Things To Do
in Guatemala
Guatemala blends Maya heritage with volcanic landscapes and colonial towns in a vivid, compact package. From the highland volcanoes to the Caribbean coast, the country offers dramatic scenery and diverse ecosystems. Markets overflow with textiles, coffee, cacao, and street foods that narrate centuries of tradition.
Friendly people, rich history, and affordable travel make Guatemala a compelling destination for explorers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at La Aurora International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Guatemala City. After checking in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional dishes like huevos rancheros or breakfast burritos. Spend your morning visiting the National Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral to get a glimpse of the city's rich history and architecture.
After lunch, venture out to the Popol Vuh Museum, which showcases the art and history of the Maya civilization. Stroll through the lush gardens and soak up the cultural ambience before making your way to the Zona 1 area for some local shopping. Grab a coffee from a nearby café while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the cityscape. Relish the flavors of Guatemalan cuisine as local musical performances fill the air. End your day with a walk through the vibrant streets, absorbing the nightlife and culture of Guatemala City.
Travel to the enchanting city of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and settle into your hotel. Begin with a guided walking tour, discovering the colorful colonial buildings and picturesque cobblestone streets. Visit the iconic Santa Catalina Arch and the bustling local market for handmade crafts.
After enjoying lunch at a charming café, explore the ruins of ancient churches, including La Merced and San Francisco. Participate in a chocolate-making workshop to learn about Guatemala's cacao heritage and create your own sweet treats. Take your time to soak in Antigua’s beautiful surroundings and the views of the nearby volcanoes.
As dusk falls, dine at a cozy restaurant surrounded by the stunning architecture of Antigua. Savor local dishes while enjoying a performance of traditional music or dance. End your evening with a stroll through the colorful streets, illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🧭Public transport fare | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🍷Cocktail in tourist area | $6-12 |
| 🏨Midrange hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction ticket | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Mayan heritage and diverse landscapes
- Friendly people and affordable travel
- Occasional safety concerns in crowded areas
- Roads can be rough and some areas are remote
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Necesito ayuda" - I need help
Places to Visit in Guatemala
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic 17th century arch with volcanoes in the background, best at sunrise.
Panoramic overlook of Antigua with the Agua and Fuego volcanoes.
Stunning lake views framed by the three surrounding volcanoes and traditional villages.
Majestic temples emerging from jungle mist as birds begin the day.
Tiered natural pools surrounded by emerald forest.
Vibrant textiles, masks and ceremonial objects captured in motion.
Food in Guatemala
Guatemala Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich Mayan meat stew with a thick pepian sauce of roasted peppers and spices, often served with rice and tortillas.
Must-Try!
A deeply seasoned turkey soup with tomatoes, chilies, and spices, served with tortillas.
Green chicken cooked with tomatillo, cilantro and green herbs in a fresh green sauce.
Fried plantain dough stuffed with black beans and spices.
Poblano peppers stuffed with meat or vegetables, coated and fried.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market stalls offering fresh produce, tamales, and street bites.
Colorful stalls with textiles, grilled corn, chuchitos and fresh fruit.
One of the region's most vibrant markets: textiles, masks, and flowers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake or light kiss on the cheek in informal settings; address elders with señor/señora.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural communities; hats removed indoors in some places.
Safety
Tipping in Guatemala
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 10-15% is customary if service isn't included. Round up taxi fares; tip tour guides and drivers.
US dollars are widely accepted in tourist zones; local currency is Quetzal (GTQ). Credit cards are common in hotels and some restaurants; ATMs available in cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies, great visibility for hiking and photography; night temps can be cool in highlands.
Afternoon downpours are common; lush landscapes and flowing rivers, with occasional travel delays.
Guatemala at Night
Hiking in Guatemala
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hike near Antigua with lava views.
Challenging overnight trek with views of Fuego.
Steep hike with rewarding views of the lake.
Longer hike with valley views.
Airports
How to reach Guatemala by plane.
Guatemala City gateway with international and domestic flights.
Flores airport serving Petén region and access to Tikal.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Maya groups such as K'iche', Kaqchikel, Mam and Q'eqchi' live in highland regions.
Urban populations with mixed heritage across the country.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; widely watched and played.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat; request beans, rice, vegetables, and cheese. Be mindful of lard in some preparations.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guatemala.