Reasons To Visit Guatemala
Guatemala is all about its people, especially in the highland regions. Their tightly knit Mayan communities, centuries old in tradition with their colourful cultures and costumes, are fascinating for the visitor and getting an insight into the lives of these wonderful, friendly people is one of the main reasons to visit this incredible country.
Easter week is a colourful and fascinating time to be in Antigua. Thousands of visitors come each year to watch the processions and religious festivities. Lavishly decorated floats are carried through the streets followed by musicians and the residents create elaborate carpets of flowers along the route for the processions to walk over.
A quarter of Guatemala is covered by forest and the wildlife, especially in the El Peten region, is prolific. Barking howler monkeys, swinging spider monkeys, screeching parrots and nosy coatis are just some of the wonderful species you will experience here.
Most days of the week you’ll find a market open somewhere in the highlands of Guatemala. They are the main economic focus for scattered mountain communities and locals flock in their hoards in search of a bargain. Everything is sold here, from food to souvenirs to clothing and livestock - you name it, you can guarantee you’ll find it in a market!
Spend a day at the Mayan ruins at Tikal. Surrounded by rainforest, not only is it a haven for wildlife including spider monkeys, howler monkeys and many tropical birds, but there are remains of royal palaces and temples that can be climbed for magnificent views.
Clear, still lakes, steaming volcanoes, lush rainforests and spectacular highland views all make up the stunning and diverse scenery you can experience in Guatemala. It is an absolute joy to travel around the country.
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Central America
Recognised and protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, Antigua is one of the most atmospheric cities in Central America.
Hotel D'Leyenda is a lovely colonial posada offering comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation just a stone's throw from Antigua's central plaza.
The charming Meson de Maria hotel is a converted colonial home with just 20 beautiful characterful rooms, a lovely roof terrace and lots of relaxing seating areas dotted throughout the property.
The Hotel Palacio de Dona Leonor has a fantastic location in the heart of Antigua, just half a block from the Cathedral and the main square.
The Hotel Posada de Don Rodrigo is located just a few minutes walk from the central plaza in Antigua. It has been built in and around three ancient houses and is registered as a historic...
Situated in a beautiful old colonial house just four blocks from the main square of Antigua, the Casa Encantada offers a warm and welcoming environment with its beamed ceilings, charming...
The Casa Santo Domingo is more than just a hotel: it is a piece of history and one of the country’s most important archaeological monuments. Dating back more than 400 years, this beautiful...
El Convento is a boutique hotel with just 19 beautifully decorated spacious suites each with its own private patio and walled fountain making it the perfect place to relax after a busy day...
Mesón Panza Verde was established as one of Antigua’s first luxury boutique bed and breakfasts. Ideally located at the quiet end of Fifth Avenue, it is a short walk from Antigua´s main plaza...
The Posada del Angel has just five suites located in a stunning colonial house. Each room has a wood burning fire place, there is a lap pool, and cosy library to relax in. The posada...
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Further reading:GuatemalaWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout GuatemalaCountry Guides
Other countries in Central America, Mexico & Cuba:BelizeCosta RicaCubaHondurasMexicoNicaraguaPanama