Things to do in Guatemala

 

Guatemala is a country with a colorful place, vibrant spots, fascinating culture, and unbelievable adventures waiting for you to discover. If you are thinking about things to do in Guatemala then this article is all about things you need to know before going on a relaxing yet adventurous vacation, you will love this brilliant country.

Guatemala’s active volcanoes, vast rainforests, and ancient Mayan Sites make this place unique and one of its kind. Guatemala offers more ancient and historical places to tourists than any other spot in Central America. This country is a perfect mixture for all types of travelers. Here are some things to do in Guatemala for travelers, adventure seekers, beach lovers, forest adventures, and quiet spots for detoxifying the soul.

You can also enjoy the breathtaking views of Tropical jungles, active volcanoes, Waterfall mountain lakes, cloud forests on the peak of mountains, coral reefs, and excellent beaches to give nature lovers joy. There are many more exciting things to discover about Guatemala and things to do while visiting Guatemala. We are going to mention some of them for you. Before traveling to a country, you must know its origin and what things this country is famous for. Well, you must be curious now about Guatemala. We are here to guide you through.

What is Guatemala Best Known For?

Best known for its volcanic landscape, Mayan culture, and colorful colonial city of Antigua. Guatemala is also famous for its coffee, handwoven textiles, and the most exciting part is chocolate. Guatemala is the origin of cocoa beans; the people made the First-ever chocolate bar in Guatemala. Being the center of the mighty Mayan Empire Guatemala still has stone carving, huge pyramids, and local myths of this civilization. Guatemala City is the site of the Mayan city of Kaminalijuyu, which was founded around 1500 BC.

Where to go in Guatemala?

     Natural Pools of Semuc Champey

If you are planning to go on a relaxing vacation, then this spot is worthy of visiting. Semuc Champey is one of the undoubtedly beautiful places globally, and it must be on your bucket list when you visit Guatemala. It is not just an overrated place; instead, it is famous for its beauty and all-natural vibe. The pools are strung along a natural rock bridge at the base of a valley in Parque. Nacional Semuc Champey. Semuc Champey has the most beautiful limestone turquoise pools you can ever imagine. Honestly, this place needs no filter, no extra music. It is just as you are relaxing in heaven. Getting to this place is quite time-taking and a hassle, but believe me, it’s worth a shot. You will have to climb the El Mirador hiking trail which will then descend down to the river Cahabon. Make sure to store your belongings while you are relaxing in the water. This is because there is a bad reputation for theft.  You have to spend two days on a cramped bus to get there. But once you arrive there, you forgot every hurdle you bear just by taking sight of this beautiful place. Look after what you eat because you can easily catch food poisoning there.

      Mayan Ruins of Tikal

Central America has many Mayan ruins to visit, but the Mayan Ruins of Tikal give you an ancient cultural vibe that no other place can make you feel the same way. We recommend you to visit Tikal as it is the most loved site by travelers and tourists. Near the Belize border, there is a jungle of northern Guatemala in which this place is located. It is a little challenging to get there as the spot is huge and spread out through the jungle, so be careful in the woods. Mayan ruins of Tikal have fewer visitors than other places, but it’s worth going there to detoxify and fresh your mind. Tikal is a complex of Mayan Ruins deep in the rainforest of northern Guatemala. There are believed to be more than 3,000 structures on this site. These structures are the remains of a Mayan city called Yax Mutal. This city was once the capital of the most powerful kingdom of the ancient empire.

Flores is the closest city to Tikal, which is away almost a one-hour drive from the city. The best part is you can visit Tikal with or without the guide as it will save you a lot of money and let you enjoy the view by yourself.

 

     El Paredon

El Predon is one of the famous beaches of the Guatemala coast. You can quickly get there by taking shuttles or chicken buses aka their local transit. El Paredon is off the beaten path and is located a few hours from Antigua. If you are looking to see a different side of Guatemala and looking for a lazy beach day then this is the place for you. It won’t cost you a lot of money traveling from town to town, and you can get hostels there to stay at a low price. This spot is a perfect fit for people who wants a break from the hectic of traveling all day. You can relax there by taking a soothing sunbath and surf on the waves to make you feel better than ever. The best thing is if you don’t know how to surf on tides, you can take beginning lessons and learn how to ride the waves on your own. You also catch the breathtaking views of the sunset from here. The most magical thing you can watch the baby turtle hatch and destines towards the sea; it is the most natural and beautiful view you can enjoy there from June to November.

 

     Rope Swing

You can’t miss Jump off a Rope Swing in Guatemala while heading towards the beautiful city of Flores. The locals originated this rope swing to skip the hot afternoon. It is an enjoyable place to meet new people and make friends. Enjoy a drink and swim in the taped, relaxing waters to relax your muscles and purify your mind and soul. It is a small spot, but seriously it would be the most fun place you ever visited in your life. It is relaxing yet adventurous at the same time. And the list of unique things to do in Guatemala goes on.

 

     Guatemala’s Active Volcanoes

Almost 37 volcanoes in the country and Guatemala are a great place to see these unique natural spots. The country’s volcanoes that are still active are Pacaya, Fuego, and Santiaguito. The Pacaya and Fuego are most popular among tourists, and it’s your turn to give your review on this by visiting these places. If you are not a fan of volcanoes, you might get afraid but don’t worry. They will make you calm as they are the purest natural sights to wonder about their origin. Volcan Fuego – This active volcano erupts probably at least once in an hour. These are small eruptions and are normal.  Volcan Pacaya – This active volcano is suitable for hiking as it is a more leisurely and less time-taking adventure. Pacaya volcano is much more feasible to hike and can be easily accessed on a one-day trip.

 

     Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan is one of the famous spots to visit in Guatemala as it is renowned for sucking people in its magic. This amazing place was nominated as one of the seven wonders of the world. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. This is because of the hills and volcanoes around the lake that offer very dense forests. Once people arrive at this spot, they tend to stay longer and longer than expected. This place has some magic in its sight. You might want to swim in the waters but be careful as this lake is listed as polluted lakes in Guatemala. Furthermore, you can enjoy thy rhythm of waves whiling sitting side by the shore. Lake Atitlan is the perfect spot to see unique and relaxing views. It is the best place for people who want to spend some quality time alone.

 

     Chichicastenago Market

Visiting the Chichicastenango market is locally called “Chichi” by the tourists and travelers; when you visit Guatemala, this market is a must-see. This is one of the largest and most well-known markets in all of Central America. This Charming, traditional, and authentic Mayan town is located in the jungle-converted mountains of Guatemala. This town’s main attraction is the market and it is open every Thursday and Sunday, local travel from surrounding towns and villages to sell their handmade items, ceramics, fabric, jewelry, this colorful market is everything for a cultural vibe. Moreover, it’s one of the unique places to buy souvenirs in Guatemala. Even with its popularity amongst tourists, we think it is worth a shot at least once. While you’re paying a visit to Chichicastenango, don’t forget to stop at the colorful cemetery walking distance away from the market. It’s known as the largest market in Central America among tourists.

 

     Explore the wilderness near Rio Dulce

Rio Dulce translates to “Sweet River“. It is located in eastern Guatemala that starts near Livingston and runs inland accordingly. This river is surrounded by the vast jungle providing adventurous activities to do in the river and jungle alongside. Tourists enjoy Rio Dulce enjoys the woods’ wilderness and takes multiple trips to the majestic view of the river. There is a small Spanish colonial for at the entrance of the river. The Castillo de San Felipe, which was used to stop pirates from entering the lake from the Caribbean when this part was a major shipping port. For an adventurous trip, you can take a boat ride because these attractions are just incredible. The rates are very cheap, so travelers can easily afford these things to do in Guatemala. You can explore the Rio Dulce National Park. In the park, you can rent kayaks, hike to villages, swim, and relax your soul in nature.

Unique things to do in Guatemala

     Ride in a Chicken Bus:

The name “chicken bus” was given by locals because they used to load everything to, you guessed it – chickens. Chicken buses are colorfully painted American school buses. These buses are standard in central America and so in Guatemala. These buses are usually crowded, and still, the driver will stop and pick up more locals because there is always room for people. If you’re riding this bus just for an adventure purpose, we recommend trying the shortest route. These buses are not even close to the word comfort traveling.

 

     City of Antiqua:

The most beautiful and antique city of Antiqua is everyone’s favorite. Things you can do here can be roaming through ancient streets and colorful buildings.

Sprinkle your trip by taking a break in a tourist famous cafe with world-known Guatemalan coffee.

By taking a picture of the interesting Arco de Santa Catalina, explore and roam around with a camera in your hand in Antigua’s ancient ruins, capture memorable moments, and don’t forget to pay a visit at Caoba Farms for meals of the day.

 

     Take a yoga Class:

Necessary or not, taking a yoga class is one of the best things to do in Guatemala. In Guatemala, you will see local yoga classes being held almost everywhere in the country.

The hippie and wellness haven of San Marcos are the two famous towns with the most yoga classes, but they are not the only spots; instead, you can find types all around the lake, even all around the country.

The best thing is there is a class for everyone. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you’ll eventually find the best fit for you at every level.

 

     Buy Handicrafts:

One of the exciting things to do in Guatemala is to shop for shockingly colorful textiles and beautifully crafted artisan handmade goods.

If you left your hotel to purchase a souvenir, you would not face any difficulty finding them because there is no shortage of places where you can buy these goods.

If you don’t need to purchase anything but going through the market will give you a refreshing vibe and allow you to meet locals, taste their street food, and analyze their behavior with foreigners. Tourists’ favorite markets were around Lake Atitlan.

 

     Sololá Market:

Visitors will find this market different from other markets in the country; they won’t find the variety of souvenirs there; there won’t be any tourists roaming there and enjoying.

This market is recommended for you to closely experience authentic local life, as the nearby villagers and residents come here daily to purchase their grocery items.

If you want to wear the local’s traditional cloth, then this is the best place to find formal dresses in the country of Guatemala.

 

     Eat National Dish of Guatemala:

If you are visiting Guatemala, then Eating Pepián is a must. It is widely known as the “national dish of Guatemala”, this is the stew of meat and vegetable mix.

Here is the list of some top restaurants to try the national dish of Guatemala, “pepián” in Antigua:

• Iberico
• La Cuevita de los Urquizú
• Rincón Típico
• Los Tres Tiempos

Best time of year to visit:

The best time to visit Guatemala is during the dry season; Guatemala’s dry season usually runs from November to April. We won’t recommend you to travel in September and October if you plan to visit some beach coasts in Belize, because you won’t find rain pleasant there. But the country of Guatemala has a beautifully stable climate which allows you to travel the country throughout the year. Guatemala’s temperatures range from 72°F and 90°F throughout the whole year. The good thing is that in the wet season that runs from May to October, the rain only lasts for a couple of hours per day in the central visitor regions. Hence, visitors so if you visit these months, you find it difficult or impossible to travel in these weather conditions. The mountains of Guatemala are known for having beautiful warm days, but it starts to become by then when the sun sets it. The lower lands around the Tikal area are usually hot all year round (79°F-90°F), with increased humidity from May’s month.

 

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