- Experiencing the grandeur of the ancient Mayan temples and pyramids of Tikal.
- Walking the cobbled streets of Antigua to view the beautifully preserved Spanish-style colonial buildings.
- Taking a boat ride on the crystal blue waters of Lake Atitlan to visit the small villages that dot its shores.
- Wandering through the crowded market at Chichicastenango.
- Hiking up an active volcano, if you dare.
- Relaxing on a beach along Guatemala’s Caribbean shore.
- Enjoying nature walks, birding, and viewing sea turtles in the rainforests and along the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.
Best Things to Do in Guatemala
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Things to do in Guatemala - Expert's guide
1. Tikal National Park
Tikal National Park encompasses the Mayan city of Tikal, which is one of the most popular destinations for tourists. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located near the border of Belize. There are many Mayan structures you can see in Tikal. Temples I-VI are the largest and most popular structures within the site.
2. Semuc Champey
Semuc Champey is one of Guatemala’s, and the world’s, most beautiful natural landmarks. Located in the deep jungle, it is quite a journey to this site. But once you sink your nose into the beautiful turquoise waters, it will make the trek well worth it. The pools are surrounded by limestone rocks and the lush jungle.
3. Museo Popol Vuh
Located in Guatemala City in Zone 10, the Museo Popol Vuh exhibits one of the most extensive collections of Mayan artifacts. The museum has art that dates back to multiple Mayan eras including Paleoindio, Preclásico, Clásico Temprano, Clásico Tardío, Posclásico, and even Colonial. The Museo Popol Vuh is a great attraction to see especially when visiting before or after any Mayan archeological site.
4. Dulce River
The Dulce River is becoming a popular tourist attraction. River and sailboat cruises are very common while on the Dulce. You can also go swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. While on the river you can see the vibrant greenery of the jungle, stunning gorges that meet the river, waterfalls, and even wildlife.
5. Lake Atitlán
Lake Atitlán is a beautiful and unique lake that has a lot to offer. Because the lake is situated in a volcanic crater, it is actually one mile above sea level. Its ecosystem is also very unique do to this. It is the deepest lake in Central America and is surrounded by three dormant volcanoes, Volcán San Pedro, Volcán Atitlán, and Volcán Tolimán. The lake is also surrounded by quaint towns that exhibits Guatemala’s culture and exuberance.
6. Pacaya
Pacaya is arguably the most visited active volcano in Guatemala because of its proximity to the city of Antigua. It is also a relatively easy trip to the top. Pacaya is about an hour away from Antigua and takes about an hour and a half to reach the top. Once there you can see the neighboring towns and cities, as well as, the beautiful natural scenery. The top also has many sections where one can see volcanic activity taking place.
7. La Horqueta Volcano Complex
As a much more strenuous workout to the top than Pacaya, the La Horqueta Volcano Complex is a great attraction for those looking for a challenge and want to see a stunning view from the top. The complex consists of two volcanoes, Acatenango and Volcán de Fuego.
Acatenango is the third largest volcano in Guatemala and would take about a day to reach the top. You can spend the night at the top and hike back down the next day. Volcán de Fuego is much too active to hike up but its volcanic activity can be seen from the peak of Acatenango.
8. Santa Catalina Arch
Santa Catalina Arch is a great example of 17th century Spanish architecture. It is surrounded by the beautiful town of Antigua. As one of the most photographed landmarks in the city, it revered for its vibrant yellow exterior and the lovely backdrop of Volcán de Agua. Seeing Santa Catalina Arch is a definite must for anyone visiting Guatemala.
9. National Palace
Most trips to Guatemala begin in Guatemala City due to the fact that the biggest airport in the country is located there. Guatemala City is a great introduction to this lively country because of its bustling streets and beautiful architecture. The National Palace is a government building. It represents the importance of this city and its fascinating history. It is a must see for anyone passing through here.
10. El Mirador
El Mirador is a large Mayan archaeological site. It can be found deep in Guatemala's jungle with its tallest building, La Danta, peeking out from the shrubbery. La Danta measures about 236 ft in height, making it one of the tallest ancient pyramids in the world.
Much of the site is still being excavated and studied so some parts of El Mirador are closed off to tourist. But because of this work, the site is becoming quite impressive with more and more artifacts being discovered. Anyone who is fascinated by the ancient Mayan's advanced and complex culture will find this lost city quite perplexing. Just make sure to bring some bug repellent!
Top Guatemala Tours
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Alexandra
Apr 2025
Central American Highlights
Interesting trip, full of culture, beautiful scenery, volcanoes and lakes. Learning about the Mayan people. Difficult obtaining a visa for Honduras. The Mayan ruins ...
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Trusted Customer
Apr 2025
Discover Belize
Exceded expectations. Very varied accommodation, itinerary and experiences. Brilliant leader
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Trusted Customer
Apr 2025
Central American Highlights
This trip was great. It covers a lot, so expect some long drives. Our guide Miguel did a great job, talking about each country with passion and helping out to solve ...
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Trusted Customer
Apr 2025
Discover Belize
Very enjoyable trip with a nice mix of activities. The Mayan sites were amazing (especially Tikal). Our visits were timed to avoid the crowds. I also enjoyed the wil...
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Useful Links
- Guatemala's Weather Overview: Live Weather, Forecasts, and Averages
- Additional Information About Guatemala
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