where to visit in guatemala

Guatemala is definitely a nature lovers paradise, but it is also home to the unique Mayan culture, and a few cool cities to explore. You can take boats (lanchas) to reach the other lake towns. Antigua was once the capital of the country. Get more travel inspiration, tips and exclusive offers sent straight to your inbox. Once you are done visiting the well preserved castle, take a dip in the lake, relax and enjoy the sun at the Rio Dulce National Park, where Castillo is located. If you really want to get off the beaten path, consider visiting places like Moy Sac. Semuc Champey. It's just one of those countries you don't want to overlook. The 11 Best Destinations to Visit in Guatemala in 2018 - Culture Trip Let us know in the comments below. Most schools offer a weekly deal that includes four or five hours one-on-one tuition a day, plus full board with a local family. In Antigua calles and avenidas are also divided according to their direction from the central plaza north, south, east or west (norte, sur, oriente and poniente). Don't leave without trying shecas, a local sweet bread stuffed with either beans, cheese or jam, typically consumed with afternoon coffee. If shopping is your thing, visit as many markets as possible, particularly in the highland villages, where the colour and spectacular settings are like nowhere else in Central America. If you visit Guatemala as part of a bigger Central America trip, a land or boat crossing is a great way to experience more of the region. Tikal. There are some tours that will even take you on top of Fuego, but not without its risks. As well as being a thrilling experience, rafting gives you the chance to see some very remote areas and also visit some of the countrys most inaccessible Maya sites. Maya-style bungy jump in Chichicastenango. Here you will find great Guatemalan food, lively locals, street fairs, and more. If you get the chance to see a major game its a thrilling experience, if only to watch the crowd. Nebaj is generally the starting off point. Your email address will not be published. Beautiful pics and places to visit. Its the most beautiful drive youll take in your life. Plenty of travellers get seduced by Guatemalas natural beauty, inexpensive cost of living and the hospitality of its citizens. Maya Mountain Bike Tours and Old Town Outfitters, both in Antigua, have excellent bikes and tours, staring at about US$35 for a half-day escorted ride. 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 15 BEST Things to Do in Guatemala - Tripadvisor The theory is that the Mayans abandoned Tikal because their monstrous city ran out of natural resources. Yes, I know another colonial town made the list, but for good reason. Spanish classes are widely available, but the main order of the day is simply chilling by the lakeside and marveling at the wonders of mother nature. 2. The most popular places to study are Antigua, Quetzaltenango and Lago de Atitln. If youre wondering whether youll need a visa, phone an embassy for the latest entry requirements; Guatemala has embassies in all the regions capitals. Its shoreline is dotted with Mayan villages, with Panajachel, San Pedro and San Marcos being the most popular ones. They offer simple & flexible travel insurance, and safety advice to help you travel confidently. Although it was populated by escaped Garifuna slaves, Livingston has transformed to become a culturally diverse city with a laid-back Caribbean-like atmosphere. Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe. 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. Crater Azul was formed by a natural barrier, and the blue color is due to a large population of snails that keep it clean! Even if you arent into shopping, Chichicastenango is worth visiting! Nomatic products are sleek, durable, and goddamn efficient. Its truly one of Guatemalas most magical landscapes, and youll be happy that you made the journey through the jungle to see its flowing falls. There arent 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. Ro Dulce is hot, humid and lush, and the vibe is surprisingly international, thanks to a string of marinas, restaurants and bars along the river that cater to visiting sailors. Guatemala's presidential election in turmoil as top political party The best place to start a search is on the web (or in Guatemala itself). "POV: travelling to Guatemala to eat pizza cooked on an active volcano. While Antigua is beautiful and a lovely place to live for a while, it doesnt represent the country anymore. Guatemala City is Central Americas largest metropolis, and how you experience the city will depend on where you spend your time. Generally, the longer the length of time you can commit to, and the higher your level of Spanish, the more in demand youll be. 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. 55, in Zona 10. Visitors can only get to the lagoon after hiking through dense areas of tropical rainforest, home to howler monkeys, tarantulas, colorful birds and flowers. Want more deetz on why we love itso damn much? Packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for thereal adventurers these babies are a travellers best kept secret. Some of the best and most famous places to visit in Guatemala are Tikal, Antigua and Lake Atitlan. An ancient archeological site from 200 AD. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads usingthis link. Breathtaking plazas and grand palaces intertwine between cheap bars, restaurants, and hostels. Apr 10, 2022 10 min read Winter is the best time for perfect sunrises over Lake Atitln Chrsitian Hartmann / Shutterstock Guatemala may be called the Land of Eternal Spring, but that doesn't mean the weather is always spring-like all year round. UP YOUR PACKING GAME! The best times to visit Guatemala - Lonely Planet Although Quetzaltenango is the second-largest city in Guatemala, it feels quite a bit smaller than the polluted and loud capital. A massive eruption killed hundreds of people just last year (June 2018). Reconsider travel to Guatemala due to crime. Nevertheless, there are some diving possibilities, including Lago de Atitln. The best places to visit in Guatemala - Lonely Planet Travel Stories Guatemala The best places to visit in Guatemala, from Mayan ruins to smoking volcanoes Save Jaime Jacques Mar 19, 2022 11 min read Guatemala is a complex melange of cultures and landscapes combined into one magnificent whole Lucy Brown-loca4motion / Shutterstock Little . If you dont want to miss out on any of Guatemalas gems, check out this list of 12 best places to visit in Guatemala. Party people should head to San Pedro La Laguna, while those interested in meditation and yoga will love quieter San Marcos La Laguna. The three most popular are Panajachel (also the most convenient to reach from Antigua and the Capital), San Pedro, and San Marcos. In Petn, the rivers and lakes are packed with sport fish, including snook, tarpon and peacock bass. However, the often-overlooked village of El Remate is another excellent option for those looking for a more tranquil vibe. Not only is the park thriving with native plants and flowers, but its also home to more than 30 archaeological sites to explore. Located in the middle of Laguna Lachua National Park, the lake remains free of villages and settlements, so you can relax in tranquility. Things to Do in Guatemala Popular things to do Bus Tours Hiking Tours Cultural Tours Day Trips Full-day Tours Half-day Tours City Tours Motorcycle Tours 4WD Tours Nature and Wildlife Tours Horseback Riding Archaeology Tours Historical Tours Mountain Bike Tours Coffee & Tea Tours Culinary Tour Dining Experiences Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours In the humid jungle of northern Guatemala, near the border of Belize, stands one of the greatest archaeological sites in Central America. If you only have a night or two around Lake Atitln it is easiest to base yourself in Panajachel. Here are seven of the coolest places to visit in Guatemala City. However, the country hosts a wide variety of attractions that are not well known among visitors (and locals). At the alluring national parks of Guatemala, adventurers can explore ancient ruins, summit active volcanoes, spot glorious quetzal birds and more. Visit Lake Atitln This spectacular lake is actually a massive volcanic crater. Ok so maybe we didn't travel there just for that, but it was a fun bonus," read the caption of the post. However, there are countless amazing hostels in Antigua that make the stay absolutely worth it. It is located directly on the lake and the closest town to Antigua and Guatemala City. If youre looking for a bit of relaxation and sun in Guatemala, head to Monterrico, a pristine beach right on the coast. There are two international airports in Guatemala. Consider changing the search query. Off-the-beaten-track Honduras has so much to see here's our guide to the best places to go. Following three 18th-century earthquakes, the Reserva Natural Atitln Panajachel Not to mention, its dominance over the skyline with the tallest pyramid being over 200 feet. In fact, the only way to get here is by boat, and the easiest way to do this is to book a tour through a travel agency in Lvingston or Puerto Barrios. Copyright 2023 Apa Digital AG, all rights reserved. The park doesnt have any restaurants, so you'll need to bring your own water and food. Spanning a mountainous slice of Central America immediately south of Mexico, Guatemala is loaded with incredible natural, historical and cultural appeal. Take a family-friendly adventure through Guatemala and Belize. Jaime Jacques May 9, 2022 8 min read Lago de Atitln is the hub for a huge range of activities in Guatemala Fotos593 / Shutterstock 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 just volcanoes and jungles. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tikal is full of palaces, homes, and monuments that cover an astounding 60 square kilometers. Diego Grandi/Shutterstock Guatemala is generally safe to visit. travel experts. For your personal safety, its best to hike in an organised tour group. 15 Top Attractions & Things to Do in Guatemala - Touropia From the colorful colonial buildings to the narrow cobblestone alleys, the entire city center is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Ancient Mayan city of Tikal. Aside from not having anything interesting to see and do, Guatamala City is a dangerous place and is one place I would recommend avoiding. It is thought that the inhabitants of Quirigu moved south from Tikal in the northern region of Guatemala. Everything was PERFECT!! Head to this chilled-out beach for a backpacker vibe, easy-going Spanish classes, surfing lessons and socializing at the Driftwood Surfer hostel, which always has something going on every night of the week. While you're in Chichicastenango, drop into the small archeological museum, the museum of ceremonial Mayan masks and spend some time people-watching on the incense-cloaked steps ofIglesia de Santo Toms. Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox. View All Trips. Caving is popular, especially in the area north of Cobn where you can explore great caverns and tube down underground rivers. Thai-style tuk-tuks have popped up in a lot of places, if youre after a cheaper alternative. The lake empties into the Ro Dulce, which runs directly to the town of Lvingston, a busy hub for Garifuna people located on the Caribbean coast. Mayan ruins of Aguateca. By Carl Austin Guatemala is a great place to see sights you probably not going to see anywhere else. Guatemala Itinerary: Days 4 & 5 Lake Atitln. Weve tested the Geopressrigorouslyfrom the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Cuba, and the results are in: it WORKS. Stay at the excellent Tortugal, a boutique guesthouse located on a marina, and let the water lull you to sleep, or take a pickup to stay at one of the more remote, riverside jungle hostels Hotelito Perdido is a top choice. The nature is at best. Once I learned of the history of US intervention in Guatemalavia the Dulles brothers and Eisenhower, the School of the Americas, etc.going back decades to the 1950s and the US support for criminal acts against the people of this country, I cant enjoy a tourist experience or think of living a low-cost retirement there without doing service with project run by Guatemalans. I always tell travelers there are two types of backpackers: those who stay in San Pedro and those who stay in San Marcos. Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates. Other villages such as Santa Cruz and Tzununa, are still very much untouched but as tourism continues to grow in this region, it wont be long until they too are overrun by tourists. She was a member of the 2021-2022 New York Times fellowship class as a breaking news reporter. U.S. opens new immigration path for Central Americans and Colombians to Hotels in both these places offer kayaks for rent or contact Los Elementos in Santa Cruz La Laguna for expert advice and guided paddles. Buy a Geopress: its the last water bottle youll ever buy. Speaking of surfing, I definitely wanted to mention the even lesser developed village of Paredon. One of the best hikes also starts here: Nebaj to Todos Santos. Please note: This listed is in no particular order and number 12 on the list might very well be as amazing as number one. Quirigu Unlike the pyramids that many people expect to see at Mayan sites, Quirigu is unique due to its series of intricate tall stone carvings known as stelae. Quetzaltenango, or Xela (pronounced shay-la) as almost everyone calls it, is a place to linger. Although theres no charge to enter or leave the country, border officials at land crossings commonly ask for a small fee (typically US$2.50), which is destined straight for their back pockets. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); Guatemala is home to one of the largest pre-Columbian Maya ruins in all of the world! I consent to my personal information being processed in accordance with The Broke Backpackers. If youve got at least a month and want a taste of the cities, Maya culture, natural sites and ancient temples, the Grand Tour is for you. There are so many things to do in Antigua you could easily spend a full week here. The falls are mainly visited by local tourists who arrive after noon, so get there early and enjoy a relaxing waterfall massage or a bath in the naturally forming jacuzzi without anybody else around. The town served as the main trading center for the Quich region before the conquistadors arrived, and the tradition of people coming from hill villages to trade continues to this day. You should be able to bag a double room for US$15 in any town (Guatemala City will set you back a bit more). Take a family-friendly adventure through Guatemala and Belize. If youre travelling on a shoestring, or just want a more authentic Guatemalan experience, dine in a comedor simple eateries that serve big portions of food at inexpensive prices or head to a street food stall. Pagan skull-bearing procession San Jos, Petn. Dont try to see it all. You didnt think wed leave Antigua off of the list, did you!? For example, the address Av la Reforma 355, Zona 10 means that house is on Avenida la Reforma, between 3 and 4 calles, at no. It's an excellent hub for hiking off the tourist trail. The hike to summit Volcano Acatenango is one of the toughest hikes in Guatemala, due to the sheer steepness of the volcano; nevertheless, its one of the most popular volcanos to summit, purely for its incredible views of the nearby (and very active) Volcan Fuego. Alternatively, if you're looking to stay as close to the pools as possible, Greengos Hotel has A-frame cabins just a 10-minute walk from the entrance to the park. Or you could focus your energy on one diverse region with our Western highlands route, which includes stops at the famous Chichicastenango market and Fuentes Georginas hot springs. Guatemala Travel Advisory 7. Visitors can trek through the tallest mountain chain in Central America, traversing verdant peaks and valleys that alternate between subtropical forests and sweeping shrublands. Guatemala is a truly a unique country and has everything from ancient Maya ruins, charming colonial towns, rich culture to active volcanoes. Its been frequented by backpackers since the 60s and continues to remain one of the most popular places to visit 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 dont have a rough itinerary. Because of its unique beauty, travelers have been known to get stuck here for weeks, months or even years. Antiqua is a place to pose for selfies under the iconic Arco de Santa Catarina, shop for Mayan handicrafts, take stunning photos of volcano-backed street scenes and colonial architecture, study for Spanish language courses, and refuel in the citys many excellent cafes, restaurants and bars. Other goods sold in this atmospheric market include wood carvings, leather goods, pottery and jade, silver and gold jewelry. From secret waterfalls and lakeside castles to black sand beaches and mountains high above the clouds, these are the top 14 most beautiful places in Guatemala: 1. Antigua, located in the highlands of Guatemala, offers some of the best streetscape in the world. La Aurora International Airport is the biggest and will land you in the capital, Guatemala City. Chichicastenango, aka "Chichi," not only hosts the most impressive Maya market in the country, but it also has deep historical significance. Peak season is between December and March and again between July and August, seen as the best time to visit Guatemala in terms of weather, but best to avoid if you want cheaper accommodation. Most of the park is covered in forest and fauna, but just a few feet under the jungle floor is a concrete floor. The well-preserved ruined city of Tikal is . Its last massive eruption was just in 2014, but that hasnt stopped tourists from climbing it anyway. Diagonales (diagonals) are what youd expect a street that runs in an oblique direction. The northern Alta Verapaz region is the place to head. Theyve been doing it since 2002 protecting, connecting, and inspiring independent travellers just like you. https://www.facebook.com/clairesfootsteps, https://www.instagram.com/clairesfootsteps. One of Guatemala's most beloved natural gems is the Rio Dulce. Nestled amidst lush green mountains in the Guatemalan highlands, this sprawling market town fills with traders every Sunday and Thursday, when visitors surge in on day trips from Lago de Atitln. One of the best places to visit in Guatemala is the city of Antigua Guatemala. I have never been there but it looks like a great place to visit. Best for architecture, history and volcanoes. The Pacific coast offers exceptional sport-fishing, with some of the best waters in the world for sailfish, as well as dorado, mahi mahi and some blue marlin, jack crevalle, yellow and black tuna, snapper and bonito. Guatemala International Travel Information Guatemala Travel Guide (Updated2023) - Nomadic Matt's Travel Site 10. Be warned: they are bumpy, busy and fume-filled, but also cheap, convenient and often the only way to get to an off-the-beaten-track destination. 2023 Road Affair, LLC. Maximn confronts Christ in Santiago Atitln. Whether you want to summit volcanos, hike between Mayan villages, wander around ancient sites, or taste all of the amazing food, youll have an action-packed backpacking trip in Guatemala! El Portal. In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice. Nestled on an island surrounded by Lake Peten Itza, Flores is a good jump off point to visit the Tikal ruins. As someone who has explored multiple Mayan ruins, including the popular ones in Mexico, Tikal is the best one. The Chichicastenango market is bursting with vibrant textiles, colorful crafts, and just about anything you could need. Tikal is by far one of the most breathtaking Mayan ruin site in Latin America and although the site is visited by thousands of visitors every year it feels way less touristy than Chichen Itza in Mexico for example. Tikal is the most well-known Mayan temple in Guatemala, but Yaxh is equally impressive. Playa Chechenal is the most convenient beach near Flores, mostly known for its wooden dock, white sand, and turquoise water. Its 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! Or, yknow you can stick to ziplock bags. Located in the middle of Parque Nacional Laguna Lachu, in the coffee- and cardamom-growing region of Alta Verapaz, this idyllic lagoon is quickly gaining traction as one of the countrys best off-the-beaten-track destinations. Learn how your comment data is processed. Disclaimer, 22 Most Impressive Walled Cities in the World, 23 Best Things to do in Nuremberg, Germany. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. The Ixil Region in the state of Quich is remote and rural. Stomach rumbling? Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock. 12 Best Places to Visit in Guatemala Road Affair is reader-supported and may earn commission from purchases made through links in this article. If youve got some cash to splash, itll stretch to luxury hotels with impressive colonial decor. The waters of this deep and mysterious crater lake turn turquoise to deep green to dark blue as the light changes with the time of day and season. If youre looking for a bit of quiet and relaxation, then Zone 1 is not for you! Chichicastenango is best known for its huge colorful and packed markets on Thursdays and Sundays, when vendors from all over Guatemala come here to sell their wares. If you want to pick up some souvenirs all while experiencing the chaos of one of the largest markets in the Americas you should definitely make a day trip to Chichi. Avoid boarding taxis at taxi stands or flagging taxis in the street. The further you go into the canyon, the more stunning and gigantic the rocks are! The epicenter of Mayan culture in Central America, Guatemala is renowned for its dramatic volcanoes, black-sand beaches, biodiverse jungles, thriving Mayan townships and the stunning ruins of Tikal. Regions expand_more And let me tell you: there are a lot of them. Why It's One of the Most Beautiful Places in Guatemala: the gorgeous view from the boat docks! Guate is amazing I moved here from Texas for so many reasons, including all listed above. 1. Read the entire Travel Advisory. There are over 400 structures, five plaques to build up, ball courts, and hiking the temples will provide a magnificent scenery of Lake Yaxh. Best Places To Visit in Guatemala Day trips to the pools are arranged by both hostels. There is a rainy season, which runs from May to October, with the worst of the rain falling in September and October. The 15 Best Places to Visit in Guatemala in 2023 | Travellers Isabella Grulln Paz is a Colombian and Dominican writer living in Queens, New York. Majority of the population is ethnically Garifuna; Spanish-Baroque architecture and one of the most beautiful towns in the country. NBC's Ellison Barber explains why citizens . Tikal is Guatemala's most famous and popular visitor attraction, and for good reason. November 1 is All Saint's Day in Guatemala, commonly known as the Day of the Dead. Visitors not only come here to swim and relax in the turquoise water pools but also go river tubing, explore the nearby cave, and hike to the viewpoint from where you can overlook the beauty of Semuc. Bring an appetite to Meson Panza Verde, a cozy boutique hotel where creative fusion dishes are made with local ingredients. If you cant face the bus, taxis are available in all the main towns and their rates are pretty low just make sure you negotiate the fare beforehand. I can unsubscribe any time using the unsubscribe link at the end of all emails. They are not authentic nor do many locals live in the center, but luckily some of my favorite towns are not far away. If you are looking for relaxing and more unique places to visit in Guatemala, then head to the coast! 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. Small villages with distinctively different moods surround the lake.
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