Often overlooked, Guatemala, located south of Mexico Directly, by tourists in favor of nearby tropical destinations such as Costa Rica Belize and Mexico.
However, this beautifully diverse country has remained a hidden tourist gem for decades.
It is home to some of the most impressive Mayan sites, along with rainforests, volcanoes, lakes and cities.
Guatemala has a lot to offer its visitors. Read on below to learn about some of the best places to visit in this amazing country.
Best Places to Visit in Guatemala
Tikal in Guatemala
Tikal National Park is located In the middle of the dense jungle in the northern region of Guatemala in the Petén department, it features one of the most impressive ancient Mayan cities.
Tikal originated as a small village in 900 BC, eventually becoming an important political, economic, and military center in 300 BC.
With its magnificent giant pyramids, palaces and plazas, Tikal is one of the most important archaeological sites left by the Mayan civilization.
In fact, one of its signature temples, Temple IV, is the tallest ancient building in the Americas.
Today Tikal consists of a vast area of wetlands, savannah and of course archaeological sites.
Visitors will discover ancient palaces, temples, houses, ball courts and Mayan terraces.
Distinctive Mayan Civilization Ruins at Tikal
Tikal
Lake Atitlan in Guatemala
Located next to a massive volcanic crater in the southwestern highlands of Guatemala, Lake Atitlan is one of those places that will undoubtedly leave you awestruck.
Lake Atitlan, a giant body of water surrounded by tranquil hills, quaint villages and coffee plantations, offers visitors a wide range of activities to choose from and enjoy.
This area is also full of great eco-lodges and tours and is surrounded by beautiful scenery and villages.
The nearby town of Panajachel is filled with vendors selling traditional Guatemalan handicrafts, textiles and foods for you to try.
Additionally, the Lake Atitlan Nature Reserve offers countless trails, as well as a butterfly garden that guests can stroll through.
Tourists can also even climb the active volcano, which is located 3,000 meters above sea level.
From surreal landscapes to beautiful coffee plantations and bustling villages, Lake Atitlan is full of adventure.
Lake Atitlan
Lake Atitlan
Antigua
Antigua is a small city in southern Guatemala surrounded by volcanoes.
Founded in 1543 as the seat of Spanish power in the region, Antigua served as the cultural, religious, and economic center of Guatemala and the surrounding region for more than 200 years.
Although Antigua was largely destroyed by earthquakes in the 17th century, most of the famous colonial buildings have been rebuilt.
Today, Antigua is known for its Spanish colonial buildings, cobblestone streets and cultural heritage.
Guests can spend days exploring the nooks and crannies of this bustling city.
But for a unique experience, visit the city during Holy Week, or Semana Santa, and see the city come alive with thousands of people celebrating their festivals according to their own culture and heritage.
port of antigua
Antigua
Simoc Champey
This stunning natural area is a magical paradise filled with turquoise blue pools, caves and waterfalls.
In fact, it is considered one of the most beautiful. Natural wonders of the world.
Visitors can take a fascinating guided tour that includes wading through water caves, hiking through dense jungle, and swimming in distinctive limestone pools.
Although these pools are difficult to access, the beautiful experience is worth the effort.
Simoc Champey
Simoc Champey
Guatemala City
No visit to Guatemala is complete without a visit to the country's bustling and historic capital, which bears the country's name.
Navigating this huge city can be a bit tricky, but if you know where to go, it can be an absolutely wonderful experience.
But be sure to visit the Central Market for handmade souvenirs.
Visit one of the city's excellent museums, too, which will teach you about Guatemala's history, including Mayan and Spanish history, textile making, and archaeology.
From historical landmarks to amazing museums, architecture and food, don't miss out on everything this great city has to offer.
Guatemala City
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