Essential Information for Visiting Guatemala with Children

Guatemala is a vibrant and enchanting destination, offering children a thrilling adventure to discover.

As in all Latin American nations, family values are deeply rooted in the culture – kids receive a warm and gentle affection that can rejuvenate even the most weary travelers. Expect abundant smiles, kindness, and thoughtful gestures for both little ones and expectant mothers.

This heartfelt hospitality, combined with breathtaking landscapes like majestic volcanoes, serene crater lakes, and ancient jungle ruins, makes Guatemala a fantastic choice for families.

Is Guatemala a suitable destination for children?

Guatemalans embrace children with open arms, welcoming their lively spirit everywhere, from upscale five-star dining to adventurous hikes up remote volcanoes.

This nation is a treasure trove of sensory experiences for young explorers: imagine vast markets filled with vibrant textiles, shimmering jewels, and delicious treats at every turn. For older kids, witnessing an active volcano, diving into limestone pools, or wandering through the ancient ruins where Star Wars was filmed can transport them to another realm.

However, a Guatemalan journey is not without its hurdles. Family-friendly facilities are scarce, with few changing tables available and car seats or high chairs difficult to find.

A baby carrier is far more practical than a stroller due to the cobblestone streets and narrow pathways that are prevalent in the country. While open play areas are limited, many restaurants offer play zones indoors, allowing parents to relax while kids expend some energy.

What are the best places in Guatemala for children?

For nearly everyone visiting Guatemala, the delightful city of Antigua is the first destination, and families with kids should definitely include it on their itinerary. There’s a wealth of attractions here: museums, markets, parks, and volcanoes. From Antigua, catch a shuttle to Lago de Atitlán for an unforgettable experience of boating, swimming, and paddling on one of the world’s most stunning lakes.

Alternatively, you can venture towards the black-sand Pacific beaches or dive into the vibrant heart of Guatemala City for rich museums and culinary delights. Further east, lush jungles await, where the crystal-clear pools of Semuc Champey and the ancient ruins of El Petén promise incredible outdoor adventures.

Top activities in Guatemala for babies and toddlers

Release baby turtles at Monterrico Beach

From September to January, the university-led initiative Tortugario Monterrico in the beach town of Monterrico welcomes visitors at sunset to adopt a baby turtle.

For a small fee, your child can select their own turtle and cheer it on as it scurries toward its ocean home. Proceeds from this initiative directly support the conservation of local turtles and other native reptiles.

Explore the Museo de los Niños (Children’s Museum)

Don’t be misled by the name – this place is more of a recreational center than a traditional museum, featuring vibrant, interactive exhibits and a very enthusiastic staff. There’s plenty of spacious, well-kept areas for kids to run around and discover, both inside and out, along with educational games that range from simple fun to more science-focused activities, such as exploring volcanoes and their eruptions.

There’s a fast-food outlet (Pollo Campero, similar to Guatemala’s KFC) available, but a more enjoyable choice would be to bring a picnic and dine on the lovely lawn outside.

Top family-friendly activities in Guatemala

Take a dip in the stunning pools of Semuc Champey

Getting to Semuc Champey is an adventure in itself (an eight-hour journey from Guatemala City, involving some bumpy roads), but the vibrant turquoise pools make the trip worthwhile. A short hike to a viewpoint reveals breathtaking vistas and opportunities to spot wildlife, including colorful birds and elusive iguanas.

Once you finish the hike, it’s easy to spend an entire day enjoying the refreshing waters, rock hopping among the pools, or simply lounging and sunbathing in the heart of the jungle.

Enjoy a horseback ride up Volcán Pacaya and toast marshmallows at the summit.

No trip to Guatemala is complete without climbing one of its stunning volcanoes. Luckily, Volcán Pacaya is nearby. Situated close to Antigua, it’s the only volcano where local guides offer horses for hire to assist those who might tire on the way up. The hike is leisurely and ideal for kids eager to try climbing but who may get worn out on the trail.

As this is one of the nation’s designated national parks, there are many facilities available, including well-kept restrooms and stands selling local snacks. The highlight of the hike? Roasting marshmallows over cooled lava at the summit.

Create (and enjoy) chocolate at the ChocoMuseo in Antigua.

The ChocoMuseo attracts visitors of all ages with complimentary samples and keeps them engaged with fascinating insights into Guatemala's chocolate history. Situated in the bustling shopping district of Antigua, it offers fantastic workshops led by friendly and knowledgeable staff who teach participants the art of chocolate-making.

You’ll learn the entire process from bean to bar, with chances for kids to get creative and customize their own sweet creations.

Top activities for teenagers and tweens in Guatemala.

Discover underground caves in Lanquín.

Nestled near the breathtaking pools of Semuc Champey in Lanquín, the K'anba caves tour offers a daring adventure for those willing to explore the depths.

Adventurers can walk, slide, and swim through an underground river cave system, illuminating their path with candles. The tour lasts about an hour and a half and culminates with a tubing experience down the Río Cahabón.

Go paddleboarding on Lago de Atitlán.

Starting your day with a morning session from Stand Up Paddle Atitlán is ideal for both novices and seasoned paddlers. Glide across Lago de Atitlán while the waters are calm, taking in the stunning view of the crater lake's trio of volcanoes. The tour also includes fascinating historical insights and a stop for cliff jumping.

Discover the ruins of Tikal

Nestled deep in the jungle of El Petén, the ancient site of Tikal will thrill young history enthusiasts and nature aficionados alike. Kids will be captivated by the eerie calls of howler monkeys echoing throughout the park and the chance to spot vibrant tropical birds, snakes, and crocodiles.

The site boasts over 200 structures, many of which are either partially or fully engulfed by the surrounding jungle. The most impressive pyramid, Templo IV, offers a breathtaking view for sunrise—if you can manage to get everyone up in time. Older children may also enjoy the Tikal Canopy Tour, a zip-lining experience offered every morning at 9 AM within the park.

Helpful planning tips

• Always remember that tap water in Guatemala is not safe to drink, so keep bottled water handy.

• The rainy season lasts from May to November, and parents should be vigilant about potential food-related illnesses during this time. While the fresh fruit sold on the streets may be tempting for the family, it's advisable to opt for fruit with a peel. Some kids might be relieved to know that salads are off the menu, as raw vegetables could have been washed in contaminated water. Aim for warm, cooked meals whenever possible.

• Local buses can be a bit overwhelming for children (and some adults too), so it’s wiser to choose the more expensive shuttles that connect the popular tourist areas. When at Lago de Atitlán, taking the lanchas (water taxis) is an enjoyable way to explore the different villages, and kids under 12 sometimes ride for free, though this can vary by captain.

• Guatemala has no car seat laws, and they are not easily accessible. If you need a car seat or other special items like breast pumps, the store chain Jugueton stocks them, but at a higher price, so it’s best to come prepared.