Choose from 44 Fun Things to Do in Guatemala
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Quirigua
Quiriguá is an ancient Mayan site in southeastern Guatemala. Although it’s considered a small Mayan city, it is without a doubt one of the most important. It was here that the tallest stela from the Maya world was discovered. The monolithic stone stands 35 feet high (10.6 meters), 5 feet (1.5 meters) wide and 5 feet (1.5 meters) thick, weighing over 60 tons (53.6 long tons).
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Quiriguá once controlled the jade and obsidian trade route. During the same time, the city had a fierce rivalry with its neighbor Copán in Honduras. Researchers believe Quiriguá was inhabited starting in the second century, and the bulk of the most important monuments were carved between A.D 426 and AD 810. It is unknown why Quiriguá entered a period of decline, but evidence suggests that when the Europeans arrived, the jade route was under the control of Nito, a city closer to the Caribbean coast.
The stelae, or monolothic sandstone monuments, at Quiriguá were carved without tools and contain hieroglyphic texts that provide information on the Maya city’s rise and fall, along with details during the most important years. These monumental structures also tell an important tale of Quiriguá’s relationship with Copán and were built around the Great Plaza. The Ceremonial Plaza and the Plaza of the Temple are renowned for their complexity.
The last known hieroglyphs from Quiriguá date back to A.D. 810, which was around the time of the entire Classic Maya collapse. Researchers believe that the reduction in trade along the Motagua may have caused Quiriguá to ultimately be abandoned.
Practical Info
One of the best ways to see Quiriguá is to take a combination Copán (Honduras) overnight tour that departs from either Antigua or Guatemala City. It is only 58 miles (94 km) from Guatemala City, making it the closest ruins from the capital.
Address: Quirigua, Izabal, Guatemala
Hours: Daily
From $ 332
Semuc Champey
Tranquil, tiered turquoise pools suspended over limestone are what you can expect to find when visiting Semuc Champey. A natural limestone bridge supports the pools, which change shades of turquoise due to climatic variations throughout the year.
Semuc Champey is one of Guatemala’s best-kept secrets—one that is quickly getting out. Its remote location was often bypassed for more popular and certainly more accessible destinations and sights in the country, but the turquoise pools and surrounding scenery have helped Semuc Champey garner attention from backpackers traveling between the Western Highlands and Tikal.
Despite the increase in visitors, you can still easily find a quiet spot to enjoy the tranquil pools. You can stick close and lounge (or swim) in the shallow waters, or venture off for some further exploration. A slippery path leading upstream a few hundred meters brings travelers to Río Cahabón, the river that feeds the pools. Be careful in this area as the fast-flowing river “gets lost”in the underground caves, an area called “El Sumidero.”
If you’re up for a bigger adventure, head up a pretty steep, slippery trail to the mirador, high above the pools, where you can snag postcard-type photos of the entire area.
Practical Info
Semuc Champey is located near the town of Lanquin in the Alta Verapaz area of Guatemala. Although there are security guards present, it is recommended not to leave belongings unattended. It is best to take an organized tour to Semuc Champey, as this prevents you from having to wait for infrequent public transportation. Pools are open 6am to 6pm daily.
Address: Semuc Champey, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala
Hours: 6am to 6pm daily
From $ 381
Xetulul Theme Park
Located in the Retalhuleu Department of Guatemala, Xetulul Theme Park is one of the largest amusement parks in Latin America. Together with the nearby Xocomil Waterpark, it is estimated that both parks welcome over one million visitors each year. Xetulul is capable of handling up to 12,000 visitors per day.
Xetulul Theme Park has been awarded both national and international prizes, helping it become one of the most-visited attractions for Guatemala and other Central America residents.
Opened in 2002, Xetulul is divided into various plazas and features architecture from countries that have influenced Guatemalan culture, including Guatemala, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, and Switzerland. Each plaza features themed attractions, shows, and related restaurants.
Wander through Spain’s Square and take in the park’s representation of notable cities like Seville, Barcelona, Granada, and more. Jump on rides like El Galeon (Galleon) or Sillas Voladoras (Flying Chairs). Afterward, sit and sip on authentic Spanish “churros y chocolate.” Or take a leisurely stroll through France to La Gare de France and hop on the train to take a tour around the park. Enjoy European crepes and waffles, with perhaps the best cup of coffee you will find.
Those looking for live entertainment will be impressed with the number of live shows at Xetulul Theme Park. From street characters wandering the plazas to Flamenco dancers, magicians, and musicians, Xetulul offers numerous live shows to keep you occupied for an entire day.
Notable replicated landmarks at Xetulul include Tikal, Moulin Rouge, and the Trevi Fountain. In addition to the themed plazas, the park features two roller coasters. Avalancha is Central America’s largest roller coaster. It’s a steel coaster with eight inversions, making it one of the only roller coasters in the world with eight or more inversions. Choconoy is the second coaster and is more a family style roller coaster. Xetulul is also home to the only double-decker carousel in Central America.
Practical Info:
Xetulul is located just over 100 miles from Guatemala City and Antigua. It is open only on weekends – Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Day trips to Xetulul Theme Park are available from Guatemala City. For those who prefer to spend more than one day at the park, Xetulul offers Hostels IRTRA, a complex located in San Martin Zapotitlan, Retalhuleu, which includes 699 rooms – the largest hotel in Guatemala.
Address: Km 180.5 Carretera a Quetzaltenango por la Costa Sur, Retalhuleu, Guatemala
From $ 27
Santa Catalina Arch
The Santa Catalina Arch is one of the most iconic structures in Antigua. Arco de Santa Catalina in Spanish, the notable arch is located on Fifth Avenue North and was built in the 17th century to connect the Santa Catalina convent to a school. This allowed the cloistered nuns to pass between buildings without ever having to enter the street and come into contact with the general public, thereby violating the strict laws regarding seclusion. On either side of the arch you will find the Convents of Virgin and Mártir Santa Catalina.
The Santa Catalina Arch is one of the most photographed spots in Antigua, and its prime location creates a beautiful frame for the Agua Volcano in the background. Although technically owned by the Guatemalan government, the Santa Catalina Arch is looked after by the Santos family, which also owns the Reino del Jade store and Hotel El Convento.
If you’ve been to Guatemala City, this arch may seem familiar, and for good reason; the Guatemala Post Office Building was patterned after this iconic arch.
Practical Info
The Santa Catalina Arch is one of the most popular tourist sites in Antigua. If you want to beat the crowds, come early. Aqua Volcano, south of the arch, is primarily only visible on clear days.
Address: 5 Av. Norte and 2 Calle Poniente, Antigua, Guatemala
From $ 20
Santo Tomas Church
Built during the 1540s upon the ancient foundation of a Maya temple site, this Roman Catholic church in Chichicastenango, Guatemala remains a venerated holy site for people of both Catholic and Maya faiths and blends of the two. The stone stairs leading to the gleaming white Dominican church are reminiscent of those at ancient temple sites, and the steps have turned black from prayer sessions in which shamans waft copal incense and set purification fires. Inside, the church is adorned with offerings, everything from maize to liquor, and numerous candles, which have colors and patterns that correspond with those they've been lit for.
Practical Info
Santo Tomas Church sits on the main marketplace of Chichicastenango, a town that has retained much of its indigenous culture from the pre-Colombian era. The marketplace is a must-see hive of food, icons and multi-colored handcrafts.
Address: East side of the central plaza, Chichicastenango 14006, Guatemala
From $ 62
Pet en Forest
This northeast region of Guatemala contains about 30% of the country’s land but only 3% of its population. The area was mostly isolated until the 1960s but has always been the home of dozens of Mayan archaeological sites, as well as tropical swamps, jungles, and rain forests teeming with unique wildlife and plant life.
Birds such as toucans, hummingbirds, and hawks are common, as well as mammals such as the ocelots, jaguars, and monkeys, and hundreds more colorful reptile and insect species. Ancient mahogany trees and dense jungle canopy much of the forest. The area is considered endangered, and conservation of the rainforest’s unique biodiversity has only recently come to the forefront as the human population continues to expand. Forty percent of the forest is protected under the Maya Biosphere Reserve.
The Lago de Petén Itzá and the town of Flores are the hubs within Petén Forest from which to explore the area. The highlight for most visitors is a trip to the impressive ruins of Tikal, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Practical Info
The Petén region of Guatemala is bordered by Belize on the east and by Mexico in the north. Its capital, Flores, can be reached via Guatemala City by bus or plane. The flight time is 50 minutes from Guatemala City, and driving time is approximately 8 hours.
Address: Guatemala
From $ 68
Pacaya Volcano
Pacaya Volcano is considered Guatemala’s most active volcano and is believed to have first erupted approximately 23,000 years ago. Pacaya has erupted a number of times since and has had an active status since 1965. It stands at more than 8,300 feet (2.5 km) at its tallest point and is part of the Central American Volcanic Arc.
One of the most notable eruptions was in 2010, when Pacaya erupted multiple times in one day, raining ash on a number of towns, including part of Guatemala City. Schools and the airport were affected by the raincloud of ash, causing the president to declare a state of calamity. This was further complicated by torrential rain from Tropical Storm Agatha, which had caused flooding and landslides in the region. In March 2014, Pacaya erupted again, and officials discussed whether to evacuate several thousand people who lived near the volcano’s base. This eruption sent another huge ash cloud into the air and caused a number of flights to be diverted.
Despite Pacaya’s active status, it remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in Guatemala. Hikers stop along the caldera’s lagoon to marvel at the views of Agua, Fuego and Acatenango, all neighboring volcanoes. If you continue up, you will have even better views of both the Guatemalan landscape and Pacaya’s main crater. Due to safety reasons, visitors are not permitted to visit the crater itself, but you can’t miss the red-flowing lava and steam baths.
Practical Info
Pacaya Volcano is conveniently located near Guatemala City and Antigua, making tours possible from either city. Most tours to Pacaya include a 2.5-hour hike up the volcano with an expert guide. Travelers concerned about the volcano’s status shouldn't worry; officials constantly monitor Pacaya for potential activity and are well equipped to handle emergency situations.
Address: Escuintla, Guatemala
From $ 15
El Ceibal
Strategically located above the Pasión River, a once important trade route to the Gulf of Mexico, El Ceibal (also written "Seibal") is one of the best preserved of Peten's Mayan cities.
Archaeologists are in awe of elegant ceremonial construction dated to 900BC, among the earliest known monumental architecture in the Mayan world. Most visitors, however, will remember El Ceibal for its remarkably detailed stelae and sculptures, many carved after 800 AD, when the rest of the Mayan Empire was already in a state of collapse. Rendered in unusually hard stone, these detailed portraits and glyphs were influenced by foreign civilizations, and are unusually beautiful. This is why El Ceibal is sometimes called the "Mayan Art Gallery."
The city was built on several elevated terraces overlooking the river, and is relatively small, covering about one square kilometer (2.5 acres). Plan to spend two or three hours exploring.
Archaeologists are in awe of elegant ceremonial construction dated to 900BC, among the earliest known monumental architecture in the Mayan world. Most visitors, however, will remember El Ceibal for its remarkably detailed stelae and sculptures, many carved after 800 AD, when the rest of the Mayan Empire was already in a state of collapse. Rendered in unusually hard stone, these detailed portraits and glyphs were influenced by foreign civilizations, and are unusually beautiful. This is why El Ceibal is sometimes called the "Mayan Art Gallery."
The city was built on several elevated terraces overlooking the river, and is relatively small, covering about one square kilometer (2.5 acres). Plan to spend two or three hours exploring.
Practical Info
El Ceibal is located close to the small town of Sayaxche, about 62km (38 miles) from Flores, a 1.5-hour trip. There are two rustic ecolodges (and some very basic hotels) in the working port on the Río Pasión, making this a good base for visits El Ceibal and other nearby archaeological sites. Day trips are also easily arranged from Flores.
From Sayaxche, you can make the 17km (11-mile) trip to the ruins by public bus, though you may need to catch a pickup truck for the last few kilometers. Consider spending a few extra dollars to make the trip by boat, a lovely 45-minute trip up La Pasión River. There are no restaurants, shops, or hotels, so pack water and snacks.
From Sayaxche, you can make the 17km (11-mile) trip to the ruins by public bus, though you may need to catch a pickup truck for the last few kilometers. Consider spending a few extra dollars to make the trip by boat, a lovely 45-minute trip up La Pasión River. There are no restaurants, shops, or hotels, so pack water and snacks.
Address: El Ceibal, Guatemala
From $ 100
National Palace
This stoic structure in the heart of Guatemala's capital city was built in 1939 entirely by local hands and using only local materials. As a result, the National Palace offers up an homage to Guatemalan heritage and is ranks tops among the buildings prized by locals. Its green-tinged exterior is a nod to the favorite color of the former dictator's wife, and the result of concrete and copper used to cover the exterior to avoid painting. As a result, it's affectionately known by some locals as 'The Big Guacamole.'
An impressive bronze plate at the entrance to the Palace marks a spot known as 'Kilometer 0.' According to residents, this is the official starting point of all roads in Guatemala. Travelers will find a beautiful courtyard at the center of the five-story building, which is surrounded by five archways on every side. A touching Monument to Peace is located in the center of the palace to commemorate the end to the nation's most recent civil war. Because the National Palace is also home to a national museum, travelers will find unique and historically significant artifacts like the first switchboard and hand painted murals depicting scenes from the nation's past. Be sure to check out the stained-glass windows along the presidential balcony and the palace salon, used only for ceremonial events.
Practical Info
The National Palace is located off the Parque Central in the center of the city. English language tours are conducted daily at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Address: 5A Calle, Guatemala City, Guatemala
From $ 34
Metropolitan Cathedral (Catedral Metropolitana)
The Metropolitan Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Guatemala City, is the main church of Guatemala City. Located in the heart of town, the main portion of it was built between 1782 and 1815. About 50 years later, the towers were finished. The impressive baroque/neo-classical building with a blue dome is earthquake proof "“ it's withstood numerous quakes (it was damaged by two earthquakes and repaired).
Inside there is a collection of work which was originally from the Cathedral of Antigua Guatemalan. In addition, the altars are preserved and feature images of saints and other work from the Cathedral of Antigua Guatemala as well.
Be sure to take a moment and pay respect to the tragic recent history of the country at the 12 pillars, located in front of the cathedral. These pillars were resurrected to pay tribute to the murders and disappearance of thousands of people during the civil war from 1960s through 1996.
Inside there is a collection of work which was originally from the Cathedral of Antigua Guatemalan. In addition, the altars are preserved and feature images of saints and other work from the Cathedral of Antigua Guatemala as well.
Be sure to take a moment and pay respect to the tragic recent history of the country at the 12 pillars, located in front of the cathedral. These pillars were resurrected to pay tribute to the murders and disappearance of thousands of people during the civil war from 1960s through 1996.
Practical Info
Located east of Constitution Square, the Metropolitan Cathedral is easily accessible via public transit.
Address: 8 Calle and 7 Av., Guatemala
Hours: Daily 8am"“8pm
From $ 34
Xocomil Water Park
Looking for the best spot to get wet in Guatemala? Check out Xocomil Water Park, located in the Retalhuleu Department of the country. Together with nearby Xetulul Theme Park, both parks welcome over one million visitors each year.
Xocomil is the largest and most visited water park in Guatemala and covers an area of 77,300 m3 and is designed around the recreation of a Mayan pyramid. In 1998, the World Water Park Association awarded Xocomil the best water park in the world for “innovation” and in 2008, it was awarded the Park of the Year award by Amusement Today Magazine.
The park has four different pools and two wave pools, one for adults, and one designed for children. Aguajal II is the wave pool designed for adults, where you can experience six different varieties of waves.
Rio Tumala is a great spot to float and the current will let you go for over 540 meters. Pass by the “Cannon Maya” where you will find replicas of five Mayan masks with spring water jets to give you a massage as you pass “The Mound”, which represents a traditional Mayan tomb surrounded by its riches.
Xocomil Water Park is home to 14 different water slides that can easily keep you busy for an entire day. El Chaparron, or “The Shower”, is a new attraction featuring slides, keys, jets, and more in the tallest tower, which routinely fills with water, creating a feeling of heavy rain, known as a “cloudburst” in Guatemala.
Other popular slides include El Caracol, El Regreson, El Samala, and the Xocomil Rapids, the largest slide in Central America, with five lanes and a launch platform 21 meters high. Don’t miss Xibalba, featuring two slides with fast high-speed free falls for adventure seekers.
Practical Info
Xocomil is located just over 100 miles from Guatemala City and Antigua. It is open only a few days per week, Thursday through Sunday. Day trips to Xocomil Water Park and Xetulul Theme Park are available from Guatemala City. For those who prefer to spend more than one day at the park, check out Hostels IRTRA, a complex located in San Martin Zapotitlan, Retalhuleu, which includes 699 rooms – the largest hotel in Guatemala.
Address: Retalhuleu, Guatemala
From $ 30
Puerto Quetzal Cruise Port
The Puerto Quetzal Cruise Port is the starting point for cruisers looking to visit one of Guatemala's most popular destinations, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Antigua. Other than cruise ship passengers, few travelers pass through Puerto Quetzal, which is Guatemala's largest Pacific Ocean port and mainly visited by cruise liners heading to and from the Panama Canal or around Central America. At the cruise terminal, visitors will find an industrial port area with a small craft market, plus a number of options for day trips into the inland areas of Guatemala.
The Basics
The Basics
The most popular shore excursions from Puerto Quetzal head to Antigua for a look at the colonial city's famous Spanish baroque architecture and colorful facades. Upon arrival, travelers can orient themselves in the city with a leisurely sightseeing tour along the cobblestone streets and under the Santa Catalina Arch. Walking tours cover the city's highlights, including the many historical and modern churches and convents—San Francisco, La Merced, Capuchinas, and Santo Domingo (now a hotel) are some of the prettiest. Other cruisers choose to head out to tour some of the country's many coffee plantations for tastings and an informative meet-and-greet with a local farmer, while travelers can also opt to head to the soaking pools and steam baths at the Kawilal Hot Springs, heated by Guatemala's Pacaya Volcano.
How to Get to Antigua From Puerto Quetzal
Although Puerto Quetzal is the main cruise port for Antigua, the popular city lies about 50 miles (85 km) to the north of the coastal port. Taxis and shuttles are available, but they can be expensive given that the ride is over an hour long. Your best bet for making the scenic, 1.5-hour drive past coffee fields and volcanoes is to book a shore excursion with port pickup.
- Most shore excursion tours include port pickup and drop-off, as well as lunch.
- It can be difficult to get affordable transportation from Puerto Quetzal to Antigua, so cruisers should plan ahead and choose a tour with transportation included.
- Few travelers choose to stay in Puerto Quetzal during their cruise stop—it's worth the ride to get out and see inland Guatemala.
- Some port tours to Antigua combine city sightseeing with a visit to the city's jade factory, the Chocolate Museum, or a rural coffee plantation.
Although Puerto Quetzal is the main cruise port for Antigua, the popular city lies about 50 miles (85 km) to the north of the coastal port. Taxis and shuttles are available, but they can be expensive given that the ride is over an hour long. Your best bet for making the scenic, 1.5-hour drive past coffee fields and volcanoes is to book a shore excursion with port pickup.
Port Information
The Guatemalan quetzal is the country's currency, named after the national bird, but both the US dollar and credit cards are also widely accepted. Spanish is the main language spoken here, although tourist areas are likely to have English speakers.
Address: Puerto Quetzal, Pacific Highlands, Guatemala
From $ 75
Parque Central
Located in the center of Antigua, Parque Central is the major outdoor area in the town. Considered one of the most beautiful in the country, the park is the place where people meet up for an afternoon of relaxation and nice weather.
By day, vendors line the tree-covered walks, selling their wares. By night, mariachi or marimba bands set up shop, entertaining passersby with their live music.
Be sure to check out the fountain, which was originally created in 1738. Although a replica, the 1936 reconstruction maintains the original's posterity.
By day, vendors line the tree-covered walks, selling their wares. By night, mariachi or marimba bands set up shop, entertaining passersby with their live music.
Be sure to check out the fountain, which was originally created in 1738. Although a replica, the 1936 reconstruction maintains the original's posterity.
Practical Info
If visiting on a Sunday, prepare for crowds. Streets on both the east and west sides are closed to traffic.
Address: Between 4a Calle and 5a Calle, Guatemala
From $ 20
Santo Domingo Monastery (Casa Santo Domingo)
Part museum and part hotel, the Santo Domingo Monastery or Casa de Santo Domingo—is an exquisitely restored, histori window into Antigua’s Colonial past. Founded in 1542, the monastery quickly grew into one of the largest in all the Americas, though massive earthquakes in the 18th century turned the monastery to rubble.
In the 1970s, the monastery was dramatically revived and reborn as a five star hotel, which now has a wealth of fascinating museums that even travelers not staying at the hotel are welcome to visit and enjoy. At the Colonial Museum, wander past pieces of Colonial art from the 16th to 19th centuries, where religious paintings, sculptures and angels adorn the dimly lit walls. The artifacts get even older at the Archaeological Museum, where ceramic jugs, urns and bowls date all the way back to 200 AD and the Classic Period of the Maya. To learn about local metallurgy, visit the popular silver museum to see candlesticks, crowns and incense holders that were crafted around Antigua. There’s even a classic apothecary shop reminiscent of a 19th century pharmacy.
While the Santo Domingo Monastery is open to the public, it’s best accessed as part of a guided tour of Antigua’s sites, where guides can offer in depth info of everything inside the museum.
Practical Info
Since the museums are located inside of a hotel, visitors are asked to be respectful of guests staying at the hotel.
Did You Know? At the hotel’s archaeological zone, two crypts were discovered during excavations, one of which held religious murals dating back to the 17th century.
Address: 3a Calle Oriente 28, Antigua, Guatemala
Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-6pm, and Sunday 11:45am-6pm
Admission: $1
From $ 11
Museo Popol Vuh
Housed on campus at the Universidad Francisco Marroquin, Popol Vuh Museum contains some of the most famous collections of pre-Columbian artifacts in the country. A private research institution, visitors to the museum have an opportunity here to learn about the history of Guatemala. The goal of the museum is to conserve, research and educate people about both the cultural and archaeological heritage of the country. It accomplishes this with its many exhibits within the property.
For starters, the museum contains one of the largest collections of Maya art in the world. Visitors to the museum can expect to see a varied collection within its small rooms, including stone sculptures, pottery and the Lord Bat sculpture. The museum is known for its ceramic collection, which is considered to be the best in Guatemala City, if not the country. Of special note are the collections of funeral urns, censers and ceramic whistles.
A small area within the museum is dedicated to colonial art and includes items like traditional clothing and more.
For starters, the museum contains one of the largest collections of Maya art in the world. Visitors to the museum can expect to see a varied collection within its small rooms, including stone sculptures, pottery and the Lord Bat sculpture. The museum is known for its ceramic collection, which is considered to be the best in Guatemala City, if not the country. Of special note are the collections of funeral urns, censers and ceramic whistles.
A small area within the museum is dedicated to colonial art and includes items like traditional clothing and more.
Practical Info
Check out the schedule of special events at the museum, including lectures, unique and informative courses and more. The museum isn’t large, so expect it to only take up about an hour or so of the day.
The museum can be accessed via transport routes 63, 82, 101 or 40R to avenue La Reforma. Exit bus at corner of Sixth Street, Zone 10, in front of the Ministry of Education, then head east on Sixth Street. Pass the campus entrance booth.
Bringing a camera? There is a small fee to take photos.
The museum can be accessed via transport routes 63, 82, 101 or 40R to avenue La Reforma. Exit bus at corner of Sixth Street, Zone 10, in front of the Ministry of Education, then head east on Sixth Street. Pass the campus entrance booth.
Bringing a camera? There is a small fee to take photos.
Address: Universidad Francisco Marroquin, Calle Manuel F. Ayau (6 Calle final), Guatemala
Hours: Mon – Fri, 9am – 5pm; Sat 9am – 1pm
Admission: Adults: $4.55; Students with ID: $1.95; Children 2 – 10: $1.30
From $ 75
National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology
There are two ways to experience Mayan treasures when traveling across Guatemala: Either traipse through the jungles, down bumpy dirt roads, to ancient village sites and temples, or visit the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology in Guatemala City. Here inside this exceptional museum, visitors will find over 20,000 pieces of ancient Guatemalan treasures, from Mayan pottery, artwork, and crafts to traditional textiles and dress. With thousands of years of human history have taken place in these hills, Guatemala is comprised of a fascinating mosaic of different cultural identities. From the first settlers who built villages to thriving days of the Maya, all the epochs are represented inside the national museum, with relics from archeological sites having made their way to these halls. Learn how people first settled Guatemala as they migrated through Central America, and formed different languages, farming techniques, and ways to honor their dead. And, with so many discoveries still being made in Guatemala today, this museum that’s been open since 1898 continues to grow and improve.
Practical Info
There is no smoking inside the museum, and cameras can only be used for photos—no flash, tripods, or video.
Address: 6th Street and 7th Avenue, Zona 13, Guatemala City, Guatemala
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9am-4pm, Saturday-Sunday 9am-Noon and 1:30-4pm.
Admission: $7.50 for adults. Children under 9 are free.
From $ 70
Tikal Ruins
Once a powerful seat of the Mayan empire, Tikal is now the most famous archeological site in Guatemala and one of the most-visited sets of Mayan ruins in all of Latin America. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, consisting of temples, plazas, and pyramids, was first settled around 700 BC, and modern visitors still get swept away by their beauty and powerful aura.
The Basics
Tikal stands apart from other sites of Mayan ruins due to its location deep in the jungle and its easy access, as the roads leading to one of the most popular attractions in Central America are well-maintained. Guided tours make it seamless to visit the ruins on a bus, shuttle, or airplane from as near as Flores or as far as Antigua and Guatemala City, or across the border from San Ignacio, Belize—even on a day trip. Those who want to stay longer can take an overnight tour or book a hostel or campground for the night, which gives opportunity to watch the sunrise from the top of an ancient pyramid.
Things to Know Before You Go
- It’s best to book a tour with round-trip transportation or plan to stay the night as Tikal is in a somewhat remote location.
- Some of the not-to-miss highlights include Temple of the Grand Jaguar, Northern Acropolis, and Temple of Inscriptions.
- Visitors can explore an onsite museum to learn more about the ruins’ history and rediscovery.
- Lodging and camping are available outside the park.
How to Get There
As one of the most popular attractions in the region, Tikal is easy to access. The ruins are located in El Peten, and regular shuttles run from Guatemala City, Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and Belize. Flights help you make the most of your time, as the shuttle rides can last upwards of 12 hours.
Many guided tours include worry-free transportation.
When to Get There
Visit during the rainy season, generally May through October, for the fewest crowds (though come prepared with rain gear). Park hours are 6am to 6pm and are strictly enforced.
Lord of Chocolate
As the capital of a conquest state, Tikal served as a center for trade and economy, growing to a population of almost 100,000 before its decline. Some of its more noteworthy characters include Jasaw Chan K'awiil I, also known as Au Cacao (Lord Chocolate!), who conquered the chief rival Mayan state of Calakmul around 695 AD.
Address: Petén, Guatemala
From $ 40
Volcan San Pedro
Looming above the shores of Lake Atitlan and the village of San Pedro La Laguna, Volcan San Pedro is one of the region’s most accessible for volcano trekking. The views from the top make it well worth the effort of getting there.
Two routes lead to the volcano’s summit 9,908 feet (3,020 meters) above sea level. Both are strenuous, mostly uphill climbs through corn fields and coffee plantations, oak and pine forests. The volcanic soil coating the dormant peak is rich in nutrients, so many Guatemalans grow their crops along the volcanic foothills.
Practical Info
For safety reasons, hikers should never try to climb Volcan San Pedro alone. Bring a few buddies, or better yet, hire a guide to lead you to the top and back.
Address: San Pedro La Laguna, Sololá, Guatemala
Admission: 100Q
From $ 65
Palacio del Ayuntamiento
The Palace of the City Council (Town Hall), or El Palacio del Ayuntamiento, was constructed in 1743 and once served as the Spanish colonial government seat and an 80-person jail during the
colonial era. Today, it is home to Antigua’s municipalidad, or city government, the Museo del Libro and the Museo de Santiago. One of the most impressive elements of the Palacio del Ayuntamiento is its two-story façade.
The double layer of stone archways with columns was done in a Tuscan style, which contributes to the building’s striking appearance. A portion of the carved-stone exterior of the east-facing
wall managed to survive the 18th century, though centuries of earthquakes contributed to the need for restoration efforts at the palace.
Palacio del Ayuntamiento was heavily damaged in a 1773 earthquake, and the capital seat was then transferred to Guatemala City. The Museo de Armas de Santiago, an arms and weapons museum, is housed in the section that once served as the jail. The Old Book Museum, or Museo del Libro Antiguo, is in the same area where the first Central American printing press once stood and includes a replica of the printing press, along with copies of works produced by it.
Be sure to head upstairs and check out the scenic views from the second-floor balcony, where you can see the Central Plaza, Metropolitan Cathedral and the three volcanoes surrounding the
city.
Practical Info
El Palacio del Ayuntamiento is open weekdays from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. While admission to the Palacio del Ayuntamiento is free, each of the two museums is about 10 quetzals each.
Address: 4 Calle Poniente, Antigua, Guatemala
Hours: Weekdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Admission: 10 quetzals
From $ 140
Yaxhá
The third-largest archaeological site in Guatemala is not well known, overshadowed by the fame of neighboring Tikal. Archaeologists are only now sorting out the secrets of this city on the northern shore of Laguna Yaxhá, named “Blue-Green Water” for the lake’s unusual color. Founded around 800 BC atop a long, limestone ridge, the city was home to more than 40,000 people at its peak, around 250 AD.
Yaxhá’s sophisticated builders left behind more than 500 structures, including nine temple pyramids, two ball courts, forty unusually carved stelae, and numerous causeways. Climb to the top of Temple 216 for remarkable views over the lakes and rivers. While the city must have become quite isolated during the Mayan civilization’s (and Tikal’s) collapse between 800 and 900 AD, it continued to function well into the 1500s.
Today, Yaxhá is rarely visited, and therefore offers a peaceful and introspective experience of the Mayan world. Birders and wildlife watchers will especially appreciate the solitude, as well as the numerous crocodiles in the lake.
Yaxhá’s sophisticated builders left behind more than 500 structures, including nine temple pyramids, two ball courts, forty unusually carved stelae, and numerous causeways. Climb to the top of Temple 216 for remarkable views over the lakes and rivers. While the city must have become quite isolated during the Mayan civilization’s (and Tikal’s) collapse between 800 and 900 AD, it continued to function well into the 1500s.
Today, Yaxhá is rarely visited, and therefore offers a peaceful and introspective experience of the Mayan world. Birders and wildlife watchers will especially appreciate the solitude, as well as the numerous crocodiles in the lake.
Practical Info
You’ll need a 4WD to visit Yaxhá on your own. The main site is located about 12km (7mi) from the pavement, and it can be treacherous going in rainy season. Because the site is still relatively undeveloped, you’ll want to bring your own water and food.
Your entry fee covers all sites within Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo National Park, an enormous 37,160-hectare (144-square-mile) expanse that includes three other major sites: Topoxte, on the south shore of the Lake Yaxhá; Nakum, an ancient port on the Holmul River; and Naranjo, about 20km (12mi) north, Yaxhá’s long-time rival. While you can visit all of them, poor roads and worse maps make that an adventure best undertaken with a guide.
Your entry fee covers all sites within Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo National Park, an enormous 37,160-hectare (144-square-mile) expanse that includes three other major sites: Topoxte, on the south shore of the Lake Yaxhá; Nakum, an ancient port on the Holmul River; and Naranjo, about 20km (12mi) north, Yaxhá’s long-time rival. While you can visit all of them, poor roads and worse maps make that an adventure best undertaken with a guide.
Address: Yaxhá, Peten, Guatemala
From $ 100