Guatemala is a small country, beautiful, rich in Mayan culture, stunning dormant and active volcanoes, rainforests, beaches, river valleys, and biodiverse wildlife as well as restaurants, bars, and luxe hotels, has always been a great place to take a vacation, but it has gained popularity as an amazing destination in the last few years.
Take a look at some of the top destinations in Guatemala.
No. 1 - Antigua Guatemala
Three impressive volcanoes surround the beautiful colonial city. La Antigua Guatemala is located in a valley where the best coffee in the world is produced. Its cobblestone streets are an invitation for visitors to take a stroll and discover the spectacular monuments that await them at the turn of practically every corner of this marvelous city. Its impressive historical value and incomparable beauty has led UNESCO to declare it a World Heritage site. The surroundings of this beautiful city are considered some of the best places in the country for mountain biking and birdwatching of regional endemic species.
No. 2 - Tikal National Park
Spectacular Mayan temples protected by an exuberant tropical jungle marvel visitors who come to this park. They can admire the exquisite architecture of the Classic Mayan Period in all its splendor. The call of howling monkeys, the song of many birds and the comings and goings of spider monkeys welcome visitors to this paradisiac site. In order to really discover all of its magic, plan a stay of more than one day.
No. 3 - Lake Atitlan
Considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, Lake Atitlan is surrounded by three impressive volcanoes and picturesque Mayan villages. This is the ideal place to experience the surprising fusion of the Mayan conception of the world and the catholic faith. Visitors can climb the three volcanoes surrounding the lake ( Toliman, Atitlan, and San Pedro ) throughout the year and revel in the most spectacular views. Nature lovers and birdwatchers must not miss the opportunity to climb the San Pedro volcano, whose high peak is home to the fabulous horned guan (Oreophasis derbianus).
No. 4 - Chichicastenango
Market day (Thursday and Sundays ) in this small town is the ideal setting to admire the amazing living Mayan Culture. Considered the largest indigenous market in the whole region, this famous site abounds in colors and the great diversity of products for sale, which include vegetables, flowers, handicrafts, and even farmyard animal. The religious syncretism between the Catholic faith and the Mayan worldview can be experienced inside the Santo Tomas church, located in the town’s center, and in the Pascual Abaj hill, where ancient Mayan ceremonies are performed every day.
No. 5 - Pacaya Volcano
Probably the most well-known and most-frequently climbed volcano in Guatemala, Pacaya never ceases to amaze those who visit it. Because it is always active, its shape is constantly changing, so the experience when you visit it will be able to see striking views of the pacific ocean and other volcanoes, such as Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango.
No. 6 - Semuc Champey
An astounding system of natural pools set amid a dense tropical jungle. A natural limestone bridge spans 500 meters above the waters of the mighty Cahabon River. Surrounding it, there are a number of spectacular calm turquoise-water pools. This amazing natural wonder can be best seen from a look-out point atop a hill, but in the very warm weather of the jungle, the clear water below beckons visitors to take a refreshing swim in these extraordinary pools.
No. 7 - Quirigua
This archeological park safeguards the majestic remains of what once was a powerful Mayan City. It has the highest and best-conserved stelae in the whole Mayan region, well known for their exquisite carvings. Most of these stelae were erected during the reign of Cielo Cauac, who freed Quirigua from the rule of Copán (now part of Honduras).
No. 8 - Quetzaltenango
This fine urban center is located in the mountainous region of the Western Highlands, and it is also known as “xela”. The notable combination of urbanism and nature, as well as a strong presence of the Mayan legacy evidenced by colorful textiles and exquisite cuisine make Xela a must-see location when visiting Guatemala. It is a well-known place to learn Spanish, due to its high-guality learning centers. The city has numerous hotels, bars, and restaurants, and it is a perfect place to stay before or after climbing some of the highest peaks in Central America found nearby.
No. 9 - Rio Dulce & Livingston
This is the striking entrance to the Guatemalan Caribbean. Rio Dulce is the connection between Lake Izabal and the Atlantic Ocean. Due to its important role as biological corridor and the extensive biodiversity it protects, it has been declared a National Park. The banks of this river are a spectacular landscape of exuberant tropical forests, which are ideal for birdwatching activities. All of this incredible natural beauty is just a taste of what you will find when reaching Livingston, the colorful home of the Garifunas.
No. 10 - Guatemala City
Guatemala City is the main gateway to the country. It is a cosmopolitan city, one of the largest in the Central American region. It has a grand past, since it was founded over a great Mayan city, Kaminal Juyu. Today, it offers a wide range of activities for those who visit it, which include tours to local archeological sites and the city’s Historic Center and visits to museums with spectacular archeological pieces and contemporary art.
