Top 11 Destinations to Explore in Guatemala

Guatemala, the heart of Mayan culture in Central America, is famous for its stunning volcanoes, black-sand beaches, incredible biodiversity, historic Spanish towns, vibrant Mayan communities, and the breathtaking ruins of Tikal – arguably the most magnificent of the ancient Mayan cities hidden within Central America's jungles.

There's so much to explore here, making it worthwhile to journey from the coastal shores to the cooler highlands, and from ancient Mayan sites to wildlife-rich national parks. The country's rich natural beauty is complemented by the urban allure of Antigua, the former capital from the Spanish colonial era, where visitors can savor some of the finest cuisine in Central America.

Guatemala exudes vibrant energy, from the lively Mayan traditions in Chichicastenango to the tranquil beauty of Lake Atitlán surrounded by its majestic volcanoes. One visit might just captivate you for life, so here are the top spots to kick off your journey in Guatemala, known as the Land of Eternal Spring.

1. Antigua

Ideal for architecture, history, and volcanoes

Located just 45 minutes from Guatemala's main international airport, Antigua is often the first and last destination for travelers, and it seldom fails to impress. With its charming cobblestone streets, historic basilicas, and vibrant homes, the city is framed by majestic volcanoes, including the notable El Fuego ('the fire'), which frequently shows signs of low-level eruptions on its steep slopes.

Antigua invites thorough exploration, where you can take selfies beneath the famous Arco de Santa Catarina, shop for authentic Mayan crafts, capture picturesque scenes of volcanoes with colonial architecture, attend local language schools to learn Spanish, and enjoy a break at the city's many delightful cafes, restaurants, and bars.

Some of the finest dining experiences in Guatemala are found in Antigua, offering an array of global cuisines alongside traditional and modern Guatemalan dishes. Sample delicious street food at the night market or indulge in a refined meal at a lovely venue like Meson Panza Verde, a boutique hotel known for its creative fusion dishes made from local ingredients.

Side Trip: For excursions beyond the city, rise early to hike the nearby Pacaya and Acatenango volcanoes, or enjoy a leisurely brunch with fresh, homegrown ingredients at the delightful Caoba Farms. There’s an abundance of activities to fill your days with adventure!

2. Lago de Atitlán

Ideal for relaxing amidst volcanic vistas

Nestled deep within the western highlands and bordered by three majestic volcanoes, Lago de Atitlán is often hailed as one of the most breathtaking lakes in the world. The hues of this profound and enigmatic crater lake shift from turquoise to deep green to dark blue as the day progresses and seasons change. Its captivating beauty has led many travelers to linger here for weeks, months, or even years.

A variety of small villages, each with its own unique atmosphere, line the shores of the lake. Party enthusiasts flock to San Pedro La Laguna, while those seeking meditation and yoga prefer the tranquility of San Marcos La Laguna. Spanish classes are readily available, but most people simply enjoy lounging by the lakeside and soaking in the beauty of nature.

Planning Tip: If you’re not one to relax for long, you can dive into more active pursuits like paragliding, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking adventures, and hikes up the dormant Volcán San Pedro. The lake also boasts some of Guatemala's finest swimming beaches.

3. Chichicastenango

Best for immersing in Mayan culture

Chichicastenango, or 'Chichi,' not only features the most remarkable Maya market in the nation but also holds significant cultural importance for the Maya people. Historically, it was the primary trading hub for the Quiché region prior to the arrival of the conquistadors, and the tradition of villagers coming down from the hills to trade remains strong today.

Surrounded by verdant mountains in the Guatemalan highlands, this bustling market town comes alive with vendors every Sunday and Thursday, attracting visitors on day trips from Lago de Atitlán. The streets are filled with a maze of stalls offering local goods, intricately carved masks, and beautiful textiles, including the traditional huipil blouses woven and worn by Indigenous women.

Each region boasts its own unique style of huipil, with intricate designs featuring natural patterns and abstract symbols that can take months or even up to a year to create. The vibrant market also showcases wood carvings, leather items, pottery, and exquisite jade, silver, and gold jewelry.

Planning Tip: While visiting Chichicastenango, be sure to stop by the small archaeological museum and the museum dedicated to ceremonial Mayan masks, and take some time to observe the bustling scene on the incense-scented steps of Iglesia de Santo Tomás.

4. El Petén and Tikal

Best for exploring Mayan ruins in the rainforest

The Guatemalan province of El Petén is among the most biodiverse areas in Central America, home to the majestic Mayan temples of Tikal. These ruins, which flourished in the 7th century, are enveloped by jungle, where howler monkeys, coatis, agoutis, and vibrant tropical birds roam amidst the thick greenery. Spending a few days here to discover the surrounding area, including the stunning, deep-green Lago Petén Itzá, is highly recommended.

A number of small communities dot the lakeshore, but the island town of Flores is the main hub for visitors to Tikal, featuring a variety of hostels and hotels, lively nightlife, and ample amenities. For a more serene experience, the often-ignored village of El Remate presents a fantastic alternative.

Though small, El Remate boasts a few hostels and offers a far superior lakeshore for swimming. Additionally, it is conveniently closer to Tikal, allowing for quicker access to the ruins. Be sure to visit the long-standing Mon Ami hostel and restaurant for lakeside lodging and fish dishes, as well as Las Orquideas for tasty Italian cuisine.

Detour: Less crowded than Tikal but equally fascinating, the ruins of Yahxá are a smaller ceremonial site situated between two lakes, renowned for its stunning sunsets. For the adventurous spirit, five-day jungle treks to El Mirador, Central America's largest Mayan site, can be organized through local provider Carmelita Tours.

5. Río Dulce and Livingston

Best for river-based adventures

The largest lake in Guatemala, Lago Izabal, is famous for its geothermally heated waterfalls and lush mangroves brimming with wildlife. This lake flows into the Río Dulce, which leads directly to the vibrant town of Lívingston, a bustling center for the Garifuna community on the Caribbean coast. Many travelers make a stop here before heading to the coast and often hire a boat to navigate down the river.

Río Dulce is characterized by its hot, humid, and verdant landscape, with an unexpectedly international atmosphere, thanks to a series of marinas, restaurants, and bars that cater to visiting sailors. Consider staying at the wonderful Tortugal, a boutique guesthouse on a marina where you can drift off to sleep to the soothing sounds of water, or venture out to one of the more secluded riverside hostels in the jungle, such as the highly recommended Hotelito Perdido.

6. Semuc Champey and Lanquín

Best for splashing in jungle pools

The national park of Semuc Champey, with its peaceful turquoise pools and natural limestone bridge, ranks among the most stunning destinations in Central America. Although the journey can be a bit challenging, the reward of swimming and unwinding in this serene natural setting is well worth it.

Given its remote location, many travelers opt to stay in Lanquín, a village about 45 minutes away from Semuc Champey that offers several fantastic hostels. Zephyr Lodge is a favorite among party-goers, featuring an infinity pool and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. For a more laid-back experience, El Retiro Lodge provides charming riverside huts and a relaxed atmosphere. Both hostels organize day trips to the pools.

Planning Tip: If you want to be as close to the pools as possible, Greengo’s Hotel offers A-frame cabins located just a 10-minute walk from the park entrance.

7. Nebaj and the Ixil Triangle

Best for uncrowded hiking trails

Nestled in the remote highlands of the Cuchumatanes Mountains, the quaint township of Nebaj serves as a fantastic base for hiking away from the tourist crowds. Visitors can explore trails that weave through the tallest mountain range in Central America, passing through lush slopes and valleys that shift from subtropical forests to expansive shrublands.

Hiking adventures can take you from the Ixil Triangle to Todos Santos, a charming town renowned for its vibrant Day of the Dead celebrations each November. Starting from Nebaj, these hikes are organized by the fantastic Quetzaltrekkers, operating out of Quetzaltenango once or twice a month.

8. Monterrico and El Paredon

Best for black sands and surfing

Monterrico is a favorite beach destination for locals, boasting a vast stretch of black sand perfect for lounging, swimming, and witnessing breathtaking sunsets. During the day, explore the nearby protected mangrove forest to observe tropical birds and wildlife, or visit the Tortugario Monterrico sanctuary in the evening to assist in releasing baby turtles from September to January.

Located two hours away, El Paredon is the smaller beach but is rapidly gaining popularity for its consistent surf and the rise of appealing accommodations like the bohemian-style Swell. This laid-back beach offers a backpacker atmosphere, casual Spanish classes, surfing lessons, and a lively social scene at the Driftwood Surfer hostel, where there's always something happening each night.

9. Laguna Lachuá

Best for escaping the tourist trail

Nestled in the heart of Parque Nacional Laguna Lachuá, within the coffee- and cardamom-producing region of Alta Verapaz, this picturesque lagoon is quickly becoming a sought-after off-the-beaten-path destination. Accessed by a humid 5km (3-mile) hike, this perfectly circular turquoise lake is surrounded by scenic trails, making it an inviting spot for a refreshing swim.

To reach the lagoon, visitors must trek through lush tropical rainforest, teeming with howler monkeys, colorful birds, and vibrant flowers. After the rewarding hike, the cool, deep waters of the lagoon provide an ideal retreat to unwind and rejuvenate.

Planning Tip: As the park lacks restaurants, be sure to pack your own water and food. The simplest way to access this gem is by joining a tour from Cobán, located about 147km (91 miles) south of Laguna Lachuá in the central highlands.

10. Quetzaltenango

Best for unwinding in the highlands

Known as Xela (pronounced shay-la), Quetzaltenango invites you to stay awhile. This vibrant city has a small-town charm, featuring charming cobblestone streets, weathered colonial architecture, and a central park flanked by an ornate cathedral. Many travelers visit to learn Spanish, volunteer, or embark on thrilling hikes in the western highlands.

Thanks to its high altitude, evenings are pleasantly cool, ideal for relaxing in candlelit bars and restaurants. Spanish learners mix with NGO volunteers, and friendly locals are eager to assist with verb conjugation. Don’t miss Mandarina on Calle 13-21 for the finest lattes and salads in town. Be sure to try shecas, a beloved local sweet bread filled with beans, cheese, or jam, typically enjoyed with afternoon coffee.

Detours: Notable attractions beyond the city include the serene hot springs nestled in the woods at Fuentes Georginas, the sacred mist-covered Laguna Chicabal, accessible by a five-hour trek up a volcano, and the twin peaks of Volcáns Santa Maria and Volcán Santiaguito, both rewarding day hike destinations. Huehuetenango, located 90km (56 miles) north of Quetzaltenango, also serves as a great base for hiking adventures.

11. Guatemala City

Best for exploring neighborhoods

As Central America’s largest city, Guatemala City offers diverse experiences depending on your chosen area. For a luxurious stay, Zone 10 boasts wide, tree-lined streets filled with upscale restaurants, hotels, and chic shops. Here, you'll find the Museo Ixchel, a fantastic museum dedicated to Mayan textiles and weaving.

If you're after a more historical atmosphere, make your way to Zone 1, home to Parque Central and the Palacio Nacional de la Cultura, which once housed dictator General Jorge Ubico. The park is bustling with street food vendors and occasional live music, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the city’s vibrant life.

Heading south from Zone 1, you'll discover Paseo de la Sexta, a pedestrian-only zone lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Among its highlights is the renowned Hotel Pan American, a favorite of revolutionaries, artists, and writers for over 70 years. Just across from the hotel sits the famous Portalito, the bar that Che Guevara allegedly visited during his trips to Guatemala.

Detour: Zone 4 has undergone a remarkable transformation from a once-uninviting area filled with abandoned factories to a vibrant neighborhood exuding a post-industrial charm. The streets, once neglected, now pulse with colorful street art, art galleries, digital workspaces, craft breweries, and cafes brewing local beans previously reserved for export. Start your exploration at Coffee District, known for its city views and relaxed atmosphere.