With a little something for everyone, from ancient ruins to volcanic peaks, Mayan chocolate to rainforest hideaways, Guatemala is a near-ideal destination for travelers looking for something just slightly off the beaten path, with a rich cultural history and no shortage of stunning landscapes. Still, it is not quite as well known as neighboring Belize or Costa Rica, but it is quickly moving up the list. With romantic colonial cities brimming with charm and verdant jungle, it will not stay a secret for long.
But in a country so expansive, how do you decide what to see or do? Here are our top picks.
1. Roast marshmallows on an active volcano
Often an unexpected highlight for visitors, it is no accident that trekking Pacaya Volcano is one of the most popular activities in Guatemala. Though the ascent may seem daunting, it is short, and the views along the way provide plenty of opportunities for photo and water breaks. The effort is worth it when you reach the top. The summit boasts sweeping panoramic views, best enjoyed at sunset, and there is nothing quite like roasting a celebratory marshmallow over a red-hot vein of molten lava.
2. Watch the sunrise from Tikal’s Temple IV
In the heart of the Guatemalan jungle, half buried beneath earth and trees, the ancient Mayan city of Tikal is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites on Earth. The vast complex warrants at least a full day of exploration, beginning with a sunrise witnessed from atop Temple IV, also known as the Temple of the Two-Headed Snake. At over 230 feet tall, it is the tallest structure in Tikal. The climb is steep and heart-pounding, but the reward is silence, mist, and a sky slowly turning pink as the sun rises over the jungle canopy. Movie buffs may recognize the view from Star Wars: A New Hope, where the Millennium Falcon appears above the forested temples below.
3. Have breakfast at Chichicastenango Market
On Sundays and Thursdays, thousands of Mayan vendors from across Guatemala gather in the highland town of Chichicastenango to sell everything from fresh produce to colorful handicrafts. It is the largest outdoor market in the Americas and a lively, sensory experience. Arrive early to beat the crowds, enjoy a traditional Guatemalan breakfast with local coffee, and spend some time people watching before wandering through the stalls.
4. Kayak the volcanic crater at Lake Atitlán
Some guidebooks suggest Lake Atitlán is a destination best suited for just a few days, but the reality is far richer. The lake is expansive, serene, and ringed by more than a dozen villages, each with its own character. Kayaking is one of the most rewarding ways to explore, especially around San Pedro. Paddle between towns, drift along quiet shores, or simply float and take in the surrounding volcanoes and light.
5. Take in a sunrise from the Indian’s Nose
For one of the most memorable sunrises in Guatemala, set your alarm early and climb the Indian’s Nose on the northwest shore of Lake Atitlán. Arrive in darkness above a moonlit lake, with the lights of San Pedro and San Juan glowing below. As dawn approaches, the volcanic chain stretching toward El Salvador slowly emerges. Few views are as rewarding as this one.
6. Dance salsa in colonial Antigua
No visit to Guatemala is complete without time in Antigua. This UNESCO-recognized city is known for its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial architecture, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. It is often a traveler’s first stop and frequently the place they dream of returning to. After dark, Antigua’s lively salsa scene comes alive, particularly at Las Palmas, where live bands fill the dance floor on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday nights.
