Once the epicenter of the Maya civilization, Guatemala with its culture, cuisine, festivals, and landscapes—from colorful villages around Lake Atitlan to the towering jungle-claimed temples of Tikal in the tropical north—is still steeped in rich history and tradition. While some of the best things to do in Guatemala focus more on its natural wonders—including camping under the stars on an active volcano or candle-lit water cave tours in Semuc Champey—there’s plenty of cosmopolitan charm to soak up, too, especially around Antigua and Flores.
Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Guatemala is a warm, welcoming country to visit year-round, although there are two distinct seasons: the wet and the dry. Most travelers visit between November’s All Saint’s Day and Easter, with Holy Week one of the most popular times of year to visit, along with Christmas and New Year’s. July and August are also popular with travelers looking to catch the sun before the heavier rains come in September and October.
Buses are a great way to get around Guatemala, with both the colorful local chicken bus (United States school buses that used to commonly transport farm animals and now carry people) and comfortable tourist shuttles running regular routes around the country.
Taxis and private cars (with drivers) are also good options, as are multi-day tours that include transportation so you can focus on having fun. Travelers who are visiting Tikal National Park can also fly from Guatemala City to Flores to save time—it’s a 45-minute flight as opposed to a 9-plus hour drive.
Guatemala’s Mayan culture runs deep, and it’s merged with colonial influences to create a Maya-Catholic fusion. Festival highlights include Holy Week (Semana Santa) in Antigua and in Santiago Atitlán, where an effigy of the chain-smoking, womanizing Maximón is paraded through the streets. Others not-to-miss include All Saints’ Day, celebrated with Drunken Horse Racing (Skach Koyl) in Huehuetenango, the Kite Festival in Santiago Sacatepéquez, and December’s Fiesta de Santo Tomás in Chichicastenango.
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This vibrant Central American country is known for its volcanoes, Maya ruins, coffee, and colonial architecture. With an abundance of historical and natural attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Guatemala that everyone can enjoy. Major tourist destinations, like Lake Atitlán, Antigua, Tikal, and Flores, are easily accessible by organized tours.
...MoreAntigua is Guatemala’s most popular tourist destination. Just a 1-hour shuttle ride from La Aurora International Airport, the colonial city is also a great starting point for day trips to Chichicastenango Market, Pacaya Volcano, and Lake Atitlán. Travelers with more than a few days in Guatemala often visit Semuc Champey, Tikal, or Quetzaltenango (Xela).
...MoreBudget at least one week of vacation time in Guatemala if you want to visit multiple cities, complete (and recover from) a multi-day trek, or explore the country’s many ruins. When creating your itinerary, keep in mind that, due to unpredictable traffic and construction, travel between cities can be time-consuming. Maximize your limited vacation time with organized tours.
...MoreBudget at least one week of vacation time in Guatemala if you want to visit multiple cities, complete (and recover from) a multi-day trek, or explore the country’s many ruins. When creating your itinerary, keep in mind that, due to unpredictable traffic and construction, travel between cities can be time-consuming. Maximize your limited vacation time with organized tours.
...MoreEssential Guatemalan bites include tostadas Guatemaltecas and tamales wrapped in plantain leaves or corn husks, which are easily found on street corners throughout the country. Meat lovers must try caldo de res, a beef-based soup filled with vegetables, including chayote squash. Satisfy your sweet tooth with mole de plátano or atole de elote.
...MoreYes, Guatemala is safe for visitors. While certain Guatemala City districts have high crime rates, you can feel at ease in tourist areas such as Tikal, Antigua, and Lake Atitlán. Still, it’s best to avoid traveling at night and displaying signs of wealth and to always remain aware of your surroundings.
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