Highlights of Guatemala

A country rich in history, cultural, and natural beauty, Guatemala provides the visitor with many options. Some travelers come to the country mainly to explore the amazing Mayan ruins or the pristine colonial Spanish cities, while others arrive for the adventure activities available courtesy of the mountains, jungles, and rugged coast of Guatemala.

Activities

Activities in this Central American country can vary greatly. Some visitors might enjoy sightseeing in Guatemala's colonial cities or ancient Mayan ruins, while others seek a more active itinerary that might take them to mountains and valleys, jungle habitats, caves and volcanoes, or pristine bodies of water. Guests can participate in a great number of activities, from backpacking and climbing, to diving, spelunking, and wildlife viewing. Guatemala's eco-tourism industry is growing greatly and promotes responsible and sustainable tourism throughout the country.

Tikal

If the only thing you see on a trip to Guatemala is Tikal, you will have gotten your money's worth! The largest Mayan ruins in the country, Tikal was a city of great power, as is evident by the Mayan temples and other beautiful buildings found there. Totally enveloped by the jungle, Tikal is home not only to amazing ruins but also a variety of fascinating flora and fauna. Visitors should make their first stop the Visitor Center in order to coordinate their tour and take in all there is to see at Tikal.

Antigua

Probably the most popular tourist destination in the country, Antigua was once the Spanish capital of Central America and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Though it's situated in a very earthquake-prone area, the ruins of the16th century Spanish-era architecture that stood here have been well preserved. Easy to get around on foot, visitors to Antigua should be sure to explore the city's many remaining colonial-style churches and landmarks, as well as beautiful Parque Central, where you can hang out with the locals.

Lake Atitlan

Laguna de Atitlan - Lake Atitlan in English - is situated in the picturesque highlands of Western Guatemala. Surrounded by lovely small towns boasting friendly residents, this relaxing destination provides myriad opportunities for active pursuits, including boating, kayaking, and jet skiing on the lake as well as hiking around this pretty body of water or near the surrounding villages. Restaurants and accommodations are plentiful near Atitlan and continue to spring up as the lake becomes an increasingly popular vacation destination.

Chichicastenango

Located in the Western Highlands of Guatemala, the small town of Chichicastenango boasts about 20,000 residents and a host of colorful markets peddling Guatemalan artwork, food, and textiles, usually open on Thursdays and Sundays. Look for the magnificent carved-wood masks! In addition to shopping, guests should also visit the 400-year-old church of Santo Tomas (Saint Thomas), built atop a Pre-Columbian platform, featuring hallowed steps that originally led to a great Mayan temple. Ancient rituals are still performed there today.

Flores

Connected to its sister city Santa Elena by a narrow causeway, the colonial city of Flores is built on an island in the middle of Lake Peten Itza. Some think the city resembles Venice, as many of its buildings are right on the water's edge. Flores was the last bastion of the Mayan empire, not conquered by the Spanish until the end of the 17th century. Today, it is the city where many visitors choose to lodge while exploring the nearby Tikal ruins.