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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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15 Best Places to Visit in Guatemala (Expert Picks for 2024)

Written by: Author Andrew Helling  |  Reviewed by: Sandy Mitchell

Andrew Helling is a licensed pilot, travel enthusiast, and the founder of Travellers Worldwide whose travel expertise has been quoted in countless publications across the web. Armed with a laptop and a Wi-Fi connection, he loves exploring the world with his wife and son and is always on the hunt for cheap flights and new adventures... Learn More

Sandy Mitchell is a travel expert and the content reviewer/fact checker at Travellers Worldwide. Using the experience she gained working in the travel industry for more than 20 years, as a travel agent, travel marketing executive, and cruise school administrator, Sandy fact-checks and reviews each of our guides to ensure they're as accurate and helpful as possible... Learn More

Posted on Last updated: January 8, 2024 - Travellers Worldwide is reader-supported. If you buy a product we link to, we may earn a commission. Learn more

Guatemala is the perfect destination to explore and discover a unique culture, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history. From colonial cities like Antigua to the fascinating ruins of Tikal National Park, there are activities for all tastes.

If this seems appetizing, then you’ll want to know more about the beautiful country that is Guatemala. Let’s learn about all the top spots that make up one of the most beautiful countries in Central America. Let us be your guide!

15 of the Best Places to Visit in Guatemala

Guatemala has so much to offer and visit, so we want to ensure that you know what you can find and where! Here is our list of the best places to visit in Guatemala:

Fotos593/Shutterstock

Flores is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning beauty and rich culture. Located on the northern shore of Lake Petén Itzá in the department of El Petén, Flores is known for its colonial-style architecture and vibrant nightlife.

From zip lining through the jungle canopy to exploring ancient Mayan ruins like Tikal National Park  or Yaxhá National Park , visitors can find something exciting to do no matter what tickles their fancy.

There are also plenty of water sports available such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and fishing trips that take you out onto Lake Peten Itza, where you can spot local wildlife like crocodiles and monkeys!

Brester Irina/Shutterstock

Tikal is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Guatemala. Located in the heart of the Petén jungle, it is home to some of the world’s most impressive Mayan ruins and archaeological sites; a unique place.

When visiting Tikal, you can explore many ancient structures such as temples, palaces, and plazas that were built by the Maya people over 1,500 years ago.

The main attractions at Tikal are its two massive pyramids – Temple I ( Temple of the Great Jaguar ) and Temple II ( Temple of Masks ) – even the Egyptians are envious!

Both are worth exploring for their unique architecture and stunning views from atop them. You can also take guided tours around other parts of this vast site, which will give you insight into how these ancient civilizations lived centuries ago.

3. Rio Dulce

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Rio Dulce is one of Central America’s most beautiful and unique places to visit. Located on the Caribbean coast, Rio Dulce offers a variety of activities for tourists looking for adventure or relaxation.

The area around Rio Dulce is full of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, swimming, and fishing. Many trails lead up into the hills where you can take in stunning views of Lake Izabal and its surrounding mountains.

You won’t believe your eyes once you’re up on the hills.

The lake is perfect for kayaking or canoeing along its calm waters while admiring the wildlife and lush vegetation along its banks. For those who prefer to stay dry, there are plenty of opportunities to go bird watching or relax by the shoreline with a good book.

4. Livingston

Livingston, Guatemala – August 31, 2016: Riverside moored boats in late afternoon light on Rio Dulce in Caribbean town of Livingston, Guatemala/Lucy.Brown/Shutterstock

Livingston, Guatemala is an amazing destination for tourists looking to experience a unique and vibrant culture. Located on the Caribbean coast of Guatemala, Livingston offers stunning views of both the sea and lush jungle.

Livingston is known for its adventure activities like kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming in the Caribbean Sea.

The nearby Rio Dulce River provides opportunities for rafting, tubing, and fishing trips with local guides who can take you upriver into remote areas where wildlife abounds.

For those looking for more extreme adventures, there are zip-lining tours through the jungle canopy or hikes up nearby mountains with breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

5. Quirigua

Fredy Estuardo Maldonado/Shutterstock

Quirigua, Guatemala is a hidden gem that should be on the top of any traveler’s list. Located in the department of Izabal, Quirigua is home to some of the most stunning Mayan ruins in Central America.

It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site  in 1981 and is known for its many stone monuments and sculptures.

Quirigua boasts an impressive collection of archaeological sites including several stelae (large carved stones), plazas, temples, altars, ball courts, and other structures that provide insight into the lives of those who lived there centuries ago.

COBAN, GUATEMALA – 03.02.2019: Typical central american local streets of Coban in a tropical region, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala/Pablo Joanidopoulos/Shutterstock

The area around Coban offers plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and camping. Several trails are located nearby with varying difficulty levels, so there’s something for everyone.

In addition to its natural wonders, Coban also offers visitors a chance to learn about local culture through various museums and cultural centers throughout town.

These include Museo de Arte Popular  (Museum of Popular Art), Centro Cultural La Azotea  (La Azotea Cultural Center), and Casa de la Cultura (House of Culture).

Visitors can also attend traditional festivals like Semana Santa (Holy Week) or Feria Agostina, which celebrates local craftsmen and artisans from all over Central America.

7. Semuc Champey

Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock

Semuc Champey, Guatemala is one of Central America’s most beautiful and unique places to visit. Located in the heart of Guatemala’s lush rainforest, Semuc Champey is a natural paradise with stunning views and plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Semuc Champey offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Central America. The area features towering limestone cliffs covered with lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear pools surrounded by tropical jungle.

Visitors can take advantage of numerous hiking trails throughout the area or simply relax on one of its many beaches while admiring the stunning landscape around them.

Studioloco/Shutterstock

Lanquin, Guatemala is a must-see destination for any traveler looking to experience the best of Central America. Located in the heart of Alta Verapaz province, Lanquin offers stunning natural beauty and plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay.

From white water rafting on the Cahabon River to exploring ancient Mayan ruins at Semuc Champey National Park , there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures in Lanquin.

The area is home to some incredible caves that are perfect for spelunking or just taking a leisurely stroll through their winding passageways. You can also go horseback riding or take a guided tour through lush jungles filled with exotic wildlife like howler monkeys and toucans.

Nebaj, Guatemala is a stunningly beautiful destination that offers an array of activities for tourists. Located in the Quiche region of Guatemala, Nebaj is known for its rich culture and vibrant atmosphere.

Nebaj has plenty to offer those who enjoy outdoor activities. The area boasts some of the most spectacular views in all of Central America with lush green mountains surrounding it on all sides.

Visitors can take advantage of hiking trails leading up to nearby peaks or explore caves and waterfalls just outside town. For those looking for more extreme adventures, there are also opportunities to go rock climbing or rappelling down cliffsides.

Chajul, Guatemala – January 2019, Street view of houses in small town with mountains in background/Studioloco/Shutterstock

Chajul, Guatemala is a hidden gem that should be on the top of any traveler’s list. This small village in the Quiché region of Guatemala has plenty to offer for those looking for an authentic and unique experience.

Chajul offers many activities that will keep you busy during your stay. From exploring ancient Mayan ruins to hiking through lush jungles, there are plenty of ways to explore this beautiful area.

You can also visit nearby villages such as Nebaj or Uspantán and learn about their culture and history. For those who want something more adventurous, there are opportunities for zip-lining, white water rafting, horseback riding, and even paragliding!

11. Todos Santos

Todos Santos Cuchumatan, Guatemala – November 1, 2011: Traditionally dressed indigenous locals & tourists watch drunken men from town race up & down dirt track on horseback all day on All Saints’s Day/Lucy.Brown/Shutterstock

Todos Santos, Guatemala is an amazing destination for tourists looking to explore the culture and beauty of Central America. The great outdoors offer a variety of activities in Todos Santos.

Hiking trails lead visitors through lush jungles and across mountain peaks with breathtaking views. Adventure seekers can also enjoy white-water rafting on the nearby Rio Chixoy River or take a zip line tour over the treetops of the rainforest canopy.

For those who prefer more leisurely pursuits, bird watching tours are available throughout the area as well as horseback riding along secluded beaches and jungle paths.

12. Xela (Quetzaltenango)

Bruno Adrian/Shutterstock

Xela (Quetzaltenango), Guatemala is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers something for everyone. From its stunning colonial architecture to its bustling markets, Xela has plenty of attractions to keep tourists busy.

Xela is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The nearby volcanoes provide breathtaking views and great hiking opportunities, while the surrounding forests offer plenty of birdwatching and wildlife spotting possibilities.

There are also numerous festivals throughout the year which celebrate Xela’s rich cultural heritage, including Semana Santa (Holy Week), which takes place each March or April when locals parade through town dressed in colorful costumes carrying religious statues on their backs.

13. San Francisco El Alto

Judith Lienert/Shutterstock

San Francisco El Alto is a small Guatemala town that offers travelers an unforgettable experience. Located just outside of Antigua, the city provides visitors with stunning views of nearby volcanoes and lush green hillsides.

San Francisco El Alto has plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay. From exploring the local culture at the markets or taking part in traditional dances and music performances, there’s something for everyone here.

For those who want to get out into nature, hiking up one of the nearby volcanoes can be a great way to take in some breathtaking views from above.

14. San Andres Xecul

Francisco Sandoval Guate/Shutterstock

San Andres Xecul, Guatemala, is a hidden gem of Central America. Located in the western highlands of Guatemala, this small town offers visitors a unique experience with its lush landscape and rich culture.

San Andres Xecul is an ideal destination for adventure seekers looking to explore the outdoors. Hiking trails wind their way through the jungle-covered hills surrounding the town, offering spectacular views of volcanoes and waterfalls.

The local culture in San Andres Xecul is vibrant and alive, with traditional music playing throughout the streets and festivals celebrated throughout the year celebrating different aspects of Mayan life, such as Day of The Dead  or New Year’s celebrations.

15. Momostenango

Located in the western highlands of Guatemala, Momostenango offers visitors an array of activities to enjoy during their stay. For those who love water-based activities, nearby lakes provide great fishing spots and kayaking or canoeing excursions.

The area also has several zip lines that offer thrilling rides through the treetops with breathtaking views over the valley below.

Visitors can learn about traditional Mayan weaving techniques at local workshops or take part in cooking classes where they can learn how to make authentic Guatemalan dishes such as tamales and pepián de pollo (chicken stew).

Frequently Asked Questions

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Do you still have doubts about traveling to Guatemala? We answered some of the most frequently asked questions:

What is the most visited place in Guatemala?

The most visited place in Guatemala is the ancient Mayan city of Tikal. Located in the northern part of the country, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique insight into one of the world’s oldest civilizations.

Visitors can explore temples, plazas, and pyramids built over 1,500 years ago. There are also trails for hiking through lush jungles and wildlife spotting opportunities.

The nearby town of Flores provides access to restaurants, bars, shops, and accommodation options for visitors looking to stay longer than a day trip.

What are the safest areas in Guatemala?

Guatemala is a beautiful country with many attractions and activities to explore. However, it is important to know the areas considered safe for travelers.

The safest areas in Guatemala include Antigua, Lake Atitlan, Quetzaltenango (Xela), Coban, and Flores/Tikal. All these cities have good infrastructure and safety measures in place. They are also close to major tourist attractions such as volcanoes or Mayan ruins.

For those looking for an even safer experience, there are several small towns around the lake area where crime rates are low and locals friendly. You can ensure a safe stay in Guatemala with proper research and preparation before your trip.

Is Guatemala good for tourists?

Yes, Guatemala is a great destination for tourists. It has stunning natural beauty, from its lush rainforests to volcanoes and lakes. There are also plenty of cultural attractions to explore, such as the ancient Mayan ruins and Spanish colonial architecture.

The country offers visitors various activities, including hiking, rafting, zip-lining, and exotic experiences. Additionally, Guatemala is known for its friendly people and delicious cuisine that will make your trip even more enjoyable.

How many days is enough for Guatemala?

Depending on your interests, 3-4 days in Guatemala can be enough to taste the culture and scenery. You could visit Antigua for its colonial architecture, take part in some Mayan history at Tikal, or relax by Lake Atitlan.

If you have more time available, 5-7 days will give you ample opportunity to experience the best of what Guatemala offers. With longer stays, you could venture out into rural areas and explore smaller towns and villages off the beaten path.

So, Where Should You Visit in Guatemala?

Guatemala is a beautiful country full of amazing places to explore. From the colonial charm of Antigua to the ancient ruins at Tikal National Park and the stunning beauty of Lake Atitlan, there’s something for everyone.

Flores & El Mirador offers an incredible view into Mayan culture and history, while Chichicastenango Market provides a unique shopping experience that can’t be found anywhere else.

So, with so much to see and do, and natural beauty practically bursting from every part of the country, what are you waiting for — book your trip to Guatemala today!

When to Go: The Best & Worst Times to Visit Guatemala in 2024 What It Costs: What a Trip to Guatemala Costs in 2024 | Average Prices

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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The 23 top things to do in Guatemala + useful practical tips

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There are so many things to do in Guatemala, a challenging country, and yet a must-visit. Blessed with mighty vulcanos, a profound indigenous culture, charming colonial architecture, delicious coffee, and colorful textiles. In this post, I am sharing all the unmissable places to visit in Guatemala and many useful practical tips.

I have been to Guatemala twice and in both cases for a long period of time. I haven’t been traveling all the time, because I was housesitting in Antigua for a few months. However, I have been traveling solo around the most incredible places and explored Antigua inside out in the 9 months I spent here.

I have to be honest, for as much as I love Guatemala, it is not an easy country, especially for solo female travelers. If you consider that I am scared of everything, you can imagine my concern.

However I made it and I manage to feel pretty safe everywhere I went, but with some precautions of course. The first main one is avoiding infamous places that are well known for being unsafe, such as Guatemala City, for example.

In fact, if you are traveling with an open mind and some common sense you can travel around on your own and stay safe while enjoying this beautiful country.

Among the most popular landmarks in Guatemala, the most noteworthy are Semuch Champey, one of the most beautiful of Central America’s natural wonders, and the Volcano Tajumulco the tallest mountain in Central America.

But also rich coffee plantations, charming colonial cities, and the famous lake Atitlan, one of the most beautiful lakes in Latin America surrounded by mountain peaks and lush vegetation are places that make Guatemala a great place to include in your Latin America itinerary.

With its 37 vulcanos, Guatemala is definitely a popular destination among hikers, but you don’t have to be a pro to get on top of one of those majestic peaks, as there are many hikes that are suitable for beginners as well. I will tell you more about it later on in this post.

I will share my perfect Guatemala Itinerary on another occasion, while here you will find the most incredible things to do in Guatemala and places to visit, not necessarily in preference order. That would be a difficult task.

Insider tip – Make sure you buy a local SIM card . It will be helpful and safe to stay connected, use google map to find places and use it for any emergency. Read my post on Guatemala SIM cards to learn more.

Table of Contents

The best things to do in Guatemala and the best places to visit

1. spend a few days on lake atitlan.

Lake Atitlan (not to be confused with the smaller lake Amatitlan) has been one of the most popular destinations for any traveler who set foot in the Guatemalan territory. It’s a must-visit place that requires full attention and a separate post. However, let me tell you a little about this spectacular postcard-worthy destination.

Nestled amongst the Guatemalan Highlands of the Sierra Madre mountain range, Lake Atitlan belongs to the Department of Sololá in the southwestern region of Guatemala.

It is the deepest lake in Central America with a maximum depth of 350 mt. and although it’s not properly considered a crater lake, the lake basin is indeed volcanic in origin formed by a volcanic eruption something like 84.000 years ago. ( source ).

It is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, if not for the spectacular green backdrop of mountains, hills, and volcanos.

Besides the spectacular views, you will enjoy visiting the Mayan villages scattered around the coast, a few of them, such as San Juan la Laguna, Santiago Atitlan, and Santa Catarina, are less touristy and where you can find the most authentic Mayan Culture.

Backpackers love San Pedro La Laguna, though, for some reason, I didn’t particularly like it, and though I didn’t have any bad experience. In fact, it is notoriously the hub for drug and party seekers.

Yoga lovers prefer San Marcos which has made itself a name within the yoga world offering cheap Yoga teacher training schools and mystic ceremonies, which I wouldn’t trust unless they are imparted by a local authentic shaman.

Panajachel is a friendly called Gringotenango… which will give you an idea of what you will find.

Still, the views of the lake are just magic.

How to get to Lake Atitlan

There are tourist busses leaving from Antigua every day, that will take you to Panajachel and from there you can travel by boat to other towns. You can walk to Santa Caterina, a long walk, which is not particularly fancy until you are almost to the town where you will have spectacular views of the colorful village from afar. Totally worth the walk.

2. Get to know the local culture in San Juan del Lago

Although as I mentioned before I will write more in detail about Lake Atitlan and all the amazing things to do, I had to include San Juan del Lago as one of the most places to visit in Guatemala, not only on Lake Atitlan.

I fell in love with this small village mostly for the initiative of the local tourism office to help local artisans to show their work to the world and empower local women to live by their art of weaving, a long-time tradition and part of the Mayan heritage.

In San Juan del Lago you can join a guided tour led by one of those women and learn the art of weaving but also their coffee plantations and bee breeding, browse through the magnificent work of local painters, see how they cultivate and use medicinal plants, and much more.

You can also go on a hike to the Cerro de la Cruz, while bird watching and enjoying the stunning views and then hang out and relax in one of the coffee shops in town.

One and a half-day is enough but you may fall in love and want to stay longer. You are invited to spend the night in a homestay to help the local economy and try the experience to live like a local. However, keep in mind the accommodation is very basic.

3. Join a trek from Antigua to Lake Atitlan

All around Guatemala there are amazing treks which you must do with a local guide, for safety reasons. Getting to Lake Atitlan from Antigua is one of them. You will sleep in local homes in the villages you will meet along the way and enjoy stunning views. Check with local travel agencies in Antigua to learn more.

4. Visit Semuc Champey natural monument

Nestled within a lush jungle Semuc Champey is a spectacular natural monument in Guatemala that cannot be missed. Located in the northeast region of Alta Verapaz, near the town of Lanquin, Semuc Champey consists of natural emerald green pools on top of a natural 300 m limestone bridge, formed by the collapsing of a rock.

The best way to visit Semuc Champey and enjoy it fully is to spend two nights in one of the Eco Lodges scattered around the Jungle, enjoying the silence of nature interrupted only by birds chirping and howler monkeys claiming their territory.

I stayed at the Utopia Eco Lodge and loved it but there were several others for any budget and location.

How to get to Semuc Champey

Depending on where you are coming from there are tourist busses (which I always recommend) leaving for the major tourist places. I went from Flores, but you can get there from Antigua, Panajachel, Rio Dulce, and Guatemala City.

All the shuttle busses will take you to Lanquin and from there the hotel that you have previously booked will send a shuttle for you. They are very well coordinated. I was really impressed.

5. Get lost in Chichicastenango Market

The small town of Chichicastenango is well known for the spectacular colorful local market that takes place every Thursday and Sunday.

However, I would recommend visiting on Sunday because you will be able to assist with an incredible example of religious syncretism between the roman catholic church and the Mayan rituals during the mass celebration.

The market itself is an outburst of colors, as local artisans come from all the nearby villages to sell their artifacts, such as textiles, woodworks, natural healing herbs, pottery, and porks and chicken.

Mind the pickpocketers!

Chichicastenango is located between Guatemala City and Quetzaltenango in the department of El Quiche and the last census stated that 98,5% of the town population is indigenous Mayan K’iche, which makes it the center of the Mayan Culture in Guatemala.

Although it has always been one of the most touristy places to visit, I found it still maintains its own authenticity and by all means worth a visit. Besides, you will contribute to the local business by buying their products.

Just keep in mind that you have a limited luggage allowance because once you are there you will want to buy everything. 🙂

How to get to Chichicastenango

To get there you can join day trips either from Antigua, Panajachel, or Quetzaltenango which is a great option if you have limited time. On the contrary, if you can spend there one night, that would be the best way to visit, without rushing it.

6. Enjoy a volcano hike

In Guatemala, there are something like 30 active volcanoes over 37 which makes it a paradise for outdoorsy and adventurous travelers. The good part is that you can find any difficulty level and you can choose the one that is suitable for you.

If you are an extreme hiker you can use the easy hikes to train for the heavy ones.

Also, remember the altitude. I wouldn’t recommend going from Rio Dulce or El Paredon , which are at a sea-level to Acatenango which is  3,976 meters (13,044 ft).

If you are planning such a strenuous hike, which leaves from Antigua, I would recommend spending some time in the beautiful city, which you will want to visit anyway and acclimatize before getting to the Acatenango.

If you love to challenge yourself, after Acatenango you can try Agua, Santa Maria, and Tajumulco, for more difficult hikes. Although mind that Agua Volcano is considered at risk of assault and you must go with a good travel agent and police escort and pray that the police didn’t make a deal with the assaulters. (just saying)

Hike the Acatenango Volcano

Among all the possible hikes in Guatemala, Acatenango is the most popular and also the most spectacular, especially if you choose the 2-day trip.

You will start the hike in the late morning and reach the base camp by early afternoon where you can relax, eat and enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings. (some agencies provide the food some others don’t, so make sure you ask)

You will have the option to get to the top of the Acatenango and watch the volcano Fuego erupting in the evening and then go back down to sleep in your already set up tent to wake up in the middle of the night and climb again to the top to be there by sunrise.

Remember this hike is not for the faint of the heart. In fact, I haven’t done it yet as I am writing this and I am still pondering on it. I might go on a private tour, which is more expensive but it will give me more chance to get there, as I walk slow. In fact, you need to be aware of your level of fitness and your pace before joining a group.

You could also hike the Acatenango in one day, which means leaving very early in the morning and get back in the evening, but you will miss the sunrise which is the highlight of the trip.

Hike to the Pacaya volcano

The hike to the Pacaya volcano is the mildest one, perfect for those, like me, who are not in the best shape or those who want to train for a more challenging hike.

It’s only a 2 hours steep walk up to the lookout to watch the spectacular smoking volcano peak and then you will be able to walk on the volcanic rocks very close to the top. No worries it’s not dangerous.

It’s a half a day trip, which leaves you time to explore Antigua in the afternoon. For those who don’t think that can make it there are horses available as well.

Climb Santa Maria volcano

The hike to Santa Maria volcano is considered even more challenging than Acatenango, including some safety issues related to the area. It’s a more off-the-beaten-path hike among the unique activities to do from Quetzaltenango.

I would recommend going with a local certified guide although I know a few people who have done it on their own. If this is your choice, please make sure you are at least with other people and have an offline map on your phone. Also, bring no valuables with you.

7. Fall in love with Antigua Guatemala

I am not sure if Antigua Guatemala is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but it is definitely one of the prettiest colonial towns in Latin America.

The colorful colonial homes, with flower-decorated bow windows, cobblestone streets, crumbling ruins of old majestic churches, and an overall authentic feel despite being invaded by tourists and a strong community of expats.

You must spend a few days in Antigua, walk around the historical center, get lost in the colorful market, visit some of the local museums, including the chocolate one. There is so much to see in Antigua and its surroundings that I will dedicate a separate post to it and show you all the Antigua wonders.

One of the best ways to enjoy the historical center, which is a Unesco World Heritage Site is to wear comfortable shoes and just walk around.

Or you could join one of the free walking tours. I did one with Pablo and I loved it. He’s a young student and so knowledgeable and passionate about his country’s history and culture.

If you go on your own, do not miss the central plaza/Parque central, the Santa Catalina Arch, the ancient churches, and their fascinating remains, and the Cerro de la Cruz where you can get amazing views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes

If you are a foodie and interested in the local cuisine Antigua offers excellent cooking class options and amazing restaurants and cafes .

Antigua is also the perfect place to get acclimatized before going on a hike.

8. Visit one of the coffee plantations around Antigua

Guatemala is the 9th largest exporter of coffee in the world, making 2.7% of the world coffee market.

Despite being a small country, the combination of mineral-rich soils (thanks to the proximity of the volcanos) rainfall, humidity, altitude, and temperature allows Guatemala to produce something like seven distinct types of Arabica coffee in different regions.

In fact, Guatemala’s most well-known coffee-growing region is Antigua, for its location between the three volcanos Fuego, Acatenango, and Agua. However, coffee is cultivated in many other regions including Huehuetenango and around the Lake Atitlan, Alta Verapaz among others.

In Antigua, though it’s easier to take some tours to visit some of the coffee farms and understand how it is cultivated and processed.

9. Take a tour to the local villages around Antigua

If you are interested in some off-the-beaten-path places you should explore the surrounding villages a few miles from Antigua. I have taken a tour with Pablo , a young history student passionate about Guatemalan Culture who went out of his way to show me around although I was the only client. He normally does private tours.

We took a local bus to San Antonio Aguascalientes where I could appreciate the old church and the artisan market where women in traditional clothes were practicing the unique art of weaving. I was given a demonstration of how it works and how they use those beautiful and expensive handmade clothes for their ceremonies.

Pablo also took me to the home of a great musician and national Marimba player where I was thought about the marimba music tradition, very interesting as well.

We then moved to the Ciudad Vieja, where we looked at the Iglesia de Santiago de Almolonga with its beautiful white facade in Guatemalan baroque style.

Among other villages that you can visit are, San Pedro Las Huertas, San Juan del Obispo and San Felipe de Jesus.

You can ask Pablo to take you or you can go on your own either by local busses, to have a chicken bus experience, or by Uber.

10. Take a cooking class

Among all the tours available in Antigua, taking a cooking class could be a great idea if you want to learn about the local cuisine and you want to replicate it at home. There are many different options and here below I am sharing a few

11. Visit Tikal National Park

Another Guatemalan UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most interesting and visually breathtaking Mayan ruins, the archeological site of Tikal should certainly be included on your Guatemala itinerary, even if it’s a little off path.

In fact, you must get to the pretty town of Flores first and take tours from there. Or if you are ready to splurge you can stay in one of the fancy hotels by the ruins.

Keep in mind that the bus ride from Antigua to Flores is quite long and exhausting. If you don’t have much time you may want to consider getting a domestic flight from Guatemala City to Flores.

12. Join a 5 days trek to El mirador

El Mirador is one of the Mayan ruins that have been discovered and brought to light from the tick jungles not too long ago.

The trek is not that difficult as it is pretty much on a flat territory but you will need to go with a local guide if you don’t want to get lost or having to deal with the local wildlife by yourself. I would suggest you check with different local travel agencies and see what the options are.

13. Spend a few days in the town of Flores

Flores is a little island and a town in lake Peten Itza and also one of the departing points of the tour to Tikal. It’s a cute tiny town that you can also use as a base to relax and take sunset boat tours in the lake.

It was my first Guatemalan stop when I visited the country for the first time and I got there after a misadventure while crossing the Mexico-Guatemala borders .

14. Chill at El remate

El Remate is a sleepy town only 30 minutes bus ride from Flores and besides being a great departing point for your tour to Tikal, it is also a great place to relax by the lake in one of the cute Eco Lodges by the shore. Besides relaxing you can also enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, kayaking, swimming, birdwatching, and horseback riding.

Definitely a quieter alternative than Flores to rest on your way to and from Tikal.

15. Relax in Rio Dulce

If you want to check out the Caribbean coast of Guatemala you should get to Rio Dulce and use it as a base for your tours.

Rio Dulce is a quiet and laid-back village situated right where Lake Izabal and Rio dulce meet. The town in itself is not exactly what I would call a nice place, but you will love to stay in one of the Eco Lodge right by the river opposite to the town, nestled among mangroves and birds.

You can take a boat trip to the Rio Dulce up to Livingston where you can walk around and get the feel of the Caribbean culture, very much different from the rest of Guatemala, and closer to Belize. In fact, that’s where the frontier is.

If you have time I would suggest you stay a couple of nights in Livingston and check out the spectacular Caribbean beaches besides taking a hiking tour to the seven altars waterfall.

Close to Livingston, you can find some of the best beaches in Guatemala .

Back in Rio Dulce, you can check out the Castillo de San Felipe or what remains of it, where local guides will give you a tour. From the tours of the castle, you can have incredible views of the lake.

16. Don’t miss Quetzaltenango

Quetzaltenango is one of my favorite places in Guatemala, after Antigua of course. It’s a less touristy city, with a more authentic feel that you can appreciate while walking around the narrow roads, or visiting the nearby villages.

Quetzaltenango is the second-largest city and one of the favorite cities chosen by backpackers who decided to spend some extra time in Guatemala and learn Spanish.

It is in fact cheaper than Antigua and yet with so many attractions to offer, besides a great choice of Spanish schools for international students.

From Quetzaltenango, you can enjoy incredible hikes of all difficulty levels, hot springs, and guided tours to the local villages exploring their ancient churches and markets.

Very popular among hikers and nature lovers, there are in fact so many things to do in Quetzaltenango for solo female travelers too.

17. Guatemala city

I didn’t include Guatemala city in my itinerary except for that one time that I had to go to immigration to fix the immigration situation – you can read my story about crossing the Mexico-Guatemalan border .

I was told it’s definitely one of the least safe places in Latin America and I didn’t want to take any chance. However, if you have to, you should check out Popul Vuh Museum, which is not even far from the airport.

The museum is home to exhibitions about colonial and pre-Hispanic art, definitely an interesting visit if you are into history and culture.

18. Visit Monterrico

Monterrico was originally the official beach destination in Guatemala where locals and tourists alike used to flock every weekend to enjoy surfing or relaxing on the beach. Active travelers can also enjoy a boat tour in the Natural Reserve and watch the turtle breeding and hatching in the conservation center Tortugario Monterrico.

The area offers a wide variety of accommodation types, from cheap hostels to luxury hotels, for every budget.

I have checked out how to get from Antigua to Monterrico and unfortunately, there are no frequent shuttles, probably because it’s not really popular among tourists anymore who are instead keen to get to El Paredon.

Locals have their own cars and using the chicken busses is not the safest option.

To be really honest when I visited Monterrico I wasn’t really impressed, and I actually thought that was one of the worst beaches in Guatemala , dirty and with difficult access to the ocean.

19. Surf at El Paredon

El Paredon has now become the most famous place on the Guatemalan Pacific Coast for surfing, beach time, and relaxing and totally replaced Monterrico, both for quietness and safety. Although, party lovers, no worries, because you will find your gem, here!

I visited El Paredon in 2018 and it was a laid-back town with dirt roads and 3 hotels. I will be visiting again soon to check it out now, but I noticed that it has definitely grown since then as the accommodation offer has increased. I will let you know more.

Getting to El Paredon from Antigua is easy. There are shuttle busses twice a day for about 30 USD and a 3-hour ride.

20. Visit a sacred lake

A lesser-explored corner of Guatemala is the sacred lake of Chicabal, a crater lake not far away from Xela, that you can reach by a steep but short hike (2-3 hours, depending on your pace).

Chicabal Lake is considered sacred to the  Mam  Mayan people and for this reason, is prohibited to swim in it. It was formed in the crater of Volcán Chicabal at an elevation of 8,879 feet (2,712 meters) surrounded by cloud forests.

While you walk around the lakeshore you will be able to see several altars placed by the local Mam Mayan for their occasional rituals. However, there are restrictions in places for visiting the lake in May, which is when the Mam people can celebrate their traditional ceremonies.

You can definitely reach the lake lookout on your own, probably even by car, but still, I would recommend going with a local guide, for three main reasons. It is safer, he will provide interesting information on the local culture and history, you will help to sustain the local economy.

21. Relax in the Fuentes georginas

Another interesting thing to do in Guatemala is relaxing in natural hot springs. There are many scattered around the country, but the most popular ones are at only 30 minutes drive from Quetzaltenango.

They are called Fuente Georginas because they have been restored by president Jorge Ubico around 1930.

Although the pools are man-made, the entire complex is totally built in harmony with the surrounding nature, using wood and stones. It is a great way to relax after strenuous hikes to the volcanoes surrounding Xela.

Located within the municipality of Zunil, you can get there by local chicken bus and then get a taxi to the hot springs.

Or, if you like to be comfortable, like me, you can join an organized tour, which is basically a private transport to Las Fuentes Georginas. Or there is always Uber.

22. Celebrate the Holy Week in Guatemala

Holy week in Guatemala is a unique glorious event, that blends the profound religious sentiment with a celebration of local art and traditions at their highest expression.

If you have the privilege to be in Guatemala during this time you will enjoy incredible unique ceremonies and performances, a series of sublime imagery displayed in the main churches and points of celebrations.

Local communities will wear their original costumes, altars are generously decorated with flowers and fruits of all sorts and the most elaborated rugs are displayed along the streets.

And of course music. Coral and instrumental music, hymns, and chants are always accompanying the processions. Last but not least, the Guatemalan gastronomy at Easter reaches its maximum expression, and meals are specially prepared with shellfish and chicken, while the sweet dishes for this occasion are torrejas and molletes.

The most significant and worthy celebrations can be seen in Antigua Guatemala, Quetzaltenango, Chiantla (Huehuetenango),Villa Nueva (Guatemala), San Andres Semetabaj (Quiche) and Chicabal (Quetzaltenango).

23. Visit a cemetery during the day of the dead

I was lucky enough to be around during the day of the dead, twice, and let me tell you it’s the best time to visit Guatemala if you love to dive into the local culture and spirit. The way they celebrate the day of the dead is like in Mexico.

In fact, they share the essence of the Mayan culture. Visiting the cemeteries during that time is one of the best ways you can learn their way to celebrate their deads.

Just like in Mexico, every cemetery, from the big cities to the small towns, is adorned with colorful flowers and altars with food, figurines, incents, and object for their rituals and prayers.

In some cases, you can also find mariachis playing or families banqueting around the tombs of their dearly departed.

It is an occasion to celebrate, not to mourn and it is beautiful to see.

How to move around in Guatemala

Although Guatemala is a relatively tiny country, distances are made longer by the rough road conditions. The main cities are connected by a safe network of public busses (not the chicken busses) but the safest way to travel, although more expensive is by tourist shuttle buses.

Read my full guide on how to get from Guatemala City to Antigua

Traveling by chicken bus in Guatemala

I know this is the ultimate adventure that you will want to try at least once, but I suggest you pick the least dangerous route if you do.

Chicken busses are so-called because it’s most likely that you see chickens on top of the roof among the luggage and another object of all sorts. Chicken busses are notoriously dangerous for two main reasons.

First of all, they are more exposed to assaults, which are common in an extremely poor country such as Guatemala. Second of all, drivers drive like crazy, something like I have never seen before. They all must be in a hurry for some reason.

I took a chicken bus from Chichicastenango to Quetzaltenango because I had no other options and a private taxi was too expensive and I regretted not having paid for the taxi.

Although that stretch of road is relatively safe in terms of criminality, I cannot say the same for the speed. I have never prayed so much and kissed the ground when we arrived safely to our destination. My thought was… never again!

If you love adventure and daring, I would suggest you avoid getting on a chicken bus from or to Guatemala City, where the crime level is higher.

Shuttle buses in Guatemala

The best way to travel around Guatemala is by shuttle busses, not only for safety reasons but also for comfort.

I know what it means to want to live like a local and when in Rome do as the Romans do, but after such a long time on the road, I love to treat myself with a little more comfort and less hassle. Therefore this is my choice, but hey, each one her own. That’s why I included both options. It’s totally up to you.

The shuttle busses are minivans organized by the local travel agents and connect to the main destination when they reach the minimum number of passengers, which is almost always the case. They all have more or less the same price.

So once you have decided on your Guatemalan itinerary you can just pick any local travel agent and buy your ticket. You may want to check on a couple of them and compare prices, just in case. But the chance is that they are booking the same shuttle, although prices may be different.

When I went to El Paredon beach town I booked with a travel agent who wanted to charge me 200 Q and then went down to 150. When I was on the shuttle I realized that the others paid 110.

So I asked the driver the name of the original travel agent that organized the transfer. I contacted them and booked my return trip with them. And here are their schedule and prices. It’s called New Way Tours .

Although I believe those are the most honest prices keep in mind that to get to the airport from Antigua, it’s much more convenient by Uber which would cover 150 Q at the time you want.

When is the best time to visit Guatemala

Besides the day of de dead and the Holy Week that are special occasions for you to learn about the Guatemalan culture and heritage, here is what I think about the seasons in Guatemala.

I have been in Guatemala for almost a year and I have covered every season. If you are a hiker and you would like clear skies and sunny days, winter is your friend (although they call it Verano, meaning summer in Spanish).

From December through April you will have much less chance of rain and your hikes to the volcano peaks will be rewarded with spectacular unobstructed views. On the negative side, it is extremely cold up there, so be well equipped.

From the end of April, the rain season starts, and it rains indeed. I have never seen so much rain in my life. Like clockwork, rain would come every single day after midday, sometimes even before, with very few exceptions.

So make sure you pick the right time for you, with that in mind.

Check out my post on the best time to visit Guatemala for more details.

Is Guatemala Safe?

According to the UK travel advisor site

“ Guatemala has one of the highest violent crime rates in Latin America; there were 4,914 violent deaths in 2018. Although the majority of serious crime involves local gangs, incidents are usually indiscriminate and can occur in tourist areas.”

And yet, “ Despite the high levels of crime, most visits to Guatemala are trouble-free .”

Also keep in mind that not so long ago Guatemala ended one of the most atrocious civil wars which left indelible scars, including extreme poverty, a corrupted government an even more corrupted justice system, and everything that comes with that.

Having said that, Guatemala is a beautiful place, with the kindest and friendliest people, and totally worth visiting.

And yes it is possible to visit Guatemala safely, even for a solo female traveler, if you use precautions and common sense, as I always say.

In my article on Safety in Mexico I laid out the basic rules to observe to stay safe, but Guatemala indeed requires even more care and precaution.

Briefly, here are some of the main safety tips for traveling to Guatemala:

• Stay in touristy places and when you go off the beaten path go with a certified trustworthy guide.
• Don’t flash your wealth and keep a low profile
• Dress modestly and avoid shorts and skirts that are too short as you will be immediately identified as a tourist.
• I wouldn’t suggest renting a car, it’s not worth the risk and joining an organized tour you will also benefit from the guide knowledge.
• Avoid Zone 1 in Guatemala city as much as 1, 3, 6, 18, and 21 . And avoid the red city busses. I would actually avoid Guatemala city at all.
• Use trustworthy transportation such as shuttle busses
• Don’t travel at night (especially around Guatemala city)
• Don’t party too hard
• Be friendly but not naive. If somebody approaches you on the street, for any random reason it’s probably a tentative scam.
• Avoid street food, for sanitary reason
• In Guatemala dengue is still a thing.
• In case of robbery do not resist, your life is much more worth than any material possessions.

Antigua, the most loved city, as much as Lake Atitlan, Semuc Champey, Rio Dulce, Xela, El Paredon, are relatively safe places where walking around during the day is relatively safe. However, still use the below-mentioned precautions.

Final Thoughts

Guatemala is definitely an amazing country to visit and I hope my chapter on safety in Guatemala didn’t scare you off from visiting. Just keep your mind open and use some common sense and you can enjoy this amazing country as I did.

Planning a trip soon? Here are My Recommended Travel Resources .

• TRAVEL INSURANCE –   Safety Wing or TRAVEL INSURANCE MASTER
• BOOK FLIGHTS –   Expedia ,   Going.com (former Scott Cheap flights) , and always remember to compare
• BOOK TOURS –   GetYourGuide or Viator . Some of their tours are refundable up to 24h in advance.
• HOTELS & HOMES – Booking.com – Expedia –   VRBO
• CAR RENTALS:  Discover Car Rentals

Founder and Editor

Isabella is traveler and animal lover, a former tourism professional with an multinational background that includes living and working in Jamaica, Antigua, Seychelles, Egypt, and Mexico, where she spent seven years. In 2017, she took a bold leap, leaving her fancy job in Cancun to embrace a nomadic lifestyle when she founded her travel blog Boundless Roads, with the purpose to help solo female travelers to live their best travel adventure, embracing their fears and choosing the roughed path. Today, she manages three successful travel blogs, balancing her digital ventures while exploring new places and photographing this beautiful world.

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!

• How to Find the Cheapest Flights to Anywhere in the World
• How to Stay Safe While Traveling
• 10 Reasons You Should Travel
• Volunteering Abroad: Why You Should or Shouldn’t – Including a volunteer project in Guatemala

Want to See More of Latin America? Then Also Check Out:

• Travel articles about Mexico
• Travel articles about Peru
• Travel articles about Colombia

Like this article about the most beautiful places in Guatemala? Pin it!

This blog post about exotic places in Guatemala contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links, at no additional cost to you.

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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The Smooth Escape

Nature & adventure travel blog

Guatemala highlights & best places to visit

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

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

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

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

Top 12 highlights of Guatemala:

1) tikal national park.

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

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

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

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

Where to stay: Jungle Lodge Tikal

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

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

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

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

Where to stay: Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo

3) Acatenango Volcano

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

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

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

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

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

4) Lake Atitlan

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

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

One of the experiences you definitely shouldn’t miss at Lake Atitlan is doing the Indian Nose hike . It’s a short hike that leads you to the best sunrise viewpoint over the lake and offers an epic panorama of the surrounding volcanoes and towns below.

Where to stay: Kula Maya

5) Flores & Lake Peten Itza

Another one of the best things to do in Guatemala is to explore the colorful little town of Flores. Set on an island on Lake Peten Itza in northern Guatemala, Flores is mostly known as the gateway to the Mayan ruins of Tikal but the town itself is also worth a visit.

Characterized by well-preserved colonial buildings, cobblestone streets and a peaceful atmosphere, this tiny lakeside town is the perfect place to spend a few relaxed days. Wander around the picturesque streets, marvel at the vibrant facades and enjoy a meal with a sunset view in one of the town’s waterfront restaurants. 

While you’re here, you should also explore Lake Peten Itza, Guatemala’s third-largest lake, and take a dip in its clear warm waters. There are boat tours that take you to the best spots around the lake but you can also rent kayaks or SUPs to discover the lake on your own.

Where to stay: Hotel Isla de Flores

6) Semuc Champey

Misty waterfalls, mountains covered with jungle and a series of natural pools full of turquoise water – this is what you can expect when visiting Semuc Champey, another one of Guatemala’s highlights. Thanks to its unique and idyllic setting, this remote nature reserve is often considered one of the most beautiful natural attractions of Guatemala.

The most outstanding feature of Semuc Champey is its 300m (980 ft) limestone bridge under which the Cahabón River flows. On top of the natural bridge, there are several tiered pools full of crystal clear water perfect for swimming. There’s also a viewpoint and a network of caves that you can visit.

Because of the time-consuming and somewhat difficult journey to get to Semuc Champey, many travelers decide to skip it. But if you have the time and patience to take the trip there, you’ll be rewarded with a blissful day in this little slice of paradise.

Where to stay: Guayaha

7) El Paredon

If you’re looking to spend some time by the beach, then El Paredon is where you should go. This tiny laid-back surf town lies on Guatemala’s Pacific coast and features a long beach with black volcanic sand, hotels with a tropical vibe, cool beach bars and mesmerizing sunsets. 

It is known as the surfing capital of Guatemala and has some of the most consistent waves in all of Central America. If you’re not into surfing, there’s still plenty to do in El Paredon – from mangrove tours and Guatemalan cooking workshops to baby turtle releases and yoga classes. 

Be sure to read my complete El Paredon travel guide , where I’m sharing all of the top things to see and do in this little beach town, the best hotels to stay, general travel tips and more.

Where to stay: Swell

8) Pacaya Volcano

The 2,552m (8.400 ft) tall Pacaya Volcano is one of the youngest and most active volcanoes in Guatemala. Located just an hour’s drive from Antigua and Guatemala City, it’s a popular day trip destination that most people visit on a guided tour.

While the hike to Pacaya Volcano is one of the least challenging volcano hikes in Guatemala, it’s still a great adventure and offers wonderful views of otherworldly volcanic landscapes.

During a Pacaya Volcano tour , you’ll get to walk through vast dried lava fields, see clouds of smoke emerge from the crater and the ground around you, toast marshmallows above volcanic vents and enjoy fantastic views of the nearby Agua, Fuego and Acatenango volcanoes.

Where to stay: Since most Pacaya Volcano tours depart from Antigua, I recommend staying there.

9) Chichicastenango

For those looking to immerse themselves in the traditional Maya culture, one of the most interesting places to visit in Guatemala is Chichicastenango. This small town in the western highlands of Guatemala is home to the indigenous Mayan K’iche population and hosts Central America’s largest open-air market. 

Bursting with bright colors, sounds, and smells, the Chichicastenango market is a real feast for the senses. You’ll be surrounded by fresh produce, flowers, traditional medicine and all kinds of art and handicrafts – from vibrant textiles and jewelry to ceramics, paintings and carved masks.

If you want to buy some souvenirs during your Guatemala trip, Chichicastnenago is definitely the place for this. Don’t forget to haggle! It’s a totally normal thing to do here and expected by vendors.

The Chichicastenango market is held every Thursday and Sunday and is usually visited on a full-day tour from Antigua , Guatemala City or Lake Atitlan.

Where to stay: If you’d like to spend the night at Chichicastenango, I’d choose Hotel Museo Mayan Inn .

10) Rio Dulce

If you enjoy being surrounded by lush tropical greenery and want to see a different side of Guatemala, far from the typical tourist trail, then consider visiting Rio Dulce.

Located in eastern Guatemala, Rio Dulce is a small town and a river with the same name. While the town of Rio Dulce is not particularly charming, it’s the natural setting around it that makes this place attractive.

Here you can unwind on one of the area’s tranquil eco-lodges or jungle retreats, explore the peaceful waterways on a kayak or an SUP, go for refreshing dips in the river and, if you’re lucky, spot some wildlife. The region is home to a variety of birds, monkeys and even manatees.

Other popular activities in the area include visiting a hot spring waterfall , exploring the San Felipe Castle and taking a boat to the Afro-Caribbean town of Livingston.

Where to stay: Boatique Hotel and Marina

11) Guatemala City

Guatemala City is the capital of Guatemala and the largest city in Central America. It was founded in 1776 after the previous capital Antigua was destroyed by a series of earthquakes. While the city doesn’t have the best safety reputation , it is still possible to visit it safely by simply avoiding the dangerous neighborhoods and not walking around at night.

In Guatemala City’s historic downtown, you can visit Plaza de la Constitucion, the city’s main square, and see the beautiful colonial architecture of the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace of Culture. The nearby Mercado Central is also worth checking out for an authentic market experience.

However, my favorite place in all of Guatemala City is the Cayala district . It’s a relatively new, clean and very safe neighborhood with lovely architecture, cobbled pedestrian-friendly streets, great restaurants and cafes, and just a really charming atmosphere overall. It kinda reminded me of the historical towns in southern Europe. 

Where to stay: Good Hotel

12) El Mirador

Hidden deep in the dense jungles of northern Guatemala, the ancient ruins of El Mirador is a destination for true adventurers. Built more than 2000 years ago, it is one of the largest known Maya sites and is often called the cradle of Maya civilization. 

The archaeological site boasts several thousand ancient structures, many of which are still largely overgrown by thick vegetation. The most outstanding monument in El Mirador is the colossal La Danta pyramid, towering 72m (236 ft) above the ground.

Because of El Mirador’s remote location, you can only get there by either hiking for two days through the jungle or taking a helicopter tour . 

The trek there and back takes around 5 days to complete and is only recommended if you’re in good physical shape. Along the way, you’ll camp in the jungle with your tour group. If I ever return to Guatemala, I would absolutely love to do this epic trek!

Guatemala highlights map

On the map below, you can find the locations of all the Guatemala highlights listed in this blog post. Click on the icon in the top left corner of the map for more details.

Best places to visit in Guatemala: Final thoughts

And that’s it! These were the best places to visit and things to do in Guatemala. I hope that this post gave you some ideas for planning your holiday in this beautiful and diverse country. 

Don’t forget to also read my Guatemala itinerary post where I’m sharing the perfect 10-day travel route through the country.

For more useful Guatemala travel tips, check out my other blog posts:

• How to visit Tikal
• Travel guide to El Paredon
• Indian Nose hike at Lake Atitlan
• Staying at Hotel Casa Santo Domingo (Antigua)
• Acatenango volcano overnight hike

Have you been to Guatemala and would you add anything else to this list? Let me know in the comments.

Enjoyed reading about Guatemala highlights? Pin it!

Volcan Acatenango hike: A bucket list adventure in Guatemala

Guatemala highlights & best places to visit

10 days in Guatemala: An unforgettable Guatemala itinerary

Indian Nose hike in Guatemala: Best sunrise view at Lake Atitlan

Why you should visit El Paredon, Guatemala + best things to do

Visiting Tikal in Guatemala: Everything you need to know

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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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15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Guatemala

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

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

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

15. El Mirador

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

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

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

14. Livingston

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

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

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

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

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

12. Monterrico

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

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

11. Todos Santos Cuchumatan

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

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

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

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

9. Semana Santa

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

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

8. Pacaya Volcano

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

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

7. Rio Dulce

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

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

6. Semuc Champey

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

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

5. Chichicastenango Market

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

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

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

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

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

3. Antigua Guatemala

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

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

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

2. Lake Atitlan

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

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

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

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

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

Map of Things to Do in Guatemala

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Reader interactions.

May 10, 2017 at 1:51 pm

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

November 5, 2016 at 7:19 pm

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

June 5, 2016 at 12:29 pm

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

August 29, 2015 at 7:15 pm

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

May 20, 2015 at 9:25 pm

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

February 15, 2015 at 6:51 pm

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

February 10, 2015 at 5:01 pm

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

April 22, 2014 at 4:14 pm

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

September 15, 2013 at 12:05 pm

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

December 16, 2012 at 10:52 pm

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

December 16, 2012 at 2:33 pm

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

November 26, 2012 at 12:10 pm

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

October 1, 2012 at 7:48 am

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

September 17, 2012 at 12:23 pm

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

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• Entertainment
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My Favorite Places to Visit in Guatemala

• by Warren Morelli
• January 3, 2024
• Guatemala , Travel

Are you traveling to the Land of Eternal Spring in 2024? If you’re not, you should be! In this article, travel blogger Warren Morelli from The Nomad Hive looks at his favorite places to visit in Guatemala.

As a digital nomad and travel blogger, I’ve been traveling the world for over seven years. During that time, my journey has taken me all over Latin and Central America. Today, I want to share some of my favorite places to visit in Guatemala and outline some of my favorite experiences in that country.

Is Guatemala safe?

First off, I have to say that Guatemala faces challenges with violent crime in certain areas. As a traveler, it’s crucial to be aware that while some regions are best avoided, most parts of the country are safe and welcoming. Researching your destinations and employing common sense will make your journey through Guatemala both safe and unforgettable.

For example, it’s advisable to avoid parts of Guatemala City , and the city of Escuintla. Also, exercise caution in remote areas near the borders with Mexico, Honduras, and El Salvador. Always check current travel advisories and consult with locals or your accommodation about the safety of areas you plan to visit.

Is Guatemala City safe? Like every capital in Central America, it depends where you are. Here’s a quick guide on where to go and where not to go in Central America’s largest city. https://t.co/V2XLCCVQOF — Central America Living (@VidaAmerica) March 2, 2023

My nine favorite places to visit in Guatemala

From colonial cities to lakeside retreats, the below destinations not only offer awe-inspiring beauty and rich cultural experiences, but also ensure a high level of safety for travelers:

1. Antigua, Sacatepéquez

Antigua offers colonial charm and culture amid a beautiful volcanic setting. Once the capital of colonial Central America, Antigua is by far the most popular tourist destination in the country and a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Guatemala’s rich history and traditions.

Things to do in Antigua

• Explore the Santa Catalina Arch and La Merced Church . These iconic landmarks are a testament to Antigua’s rich colonial history and architectural beauty.
• Stroll through the Mercado de Artesanías . A lively market where you can find a variety of traditional Guatemalan handicrafts and textiles.
• Hike the Pacaya Volcano . An adventurous excursion to one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes, offering breathtaking views and a unique experience.

How to get to Antigua

• By air . Fly into La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, followed by an hour’s drive to Antigua.
• By road . Regular shuttle services, private taxis, and buses are available from Guatemala City, providing a scenic and comfortable journey.

Antigua combines safety, culture, and accessibility, making it ideal for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. Whether it’s exploring historical sites, shopping for unique crafts, or hiking the surrounding volcanoes, Antigua is unforgettable and should be number one on any Guatemala bucket list .

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Central America Living (@centralamericaliving)

2. Flores, Petén

Located on an island in Lake Petén Itzá, Flores is a colorful gateway to ancient Mayan ruins like Tikal and El Mirador . Known for its safety and friendly atmosphere, Flores is a delightful spot for tourists seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Things to do in Flores

• Visit Tikal National Park . Explore one of the largest archaeological sites and urban centers of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers an unforgettable journey into history.
• Explore the lake . Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the waters of Lake Petén Itzá, offering stunning views and a chance to visit surrounding villages.
• Stroll around the island . Wander the charming streets of Flores, lined with colorful houses and local shops, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and beautiful lake views.

How to get to Flores

• By air . Fly into Mundo Maya International Airport, located just outside Flores. It’s a short journey from the airport to the island.
• By road . Regular buses and shuttles run from Guatemala City and other major destinations to Flores, providing an opportunity to see more of the Guatemalan countryside.

Flores offers an exciting experience for tourists. Whether you’re exploring ancient Mayan ruins in the rainforest, hanging out lakeside, or simply soaking in the local culture, Flores is well worth the journey to get there.

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3. Chichicastenango, Quiché

Chichicastenango – or “Chichi” – is a town steeped in indigenous Maya culture and traditions. Known for its lively market and spiritual significance, it’s a place where history and modernity coexist, offering an authentic experience for those who visit.

Things to do in Chichicastenango

• Explore the Chichicastenango Market . This bustling market , open on Thursdays and Sundays, is one of the largest and most colorful in Central America. It’s a paradise for those interested in handicrafts, textiles, and local cuisine.
• Visit the Santo Tomás Church . A fascinating blend of Catholic and Maya religious practices can be observed at this 400-year-old church, where locals come to perform rituals and prayers.
• Discover the Pascual Abaj Shrine . An ancient Mayan shrine on a hill outside the town, offering an insight into the Maya spiritual world and stunning views of the surrounding area.

How to get to Chichicastenango

• By road . Chichicastenango is accessible by bus or shuttle from major cities like Guatemala City and Antigua. The scenic journey through the highlands gives a glimpse into Guatemalan rural life.

Chichicastenango is great for anyone interested in indigenous cultures and traditions and is a must-visit destination in Guatemala. The market days in Chichi are not just a shopping experience but a deep dive into a living cultural mosaic, reflective of Guatemala’s diverse and rich heritage.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by C H I V O (@chivo_frank)

4. Livingston, Izabal

Livingston is Guatemala’s main Caribbean coastal town, located at the mouth of the Rio Dulce and accessible only by boat. Here, you’ll find a unique blend of Garifuna, Afro-Caribbean, Maya, and Ladino cultures. This town, set against a backdrop of lush tropical forests and Caribbean waters, is known for its laid-back vibe and cultural diversity.

Things to do in Livingston

• Experience Garifuna culture . Check out the vibrant Garifuna culture, known for its unique music, dance, and cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to try traditional dishes like Tapado, a coconut seafood soup.
• Boat trip along the Rio Dulce . Take a boat ride from Livingston to the town of Rio Dulce, enjoying the spectacular gorges, hot springs, and diverse wildlife along the way. There’s even an old Spanish fort to check out!
• Visit Playa Blanca . A short boat ride from Livingston, Playa Blanca is a white-sand beach, perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the Caribbean sun.

How to get to Livingston

• By boat . Livingston is accessible by boat, with services available from Puerto Barrios and Rio Dulce town. The journey itself is an adventure, offering stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding rainforest. Livingston is also a gateway for travelers arriving from or departing to nearby Belize and Honduras.

This Caribbean community offers visitors a chance to experience a different side of Guatemalan life, away from the more frequented tourist paths. Whether you’re experiencing the culture, exploring rainforest-clad rivers, or relaxing on the beach, Livingston promises a memorable experience.

5. Quetzaltenango (Xela), Quetzaltenango

Quetzaltenango, commonly known as Xela, is Guatemala’s second-largest city, and a hub of Maya culture and learning. Set in a valley surrounded by volcanoes, Xela is famous for its rich cultural heritage, educational opportunities, and local life, all within a safe and welcoming environment.

Things to do in Quetzaltenango

• Explore the city center . Wander through the Parque Central, visit the Quetzaltenango Cathedral, and enjoy the city’s architecture.
• Hike to Laguna Chicabal . An awe-inspiring volcanic crater lake considered sacred by the Maya.
• Relax in Fuentes Georginas . These natural hot springs are surrounded by cloud forest, providing a perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.

How to get to Quetzaltenango

• By road . Xela is easily accessible by bus from Guatemala City and other major towns. The journey offers scenic views of the Guatemalan highlands.

Xela is a blend of cultural richness and adventure, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Guatemala’s indigenous heritage.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Guatemala (@visitguatemala_)

6. Panajachel, Sololá

Panajachel, on the shores of Lake Atitlán , is known for its breathtaking scenery and indigenous culture. It serves as a gateway to the numerous villages surrounding the lake.

Things to do in Panajachel

• Boat tours of Lake Atitlán . Experience the beauty of the lake by visiting its many lakeside villages, each with its own unique character.
• Visit the Reserva Natural Atitlán . This nature reserve offers zip-lining, butterfly gardens, and hiking trails with stunning views.
• Explore local artisan markets . Panajachel’s markets are full of colorful textiles, handicrafts, and local art, perfect for finding unique souvenirs.

How to get to Panajachel

• By road . Regular buses and shuttles run from Guatemala City and Antigua, making getting here straightforward. Panajachel is ideal for those seeking natural beauty in a secure setting.

7. Cobán, Alta Verapaz

Cobán, surrounded by lush mountains, is known for its coffee plantations, natural reserves, and caves. It offers a tranquil environment and is considered one of the best places in Guatemala for nature lovers.

Things to do in Cobán

• Visit the Lanquín Caves and Semuc Champey . Discover the stunning natural limestone bridge and turquoise pools of Semuc Champey, and explore the vast cave network of Lanquín.
• Explore coffee plantations . Learn about coffee production and sample some of the world’s best coffee.
• Birdwatching in Biotopo del Quetzal . A nature reserve where you can spot the resplendent quetzal, Guatemala’s national bird.

How to get to Cobán

• By road . Buses and shuttles are available from Guatemala City and other major cities, offering a journey through the beautiful central highlands.

Cobán is a peaceful haven for eco-tourists and coffee enthusiasts, providing an intimate encounter with Guatemala’s natural wonders and rural charm.

8. Huehuetenango, Huehuetenango

Huehuetenango, often simply called “Huehue,” is known for its rich indigenous heritage and stunning natural landscapes. It is one of the less traveled areas, offering a peaceful and safe environment for adventurous travelers.

Things to do in Huehuetenango

• Visit the ruins of Zaculeu . Explore this ancient Maya city with its unique white stone structures.
• Hike the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes . Experience some of Guatemala’s most spectacular highland scenery.
• Explore indigenous markets . The local markets are full of life, offering an authentic experience of the region’s culture.

How to get to Huehuetenango

• By road . Regular buses connect Huehuetenango with Guatemala City and other major towns.

Huehuetenango offers a glimpse into Guatemala’s less-traveled paths, providing a peaceful retreat and safe exploration of its indigenous cultures and breathtaking landscapes.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jorge Hernández (@_jorgeedu)

9. Jutiapa, Jutiapa

Jutiapa, in southeastern Guatemala, is famous for its cattle ranches, lagoons, and volcanoes. It offers a quiet, rural setting and is a great spot for travelers looking to experience the countryside.

Things to do in Jutiapa

• Visit Laguna de Atescatempa . A beautiful lagoon perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Explore the volcanoes . Hike up the volcanoes for stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
• Enjoy the local festivals. Experience the local culture through Jutiapa’s festivals and rodeos.

How to Get to Jutiapa

• By road . Jutiapa is accessible by bus or car from Guatemala City, with the journey taking you through diverse landscapes.

This is an ideal destination for those seeking to experience authentic Guatemalan countryside, away from the usual tourist trails.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by @margaritas.gt_

Tips for staying safe in Guatemala

Guatemala is generally a safe country for travelers, but it’s important to prioritize security. Here are some tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable visit:

• Research your destinations . Before you travel, familiarize yourself with the safety conditions of different areas in Guatemala. Some regions might have higher risks than others.
• Use official transportation . Opt for official taxis or recognized transport services, especially when traveling from airports or at night. Avoid traveling after dark in unfamiliar or rural areas.
• Keep valuables discreet . Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, clothing, or electronics. Use a secure bag for important documents and money, and store your valuables in your hotel safe.
• Stay connected . Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and your home country’s embassy or consulate. Consider getting a local SIM card for easy access to maps and information.
• Respect local customs and laws . Understanding and respecting local customs, traditions, and laws not only enriches your travel experience but also helps in maintaining a good rapport with locals.
• Avoid isolated areas . Stay in well-populated and well-lit areas, especially if you’re traveling alone. Isolated spots can present higher security risks.
• Travel insurance . Secure comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, theft, and any unexpected trip changes.
• Dress modestly and avoid flashy clothing . To blend in and not draw unwanted attention, dress modestly and avoid wearing flashy or expensive clothing and accessories. This approach helps in minimizing the risk of becoming a target for theft.

That wraps up my summary of my favorite places to visit in Guatemala

From the colonial charm of Antigua to the beauty of Lake Atitlán, each location offers opportunities galore for exploration and adventure. What’s your favorite place in Guatemala?

Warren Morelli is an Australian digital nomad and world traveler who runs The Nomad Hive travel blog.

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THE 10 BEST Guatemala Sights & Historical Landmarks

Guatemala landmarks.

• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Churches & Cathedrals
• Ancient Ruins
• Sacred & Religious Sites
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

2. Arco de Santa Catalina

Recommended Sightseeing Experiences (481)

3. Cerro de la Cruz

4. Temple IV

6. The Plaza Central Park

7. Caoba Farms

8. Iglesia de La Merced

9. Great Plaza

10. Iglesia de San Francisco El Grande

11. Convento de las Capuchinas

12. Convento Santa Clara

13. Temple I

14. Palacio Nacional

15. Iximche

16. El Mirador

17. Semilla Spanish School

18. Catedral Metropolitana

19. Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua

20. Chichi Cemetery

21. Cathedral de Santiago

22. Zona Viva

23. Mundo de Abejas Mayas

24. Santo Tomas Church

25. Lost World

26. La Recoleccion

27. Ruinas de Uaxactun

28. Temple II

29. Castillo de San Felipe de Lara

30. Casa Popenoe

What travelers are saying

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 🙂.

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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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23 Best Places to Visit in Guatemala for the First Time

Posted on Last updated: March 19, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23 Best Places to Go in Guatemala

Antigua guatemala.

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

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

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

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

Cerro de la Cruz

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

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

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

Pacaya Volcano

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

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

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

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

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

Acatenango Volcano

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

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

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

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

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

Lake Atitlan

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

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

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

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

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

San Pedro La Laguna

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

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

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

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

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

San Marcos La Laguna

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

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

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

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

Chichicastenango

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

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

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

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

Chichicastenango Market

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

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

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

The market is only open on Thursdays and Sundays.

Lake Peten Itza & Flores

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tikal National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cobán

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

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

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

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

Semuc Champey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

El Boqueron Canyon

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

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

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

Candelaria Caves

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

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

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

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

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

Laguna Lachua National Park

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

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

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

Pacific Beaches

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quetzaltenango (Xela)

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

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

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

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

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

Georginas Hot Springs

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

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

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

Guatemala City

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

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

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

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

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

Beautiful Places to Visit in Guatemala FAQs

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are the best cultural sites in Guatemala?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Places to Visit in Guatemala Wrap-Up

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

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

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

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

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

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

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