UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Book Attractions in Advance
Skip the lines at Guatemala's top attractions by booking tickets in advance through Tiqets. Get instant confirmation and mobile tickets for museums, ruins, and experiences across Guatemala.
Antigua Guatemala Historic Centre
Explore colonial architecture and baroque churches amid volcanic backdrops, including the Cathedral ruins.
Especially vibrant during Holy Week processions, perfect for cultural walks and artisan markets.
Tikal National Park
Discover towering Mayan pyramids and temples in the jungle, home to howler monkeys and exotic birds.
A blend of ancient mystery and biodiversity that captivates history and nature enthusiasts.
Archaeological Site of Quirigua
Admire massive stelae and zoomorphic sculptures in this lowland Maya site along the Motagua River.
Markets and festivals create a lively hub perfect for immersing in Mayan heritage.
Aguateca Archaeological Site
Walk through fortified ruins and cliffside palaces, exploring elite Maya residences and ballcourts.
Combining ancient engineering with river views in a dramatic, less-visited setting.
Tak'alik Ab'aj Archaeological Site
Uncover pre-Olmec and Maya artifacts in this Pacific coast site with jade offerings and terraces.
Less crowded, offering a peaceful dive into Guatemala's earliest civilizations.
Iximche Archaeological Site
Visit this Kaqchikel Maya capital with pyramids and plazas, a testament to pre-colonial history.
Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures
Lake Atitlán
Hike volcanic trails and boat across this deep caldera lake, ideal for adventure seekers with indigenous villages.
Perfect for multi-day treks with scenic viewpoints and birdwatching opportunities.
Pacific Coast Beaches
Relax on black-sand shores in Monterrico with turtle nesting and mangrove kayaking.
Family-friendly fun with fresh seafood and coastal breezes in the dry season.
Semuc Champey Natural Pools
Explore turquoise limestone pools and caves via hiking paths, attracting nature photographers.
Serene spot for swimming and tubing with diverse ecosystems in the Alta Verapaz jungle.
Sierra de las Minas Biosphere Reserve
Wander cloud forests near Cobán, perfect for easy hikes and family outings spotting quetzals.
This protected area offers a quick nature escape with biodiversity trails.
Río Dulce Canyon
Kayak along dramatic river gorges with hot springs and castles, ideal for water sports.
Hidden gem for scenic boat trips and riverside eco-lodges.
Alta Verapaz Highlands
Discover coffee fincas and waterfalls with hiking routes amid misty mountains.
Agricultural tours connecting to Guatemala's rural heritage and lush countryside charm.
Guatemala by Region
🌆 Central Region
- Best For: Colonial history, urban vibes, and volcanic landscapes with charming towns like Antigua.
- Key Destinations: Antigua, Guatemala City, and Pacaya Volcano for historic sites and modern amenities.
- Activities: Ruin tours, market visits, volcano hikes, and coffee tastings in scenic highlands.
- Best Time: Dry season (November-April) for clear skies and events, with mild 15-25°C weather.
- Getting There: Well-connected by shuttle from La Aurora Airport, with private transfers available via GetTransfer.
🏙️ Western Highlands
- Best For: Indigenous culture, lakes, and markets as the heart of Mayan traditions.
- Key Destinations: Lake Atitlán villages, Quetzaltenango (Xela), and Chichicastenango for textiles and ceremonies.
- Activities: Boat trips, weaving workshops, hot air balloon rides, and hiking volcanic trails.
- Best Time: Year-round, but dry months (December-April) for fewer crowds and vibrant markets.
- Getting There: La Aurora Airport is the main hub - compare flights on Aviasales for best deals.
🌳 Northern Petén
- Best For: Ancient Maya ruins and jungle adventures, featuring vast biosphere reserves.
- Key Destinations: Flores, Tikal, and Yaxhá for pyramids and wildlife encounters.
- Activities: Jungle treks, boat safaris on lakes, birdwatching, and night tours for stargazing.
- Best Time: Dry season (November-May) for accessibility and wildlife viewing, 20-30°C.
- Getting There: Rent a car for flexibility in exploring remote ruins and lakes.
🏖️ Eastern & Caribbean Coast
- Best For: Rivers, beaches, and biodiversity with a tropical Livingston vibe.
- Key Destinations: Río Dulce, Livingston, and Quiriguá for canyons and Garifuna culture.
- Activities: Kayaking, beach relaxation, hot spring soaks, and seafood feasts.
- Best Time: Dry months (February-May) for water activities, with warm 25-32°C and sea breezes.
- Getting There: Shuttles or boats from Guatemala City, with ferries connecting coastal towns.
Sample Guatemala Itineraries
🚀 7-Day Guatemala Highlights
Arrive in Antigua, explore colonial streets, visit La Merced Church, and hike Pacaya Volcano for lava views.
Shuttle to Panajachel for boat tours to villages like San Pedro, kayaking, and indigenous market visits.
Travel to Semuc Champey for natural pool swimming and cave explorations, with coffee farm tours nearby.
Final day for chocolate workshops, last-minute shopping, and departure, ensuring time for local pupusa tastings.
🏞️ 10-Day Adventure Explorer
Antigua city tour covering Central Park, ruined convents, and volcanic viewpoints with local food markets.
Atitlán for village hops including Santiago Atitlán and Tolimán, with hiking and textile weaving experiences.
Xela for hot springs and market days, then drive to Semuc Champey for adventure preparation and tubing.
Full outdoor adventure with kayaking in the canyon, castle visits, and stays in eco-lodges by the river.
Coastline relaxation in Monterrico with turtle watching, mangrove tours, and scenic drives before returning to Antigua.
🏙️ 14-Day Complete Guatemala
Comprehensive Antigua exploration including churches, jade museums, coffee tours, and Holy Week history walks.
Lake Atitlán for boating and villages, Chichicastenango for markets, Quetzaltenango for cultural immersion.
Tikal ruin climbs, Yaxhá lake safaris, jungle hikes, and wildlife spotting in the Maya Biosphere.
Quiriguá stelae views, Río Dulce boating, Livingston for Garifuna music and beaches.
Guatemala City for modern museums and markets, final Antigua experiences with last-minute shopping before departure.
Top Activities & Experiences
Lake Boat Tours
Cruise Lake Atitlán's waters for unique perspectives of volcanoes and Mayan villages.
Available year-round with sunset tours offering romantic ambiance and fresh breezes.
Coffee Plantation Tours
Sample world-class Guatemalan coffee at fincas in the highlands with guided harvests.
Learn roasting traditions from local farmers and expert agronomists.
Volcano Hiking Workshops
Trek active volcanoes like Acatenango for overnight camps and lava views with expert guides.
Learn about geology and Mayan fire rituals during immersive ascents.
Highland Cycling Tours
Explore Atitlán's countryside and villages on dedicated paths with bike rentals widely available.
Popular routes include lakeside trails and highland roads with stunning vistas.
Mayan Ruin Guided Tours
Discover ancient temples at Tikal and Quiriguá with archaeologists sharing hieroglyph secrets.
Works of Maya engineering and cosmology with multilingual guided explorations.
Indigenous Market Visits
Immerse in colorful markets like Chichicastenango for textiles, crafts, and ceremonies.
Many markets offer cultural demos and bargaining for authentic souvenirs.