Things to do in Guatemala

Day Tours Archeological Sites Highlands Beaches Natural Wonders Lowlands Excursions

Guatemala Attractions

Guatemala is still one of Central America's best-kept secrets. The Mayan ruins are well-known to most people, but there is still a lot more to learn.

Discovering the unique archeological sites, trekking through the rainforest, zip lining in the jungle, river rafting, bathing in natural pools, kayaking around Lake Atitlan and experiencing the adrenaline experience of hiking a volcano are just a few of the exciting activities available. Additionally, you will learn more about Guatemala's vivid culture, explore the country's charming historical towns, colorful Mayan villages, and native local marketplaces.

There are several attractions in Guatemala that will keep you occupied while you're on vacation. To learn more about Guatemala's history, you can also incorporate a variety of other recreational activities such as cave exploration, bird watching, or local workshops. But this nation is more than just culture and adventure. World-class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife, and cultural entertainment are available in Guatemala City and the major tourist destinations. The ideal components for a trip that will never be forgotten!

We advise using private transfers to go across the country in order to make your traveling better. As one of our skilled drivers transports you from one location to another, you may unwind and sit back.

Here is a list of places and things you might want to consider for your next trip if you'd want to learn more about Guatemala's top attractions:

Metropolis of Guatemala
The nation's major center is Guatemala City. The Capital provides an overview of the residents' history and current environment. We strongly advise traveling to Guatemala City with a local driver and a qualified guide… (for a better experience to learn about the history of this rich country). The Historical Center, the stunning Relief Map, the Popol Vuh Museum, which has an amazing collection of pre-Hispanic antiquities, and the Ixchel Museums of indigenous textiles are some of the highlights of our capital.

Colonial Towns
The Spanish Colonization of Guatemala in 1524 is a significant chapter in its history. This important event left behind a unique architectural and cultural legacy  that is evident in a number of colonial towns and cities around the nation.  In the past, the Federal Republic of Central America had its capital at Antigua, Guatemala. It is currently among the continent's best-preserved colonial cities. This historical location is decorated with churches, parks, cobblestone streets, and baroque architecture.

Natural Lakes and Pools
Guatemala is widely known for its abundant natural resources. All year long, the abundance of waterbodies across the nation draws a lot of tourists and photographers. Lake Atitlan is one of Guatemala's most popular tourist attractions because of its breathtaking beauty. Three imposing volcanoes protect this lake, which is situated in the Western Highland region. Semuc Champey is another natural wonder and a fantastic place for adventurers and environment enthusiasts! Unique geological structures were produced by a water spring and various minerals. The Champey natural monument is made up of a number of water holes that tumble through the Coban tropical jungle. You can explore various bodies of water in Guatemala, these being only a handful.

Indigenous Culture
Guatemala is unique because of its heritage and is known as the Heart of the Mayan World. Nearly 60% of the current population is native and descended from the Maya. The culture continues to thrive, and the pre-Hispanic customs are largely preserved. There are many surprises in the multi-cultural country of Guatemala!

Archaeological Sites
Around 2000 BCE, the Maya civilization inhabited a large portion of Guatemala. The majority of the nation's large pre-Hispanic cities were found in the Lowland Maya Biosphere Reserve. We are still able to admire some of the spectacular buildings that were constructed thousands of years ago because of the Maya's great architectural style and the rapid jungle regrowth. The most significant archeological sites in Guatemala include Quiriguá, Piedras Negras, Tikal, Yaxha, and Aguateca. The history of the Mayans is a mystery that has yet to be solved.

Beach Destinations
Guatemala shares coastlines with the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. There are beaches with volcanic sand, stunning natural areas, and even an ethnic community with African ancestry. The Pacific Coast offers perfect circumstances for leisurely fishing, spotting cetaceans, and surfing in some places. On the other hand, the Caribbean Coast is a place where you can rest and rejuvenate. Both of Guatemala's beach zones are distinctive in their own way and abundant in biodiversity.

Volcano Hiking
Only three of the 37 volcanoes of Guatemala, which is a part of the Ring of Fire, are active. The Pacaya Volcano (2,552m/8,370ft) is a popular destination for tourists because of its intermediate hiking level and continuous lava production. On the other hand, Acatenango Volcano (3,880m/12,730ft) demands a higher level of trekking skills, but the views from the summit are stunning! No matter how fit you are, climbing a volcano in Guatemala is an incredible experience that EVERY trip must include.

Gastronomy
Not to be missed is Guatemalan food! It is a unique fusion of  flavors influenced by international recipes and ingredients. You may find local ingredients like beans, chiles, and maize everywhere. Certain traditional meals are only found in particular departments of Guatemala since they are purely regional. During your trip to Guatemala, you should sample the distinctive flavors of the native food, which are enhanced by special spices and herbs.

Now that you have a better idea about things to do in Guatemala, you can start planning your vacation. Feel free to contact us anytime! We will be happy to assist you.

Contact our Guatemala Vacation experts today by visiting our Trip Planner!

Two week package to discover Guatemala and its main attractions.
Between Traditions and Natural Beauty