Five Ideas for Guided Tours in Guatemala

• Antigua, a historical colonial city

  Located in the heart of Guatemala, Antigua is a historic colonial city filled with charm and culture. The city is famous for its colorful houses, historic churches and ruins from the colonial era. Among the city’s must-see sites is Parque Central, a central plaza lined with historic buildings and restaurants. Just a few steps away, you can visit the Antigua Cathedral, which dates back to the 16th century and is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.
  If you are interested in history and culture, be sure to visit the Casa Santo Domingo Museum, located in a former monastery. The museum exhibits Mayan artifacts as well as colonial art.
  For a great view of the city, climb Cerro de la Cruz, a hill located east of Antigua. From there, you can admire the entire city and the surrounding volcanoes. You can also visit the ruins of the San Jose Cathedral, which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1773.

• The ancient Mayan city of Tikal

  Majestic temples emerge from the dense jungle, birdsong echoes in the warm air, and the smell of the wilderness mixes with the aroma of ancient culture. Welcome to Tikal, the most iconic and best preserved Mayan city in all of Guatemala. Located in the Petén region in the north of the country, Tikal is home to hundreds of impressive Mayan structures. Temples, pyramids and grand palaces, all dating back over 2000 years, are a testament to the grandeur of the Mayan civilization. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of this ancient culture by walking the winding paths that wind through the ruins.
  Among the must-sees is Temple IV, the tallest structure in Tikal, which offers a breathtaking view of the ancient city. Temple I, also known as the Temple of the Great Jaguar, is an architectural marvel that houses Mayan inscriptions. For a more immersive experience, visitors can climb the steps of Temple V and find themselves at the top surrounded by dense forest.
  Aside from the imposing structures, visitors can observe the native flora and fauna of the area. The calls of howler monkeys echo through the canopy, toucans color the trees, and coatis, the small rodents typical of the region, roam freely in the forest. It is not uncommon to see jaguars and pumas, although they are difficult to spot.
  A visit to Tikal can easily take a full day, but history buffs and nature lovers can extend their stay by exploring the nearby nature reserves. El Mirador National Park is a popular destination for hikers, offering panoramic views of the area’s forests and lakes.

• The natural wonders of the shores of Lake Atitlan

  The shores of Lake Atitlan are a must-see destination for travelers visiting Guatemala. With its crystal clear waters surrounded by majestic mountains and picturesque villages, Lake Atitlan is a true natural gem.
  Exploring the shores of the lake, visitors will discover incredible places such as the village of San Juan La Laguna, famous for its talented local artists. Another place not to be missed is the village of Santa Catarina Palopó, known for its colorful houses that line the shores of the lake. Visitors can also visit the local market and buy handmade souvenirs. For water sports enthusiasts, Panajachel is an ideal destination for windsurfing and kayaking. Visitors can also relax on the sandy beaches and enjoy the breathtaking view of the lake. Finally, another popular place to visit is the village of Santiago Atitlán, which houses a historic church and a museum dedicated to the local Mayan culture. Visitors can also explore the coffee plantations and learn about the coffee production process.

• Hiking on the Santa María volcano

  The Santa María volcano is a natural wonder that offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. Located in the Guatemalan Highlands, the volcano is an ideal place for experienced hikers. To reach the summit, it takes about 4 hours of walking, but the panoramic view of the valley is worth it.
  The trailhead is located in the small village of Llanos del Pinal, about an hour’s drive from Quetzaltenango. It is recommended to leave early in the morning to enjoy the sunrise from the summit. The trail is well marked and offers a magnificent view of the valley. Along the way, one can discover abundant and diverse flora and fauna, including colorful birds and ancient trees. The national park is also home to hot springs, ideal for relaxing after a day of hiking. At the top, hikers can enjoy a breathtaking view of the volcano’s crater and the surrounding mountains. The scenery is breathtaking and the sunset colors are not to be missed. At night, the stars shine like never before, offering an incredible spectacle.

• Semuc Champey Park

  If you are looking for a place to explore nature in all its splendor, Semuc Champey Park is the place to be. Located in the Alta Verapaz region, this natural park is known for its rivers, waterfalls, caves and crystal clear lakes.
  The park offers a multitude of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking trails, bike paths, climbing sites and swimming spots. The main attraction of Semuc Champey Park is its unique geological formation. A series of natural cascading pools were formed by the Cahabón River flowing under a limestone bridge. The pools are fed by an underground water source, creating turquoise and crystal clear water. One of the must-see places in the park is El Mirador. It offers a panoramic view of the natural pools, the lush forest and the surrounding mountains. The park also has many caves, the most famous of which is the K’anba Cave. This cave offers a unique caving experience with narrow passages and underground waterfalls. A visit to this cave is a must-do activity for adventure lovers.
  If you want to explore the surrounding area, be sure to visit the nearby town of Lanquín. It is a small, peaceful village surrounded by mountains. It is known for its authentic Mayan culture and local cuisine. A visit to Lanquín is a great opportunity to learn about Mayan culture while enjoying delicious local food.