With its diverse indigenous culture, rich Maya heritage, and colonial charm, Guatemala presents an intoxicating adventure for both the seasoned and novice traveler. However, visiting for the first time can be a daunting experience due to embassy warnings, economic conditions, and a bewildering array of attractions.
Should you be worried? No! Guatemala is a very accessible and welcoming country, and with a bit of planning and local knowledge, you’re in for an enchanting ride. Here’s iBestTravel’s classic itinerary and insider tips for a perfect, hassle-free trip for first-timers.
Antigua
A gorgeous colonial masterpiece, Antigua captivates most travelers to Guatemala. The town boasts breathtaking streetscapes at every turn, a fantastic selection of restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife. Additionally, it’s an excellent spot to enhance your Spanish skills through one of the many language schools available, and it serves as a great base for hiking the nearby volcanoes.
Tip: Antigua transforms into a lively weekend party town for residents of Guatemala City. Therefore, if you prefer a quieter experience, consider planning your stay during the week.
Lake Atitlán
Lauded by many, including famous literary figures, the volcano-framed blue waters of Lake Atitlán continue to dazzle travelers from around the globe. The lake is surrounded by both quaint and bustling villages, offering an array of intriguing places to stay.
Tip: Instead of hopping from village to village, which can be time-consuming, consider staying in one location and using boat rides for day trips to explore other villages.
Chichicastenango
A short distance from Atitlán lies Chichicastenango, renowned for its vibrant Thursday and Sunday markets. This market is a photographer’s paradise, filled with color and energy, showcasing a variety of items from household goods to traditional weavings and medicinal herbs, all nestled within charming stalls throughout the central plaza.
Additionally, the fusion of cultures here is fascinating; Maya spirituality and Catholicism intertwine seamlessly. The Santo Tomás church, effectively a hub for Maya priests conducting traditional rituals, boasts 18 steps symbolizing the months of the Maya calendar.
Tip: Rather than rushing through a day trip, consider staying in Chichicastenango the night before the market to witness the vendors prepare.
Tikal
As one of Guatemala’s prime attractions, Tikal is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Maya world. This expansive and atmospheric site rarely disappoints, even when crowded with tour groups.
Tip: To enhance your experience, consider booking a stay at one of the park’s hotels and arranging a guide for a sunrise or sunset tour.
Semuc Champey
For breathtaking natural beauty, Semuc Champey stands unrivaled. This stunning series of limestone pools connected by a cascading river and nestled in a jungle setting is one of Guatemala’s best spots for freshwater swimming. Additionally, the area offers a variety of caving and rafting opportunities, making it a frequently visited destination on the backpacker trail.
Tip: While Semuc Champey is situated in a remote area, its popularity means shuttle buses are available from various locations throughout the country. Nonetheless, be mindful of travel times—long rides in cramped conditions may detract from your overall experience.
Planning Your Trip
For an ideal itinerary, consider a loop from Guatemala City to Antigua, then to Lake Atitlán, followed by Semuc Champey, and culminating your journey at Tikal before heading back to Guatemala City. Notably, don’t fall into the common trap of trying to fit too much into a short time; approximately two weeks will allow you to appreciate all these locations without feeling rushed.
Tip: Allocate at least two days in each destination, with a full day reserved for travel between locations—this approach ensures you spend less time looking out a bus window.
Arriving in Guatemala
Upon arrival at Guatemala City’s Aurora International Airport, many travelers may feel overwhelmed. However, it’s important to note that the city is now much more friendly for visitors than in the past. You might want to postpone exploring until the end of your trip when your street smarts are firmly in place.
There are numerous onwards transport options from the airport, especially to nearby Antigua. Shuttle operators can be found around the Arrivals exit, calling out “Antigua.” If traveling alone, a shuttle is the ideal option, while a taxi may be more suitable for groups.
Tip: If you need quetzales, avoid exchanging cash at airport booths. Instead, look for the 5B ATM located upstairs near departures.
Transport Options
Guatemala offers a variety of transport options to suit every traveler. First-class and Pullman (greyhound-style) buses are generally preferable. Although cheaper ‘chicken buses’ travel almost everywhere, they tend to be slower and are not recommended for night travel. Regular domestic flights connect Guatemala City and Santa Elena (the gateway to Tikal).
Safety Tips
While you might hear horror stories when mentioning your trip to Guatemala, rest assured that potential problems encountered by travelers are mostly isolated incidents that can happen anywhere. Nevertheless, it is wise to stay vigilant: don’t carry unnecessary valuables, be cautious if approached by strangers, and familiarize yourself with your surroundings. For more safety tips, check out iBestTravel’s travel safety guidelines.
This article was refreshed in October 2019.
