Guatemala

Travel Guide
Flores
The birthplace of the Maya civilization is home to ancient ruins, colonial heritage and a spectacular topography of jungles, lakes, mountains and volcanoes.

Guatemala is full of captivating contrasts. Discover ancient ruins among verdant rainforests, villages in the foothills of volcanoes and long-standing Mayan customs. Find rugged mountains that descend down into jungles and pristine beaches. Guatemala is the westernmost country of Central America. As well as Spanish, hear the languages of over different 20 ethnic groups being spoken.

Start your visit in Antigua, the former capital set amid three volcanoes. Explore a city of colonial landmarks, tropical gardens and cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses. The nation’s capital, Guatemala City, is famous for its galleries, museums and nightlife. Visit Flores, an island village full of craft stores and cafés, located in the middle of Lake Peten Itza. Sample some of Guatemala’s best coffee in Cobán.

Mayan culture originated in Guatemala and its traditions continue to thrive. In the western highlands, Quetzaltenango is the heart of Mayan life and a gateway to interesting market towns such as Panajachel. Chichicastenango is famous for its embroidery. Explore the ruins of monumental pyramids in Quiriguá or head north to admire the spectacular temple ruins of Tikal and El Mirador.

There’s plenty to see in Guatemala’s wild scenery. Scuba dive in beautiful Lake Atitlan, framed by quaint villages such as San Pedro de la Laguna and Santa Cruz de la Laguna. Walk to picture-perfect waterfalls and try caving or tubing at Semuc Champey. Hike to the crater of the active Volcan Pacaya. Walk around lakes and spot monkeys, jaguars and birds in jungle-clad Parque Nacional Laguna Lachúa.

Along the Pacific Coast, explore the black-sand beaches of Monterrico on horseback and see nesting sea turtles. Experience Guatemala’s surf culture at Paredón and the laid-back charm of Livingston, on the Caribbean coast.Despite its turbulent history, today Guatemala is friendly and hospitable. You should, however, visit areas off the tourist trail with caution. Reach Guatemala by flying to Guatemala City’s La Aurora International Airport and explore this enticing country via affordable, efficient buses.

Popular cities in Guatemala

Guatemala City
Guatemala City
Known for Dining, Shopping and Volcano
Explore Guatemala City: its cafes, museums, ruins, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Constitution Square
  • Catedral Metropolitana
  • Oakland Mall
Antigua Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala
Known for Historical, Volcano and Ruins
Love ruins, cathedrals, and cafes? Get away to Antigua Guatemala!

Reasons to visit

  • Casa Santo Domingo Museum
  • Central Park
  • Santa Catalina Arch
Flores showing general coastal views and boating
Flores
Known for Lakes, Tours and Nature
Set on the shores of Lake Petén Itzá, this pretty island town presents a Mediterranean-style charm and is a gateway to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal.

Reasons to visit

  • Tikal National Park
  • Tikal
  • Church of Our Lady of the Remedies
Quetzaltenango featuring a city
Quetzaltenango
Known for Historical, Recreation and Culture
With a strong Mayan heritage, colonial architecture and huge volcanoes rising in the distance, this archetypal Guatemalan town enthralls and educates.

Reasons to visit

  • Quetzaltenango Central Park
  • Quetzaltenango Cathedral
Las Victorias National Park which includes forests and a river or creek
Cobán
Known for Tours, Natural parks and Small town
Coffee plantations and botanical gardens, Mayan history, eco-adventures and the resplendent beauty of Alta Verapaz await in this appealing mountain town.

Reasons to visit

  • Las Victorias National Park
After a hike and then private boat ride we got to Playa Blanca #beach in Livingston, Guatemala. My view after waking up from a nap in a hammock.
Livingston
Known for Swimming, Boating and Lakes
Experience relaxing Livingston: its waterfalls, marina, culture, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Rio Dulce

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