Things To Do
in Guatemala
Guatemala is a captivating Central American country known for its rich Mayan heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. With lush rainforests, volcanic mountains, and beautiful lakes, it offers a diverse range of natural beauty. The capital, Guatemala City, is a bustling metropolis that contrasts with the serene charm of ancient towns like Antigua.
Visitors can explore archaeological sites, colorful markets, and experience the warmth of its people.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the National Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral in the historic center. Enjoy a traditional Guatemalan breakfast at a local café.
Head to the Popol Vuh Museum to learn about Mayan history and culture. Afterward, visit the Mercado Central for some shopping and local snacks.
Dine at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city, then take a stroll through the lively Zona 10 for nightlife options.
Travel to Antigua and take a guided walking tour of the colonial city, visiting sites like La Merced Church and the Santa Catalina Arch.
Enjoy lunch at a local café before exploring the artisan markets for unique handicrafts.
Experience a traditional dinner with live marimba music at a local restaurant, and take a night walk around the beautifully lit streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $6-$15 |
| 🚌Public bus fare | $0.25 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $30-$100 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-$3 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $25-$50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Stunning natural landscapes and biodiversity.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Safety concerns in certain areas.
- Public transportation can be challenging.
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
Places to Visit in Guatemala
Visit one of these nice places.
This colonial city is filled with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and stunning backdrops of volcanoes.
One of the most beautiful lakes in the world, surrounded by vibrant indigenous villages and volcanoes.
An ancient Mayan city with impressive temples and lush jungles, perfect for capturing the essence of history.
Food in Guatemala
Guatemala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional meat stew made with a blend of spices, vegetables, and served with rice.
Must-Try!
A spicy turkey soup flavored with coriander and other local herbs.
Corn dough filled with various ingredients, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market in Guatemala City offering a variety of local foods and snacks.
Street vendors in Antigua sell delicious snacks like elote (corn on the cob) and churros.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common, and a friendly, warm greeting is appreciated, along with using titles.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; locals appreciate respectful attire.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Guatemala
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants, and rounding up is appreciated for taxi services.
Cash is widely preferred, especially in markets; credit cards are accepted in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit, with sunny weather and clear skies, ideal for outdoor activities.
Expect frequent afternoon showers, though mornings are often clear; the landscape is lush and green.
A vibrant cultural experience with elaborate processions and decorations, attracting many tourists.
Throughout the year, various local festivals celebrate indigenous culture, providing unique experiences for visitors.
Guatemala at Night
Hiking in Guatemala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike that offers breathtaking views of nearby Fuego Volcano and stunning sunrises.
A short hike in Antigua that rewards visitors with panoramic views of the city and its surrounding mountains.
Airports
How to reach Guatemala by plane.
Located in Guatemala City, this is the main international airport serving the country, offering connections to various destinations in Central America and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous groups that maintain their cultural practices, languages, and traditions, making up a significant portion of the population.
Mixed descendants of Spanish colonizers and indigenous peoples, predominantly Spanish-speaking and representing the urban demographic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Guatemala, with a passionate following and numerous local teams.
Widely played in coastal regions and schools, reflecting the country's love for team sports.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Guatemalan dishes can be made vegetarian; just ask at restaurants.
Corn-based dishes like tamales are naturally gluten-free.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guatemala.