Best things to do in Guatemala

• Capital: Guatemala City
• Language(s): Spanish
• Currency: Quetzal (GTQ)
• Dial Code: + 502

Travel Guide to Guatemala: Volcanoes, Ruins, Rainforests, and the Unexpected

If you've been daydreaming about a destination packed with ancient mysteries, active volcanoes, lush jungles, colonial towns, and the occasional wild chicken on the road—Guatemala should be your next stop. Nestled in the heart of Central America, this vibrant country is a paradise for culture lovers, nature enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy mixing their history lessons with a side of tamales.

This ultimate travel guide to Guatemala will take you through the top attractions, best places to visit, and most unforgettable things to do in one of the most culturally and ecologically rich destinations on Earth.

So, where is Guatemala exactly?

Guatemala borders Mexico to the north and west, the Pacific Ocean to the southwest, Belize and the Caribbean Sea to the northeast, and Honduras and El Salvador to the southeast. In other words, it's perfectly placed to be your launchpad for a Central American adventure.

With an area of over 108,000 square kilometers and a population of more than 13 million, Guatemala may be small in size but it's absolutely overflowing with culture, color, and biodiversity.

Its capital, Guatemala City (also called Guatemala de la Asunción), is the largest city in Central America and your likely point of arrival. It’s busy, chaotic, and full of surprises, but don’t worry—you’ll soon escape to more serene sights if you're after tranquility.

A Brief, Juicy History (Not Boring, Promise)

Long before European explorers showed up with their armor and attitude, Guatemala was the beating heart of the mighty Mayan civilization. We're talking advanced architecture, star-gazing scientists, and more pyramids than you can shake a selfie stick at.

The Mayans lived not just in Guatemala, but also in Belize, southern Mexico, Honduras, and El Salvador. Their legacy is everywhere—from ancient cities swallowed by jungle to the modern-day Mayan languages still spoken in many villages.

Then came the Spanish in the 16th century, and things got complicated. Fast forward a few revolutions, a civil war, and a handful of epic street parties, and now you’ve got a proud republic that blends indigenous roots with colonial flair and a strong sense of identity.

Top Attractions and Places to Visit in Guatemala

Ready to dive into the best of the best? Here are the top attractions and must-see places to visit in Guatemala that should be on every traveler’s list:

Antigua Guatemala

Let’s start with Antigua, the poster child for colonial charm. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect combo of cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and crumbling (yet beautiful) churches. Surrounded by three volcanoes—Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango—Antigua is a favorite stop for sightseeing and snapping your new favorite profile pic.

Things to do in Antigua:

• Climb up Cerro de la Cruz for a panoramic view of the city.

• Sip Guatemalan coffee at a courtyard café.

• Visit Santa Catalina Arch and pretend you're in a historical telenovela.

Lake Atitlán

If a place could win "Most Likely to Make You Stay Forever," it would be Lake Atitlán. Surrounded by dramatic volcanoes and dotted with indigenous villages, this lake looks like it was designed by a bored deity with a flair for the dramatic.

Top villages to explore:

• Panajachel: Tourist-friendly, with shops and boat rides.

• San Marcos: The bohemian village of yoga, healing retreats, and more dream catchers than you’ll ever need.

• Santiago Atitlán: A more traditional village with strong Mayan roots.

Tikal National Park

Indiana Jones, eat your heart out. Hidden in the northern Petén region is Tikal, one of the largest and most iconic ancient Mayan cities. Picture towering pyramids peeking through the jungle canopy, howler monkeys screaming from above, and a vibe so atmospheric, even the air feels ancient.

Tikal is easily one of Guatemala’s top attractions and should not be missed on any travel guide. Bonus points if you catch the sunrise from the top of Temple IV—pure magic.

Semuc Champey

This one’s for the adventurers. Located deep in the jungle near the town of Lanquín, Semuc Champey is a series of stepped, turquoise limestone pools that look like a natural infinity spa designed by elves.

Things to do:

• Hike to the mirador (viewpoint) for the postcard shot.

• Swim in the crystal-clear pools.

• Brave the dark and slippery K’an Ba caves—with a candle in hand!

Chichicastenango Market

Say it three times fast: Chichicastenango. This highland town hosts the most famous market in Guatemala, where you can find textiles, pottery, masks, and pretty much anything that screams “I’ve been to Guatemala!”

It’s a kaleidoscope of color and sound and one of the best places to visit for cultural sightseeing and souvenir hunting.

Other Things to Do in Guatemala

This wouldn’t be a proper travel guide without a few more fun ideas for your itinerary:

• Hike Acatenango Volcano: Camp near the summit and watch neighboring Volcán de Fuego erupt in the distance.

• Take a boat ride to Livingston: A Caribbean town accessible only by water, with Afro-Caribbean culture and killer seafood.

• Explore Quetzaltenango (Xela): A lesser-known city with a cool expat scene and access to hot springs and volcano hikes.

• Learn Spanish: Guatemala is one of the best and most affordable places in Latin America to take immersive language classes.

A Nature Lover’s Paradise

Guatemala is more than ruins and colonial cities—it's a biodiversity hotspot. Rainforests, volcanoes, cloud forests, mangroves—you name it, Guatemala has it. It’s home to jaguars, toucans, rare orchids, and even more birds than you can spot with a lifetime of binoculars.

If you're a fan of eco-tourism, birdwatching, hiking, or just being wowed by Mother Nature, Guatemala will quickly steal your heart.

Final Tips for Your Guatemala Trip

• Currency: The Guatemalan quetzal. Yes, like the bird.

• Transport: Chicken buses are colorful but chaotic. For comfort, choose tourist shuttles or private vans.

• Weather: Dry season runs from November to April—perfect for travel.

• Safety: Stick to well-trodden routes and stay aware. Guatemala is generally safe for travelers who use common sense.

Guatemala is wild, wonderful, and unlike anywhere else. Whether you're a history nerd, adrenaline junkie, chill wanderer, or market-hopping foodie, this country has something unforgettable waiting for you. So grab your backpack, brush up on your Spanish, and get ready for a journey that will make you laugh, sweat, and fall in love with every volcano you see.