Choose from 44 Fun Things to Do in Guatemala
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Lake Atitlan
With its glistening blue waters framed by a trio of volcanic peaks and a fringe of lush greenery, Lake Atitlán is surely one of Guatemala’s most stunning natural wonders. The deepest lake in Central America lies in an ancient caldera amid the mountainous landscapes of the Guatemalan Highlands.
The Basics
Whether setting sail on a boat tour, exploring lakeside Maya villages, or hiking through Atitlán Natural Reserve, there are plenty of options for discovering Lake Atitlán. On the northeast shore, the lively village of Panajachel is the starting point for most visitors, but Lake Atitlán tours also run from Antigua and Guatemala City. In addition to taking in views of the beautiful lake, adventure tours offer a more active experience, including kayaking excursions, sunset bike tours, hiking, rock climbing, and even paragliding over the lake.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The easiest way to explore the lakeside villages is by boat, and local ferries run from Panajachel to most destinations.
- The only ATM is located in Panajachel, and most villages only accept local currency, so stock up before you head out.
- The main transport options around Lake Atitlán are small boats and tuk-tuks, so pack light as there’s not much space for heavy luggage.
- Swimming in the lake is possible at designated areas.
How to Get There
Lake Atitlán is a 3- to 4-hour drive from Guatemala City. Shuttle buses connect Panajachel with the city center and La Aurora International Airport.
When to Get There
The most popular time to visit Lake Atitlán is during the summer season (November–April), but visiting in winter (May–October) offers cooler weather for hiking.
The Villages of Lake Atitlán
The liveliest place to stay is Panajachel, while tranquil San Marcos is known for its yoga resorts and laid-back atmosphere, and San Pedro is the party hub for backpackers and international travelers. To experience local Maya culture, head to San Juan, known for its traditional handicrafts; visit Santiago Atitlán to learn about Maya traditions; or browse the market stalls in Chichicastenango or Sololá. If you really want to escape the tourist trail, visit the tiny villages of Tzununa or Jaibalito.
Address: Guatemala
From $ 75
Maya Biosphere Reserve
The vast tropical basin that covers Petén, the northern third of Guatemala, remains largely wild, its jungle-carpeted Mayan cities and traditional indigenous villages left largely unmolested within the protected 2.1 million-hectare (almost 8000 square-mile) Maya Biosphere Reserve, created by UNESCO in 1990.
Home to only 3% of Guatemala’s population, it has become an adventurous ecotourism destination. The reserve comprises Tikal National Park, El Zotz and Naachtún-Dos Lagunas Biotopes (Uaxatún), Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo National Park, and Mirador Basin National Monument, along with at least 200 other Mayan ruins, mountains, rivers, cenotes, hiking trails, and 14 lakes, including Lake Petén Itza, gateway to the reserve.
The reserve is part of a protected area stretching from central Mexico, through northern Guatemala and Belize. The Mayan city-studded forests are home to thousands of rare and beautiful species, including jaguar, puma, ocelot, margay, spider monkeys, tapirs, deer, scarlet macaws, and much more. There are dozen of ways to explore the wilderness, most of which are easily arranged from Flores.
Home to only 3% of Guatemala’s population, it has become an adventurous ecotourism destination. The reserve comprises Tikal National Park, El Zotz and Naachtún-Dos Lagunas Biotopes (Uaxatún), Yaxhá-Nakum-Naranjo National Park, and Mirador Basin National Monument, along with at least 200 other Mayan ruins, mountains, rivers, cenotes, hiking trails, and 14 lakes, including Lake Petén Itza, gateway to the reserve.
The reserve is part of a protected area stretching from central Mexico, through northern Guatemala and Belize. The Mayan city-studded forests are home to thousands of rare and beautiful species, including jaguar, puma, ocelot, margay, spider monkeys, tapirs, deer, scarlet macaws, and much more. There are dozen of ways to explore the wilderness, most of which are easily arranged from Flores.
Practical Info
The Petén lowlands are classified as either Tropical or Subtropical Moist Broadleaf Forest, which means it will be hot and humid—much more so than Antigua and Lake Atitlán. It is coolest (relatively speaking) from November through February, when you may need a light jacket. Rainy season is steamy, and runs from late May through October; bring mosquito repellant.
Remember that while the reserve is protected on paper, the Guatemalan government has other pressing problems (poverty, narcotrafficking, corruption, etc). They can’t stop all the squatters who hunt, log, and mine the wilderness, or raid unprotected ruins for Mayan artifacts. Use your best judgment as you travel responsibly through the region.
Remember that while the reserve is protected on paper, the Guatemalan government has other pressing problems (poverty, narcotrafficking, corruption, etc). They can’t stop all the squatters who hunt, log, and mine the wilderness, or raid unprotected ruins for Mayan artifacts. Use your best judgment as you travel responsibly through the region.
Address: Reserva de Biosfera Maya, Peten, Guatemala
From $ 268
Biotopo del Quetzal
The Biotopo Mario Dary Rivera Nature Reserve, commonly referred to as Biotopo del Quetzal, is one of Guatemala’s best nature sites. It gets its name from the country’s national bird, the endangered Quetzal, which has found a home within the sanctuary.
Quetzals are rather elusive within Biotopo del Quetzal, but they are sometimes spotted near local restaurants, as they prefer to feast on avocado-like fruits from neighboring aguacatillo trees. Some say December and January are the prime months to spot them; keep your eyes open for birds with bright-red chests; green, fuzzy feathers on their heads; and exotic, long tail feathers.
If you don’t manage to spot one, there is still plenty to see at Biotopo del Quetzal. Despite the fact that only a small portion of the vast reserve is open to visitors, there are a number of different mosses, ferns, orchids and epiphytes to see, as well as other birds, including the emerald toucanet and highland guan. Howler monkeys and other wildlife also make their homes in the reserve.
Two trails begin at Biotopo del Quetzal’s visitor center, branching off into the vegetation. The first trail, Los Helechos, is shorter at 1.24 miles (2 km), while Los Musgos (The Mosses) is twice that length. Whether you opt for the shorter or the longer trail, you will pass by scenic waterfalls where you can stop and enjoy a quick swim.
Practical Info
Biotopo del Quetzal is located approximately three hours north of Guatemala City, just east of the village of Purulhà. The reserve is best explored in conjunction with a multi-day excursion.
Address: Biotopo del Quetzal, Cobán, Guatemala
Hours: Daily
From $ 381
Pacaya Volcano
Pacaya Volcano is considered Guatemala’s most active volcano and is believed to have first erupted approximately 23,000 years ago. Pacaya has erupted a number of times since and has had an active status since 1965. It stands at more than 8,300 feet (2.5 km) at its tallest point and is part of the Central American Volcanic Arc.
One of the most notable eruptions was in 2010, when Pacaya erupted multiple times in one day, raining ash on a number of towns, including part of Guatemala City. Schools and the airport were affected by the raincloud of ash, causing the president to declare a state of calamity. This was further complicated by torrential rain from Tropical Storm Agatha, which had caused flooding and landslides in the region. In March 2014, Pacaya erupted again, and officials discussed whether to evacuate several thousand people who lived near the volcano’s base. This eruption sent another huge ash cloud into the air and caused a number of flights to be diverted.
Despite Pacaya’s active status, it remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in Guatemala. Hikers stop along the caldera’s lagoon to marvel at the views of Agua, Fuego and Acatenango, all neighboring volcanoes. If you continue up, you will have even better views of both the Guatemalan landscape and Pacaya’s main crater. Due to safety reasons, visitors are not permitted to visit the crater itself, but you can’t miss the red-flowing lava and steam baths.
Practical Info
Pacaya Volcano is conveniently located near Guatemala City and Antigua, making tours possible from either city. Most tours to Pacaya include a 2.5-hour hike up the volcano with an expert guide. Travelers concerned about the volcano’s status shouldn't worry; officials constantly monitor Pacaya for potential activity and are well equipped to handle emergency situations.
Address: Escuintla, Guatemala
From $ 15
Parque Central
Located in the center of Antigua, Parque Central is the major outdoor area in the town. Considered one of the most beautiful in the country, the park is the place where people meet up for an afternoon of relaxation and nice weather.
By day, vendors line the tree-covered walks, selling their wares. By night, mariachi or marimba bands set up shop, entertaining passersby with their live music.
Be sure to check out the fountain, which was originally created in 1738. Although a replica, the 1936 reconstruction maintains the original's posterity.
By day, vendors line the tree-covered walks, selling their wares. By night, mariachi or marimba bands set up shop, entertaining passersby with their live music.
Be sure to check out the fountain, which was originally created in 1738. Although a replica, the 1936 reconstruction maintains the original's posterity.
Practical Info
If visiting on a Sunday, prepare for crowds. Streets on both the east and west sides are closed to traffic.
Address: Between 4a Calle and 5a Calle, Guatemala
From $ 20
Cathedral de Santiago
The stark and silent beauty of the ruins of Catedral de Santiago offers visitors one of only a few quiet and contemplative escapes in the 500-year-old city of Antigua. Once a towering homage to religion and faith, this European-inspired white stone wonder was devastated during a massive earthquake in 1717 and never repaired. Today, travelers can explore what remains of this unique structure, whose exterior tells a story of triumph and perseverance. It’s only when visitors pass by the reconstructed façade that they find what can only be described as broken beauty.
Covered hallways and altars now exist under open skies, since ceilings and rooftops that crumbled during natural disasters were never replaced. Delicate white engravings and vast ivory archways are tinged and darkened with dirt after so many years of being exposed to the elements. Visitors can explore the grounds, climb crumbling staircases and bear witness to exquisite views of the church and the charming streets of surrounding Antigua.
Practical Info
The Catedral de Santiago is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily and admission costs about Q3 per person with an additional fee to photograph. Travelers say it’s worth the extra cost to snap photos of this incredible site.
Address: 2 Av. Norte at 2 Calle Oriente, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala
Hours: 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. daily
Admission: Q3
From $ 20
Mixco Viejo
Mixco Viejo is an archaeological site that dates back to the postclassic Mayan civilization. There are two areas with the name Mixco Viejo, as the former Chajoma Kaqchikel kingdom was mistakenly linked to the postclassic Poqomam capital as a result of confusion interpreting the colonial records. To properly distinguish between the two today, the former Poqomam capital is called Mixco Viejo (Chinaulta Viejo), while the Kaqchikel capital is known as Mixco Viejo (Jilotepeque Viejo).
Mixco Viejo (Jilotepeque Viejo) borders the departments of Quiche, Chimaltenango and Guatemala near the junction of the Motagua and Pixcaya rivers. It consists of 15 groups with over 120 major structures, including palaces, ball courts and temples.
Mixco Viejo’s population was believed to have been about 1,500 at one point. Evidence shows it was one of the few Maya cities inhabited and still functioning when the Spanish conquistadores arrived in Guatemala. Researchers believe the area got its start in the 12th or 13th century, and it’s possible that Mixco Viejo was an economic center for the surrounding valley. The nearby Motagua River was a commercial route for products during the pre-Hispanic area.
Practical Info
Mixco Viejo (Jilotepeque Viejo) is located about 30 miles from Guatemala City and can be reached via day trips from either Guatemala City or Antigua. Admission to Mixco Viejo is about $8, and the site is open daily from 8am to 4pm. Mixco Viejo suffered considerable damage during an earthquake in 1976, which resulted in the destruction of some restoration work.
Address: San Juan Sacatepequez, Guatemala
Hours: Daily 8am to 4pm
Admission: $8
From $ 100
Puerto Quetzal Cruise Port
The Puerto Quetzal Cruise Port is the starting point for cruisers looking to visit one of Guatemala's most popular destinations, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Antigua. Other than cruise ship passengers, few travelers pass through Puerto Quetzal, which is Guatemala's largest Pacific Ocean port and mainly visited by cruise liners heading to and from the Panama Canal or around Central America. At the cruise terminal, visitors will find an industrial port area with a small craft market, plus a number of options for day trips into the inland areas of Guatemala.
The Basics
The Basics
The most popular shore excursions from Puerto Quetzal head to Antigua for a look at the colonial city's famous Spanish baroque architecture and colorful facades. Upon arrival, travelers can orient themselves in the city with a leisurely sightseeing tour along the cobblestone streets and under the Santa Catalina Arch. Walking tours cover the city's highlights, including the many historical and modern churches and convents—San Francisco, La Merced, Capuchinas, and Santo Domingo (now a hotel) are some of the prettiest. Other cruisers choose to head out to tour some of the country's many coffee plantations for tastings and an informative meet-and-greet with a local farmer, while travelers can also opt to head to the soaking pools and steam baths at the Kawilal Hot Springs, heated by Guatemala's Pacaya Volcano.
How to Get to Antigua From Puerto Quetzal
Although Puerto Quetzal is the main cruise port for Antigua, the popular city lies about 50 miles (85 km) to the north of the coastal port. Taxis and shuttles are available, but they can be expensive given that the ride is over an hour long. Your best bet for making the scenic, 1.5-hour drive past coffee fields and volcanoes is to book a shore excursion with port pickup.
- Most shore excursion tours include port pickup and drop-off, as well as lunch.
- It can be difficult to get affordable transportation from Puerto Quetzal to Antigua, so cruisers should plan ahead and choose a tour with transportation included.
- Few travelers choose to stay in Puerto Quetzal during their cruise stop—it's worth the ride to get out and see inland Guatemala.
- Some port tours to Antigua combine city sightseeing with a visit to the city's jade factory, the Chocolate Museum, or a rural coffee plantation.
Although Puerto Quetzal is the main cruise port for Antigua, the popular city lies about 50 miles (85 km) to the north of the coastal port. Taxis and shuttles are available, but they can be expensive given that the ride is over an hour long. Your best bet for making the scenic, 1.5-hour drive past coffee fields and volcanoes is to book a shore excursion with port pickup.
Port Information
The Guatemalan quetzal is the country's currency, named after the national bird, but both the US dollar and credit cards are also widely accepted. Spanish is the main language spoken here, although tourist areas are likely to have English speakers.
Address: Puerto Quetzal, Pacific Highlands, Guatemala
From $ 75
Cerro de la Cruz
The Hill of the Cross, or Cerro de la Cruz, is a 30-minute walk that, upon arrival, treats its guests to expansive views of Antigua and the Volcan de Agua. While this walk is not easy, it is worth it. For those who prefer to skip the hike, cabs can whisk people to the top as well.
Located on the north side of the city, it offers the best views of Antigua. And an enormous stone cross.
Located on the north side of the city, it offers the best views of Antigua. And an enormous stone cross.
Practical Info
Take the bare minimum if choosing to walk unguided to
this hilltop. Reports of robberies are frequent. The Tourist Police
offer a free walk at 10am and 3pm daily. If going unescorted, it is
recommended to let the Tourist Police know you are going.
Address: Guatemala
From $ 49
Acatenango
Guatemala’s Pacaya is one of the most popular volcanoes to visit, but travelers shouldn't skip its neighbor, Acatenango. Towering nearly 13,123 feet (4,000 meters), it is Guatemala’s third-tallest volcano and one of the tallest stratovolcanoes in Central America.
Acatenango’s first eruption was in 1924 —relatively recent in comparison to many other volcanoes—though some evidence of its volcanic activity dates back to prehistoric times. Other eruptions occurred shortly after, but it then remained quiet until an eruption in 1972. Since then, Acatenango has been declared dormant.
Acatenango is part of the Fuego-Acatenango massif, or string of volcanic vents, which includes Yepocapa, Pico Mayor de Acatenango, Meseta and Fuego. Acatenango has two main summits: Yepocapa, the northern summit at 12,565 feet (3,830 meters) and Pico Mayor, the southern and highest cone at 13,054 feet (3,976 meters). These are known as Tres Hermanas, and when joined with Fuego, the complex is collectively known as La Horqueta.
Both Acatenango and its twin, Fuego, offer stunning views overlooking the city of Antigua. Ascending Acatenango takes visitors through four different temperate zones — high farmland, cloud forest, high-alpine forest and volcanic. Acatenango is the perfect spot to watch Fuego’s regular activity, which includes audible moans and groans, plumes of smoke and large lava rocks hurling into the air.
Practical Info
Most tours to Acatenango depart from Antigua versus Guatemala City. The best time to attempt a climb is during dry season, which is late November to early April. Hiking Acatenango is strenuous, and you should be in good enough shape to hike several miles a day. While Acatenango could produce debris avalanches, local authorities are well equipped to handle any volcanic activity that transpires, and if there is a risk of eruptions, visitors will not be allowed in the area.
Address: Acatenango, Antigua, Guatemala
Hours: Daily
From $ 40
Cathedral of San Francisco (Iglesia de San Francisco)
Originally constructed in the 1500s, Iglesia de San Francisco, today, has mostly been reconstructed, thanks to age and earthquake damage. However, that's not the draw to this attraction. Both locals and visitors come to this old, baroque church to visit the shrine of Peter of Saint Joseph Betancur (Santo Hermano Pedro de San Jose de Betancurt). A Franciscan monk, he founded a hospital for the poor in town and is the country's most honored Christian leader.
Beatified in 1980 and made a saint in 2002 when Pope John Paul II visited Guatemala, Peter of Saint Joseph's tomb is visited by thousands each year asking for favors and miracles.
However, make no mistake, this church - which is one of the oldest in town - is still a work of beauty. It features 16 vaulted niches, a bell and clock tower from the 17th and 19th centuries and work from famed artists. Throughout history, the church has also been home to places such as a hospital and printing press.
Beatified in 1980 and made a saint in 2002 when Pope John Paul II visited Guatemala, Peter of Saint Joseph's tomb is visited by thousands each year asking for favors and miracles.
However, make no mistake, this church - which is one of the oldest in town - is still a work of beauty. It features 16 vaulted niches, a bell and clock tower from the 17th and 19th centuries and work from famed artists. Throughout history, the church has also been home to places such as a hospital and printing press.
Practical Info
If planning a visit to the church, consider swinging to
the south side of the property and exploring the Museo del Hermano Pedro
and the ruins of the monastery. Here, visitors will find some of the
saint's personal items and artifacts from the church.
Address: 8a Calle Oriente and Calle do los Pasos City Center, Guatemala
Hours: Daily, 8am - 6pm
From $ 20
Palacio del Ayuntamiento
The Palace of the City Council (Town Hall), or El Palacio del Ayuntamiento, was constructed in 1743 and once served as the Spanish colonial government seat and an 80-person jail during the
colonial era. Today, it is home to Antigua’s municipalidad, or city government, the Museo del Libro and the Museo de Santiago. One of the most impressive elements of the Palacio del Ayuntamiento is its two-story façade.
The double layer of stone archways with columns was done in a Tuscan style, which contributes to the building’s striking appearance. A portion of the carved-stone exterior of the east-facing
wall managed to survive the 18th century, though centuries of earthquakes contributed to the need for restoration efforts at the palace.
Palacio del Ayuntamiento was heavily damaged in a 1773 earthquake, and the capital seat was then transferred to Guatemala City. The Museo de Armas de Santiago, an arms and weapons museum, is housed in the section that once served as the jail. The Old Book Museum, or Museo del Libro Antiguo, is in the same area where the first Central American printing press once stood and includes a replica of the printing press, along with copies of works produced by it.
Be sure to head upstairs and check out the scenic views from the second-floor balcony, where you can see the Central Plaza, Metropolitan Cathedral and the three volcanoes surrounding the
city.
Practical Info
El Palacio del Ayuntamiento is open weekdays from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. While admission to the Palacio del Ayuntamiento is free, each of the two museums is about 10 quetzals each.
Address: 4 Calle Poniente, Antigua, Guatemala
Hours: Weekdays 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Admission: 10 quetzals
From $ 140
Constitution Plaza
Located in the Centro Historico (Zona 1) district of Guatemala City, the Plaza de la Constitución, or Constitution Plaza, is considered the best place to kick off a tour of Guatemala City.
A number of important sites are located around and the Parque Central, as locals refer to it, which follows the standard colonial urban-planning scheme found in the New World. The plaza's concrete “park” is always bustling with activity, especially on public holidays and Sundays. Constitution Plaza is also surrounded by important structures like the National Plaza of Culture, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the underground Central Market, the Portal of Commerce and Centenarian Park. The National Library and Periodicals Library and General Archive of Central America are found here too.
Near the Parque Central is the pedestrian-only area of Paseo Sexta Avenida (Sixth Avenue Passage), a beloved shopping and entertainment area that is a great introduction to Guatemalan culture and habits.
Practical Info
Constitution Plaza is located in Zone 1 between Sixth and Seventh avenues. It is recommended you take a shuttle, taxi or hotel transportation to the area. As with any destination, be cautious of your belongings, as thefts against tourists are common in Guatemala City.
Address: 14 Calle 9-30 zona 1, Guatemala City 01001, Guatemala
From $ 34
Lake Pet en Itza
Guatemala’s second largest lake, a sparkling expanse at the heart of the hot, humid Petén Basin, was one of the earliest cradles of Mesoamerican civilization. The lush rainforests at its fringe are home to at least 27 archaeological sites, in addition to Flores, capital of Petén Department. Once known as Nojpetén (City Island) by the Itza Mayans, Flores was also their regional capital, and was the last Mayan city to fall to the Spanish, in 1697.
You’re probably staying on the island, a great base for enjoying the lake. Head to the north shore for a walk on the malecón, or jump in for a swim with the locals. The west side boasts lakefront restaurants and bars where you can watch the sunset. Hire a cayuco (small, motorized boats) to other attractions overlooking the water, including ruins, Petencito Zoo, Cerro Cahuí Nature Reserve, “El Museo,” a small archaeological museum, and other towns along the lakeshore.
You’re probably staying on the island, a great base for enjoying the lake. Head to the north shore for a walk on the malecón, or jump in for a swim with the locals. The west side boasts lakefront restaurants and bars where you can watch the sunset. Hire a cayuco (small, motorized boats) to other attractions overlooking the water, including ruins, Petencito Zoo, Cerro Cahuí Nature Reserve, “El Museo,” a small archaeological museum, and other towns along the lakeshore.
Practical Info
While the vast majority of visitors to Lake Petén Itza stay in Flores, with its wide range of hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, there are other options. The small towns of El Remate, San José, and San Miguel all have basic lodging, more authentic ambiance, and access to their own small ruins, hiking trails, caves, Spanish schools, and other diversions.
Note that inexpensive public boats that once plied the lake have been gradually phased out as roads and bus service improve. Instead, operators offer group boat tours, or you can hire a pricey private cayuco. Budget travelers may want to stick to chicken buses from the Santa Elena market to destinations around the lake.
Note that inexpensive public boats that once plied the lake have been gradually phased out as roads and bus service improve. Instead, operators offer group boat tours, or you can hire a pricey private cayuco. Budget travelers may want to stick to chicken buses from the Santa Elena market to destinations around the lake.
Address: Lago Peten Itza, Peten, Guatemala
From $ 120
Quirigua
Quiriguá is an ancient Mayan site in southeastern Guatemala. Although it’s considered a small Mayan city, it is without a doubt one of the most important. It was here that the tallest stela from the Maya world was discovered. The monolithic stone stands 35 feet high (10.6 meters), 5 feet (1.5 meters) wide and 5 feet (1.5 meters) thick, weighing over 60 tons (53.6 long tons).
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Quiriguá once controlled the jade and obsidian trade route. During the same time, the city had a fierce rivalry with its neighbor Copán in Honduras. Researchers believe Quiriguá was inhabited starting in the second century, and the bulk of the most important monuments were carved between A.D 426 and AD 810. It is unknown why Quiriguá entered a period of decline, but evidence suggests that when the Europeans arrived, the jade route was under the control of Nito, a city closer to the Caribbean coast.
The stelae, or monolothic sandstone monuments, at Quiriguá were carved without tools and contain hieroglyphic texts that provide information on the Maya city’s rise and fall, along with details during the most important years. These monumental structures also tell an important tale of Quiriguá’s relationship with Copán and were built around the Great Plaza. The Ceremonial Plaza and the Plaza of the Temple are renowned for their complexity.
The last known hieroglyphs from Quiriguá date back to A.D. 810, which was around the time of the entire Classic Maya collapse. Researchers believe that the reduction in trade along the Motagua may have caused Quiriguá to ultimately be abandoned.
Practical Info
One of the best ways to see Quiriguá is to take a combination Copán (Honduras) overnight tour that departs from either Antigua or Guatemala City. It is only 58 miles (94 km) from Guatemala City, making it the closest ruins from the capital.
Address: Quirigua, Izabal, Guatemala
Hours: Daily
From $ 332
Auto Safari Chapin
Created as a way to both protect endangered native wildlife and show off Guatemala’s natural beauty, the Auto Safari Chapin gives visitors the chance to drive cars through a wilderness setting to see elusive jaguars, tapirs, spider monkeys and white-tailed deer. Other species from around the world to see include giraffes, hippos, water buffalo, ostriches and the crowd favorites: the tiny pygmy goats from Cameroon that charm visitors with their funny antics. All animals at the park roam freely in large enclosures, making the drive feel just like a real wild safari.
Apart from the bigger enclosures, Auto Safari Chapin also includes a smaller walk-through zoo near the entrance, plus a large recreation area with a restaurant. Families with children enjoy the pool area and there is also a lake, where boat rides offer a chance to see pelicans, iguanas and other reptiles. Make sure to keep an eye on the surrounding trees as well, as their branches are the favorite lounging spot for a group of spider monkeys.
Practical Info
Auto Safari Chapin is located in the department of Escuintla, about 80 kilometers south of Guatemala City. The drive should take roughly two hours. The site is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., although the restaurant opens one hour later than the park gates.
Address: Km 87.5 Carretera a Taxisco, Escuintla, Guatemala
Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30am to 5pm
Admission: Adults: Q60.00, Child (2-10 years old): Q50.00
From $ 269
ChocoMuseo Antigua
Ancient Mayans were the first to begin using cocoa beans in culinary preparations, and today, Guatemala is one of the countries most associated with chocolate production. At the chocolate museum in Antigua, visitors learn about the history of chocolate and the chocolate production process in a hands-on, kid-friendly setting.
During the ChocoMuseo’s three-times-daily Beans-to-Bar Workshop, a guide walks attendees through the entire chocolate-making process, from harvest and roasting to tempering and molding. Along the way, guests get to prepare cocoa tea, Mayan hot chocolate and European hot chocolate, as well as a box of their own handmade chocolates to bring home. The museum also offers a truffle workshop and a full day tour with a visit to a working cocoa plantation.
Practical Info
ChocoMuseo Antigua is located about a block away from Plaza Mayor.
Address: 4a Calle Oriente #14, Antigua, Guatemala
Hours: Mon-Thurs 10am-6:30pm; Fri-Sat 10am-7:30pm; Sun 10am-6:30pm
From $ 150
La Aurora Zoo
Considered to be one of the best zoos in Central America, La Aurora opened in 1924. This small zoo offers four permanent exhibits: Africa, Asia, Granita and American.
Not only does this zoo give visitors the chance to learn more about Guatemala’s animals, it also has a large collection of Central American creatures. Experience animals including giraffes, elephants, farm animals, lions, tigers, pythons, hippos and more.
The zoo does a good job living up to its mission – to educate, conserve and rehabilitate animals. It even offers lectures and other programs daily.
Not only does this zoo give visitors the chance to learn more about Guatemala’s animals, it also has a large collection of Central American creatures. Experience animals including giraffes, elephants, farm animals, lions, tigers, pythons, hippos and more.
The zoo does a good job living up to its mission – to educate, conserve and rehabilitate animals. It even offers lectures and other programs daily.
Practical Info
Plan on packing in something other than the zoo in Zona 13. It is located near the Children’s Museum, making both a great option for an afternoon family outing.
Address: La Aurora Park, 5 Calle Interior Finca, Zona 13, Guatemala
Hours: Tues – Sun, 9am – 5pm
Admission: Adults: $3.25; Children 2 – 12: $1.30
From $ 15
Chichicastenango
Although Chichicastenango is not located in Guatemala City – it’s a two-plus hour drive – it is well worth a visit.
This indigenous town is known for its market, which is held on Thursdays and Sundays. The largest market in Central America, here vendors sell colorful items like handmade pottery, medicinal plants, traditional incense, cal for preparing tortillas, machetes, flowers, food and more. People can also purchase traditional clothing, masks and other items that pay homage to the area’s culture.
Aside from the market, there are historical sites to explore, too. Next to the market is a 400-year-old church, Santo Tomas, which is built atop a pre-Columbian temple platform. There is also the Cofradia of Pascual Abaj, an ancient carved stone where Maya priests perform rituals.
This indigenous town is known for its market, which is held on Thursdays and Sundays. The largest market in Central America, here vendors sell colorful items like handmade pottery, medicinal plants, traditional incense, cal for preparing tortillas, machetes, flowers, food and more. People can also purchase traditional clothing, masks and other items that pay homage to the area’s culture.
Aside from the market, there are historical sites to explore, too. Next to the market is a 400-year-old church, Santo Tomas, which is built atop a pre-Columbian temple platform. There is also the Cofradia of Pascual Abaj, an ancient carved stone where Maya priests perform rituals.
Practical Info
The town is located nearby Lake Atitlán, making it a perfect stopping point en route to the lake or back to Guatemala City.
Address: Guatemala
From $ 62
La Merced Cathedral
This gorgeous Baroque-style church features a soft, buttery yellow exterior complimented by white trim. Originally a male monastery, La Merced was originally built in 1548. Later, in 1749, Juan de Dios began work on building today's church, finishing the project in 1767.
The exterior of the intricately designed church features sculptures and paintings, such as the well-known Jesus Nazareno. Inside, ruins of the monastery can be found, including the Fuente de Pescados, or Fountain of the Fish. During Holy Week, the church is the start of the procession.
The exterior of the intricately designed church features sculptures and paintings, such as the well-known Jesus Nazareno. Inside, ruins of the monastery can be found, including the Fuente de Pescados, or Fountain of the Fish. During Holy Week, the church is the start of the procession.
Practical Info
The church is located just north of Plaza Mayor. Well worth a look are the ruins of the monastery, which are located on the side of the church and feature a gorgeous pond and courtyard. Head up to the top of the convent for views of the area.
Address: 1a Calle Poniente and 6a Av. Norte, Guatemala
Hours: Daily, 9am - 6pm
Admission: Free admission to church. Less than $1 to visit ruins of monastery
From $ 20