smaller, painted yellow church, like a Russian doll version of the first one, about a ten-minute walk up the main street.

From here, you can then hike uphill for another hour, through fragrant forest, to a magnificent viewpoint with a Maya altar where you may see local people performing Maya ceremonies, and stunning views over the town and the valley behind.

The best way to get to San Andres Xecul is on a day trip from Xela (Quetzaltenango).

Despite its new-found fame, most tourists still don’t bother to visit because it’s a little out of the way. But if you can spare a bit longer in Guatemala, it’s definitely worth a visit.

13. Xela (Quetzaltenango), Guatemala

By: Nina from Where in the World is Nina

While most people flock to Antigua, Lake Atitlan, or Tikal on their Guatemala itinerary , they miss out on Xela!

Located in Guatemala’s highlands, you’ll see volcanoes in every direction you turn.

Quetzaltenango, better known by its Mayan name Xela, is the country’s second-largest city, and while it’s big, it’s nothing like Guatemala City.

From here, you have access to tons of volcano hikes, sulfur hot springs, and hundreds of years of history.

For anyone visiting the best places in Guatemala, you should tack on a couple of extra days in Xela. One of the best things to do from here is a hike up a volcano. Santa Maria is a great choice, although while your calves are screaming on the way up, you might think differently!

The burn is worth it, as you’ll be rewarded with an epic vista of the surrounding volcanoes, including Santiaguito. Santiaguito will be in view just below the summit, and you can safely peep over this bubbling active volcano . It’s actually one of the most active volcanoes in the country and one of the most dangerous.

After you get your heart pumping, you might want a day to relax and chill, and the best place to do that is to head to Fuentes Georginas. This is a beautiful spot in the mountains with pools of soothing sulfur water to bathe and bask in while surrounded by the Guatemalan jungle.

While Xela might not be first on your list, leaving it off would be a crying shame!

14. Hobbitenango

By: Brodi Cole from Our Offbeat Life

Have you ever dreamed of visiting The Shire? Well, if you’re planning a trip to Guatemala, you don’t have to dream anymore.

Hobbitenango is an eco-friendly activity center that offers visitors a unique experience that is out of this world.

Located on the edge of a volcano near Antigua , this amazing eco park provides visitors with unforgettable experiences and activities, including staying overnight in real Hobbit Houses!

There are several different activities available at the park depending on your interests.

For nature lovers , there are plenty of trails perfect for exploring and birdwatching. For those who want to relax, there are plenty of hammocks and loungers where you can sit back and enjoy the view.

And for thrill seekers , there is axe throwing and a swing over the edge of the volcano! Whatever you fancy, make sure you head to “The Hand” as soon as you arrive (and arrive early!) so that you can get some truly breathtaking photos overlooking multiple volcanoes!

In addition to all these activities, guests can also enjoy some delicious food from one of Hobbitenango’s many restaurants or grab a drink from its bar – all while taking in the stunning landscape that surrounds the park.

One of the most unique things about Hobbitenango is that it offers guests the opportunity to stay overnight in real hobbit houses .

Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax in a cozy hobbit house surrounded by nature – Hobbitenango is a fun place to visit.

Enjoy Exploring These Must See Places in Guatemala!

I really hope you’ll visit Guatemala some day and if you do, take your time, get to know the people, and fall in love with this country as much as I did!

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13 thoughts on “The Must See Places in Guatemala”

Nice Lists.Great post, interesting and informative detail and your photographs are great – I enjoyed reading this!

I travelled to Guatemala last month and had a great experience! Everything you say in your article is absolutely true. I explored the city and went to places that no tourists go to

Hi Sanne, I love this, your passion for Guatemala shines through. I have shared it on my website and pinned it to my travel map.

Hi Matt, thanks a lot, I really appreciate that! 🙂

Great post and lovely photos! Guatemala sounds like a really amazing and beautiful place to visit. Thanks for sharing! 🙂

The people here sound absolutely amazing and the views aren’t half bad either 😉 I especially loved the “Rio Dolce”! I am going to pin this so I have it for a later reference.

Thanks for this. I used to live in the Us and I worked with a chap from Guatemala, since then I’ve always wanted to visit but haven’t really thought too much about it. Your love of the place really shines through in your writing and I can’t wait to visit, thanks for the tips.

Incredible photos, the San Juan Laguna photo is out of this world. Never made it to Guatemala, hoping we can go based on your photos and experience!

I got my first taste of Central America a year ago when we went to Nicaragua. I would love to get to Guatemala and your photos and descriptions definitely made me want to go soon.

Wow your photos are stunning! Rio Dulce looks like the perfect place to chill.

Great article. I have family from Guatamala and have never been myself. But these gorgeous pictures and descriptions make me want to explore all the natural beauty that this country has to offer. Thank you!! And so cool that you went before it was popular, and when you were so young too!!!

Really useful information about Guatemala. I am thinking of travelling there on my way to Cuba in August.

Yes! Río Dulce is my happy place, you would love it! I don’t know anybody who doesn’t.

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20 Incredible Places to Visit in Guatemala

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When most people think of traveling to Central America, places like Costa Rica and Panama may first come to mind. However, while those countries have plenty of their own appeal, one place that is worth your attention is Guatemala. Indeed, I’d go so far as to say that it is one of the best places in the region to visit, full of history, culture, amazing sights, and filled with so many incredible places to visit in Guatemala.

If you haven’t considered Guatemala for your next travels, now is the perfect time to start planning something – I promise that you won’t be disappointed by Guatemala. Here are 20 places that make this country both fresh and exciting, and why it is one of the best places in Central America ( and also one of the safest ).

Tikal National Park

One of the primary reasons to visit Guatemala is because of its rich history. As an epicenter of Mayan activity, there are several incredible spots where you can see the ancient ruins of this once mighty empire.

The most well-known of these is at Tikal, where the stone buildings sit, relatively untouched, surrounded by miles of dense jungle. If you’re a fan of the original Star Wars film, then you’ll recognize the massive pyramid, as it was featured in A New Hope.

Although as far as Hollywood films go, it felt much more reminiscent of Indiana Jones with dense jungle and steep pyramids at over 200 feet high — it’s impressive no matter what.

Compared to other Mayan ruins in Central America, particularly those in Mexico such as Chichen Itza , Tikal is much less crowded and touristy. Although it’s the most-visited in Guatemala, you don’t really feel it because the complex is so expansive and the country has managed to preserve much of the surrounding wilderness.

This preservation also means that you can get a glimpse (or hear a snippet) of a variety of wild animals in the surrounding foliage, whether it is coates or howler monkeys.

After traveling through all of Latin America, I still think that Tikal was the most impressive ruins we visited, much of which is simply due to the setting among the jungle… And yes, I’d personally consider Tikal to be more impressive than Machu Picchu .

When it comes to unique and memorable places in Guatemala, many spots vie for the top spot, but I’d have to say that Flores is among the best. As a town, it has a distinct allure, both because of its location and its history.

Flores is located in Lake Peten Itza. It’s an island connected to the mainland by a causeway, making it a prime destination for tourists who want to relax along the water. The town’s history is notable because it was one of the last places conquered by the Spanish, as the Mayans held out thanks to the natural barrier provided by the lake.

Speaking of the Mayans, Tikal is close by, so if you want to hit the ruins, Flores is one of the best places to stay as a jumping off point. Although Flores used to be a Mayan hideout, it was eventually taken over by the Spanish, which is where much of the architectural and cultural influences originate.

Overall, if you like the idea of staying in a colonial town and spending your days relaxing on the water, Flores is one of the most entrancing spots in all of Guatemala and it makes the best stopping point if you’re doing the Belize Guatemala border crossing (also check out the best places to visit in Belize here).

However, if that sounds exciting to you (akin to being a famous explorer), then these ruins will be a welcome addition to your trip.

To venture out to El Mirador, you have to stay in the nearby town of Carmelita. Saying it’s nearby is a bit misleading though. From the city, it will take about four nights and five days to trek through the dense jungle to reach the ruins. As we said, you will want to hire a guide to take you out there, even if you have a wilderness survival merit badge.

In the end, though, making it to El Mirador is a significant achievement that few people can claim. Although the ruins are not as spectacular or as grand as other spots like Tikal (mostly because the jungle still obscures them), it will feel like a momentous accomplishment. You should be sure that your plan with the guide includes at least one night camping out by the ruins before trekking back to civilization.

Laguna Lachua

Compared to some of its Central American neighbors, Guatemala is not as inundated by tourists. Part of that is because the region hasn’t always had the best reputation for safety (although that is one of the biggest myths about Central America , because it’s become a lot better in recent years), but that also means that most of the best spots are still unspoiled gems.

Nowhere is this more evident than at Lake Lachua. It can take about half a day to get there, riding on rough terrain and hiking into the center of the protected area, but once you arrive, you will be glad you made it.

A significant part of the appeal to this lake is the fact that most tourists don’t come here (mostly because of the trek). Thus, if you want to be surrounded by the jungle and its natural beauty, this is one of the prime destinations to visit.

Hiking and swimming are essential parts of this journey if you make it, so plan accordingly. The hike to and around the lake takes about an hour, but it’s not too difficult. Also, shampoos and other chemicals are banned from the water, so it’s still a pristine and vibrant blue.

Semuc Champey

While you’re in Laguna Lachua National Park, you will want to take a day and visit the natural pools of the famous Semuc Champey. As with most of the other places on this list, getting there can be a bit of a trek, but it’s well worth the time and effort once you see these spectacularly colored waters below you.

You can explore all around the pools and even swim in some. The pools were created by the Cahabon river, which currently runs underneath the site.

Because the area is made of limestone, there are dozens of caves nearby, some of which you can explore. Only the adventurous can reach the caves that have flooded entrances, meaning that you have to swim underwater to reach them.

As the former capital of the Guatemalan kingdom, Antigua is another city with a rich and colorful history. When the Spanish took over the region, they settled in Antigua and made it one of the central hubs for trading and exploration. Currently, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which should tell you something about how captivating this place is.

Because of its significance, here is where you can see a lot of Spanish baroque architecture. One of the reasons for Antigua’s fall from grace was the fact that the city is prone to earthquakes, but that also means that you can see the ruins of many of the churches that dotted the landscape.

Overall, Antigua is a fascinating place for tourists to stay, and it’s a lot more exciting and safer than the current capital, Guatemala City.

In terms of the best cities in Guatemala, I’d definitely say that Antigua is the most appealing, even if it one of the more touristy places here. There’s just something undeniably charming about the cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and massive volcanoes rising around you.

Here is also one of the best places to learn Spanish from one of many affordable schools, or you can find one of many other outdoor tours, including coffee, chocolate, or jungle exploration (including zip lining).

Read More: Things to Do in Antigua Guatemala

In Spanish, this is called the “Sweet River,” and once you cruise along it, it’s easy to see why it has the name.

There are plenty of places to relax and unwind in Guatemala, but Rio Dulce is unique because it delivers access to a variety of towns and ports that are worth exploring. Here are a couple of highlights you can see on a boat tour.

Castillo de San Felipe de Lara – this is an old Spanish fort that warded off Caribbean pirates from raiding the river.

Livingston – although there isn’t much to do in Livingston, it can be nice to visit and meet the locals. This town is only accessible by boat, so its local culture (the Garifuna people) are unique to this spot alone in Guatemala.

This part of Guatemala along the Caribbean coast is almost totally different from what you will see and experience in the rest of Guatemala, so it provides a nice bit of diversity on your travels.

Chichicastenango’s Market

If you’re like most travelers, then you may want to buy some souvenirs from your journey (I always try to, unless I’ve still got lots of travels left to do). There are many quality places to buy trinkets and handcrafted items in Guatemala, but why not do it at the largest outdoor market in Central America?

The market is open on Thursdays and Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly. It’s almost impossible to see all of the different shops and stands in one day, so you may be tempted to come back if you can manage it.

If you’ve never been to a big market like this, then you will be entranced by all of the vibrant colors, smells, and sounds coming from the market. Vendors from across the country come to Chichicastenango to sell their wares, which also means that the selection rotates throughout the year.

This city is also a spectacular place to experience a more authentic (but modern) Mayan culture, as most of the residents are direct descendants of the ancient empire. One of my favorite ways to experience a different culture is through food, and you can find a lot here that is rooted in ancient Mayan traditions. Be sure to come with a bit of money and an empty stomach.

Quetzaltenango (AKA Xela)

As the second largest city in Guatemala, Quetzaltenango (or Xela as the locals call it) is a great place to stay during your trip. It’s a beautiful mix of modern and antique decor and architecture, so you can explore the city and get a taste of all that Guatemala has to offer.

Better yet, Xela is also much safer than the capital of Guatemala City, so it makes for a more relaxed and enjoyable big city experience. As with Antigua, you can find plenty of things to do, including learning Spanish from one of the local schools, hiking the mountains nearby, or taking a day tour to explore some of the highlights of the region.

Xela is also a perfect starting point if you want to see some of Guatemala’s many volcanoes. The Santa Maria and Laguna Chicabal volcanoes are close by, although Santa Maria is the only active one.

El Boqueron Canyon

If you’re planning on going to Rio Dulce, then you should also take half a day and explore the Boqueron Canyon. As with some of the other spots on this list (i.e., Lake Lachua), it’s virtually untouched by tourists.

The canyon is made of limestone, so it offers a wide array of colors and plant life along its walls. You will have to pay a guide to take you here, but once you arrive, you won’t regret the added expense. Also, because the canyon isn’t touristy (yet), the boat tours are on canoes, which adds to the experience.

Seeing the canyon is breathtaking, and you can swim in the pristine blue waters as well. Here is a place where you can almost certainly be alone and one with nature.

We still have a couple of Mayan ruins to discuss in our overview of Guatemala, and Quirigua is one of them.

Although not as flashy as Tikal or as hidden as El Mirador, the site is one of the most critical from a historical perspective. It has the largest Mayan plaza in Central America as well, making it even more notable.

Those who want to better understand the ancient history of the region should make the journey to this site, where you can see several important monuments and religious sites.

It only takes a few hours to go through the place, so adding it to your itinerary shouldn’t be too difficult if you’re in the area.

Volcan Pacaya

As we mentioned, Guatemala has many different volcanoes, although not all of them are active. If you want to see some lava during your vacation, then Pacaya Volcano is the best place to do it.

Pacaya has erupted over 23 times in the last 500 years, making the most active one in the region. Even though the last eruption was in 2014, lava still flows from the surface, so you can see it (and feel the heat) during your hike to the summit.

One thing people like most about Pacaya (besides the lava) is the fact that the hike is not as strenuous as other volcanoes. Simply put, you don’t have to be in incredible shape to make the climb, so almost anyone can enjoy the scenery. Also, supposedly the view of the surrounding area is jaw-dropping (unless you’re fogged in), and we highly recommend heading up in the early morning to watch the sunrise.

Todos Santos Cuchumatan

For the most part, the local culture of Guatemala permeates the region, but one of the best places to experience it in all of its glory is Todos Santos. This city is one of the places where the locals dress traditionally (and not just for tourists), and most of them are also native Mayan.

All of Guatemala celebrates the occasion, but Todos Santos (which translates to All Saints) is one of the highlights of the country. You can see horse racing, as well as get plenty of booze from the locals. It’s the party of the year, so don’t miss out if you’re traveling during that time.

Sacatepequez

Speaking of All Saints Day, another great celebration is in the highlands of Sacatepequez where the locals celebrate by constructing giant and elaborate “kites” of wood and colorful paper… We are talking huge, though, too big to fly, which are then propped up throughout the local cemetery as smaller kites fly through the sky.

This celebration is a big deal here too, and thousands of locals take to the streets in town and to the cemetery, basically having a party. You’ll see people clambering over tombs, dancing to live music, drinking, and eating – a wholly different sort of experience than what we are used to in the United States, at least, in terms of relation with the dead.

We made the drive here to this little town specifically for this celebration and we were not disappointed. But be sure to plan in advance in terms of where to stay, as it can be difficult to find accommodation thanks to all the locals who visit.

Monterrico and Paredon

We could separate Monterrico and Paredon as two different locales, but the fact is that they are both pretty similar, and they aren’t too far apart, so you can hit both of them in one day or explore the ocean-front stretch between them.

Monterrico is unique because it’s nestled within a mangrove swamp. If you’re not familiar with mangroves, be sure to read up on them as they can be toxic if you’re not careful. However, the added element of danger also means that few tourists visit the beach, so you can enjoy the surf without having to share the sand.

Paredon is a tiny village on the coast, and it’s well-known for high-quality surfing. Even if you’re not a pro, there are a couple of surf schools, so now is a perfect time (and place) to learn.

Overall, there isn’t much to do in either place, but if you’re looking for gorgeous sand and surf (and seafood), they are worth the trip. One of our highlights from the time on Guatemala’s coast was being able to release baby sea turtles into the ocean in Monterrico – such a cool experience! We were able to partake thanks to staying at Johnny’s Place which is a cool hostel with multiple pools, located right on the ocean.

Finca Paraiso

We covered some of the highlights along the Rio Dulce, but we didn’t mention Finca Paraiso, which is a local hot spring and waterfall. This area is on private land, but tourists can visit as long as you have a guide.

Most of the locals come before noon, so you can enjoy the falls in the afternoon and evening if you want them all to yourself. What makes the water so enjoyable is that the hot springs create the waterfall, which cascades into icy cold water. So, it’s like having a natural hot tub and pool next to each other.

As the third largest Mayan ruins in Guatemala, Yaxha is another highlight if you’re trying to discover as much about the country’s ancient past. This area is kind of a mix between the dense jungle of El Mirador and the pomp and circumstance of Tikal.

Exploring these ruins can take a whole day, partly because there are over 500 buildings to see, including 13 altars and pyramids.

Currently, you can climb on most of them (something you can’t do at most of the ruins in Mexico, nor Tikal), which enables you to get spectacular views of the surrounding areas. The site is also next to a lake if you want to dip your feet and get the perfect selfie.

Sierra Del Lacandon National Park

We’ve covered a lot of different territories in Guatemala, and the fact is that the whole country is relatively unspoiled by humans. However, if you want to get some more pictures of exotic animals on your trip, then you need to make a stop at Sierra Del Lacandon National Park.

Guatemala itself is well-known for its biodiversity, but this is where it hits its climax. The park boasts the most biodiverse jungle in the country, so you’re sure to see plenty of colorful birds and other animals during your stay.

The park is also home to some ruins (can’t seem to get too far away from those), so feel free to explore to your heart’s content.

One other highlight of the park is the abundance of Cenotes (sunken water holes), so plan to swim during your adventure. The park itself covers over 20,000 acres, so you won’t be able to see it all in one trip.

Lake Atitlan

Going through this list, your vacation in Guatemala can take you all over the country. However, if you want to pick a specific location and stay there for the duration, then we highly recommend Lake Atitlan.

Not only is this one of the most beautiful lakes in the world (and the deepest in Central America), but it has a variety of towns on all sides of the like, each of which has a different vibe and are worthwhile to visit. The largest is Panajachel, but we don’t recommend staying there, only weaving through the markets to buy some souvenirs.

Along the lake are many different Mayan villages, as well as the towns of San Juan and San Marcos. Both places are excellent for exploring or staying overnight. While parts of Atitlan may be super-touristy, it’s hard not to deny the beauty of the area, particularly the prominent peaks that rise above this massive lake.

It’s also a good place to hang out, learn Spanish, and grab some falafel and kombucha from Israelis that set up shop here, hah, not a very authentic Guatemala experience, but still fun nonetheless.

Guatemala City

Considering that you’ll have to go through Guatemala City to get to and from the country (as it’s the only place with an international airport) or to go between major parts of the country, you might as well take in some sights while you’re here.

Guatemala City has a rough reputation, but overall, the city is safe enough to explore during the day, but just try to avoid staying out on the streets at night. During the day, you’ll see that plenty of police patrol the area and the city is broken up into different zones, some of which hold much more appeal than others.

Zones One and Four are our top picks. Four is where you can experience most of the art culture of the country, and Zone One is where most of the city’s history lies. You can also venture out into Zone One at night, as the nightlife is incredible – you can check out various bars, clubs, and restaurants, but keep your wallet or purse close by at all times and only carry what you need for the evening, nothing more.

More Places to Visit in Guatemala

Honestly, that’s just an overview of the highlights to visit in this amazing country, but there are plenty more incredible places to visit in Guatemala that we didn’t get into…

Don’t let the country’s old reputation dissuade you from coming here. If anything, the myth of an unsafe Guatemala has helped to keep it from becoming overrun with tourists, meaning that you can enjoy most of the sights without having to stand in line or fight crowds to get there.

Overall, as long as you take precautions, exercise common sense, and be vigilant of your surroundings in the cities, visiting Guatemala will be one of the best trips you take, full of incredible natural wonders, amazing history, and nice locals. It’s perfect for nature lovers and anyone who loves hiking and other outdoor activities. Let Guatemala surprise you on your next trip and explore at least a few of these places to visit in Guatemala.

Traveling to Guatemala soon? Book your lodging in advance and save money by using Booking.com . And don’t leave home without purchasing backpacker travel insurance for Guatemala to protect yourself against theft, injury, and illness. I use and recommend World Nomads for its combination of affordability and coverage.

Read Next: The Biggest Myths About Traveling to Central America

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23 Best Places to Visit in Guatemala for the First Time

Posted on Last updated: March 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

23 Best Places to Go in Guatemala

Antigua guatemala.

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

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

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

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

Cerro de la Cruz

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

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

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

Pacaya Volcano

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

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

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

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

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

Acatenango Volcano

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Atitlan

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

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

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

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

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

San Pedro La Laguna

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

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

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

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

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

San Marcos La Laguna

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

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

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

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

Chichicastenango

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

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

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

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

Chichicastenango Market

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

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

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

The market is only open on Thursdays and Sundays.

Lake Peten Itza & Flores

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tikal National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cobán

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

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

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

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

Semuc Champey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

El Boqueron Canyon

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

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

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

Candelaria Caves

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

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

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

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

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

Laguna Lachua National Park

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

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

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

Pacific Beaches

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quetzaltenango (Xela)

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

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

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

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

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

Georginas Hot Springs

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

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

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

Guatemala City

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

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

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

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

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

Beautiful Places to Visit in Guatemala FAQs

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are the best cultural sites in Guatemala?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Places to Visit in Guatemala Wrap-Up

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

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

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

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

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

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

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• 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

Why these cuban doctors became heroes during the volcano eruption in guatemala.

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

Places to Stay

The best spa hotels in guatemala.

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

The Best Hotels in Lake Atitlán for Every Traveler

Architecture

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

The Best Bed and Breakfasts in Guatemala

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

The Best Hotels to Book Near Tikal National Park, Guatemala

The Best Hotels in Monterrico, Guatamela, for Wildlife Fans

7 Inspiring Women From Guatemala

7 Activities That Will Teach You About the Culture in Guatemala

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

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