Welcome to High Season: The Best Places to Visit in Guatemala
Is Guatemala on your travel bucket list?! If so, you might be wondering where to go in the Land of the Eternal Spring. This vibrant country offers a little something for every type of traveler, from ancient Mayan ruins and volcano adventures to serene lakeside towns and delicious street food.
If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Guatemala, you’ve found the right post.
Naturally Smart Travel is a Guatemalan-based eco-tour company specializing in sustainable and authentic tours and experiences throughout Central America. We’ve collected our favorite spots to check out during the high season! Keep on reading to find the best places to visit in Guatemala, and if you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Photo Credit: @mana5280
#1. The Quiché Department
Are you looking to live like a local… experience daily life, eat authentic cuisine, and enjoy outdoor adventures? If so, you’ll want to head to the Quiché Department, which is situated Northwest of Guatemala City. This mountainous region is primarily comprised of central highlands, with its southern edge stretching across the foothills of the volcanic mountain range.
Here’s a shortlist of our favorite things to see and do in the Quiché Department, one of the best places to visit in Guatemala! And, if this region piques your interest, be sure to check out our in-depth guide.
Santa Cruz del Quiché
This is an off-the-beaten-path capital city that dates all the way back to 1524. Here, you can expect nature, charm, and colonial history blended with Mayan influences.
Step back in time as you experience the rich culture and Indigenous traditions from local ceremonies and festivals to vibrant local markets.
Eat Local Cuisine, go hiking, and get a glimpse into local daily life while wandering the city streets. Be sure to visit the Cathedral of Santa Cruz del Quiché.
Chichicastenango
Chichicastenango means “place of the nettles” and is known for its artisanal goods, including handcrafted textiles, wood carvings, and masks. This area boasts sweeping landscapes, colorful markets, and Indigenous traditions.
While in Chichicastenango, participate in a local workshop and check out the vibrant Chichicastenango Market (Mercado de Chichicastenango).
Nebaj
Tucked into the highlands, Nebaj blends Indigenous culture, pretty landscapes, and historical significance. It’s part of the Ixil Triangle, and offers a chance to witness a traditional way of life.
Spend some time at the Ixil Mayan Museum and learn about the area’s famous jade stone dwellers. While nature lovers can explore the Cuchumatanes Mountains, popular lookout points, the Caves of Candelaria, and hike to remote Maya villages.
Photo Credit: @bytopo
#2. Guatemala City
Surrounded by mountains and volcanoes, Guatemala City, also known as Guate, is a historic capital city with the country’s main airport. It’s one of the best places to visit in Guatemala as it boasts culture, green spaces, and reasonable year-round good weather. Located along the Ring of Fire, you can catch views of the smoke and ash rising from Volcán Fuego on clear days from the city.
Art & Culture in Zone 4
Zone 4 is an up-and-coming area with bohemian vibes and an expat community. Also known as 4 Norte, Four Degrees North has blocks lined with hip cafes, boutique shops, fun bars, and art galleries.
The eclectic artsy vibe is modern and creative, boasting pop-up markets, food trucks, and cultural centers. Grab a bite to eat at 14 Grados, shop at the Mercado Central, and stroll Sixth Avenue.
Explore Zona Viva: Zone 10
Zone 10 is known as the Zona Viva, the lively zone, due to its festivities and buzzing, luxurious atmosphere. It’s one of the city’s most upscale areas with boutique shopping, high-end restaurants, 19th-century architecture, and pedestrian-friendly streets. While here, check out the Avenida La Reforma, the Museo Popol Vuh, and Parque Obelisco.
Tour Zones 7 & 12
These lesser-known zones are off-the-beaten-path parts of the city for the average tourist, but offer unique experiences and a glimpse into the city’s history, culture, and everyday realities.
Known as red zones, Zones 7 & 12 surround the largest dump in Central America, where residents live in poverty and violence. Take a guided tour of these zones and meet the families who live here to get an authentic look at what life is like outside of the touristy areas of the city.
While visiting Zones 7 and 12, it’s important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings. Some highlights are Parque Central de Villa Nueva, La Barranca de San Juan, Miraflores Museum, and Estadio Nacional Mateo Flores.
Read more like this: The Top 3 Places to Visit in Guatemala City!
Photo Credit: @hectorapineda
#3. The Petén Region
Situated in the heart of Central America, bordering Mexico and Belize, this region is nestled in the Northernmost part of Guatemala. It’s known as the "Heart of the Mayan World" and is considered to be the birthplace of the Mayan civilization.
This region is a popular tourist hub with tropical rainforests, ancient ruins, and archaeological sites. Additionally, there’s an array of hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, making it one of the best places to visit in Guatemala.
Take a peek at our Petén guide for a more detailed look.
Tikal National Park
Take a day tour to the crown jewel of Mayan ruins at the Tikal National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the grandeur of the ancient Mayan civilization in a lush jungle setting, surrounded by wildlife and forest.
Discover the rich history, diverse ecosystems, and archaeological treasures that make Petén a captivating destination and one of the best places to visit in Guatemala!
El Remate
Nestled on Lake Petén Itza, this small wood-carving village is located on the main road between Tikal and Flores. It’s a quiet, tranquil, off-the-beaten-path town, and a gateway to Tikal National Park. El Remate offers budget-friendly, modest, and rustic accommodations.
El Mirador
Hidden deep in the jungle, El Mirador is the largest Mayan city ever built and home to one of the tallest pyramids in the world. Once the capital of the Mayan civilization, it rests among five types of tropical forest. Today, the ruins and structures are covered with trees and vines, adding to the magical vibes. It’s a must-see if you make it to this area!
Photo Credit: @angello_pro
#4. The Guatemalan Highlands
A trip to Guatemala wouldn’t be complete without some time exploring the highlands. Situated in the southwestern part of the country, the Guatemalan Highlands encompass the region between the Petén lowlands and the Pacific Ocean. Known as the heart of the Mayan world, this geographical area is home to jaw-dropping natural beauty, geological history, and cultural significance.
Here, you’ll find some of the country’s most coveted tourist destinations, including active volcanoes, shimmering lakes, ancient Mayan ruins, and lush valleys. For all these reasons and more, the Guatemalan Highlands make our list of the best places to visit in Guatemala!
Read more like this: Welcome to The Guatemalan Highlands: The Top 3 Must-See Destinations.
Antigua
The historic center of Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage site, dating back to the 16th century. It’s a lovely place to stroll through cobblestone city streets, admire the extraordinary architecture, get acquainted with the country, and try the tasty local cuisine.
Go for an exhilarating hike up Volcán Pacaya or Acatenango. Learn about traditional crafts in a workshop, browse the local markets, tour a coffee plantation, or try your hand at chocolate-making!
Antigua also boasts a vibrant food scene, where you’ll find everything from upscale restaurants to casual eateries. Yes, please!
Lake Atitlán
Surrounded by three towering volcanoes, Volcan San Pedro, Volcan Atitlán, and Volcan Toliman, breathtaking beauty and rich cultural heritage await. This majestic lake is known as the "Jewel of the Highlands" and is one of the deepest lakes in Central America.
Lake Atitlán is a must-see destination, captivating visitors from around the world with stunning natural beauty and vibrant Mayan communities. It’s hands-down one of the best places to visit in Guatemala.
Quetzaltenango
The second-largest city in Guatemala is Quetzaltenango, whose name comes from Guatemala’s national bird, the Resplendent Quetzal. The bird’s cultural significance dates back to the pre-Columbian Mesoamerican civilizations and was considered sacred to the Aztec and Mayan cultures. Its feathers were worn by royalty and priests during ceremonies. Here you can experience a slower and authentic glimpse into local daily life.
Photo Credit: @murphys_photos
#5. Alta Verapaz
Calling all nature and adventure enthusiasts! Situated in central northern Guatemala, this beautiful part of the country is home to exceptional wildlife and pristine nature with a cooler climate and tropical ecosystems.
In Alta Verapaz, you’ll find unique cuisine, natural landscapes, and a touch of magic. Whether you’d like an action-packed itinerary, off-the-beaten-path excursions, or a little rest and recovery, it’s all possible here. T
his hidden gem is waiting to be discovered. It’s one of the best places to visit in Guatemala, and we’ve created a guide to help you plan the perfect trip!
Cobán
How does hiking through a cloud forest sound?! Discover lush landscapes and reconnect with nature in Cobán. Aside from the outdoor attractions, visitors can also spend some time getting to know the city and shop for handmade textiles and handicrafts in the local craft markets.
Go for a stroll in Parque Las Victorias, check out the Museo El Principe Maya, and explore the botanical garden, Orquigonia, that is dedicated to native orchids.
Cobán is one of the best places to visit in Guatemala due to its tasty local cuisine and rich cultural heritage. It’s also the perfect home base for exploring Semuc Champey and Lachuá National Park.
Lanquín
This upcoming tourist destination is a truly unique place in Guatemala. It’s a smaller community with only a handful of restaurants. It’s incredibly lush and a beautiful place that’s ideal for embracing some downtime, spending an afternoon by the river, and getting in tune with nature.
You’ll find a number of hostels and lodgings along the river. And, outdoor adventurers will love the Lanquín Caves (Grutas de Lanquín), hiking, mountain biking, or river tubing that this region offers.
Semuc Champey
This popular tourist destination draws visitors from around the globe. Semuc Champey means “Where the River Hides Under the Earth” in Mayan and is a natural wonder featuring a limestone bridge under which the Cahabón River flows.
The series of crystal-clear turquoise pools cascading over natural limestone rocks is perfect for swimming, river tubing, and relaxation. Considered sacred to the ancient Mayans, the remote and enchanting Semuc Champey is a must-see destination in Alta Verapaz!
Here’s to Discovering The Best Places to Visit in Guatemala
We hope you’ve drawn inspiration from this curated guide to the best places to visit in Guatemala, and that you’ve already started sketching out your itinerary.
We’re always here at Naturally Smart Travel to help answer any questions you might have, whether you’re looking for a fully planned trip, a bilingual translator, or safe transportation services. Get in touch! We’d love to help you travel sustainably and consciously through the beautiful regions of Guatemala!
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Yes, ATMs are readily available in larger towns and cities like Antigua and Guatemala City.
The most common ATMS are 5B (yellow), but they are also the most expensive, charging 45 Guatemalan Quetzals, around $6, to withdraw cash. Other machines, including Bi (blue), are more reasonable, charging around 20-25 Guatemalan Quetzals, around $3.20.
It's always wise to carry some cash, especially when visiting more remote areas or for smaller purchases. Be sure to inform your bank of your travel plans in order to avoid issues with your cards.
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Guatemalan cuisine is delicious, blending Spanish and indigenous influences in regional dishes and popular street foods. Some must-try dishes include Pepián (a traditional stew), tamales, tostadas, chuchitos, and rellenitos (sweet plantain balls filled with black beans).
Street food is also popular and generally safe to eat. Don’t miss the iconic atol de elote (sweet corn drink) or a cup of rich Guatemalan coffee to complete your culinary adventure. Learn more here.
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Generally speaking, Antigua is very affordable. You can easily visit Guatemala on a budget; the country offers a plethora of inexpensive hostels, free things to do, tasty street food, and affordable restaurants.
There are also luxurious experiences to be had in Guatemala! It’s your trip to experience as you see fit! Reach out if you’re ready to start curating an incredible trip to Guatemala.
