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
The two hour drive heading west from Antigua leads through the central highlands, dotted with colourful traditional villages to the stunning Lake Atitlán.
A 39 bedroom hotel located at the end of the main street in Panajachel with wonderful lakefront views. The hotel has a restaurant and a good-size swimming pool with a children's slide, and...
The Hotel Atitlán is built in the style of a colonial hacienda, with a privileged location on the lakeshore within walking distance of the largest lakeside Indian village, Panajachel. ...
Set on the tranquil northern shore of Lake Atitlan, Laguna Lodge offers eco-friendly accommodation and incredible views across the rippling waters of the lake to towering distant volcanoes.
A peaceful, family-run property, Lomas de Tzununa offers comfortable swiss-chalet style rooms with breathtaking views over Lake Atitlan.
The Casa Palopo is a gorgeous boutique hotel four kilometres from Panajachel with just eight beautifully decorated guest bedrooms, friendly staff and stunning views of Lake Atitlán. ...
12 days from £2,375pp
15 days from £2,785pp
14 days from £3,095pp
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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