Lush, mountainous, and dotted with lakes and volcanoes, Guatemala can be somewhat challenging to traverse by land, though well worth the effort. Most visitors arrive to busy Guatemala City and head for colonial Antigua, where beautifully restored churches, plazas, and archways line the cobblestone streets. Ringed by three smoldering volcanoes, Antigua is a popular place for guided treks to see the fiery craters of Pacaya or Acatenango up close. Don't worry—your guides will send a scout ahead to make sure the volcano is "feeling friendly" on the day of your trek. As an ancestral and present-day homeland of the Maya, Guatemala's greatest archaeological treasures are UNESCO-listed Tikal National Park and the Maya ceremonial site of Yaxha. Taking a guided tour is a must (literally; the government requires it), so it's ideal to book in advance. The Maya Biosphere Reserve surrounding Tikal is home to jaguars, toucans, macaws, spider monkeys, howler monkeys, and quetzals—a bird sacred to the Maya people. If you can't make it to Tikal, the Copan Maya ruins are accessible from Guatemala City, located just over the Honduran border. Farther afield, scenic Lake Atitlán, surrounded by mountains, makes a perfect base from which to explore the highlands. From the friendly town of Panajachel, take a lake cruise to visit some of the smaller villages dotting the shores, such as Santiago de Atitlán, traditional home of the Tzutujil people. If time permits, catch the colorful market in nearby Chichicastenango, to which indigenous peoples from around the region flock to buy and sell their wares.
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Guatemala is known for its volcanoes, Maya ruins, coffee, and colonial architecture. With an abundance of historical and natural attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant Central American country. Major tourist destinations, like Lake Atitlán, Antigua, Tikal, and Flores, are easily accessible by organized tours.
...MoreAntigua is Guatemala’s most popular tourist destination. Just a 1-hour shuttle ride from La Aurora International Airport, the colonial city is also a great starting point for day trips to Chichicastenango Market, Pacaya Volcano, and Lake Atitlán. Travelers with more than a few days in Guatemala often visit Semuc Champey, Tikal, or Quetzaltenango (Xela).
...MoreBudget at least one week of vacation time in Guatemala if you want to visit multiple cities, complete (and recover from) a multi-day trek, or explore the country’s many ruins. When creating your itinerary, keep in mind that, due to unpredictable traffic and construction, travel between cities can be time-consuming. Maximize your limited vacation time with organized tours.
...MorePeople flock to Guatemala for its multitude of hiking, sightseeing, and cultural attractions. For active travelers, the country offers volcano hikes, as well as surfing in Monterrico. If natural beauty and relaxation are more your speed, visit Lake Atitlán and Semuc Champey. Discover Guatemala’s colonial history in Antigua and its Maya lineage at Tikal.
...MoreEssential Guatemalan bites include tostadas Guatemaltecas and tamales wrapped in plantain leaves or corn husks, which are easily found on street corners throughout the country. Meat lovers must try caldo de res, a beef-based soup filled with vegetables, including chayote squash. Satisfy your sweet tooth with mole de plátano or atole de elote.
...MoreYes, Guatemala is safe for visitors. While certain Guatemala City districts have high crime rates, you can feel at ease in tourist areas such as Tikal, Antigua, and Lake Atitlán. Still, it’s best to avoid traveling at night and displaying signs of wealth and to always remain aware of your surroundings.
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