Visiting Guatemala: what itinerary to take in this fascinating land where the many Mayan communities still retain their ancestral language, religion and customs?
Do you want to visit Guatemala, this small Central American country, but don’t know where to start or what itinerary to choose? Here are 5 not-to-be-missed stops to discover the diversity of landscapes and authenticity of this country still untouched by mass tourism.
1. Antigua
Photo credit: Flickr – Jasperdo
Antigua is Guatemala’s tourist capital. It’s a must-see and often the first stop on a trip, as it’s only 45 minutes from the international airport. Antigua is an excellent example of a colonial town, with its cobbled streets, central park and dozens of churches and convents. It’s also a good starting point forclimbing several volcanoes. We recommend spending at least two days here to take full advantage of all the activities on offer, as well as the pleasant atmosphere.
2. Lake Atitlan
Photo credit: Flickr – Daniel Mennerich
Around 2h30 drive from Antigua is the lake that many say is the most beautiful in the world! I call it Lake Atitlan! With its three volcanoes, emerald waters and traditional villages, Lake Atitlan is a must-see if you want to discover Guatemala’s Mayan cultural heritage, visit the coffee and cocoa plantations, or simply enjoy the freshness of the lake with a swim! The villages on the shores of the lake all have a very different atmosphere, as their inhabitants come from a variety of Mayan ethnic groups. You can stroll through the traditional markets of Santiago Atitlan, discover handicrafts in San Juan, or party in San Pedro! Plan at least three days in Lake Atitlan to fully appreciate its diversity.
3. Semuc Champey
Photo credit: Flickr – Christopher William Adach
Head east to Semuc Champey, the national park that nobody talks about, yet which is on a par with Europe’s finest national parks! At Semuc Champey, you’ll discover an unspoilt tropical jungle, but above all, pools of warm turquoise water, inhabited by tiny fish. These seven pools flow into each other, creating a landscape unique in the world. There are also watchtowers, from the top of which the view is breathtaking. It takes about half a day to explore the park, which is a 10-hour drive from Antigua.
4. Tikal
Photo credit: Pixabay – Ickandgak
This time, we’re heading for the north of the country, deep into the tropical jungle. This is where you’ll find Guatemala’s most impressive Mayan temples, those of Tikal. Discovered in the 19th century, some of these temples are still buried under the earth. The Tikal complex is immense and perfectly captures the grandeur of the Mayan civilization that ruled Mesoamerica from 2000 BC until the 16th century. Tikal can be reached by road or air, and takes at least a full day to explore. There are hotels located at the entrance to the temples.
5. Livingston
Photo credit: Flickr – Kent MacElwee
This list of must-sees ends with Guatemala’s most original city. Livingston is a seaside resort on the Caribbean coast, famous for its black Garifuna community. Here, the mix of cultures is at its best, with dancing to Caribbean, Mayan and African rhythms, and speaking Spanish, Mayan and Garifuna. Livingston is not to be missed by those who love the Caribbean atmosphere, but above all by those who want to soak up the sun and relax before heading off again!
By discovering these five regions of Guatemala, you’ll get a complete overview of all this country has to offer, its diversity and the beauty of its heritage, still preserved from mass tourism.
Main photo credit: Flickr – PAL1970
Map of hotels and accommodation – Guatemala