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. If you’re looking for one of the best places for both experiencing ancient Mayan ruins, visiting the colorful markets Central America is known for or seeking the thrill hiking to the top of an active volcano, then look no further: visit Guatemala!
This small Central American country is full of exciting places to visit and has something to offer to every type of traveler. We’ve compiled a list of the top 12 Guatemala highlights to guide you are you plan a trip to this captivating country.
Top 12 highlights of Guatemala:
1) Tikal National Park
Tikal National Park is easily one of the top attractions in Guatemala and it’s not hard 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. Here you’ll find different types of monkeys, coatis, toucans, macaws, deer and several other animals; it’s like being in a nature documentary!
Check out our Guatemala Explorer featured trip, which includes visits to Tikal, Copan and Peten. Considering staying at the Jungle Lodge while in Peten, established in 1956 by Mr. Antonio Ortiz Contreras, who discovered the temple of the inscriptions in 1951! The lodge is conveniently just a 10 minute walk from the ceremonial center of Tikal.
Tikal, a UNESCO world heritage site found in the northern region of Guatemala.
2) Antigua
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 Fuego, Acatenango and Pacaya, this charming historical town is definitely one of the highlights of Guatemala, Antigua is among the world’s best conserved colonial cities in the Americas. This magic and captivating small town stands still in time, where you can spend hours here just strolling through town on the cobblestone streets and find endless sites to marvel at.
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.
Keen to capture the most picture-worthy corners of Antigua? Include a guided tour with one of Guatemala’s top photographers in your tour with Global Basecamps! You’ll be transferred to Antigua’s most well known corners and best kept secrets and directed to the best angles the city has to offer with historical and cultural insight from your expert guide.
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 best visited on a guided two-day, one night 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 erupts every 15 minutes! Admire giant columns of ash thurst into the air while sitting at your comfortable camp. In the morning, making your final ascent to the summit for sunrise on top of Acatenango volcano. Watching a volcano erupt in front of you is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will stay in your memory long after you leave Guatemala!
When planning your trip with Global Basecamps, our expert Travel Specialist will watch you through everything you need to know to prepare for this epic trek, including what to expect, best time to do it and what to pack. Stay in Antigua the night before you embark on your trek and the day you return to get some rest after such a big adventure.
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. Dubbed at the Lake Como of 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 or for yoga and wellness, head to San Marcos La Laguna.
One of the experiences you definitely shouldn’t miss at Lake Atitlan is the hike to Sololá. It’s a bit of a strenuous hike, but the reward is worth it as you trek through Guatemalan maize and coffee fields, through old growth forest, and into the cloud forest that leads you to the best viewpoint over the lake with an epic panorama of the surrounding volcanoes and towns below. Consider the early morning wake up to experience the beauty of the sunrise over Lake Atitlan.
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.
Custom Guatemala Tours
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.
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.
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, notable 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.
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.
Since most Pacaya Volcano tours depart from Antigua, we recommend adding Pacaya as a day trip during your time in Antigua to get up close and personal with the volcanic activity Guatemala has to offer, without the physical task of strenuous hiking!
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, Chichicastenanago is definitely the place for this. Don’t forget to bargain! 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.
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.
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, one of the best off-the-beaten-path spots 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.
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.
Best places to visit in Guatemala: Final thoughts
There you have it, the best places to visit and things to do in Guatemala! From Antigua to Lake Atitlan, the streets of Chichicastenango to the shores of Livingston, or the top of Acatenango Volcano to Rio Dulce, there is no shortage of adventure to be had during your Guatemalan adventure. Guatemala is a truly special destination where you can discover richly preserved Mayan customs and ruins, while also checking off bucket list adventures like hiking to the top of a volcano to witness eruptions through the night.
We sincerely hope that this gives you some ideas for planning your holiday in this beautiful and diverse country. If you’re ready to plan your Guatemala itinerary, get expert Guatemala travel tips, and customize an adventure of a lifetime, reach out to one of our Travel Specialists to start planning! Visit Guatemala with us for a trip you won’t forget.
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