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Guatemala is only about the size of Iceland, but it is an amazingly diverse and complex land with a long and often tragic history. Although social problems persist in Guatemala, it is a country that has much to offer the traveler. Breathtaking mountain landscapes, colorful markets, centuries-old Mayan culture, modern cities, colonial-era gardens and courtyards and magnificent ruins, are just some of the reasons that more travelers come to this small Central American country every year.
Guatemala is still probably best known to the western world as the site of a horrific civil war that lasted from the late 1950's until the mid 1990's, with the worst years coming in the late 1970's and early 1980's. Thousands were murdered or displaced, and entire villages were razed. Fortunately, the civil war is over, and Guatemala is once again safe to visit.
Highlights
At the top of the can’t-miss list are Antigua, the old colonial capital, and Tikal, the majestic ruins of one of the most important cities in the Mayan Empire. Antigua is only about an hour away from Guatemala City, and it boasts colonial buildings and ruins as well as shopping, fine dining and adventure travel. Tikal is considered one of the most important Mayan archaeological sites and is more than just ruins: the lush jungle is also home to many species of monkeys, birds and more.
For those looking for a more urban experience, Guatemala City is the largest city in Central America. It is home to several interesting museums, cathedrals and government buildings, and also has good nightlife.
If the beach is more your thing, try Monterico on Guatemala’s south-west coast. Tranquil and undeveloped, it’s a popular destination for the backpacker set.
If you’re a shopper, the market at Chichicastenango is a must. The largest native artisan market in Central America is a great place to buy souvenirs, gifts, and art. Don’t forget to bargain!
On your way through the highlands, make a stop a Lake Atitlan. The picturesque town of Panajachel (pan-ah-ha-CHEL), situated on the lake and populated by hippies, is a relaxing, friendly town full of cafes, restaurants, hotels and shops, and you’re never too far from a breathtaking view of the lake.
Once you reach the highlands, check out the tiny town of Todos Santos Cuchumatan. It's a traditional indigenous village, where the inhabitants still wear the same colorful clothes worn by their grandparents and speak Mam, the local language.
If you can't make it all the way to Tikal but still want to see some Maya ruins, you can visit Iximche, Zaculeu, or Quirigua, which is famous for its stelae, or tall, hand-carved standing stones.
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Cobán
Sitting at more than 1,320m above sea level, the mountain air and coffee aroma of Alta Verapaz’s capital city lure you into a world of misty forests and Mayan culture. A small, laid-back town,
...Cobán, Guatemala
Chichicastenango
Chichicastenango, a medium-sized town in the Quiché region about two to three hours away from Guatemala City, is home to one of the most important and extensive artisan markets in the world, and
...Chichicastenango, Guatemala
Antigua
First founded in the early sixteenth century by victorious Spanish conquistadores, Antigua soon became an administrative center for the Spanish Empire, overseeing all of Central America as well as
...Antigua, Guatemala
Sacapulas
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Sacapulas, sitting at base of the Cuchumatanes on the banks of the Río Negro, is a fairly non-descript little town albeit with a superb positioning and spectacular views. There is not much to
...Sacapulas, Guatemala
San Pedro la Laguna
Set amid stunning volcanic scenery and the expansive shores of Lago Atitlan, this unassuming town offers a few wonders of its own, which may explain why so many travelers come for a few days and end
...San Pedro la Laguna, Guatemala
Paseo de los Museos
Inside the grounds of Hotel Casa Santo Domingo is the beautifully presented Paseo de los Museos or Museums Promenade. The route allows access to the most significant areas of the convent ruins
...Antigua, Guatemala
El Mundo Perdido (The Lost World)
This sizable complex consists of 38 structures oriented in a traditional Mayan pattern serving as an astronomy observatory. The ancient Mayans observed solstices, equinoxes and planetary cycles with
...Guatemala
Plaza de los Siete Templos
Next to the Acrópolis del Sur is the complex comprised of seven little temples built in a row. Although the temples were assembled during the late Classic period, there are other structures in the
...Guatemala
Acrópolis del Sur & Templo V
South of Gran Plaza is Acrópolis del Sur, which is a massive area yet to be restored. This two-hectare mass of stonework is still covered by vines and trees. The palaces atop the masonry date back
...Guatemala
Acrópolis Central
This maze of residential palaces and small temples is found on the south side of Gran Plaza. Believed to be where the royal family and their relatives lived, some chambers still have remnants of low
...Guatemala
Gran Plaza
The heart of the ancient Mayan civilization lies in this plaza, the focal point of the king’s realm. Temple I, also known as the Pyramid of the Giant Jaguar, faces west toward the setting sun,
...Guatemala
Vivero Verapaz
A visit to this orchid haven is interesting whether you are a plant-lover or not. The nursery is home to more than 400 of the 770 orchid species found in Guatemala. The best time to visit is between
...Cobán, Guatemala
Parque Las Victorias
Further north of Templo El Calvario is a densely forested nature reserve that acts as a retreat from the city. This 84-hectare national park is close to the city center, and has extensive walking
...Cobán, Guatemala
Templo El Calvario
Built atop a hill overlooking Cobán, the temple is 137 steps away from the city center. At the start of the long stairway, visitors are greeted by a shrine where locals pray and leave offerings.
...Cobán, Guatemala
Parque Central
This relatively small triangular park represents the heart of the city, where major activities take place. The park is flanked by the cathedral, Palacio de Gobernacíon and Municipalidad (Town Hall).
...Cobán, Guatemala
ARCAS Center
The Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Association runs an animal habilitation center close to San Miguel. They take care of animals rescued from smugglers and illegal pet traders, like jaguars,
...Flores, Guatemala
everything
everything
Guatemala is better than Hawaii
Loved Guatemala, stayed in Antigua with a family. People are very helpful and friendly. Don't miss the tour to Monticito (on the South Pacific) and to Chichicastenaga (up in the mountains) these are both day trips from Antigua. Oh and the Macadamia Nut Farm - Valhala-best pancakes on planet earth. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, you'll do a lot of walking. Take a hike up all three valcanoes (which are active). There is something here for everyone (well except skiing). Comparative to Hawaii and a whole lot less expensive.
Guatemala
Guatemala is the most amazing place in the world...the people are fantastic and the food is wonderful. The scenery is to die for. I'd give a million bucks to be there today.
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