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Published: 29-12-2021
Guatemala is one of those travel destinations that will probably change you forever. The mountainous landscape is nothing less than magical, and its people are cordial and kind-hearted, with forty percent of the population being indigenous Maya. The Mayan history is still evident, with archaeological sites such as Tikal and the country offers many natural inland attractions. Quite possibly the favorite destination of Central American travelers due to its interests, low costs and authentic uniqueness.
Tikal Sunset
Where to Go?
Guatemala City is one of the most dangerous cities in Central America, and most visitors head straight for Antigua. Antigua Guatemala, or Ancient Guatemala, attracts most of the nation’s travelers yearly with its cobbled streets, striking colonial architecture, and the backdrop of smoky volcanoes. Along with Quetzaltenango, or “Xela,” Antigua is one of the most famous Spanish study abroad destinations in the Americas.
Antigua by night
The colossal Maya ruin of Tikal, located in the northern province of Peten, is another of Guatemala’s biggest attractions. The spectacular uniqueness of Tikal’s ancient temples is unforgettable as they emerge from the thick jungle, with the calls of howler monkeys accompanying you on your way through the dense forest. The Caribbean coastal town of Livingston is another exciting destination, if only for the fantastic rainforest motorboat ride there down the impressive Rio Dulce.
Temple at Tikal
Guatemala’s most stunning natural attraction has to be Lake Atitlan. The lake is surrounded by misty blue volcanoes and a dozen Maya villages. Panajachel, San Pedro la Laguna, and Santiago are the most visited, all boasting glorious lakeside views. Vistas. Visit the nearby highland village Chichicastenango for the traditional market day on Thursday and Sunday. Textiles, unique local gifts and street food abound; this authentic market has it all …. Bargain fair but “hard” for some excellent deals!
Chichicastenango
What to See?
Guatemala’s pristine natural prowess is everywhere you look, and The Mayan ruins of Tikal are the best place to experience Guatemala in all its natural glory. Temples are set against a background of thick rainforests and the natural habitat for butterflies, monkeys, and many other wildlife species.
Some of the country’s best birdwatching can be found between Rio Dulce and Livingston on the Caribbean coast. Rainforest towers on both banks offer excellent ways to view the native birds, and you may even catch a glimpse of the elusive manatee. For another blessing from Mother nature, head to Semuc Champey, a limestone bridge over a rushing river studded with transparent, turquoise pools to swim in.
Tikal
Getting Around
Transportation for travelers within Guatemala is the folklorically famous chicken bus. Chicken buses are jam-packed, uncomfortable and often “aromatically challenged” and resemble old-school buses in the USA…. Some even are old-school buses from the USA! You haven’t truly experienced Guatemala until you have taken a ride in one! They have the bonus of being cheap as chips and have an impressive network to bring you exactly where you want to go.
Local Guatemalan transport
You may prefer to book a minivan, minibus, or taxi for longer journeys. First-class night buses can be reserved for travel from Guatemala City or Antigua to Flores if you are heading to Tikal. If you want to cross the border into neighboring Belize or Mexico, Ticabus offers a decent service. You can get to Belize by crossing the eastern border into San Ignacio or taking a boat to Punta Gorda from Puerto Barrios on the Caribbean coast.
"chicken bus" models at a festival
How Much Will I Pay?
Traveling in Guatemala is incredibly inexpensive. There are all standards of accommodation with private bathrooms, hot water, and even air-conditioning for less than USD 10 per night. Larger cities like Antigua are generally more expensive. Along with the Guatemalan currency, the Quetzal and US Dollars are legal tenders in Guatemala, and many ATMs offer both types of money.
corner store in Guatemala
When Should I Go?
If you are traveling around Easter time, Antigua celebrates Semana Santa, or Holy Week, a vibrant affair and probably the country’s most colorful fiesta. If you want to visit at this time of the year, you must book well in advance.
Semana Santa festival
When it rains in Guatemala, it pours, then it pours some more! Thunder clouds fill the sky, mudslides are the norm, and solid sheets of water mask the surrounding scenery. Even in the rainy season, which runs from May to October, rainstorms generally happen at night. When the skies begin to clear by the morning, lands can get hot, steamy and sticky; however, Guatemala’s highlands enjoy a temperate, fresher climate all-year-round.
