Guatemala is the underrated adventure capital of Central America, offering a perfect blend of lush natural beauty, ancient Mayan history, and vibrant indigenous culture. From the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey to the volcanic craters of Lake Atitlan, this unspoiled destination is a dream for travelers seeking unique experiences off the beaten path.
Whether you are looking to hike active volcanoes, explore subterranean cave systems, or marvel at world-class archaeological sites like Tikal, Guatemala provides endless opportunities for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Discover why this welcoming and affordable country should be at the top of your next travel itinerary.
Semuc Champey
Semuc Champey is a series of tiered turquoise pools that tempt visitors into idyllic dips, waterfall showers, and hours basking in the sun. Leap from a bridge at the park’s entrance for a real adrenalin blast, or head into one of the many caves for a subterranean swim by candlelight. One of Guatemala’s most popular natural wonders, at Semuc Champey, you can take a swim in the turquoise pools and see the cascading falls of Semuc Champey in the jungle. Here you can explore limestone cave systems, go wild swimming, and river tubing, take a 30-minute hike up to the mirador (viewpoint), or simply grab a coffee and relax in a hammock. Most people stay in nearby Lanquín on their way to Semuc Champey and although a little tricky to get to, you will enjoy an unforgettable experience in these pristine waters at the laid-back village.
Lake Atitlan
Even the most jaded travelers are left gawping at The Atitlan Lake in a volcanic crater. Misty volcanos and lush hills surround its perimeter. Adventurous souls flock here to kayak, scramble volcanos, dive, and mountain bike. If you are a nature lover, a trip around Lake Atitlan is a must. Looking down over the lake and surrounding volcanos from the top of Indian Nose Mountain is a mind-blowing experience. Lake Atitlan has adventure activities-abound. There is kayaking, scuba diving, hiking, zip-lining, mountain biking, and even wildlife spotting at the Reserva Natural Atitlan. Accommodation-wise, there are a few villages to choose from. Panajachel is the most built up, with plenty of ferries to the other villages, and transport links to the rest of the country. San Pedro is a hub for backpackers, known for its parties and Spanish schools, and San Marcos is a more laidback, spiritual Mecca, to be at one with nature.
Pacaya Volcano
Climbing an Active Volcano has to be on many people’s bucket list activities. Guatemala's mountainous terrain is predominantly volcanic, and many of these volcanos are still active. There's nothing as primal as climbing the flanks of an active volcano or peering down into an erupting crater. Both of these experiences are possible on a climb to the summit of the Pacaya volcano. Many tours take you close enough to actually feel the heat of fresh lava. Once Pacaya has got you in the mood, there are numerous other volcanos here to scale, including Santa María, Tajumulco, Agua, and Acatenango. A volcano climb is one of the best things to do in Guatemala which is family-friendly. You can choose to take a day trip to Pacaya or an overnight camping trip (lots of fun). Volcan Pacaya is an easy 1-hour walk up the volcano. However, if even that is a bit much for you, there is an option to ride a horse up there. You are not allowed to hike Pacaya without a guide so it’s not possible to do it alone. Book a Guatemala volcano hike, and you can toast marshmallows on the hot rock walls!
Visit the Mayan Ruins of Tikal
One of the top things to do in Guatemala is marvel at the Mayan ruins of Tikal. It is yet another remote location that’s not easy to get to (the closest town is https://vaexpeditions.com/package/bountiful-mayan-luxury-tour, which is still an hour away), but well worth it if you want to tick off this must-do-from-your-Guatemala bucket list. Like other Mayan ruins, such as Chichen Itza in Mexico, expect spectacular ancient architecture and fascinating history. However, you won’t get the crowds here. Despite being a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, the Mayan ruins in Guatemala just don’t get the same crowds as the ones in Mexico! A guide is great not only for explaining Tikal’s history but also for finding animals to observe. They’ll also be able to show you the secret entrance to the underground passages that ancient Mayas once used.
Floating through Candelaria Caves
Guatemala’s mountains are honeycombed with limestone caverns, and none more so than Alta Verapaz, home to the incredible Candelaria caves. These caves feature a series of caverns and passages that have been eroded by the Rio Candelaria over millennia. The best way to explore the Candelaria caverns and see the stalactites is by floating along the river in an inner tube, occasionally breaking out of the caves into bright sunlight and tropical jungle before plunging back into the darkness.
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