Guatemala is a fantastic choice for adventurous travelers, hikers and regular explorers. It’s a land where ancient Mayan civilization meets breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality. If you are wondering what to do in Guatemala, this post might be a great inspiration. After hiking numerous volcanoes in Guatemala, including Tajumulco – the highest peak in Central America, and the very challenging Acatenango, to witness Fuego eruptions, I’m confident you’ll be delighted to follow these adventures!
What to do in Guatemala?
For me the number one attraction was volcano hiking! Hiking Acatenango Volcano is an otherworldly experience, offering stunning views of Volcan de Fuego, which provides spectacular night displays of lava and ash visible from the Acatenango base camps.
If you are wondering what to do in Guatemala, there are endless outdoor activities that will leave you stunned. Guatemala is home to numerous natural wonders: active volcanoes, magnificent lakes and ancient sites.
Guatemala Airport logistics.
If you’re flying into La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, you’ll notice it’s a bustling hub, yet not overwhelming. You will have to take care of some airport logistics and fill out the online form on one of the stationary computers, so be prepared, all the passengers from your flight will be queuing for this 😉
The Regional Traveler Affidavit – Guatemala is to be filled out online; there is NO PAPER VERSION.
Guatemala City is not very popular among travelers; the majority of visitors decide to drive directly to Antigua (just like me).
You should consider arranging a shuttle service before traveling – this was very helpful, as the van was waiting to collect me from the airport.
From Guatemala Airport to Antigua.
I highly advise booking a shuttle service in advance. I booked one way shared shuttle transfer from Guatemala Airport to Antigua for only $23. It was punctual and very comfortable.
- Antigua is located 40 kilometers from Guatemala Airport
- The drive takes 1-3 hours, depending on traffic, which is enormous during the day.
PRO TIP: If you are getting a taxi – always opt for authorized taxis; they’re more reliable and help you avoid any potential mishaps. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous and your Spanish skills are up to par, you could even navigate the local chicken buses. Just remember, they run on their own schedule, aka “Guatemalan time.”
Here is everything to know about how to get from Guatemala airport to Antigua – local transportation guide.
Is Guatemala worth visiting?
Once your base is established, it’s time to strategize your adventures from stunning destinations like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Tikal and incredible hiking trails leading to active volcanoes. Guatemala is extraordinary, full of natural landscapes, history and genuine hospitality. My top 3 adventures were:
- Hiking Acatenango and Fuego Volcano was the number 1 hiking adventure for me!
- Hiking Tajumulco – the highest peak in Central America.
- Freestyle traveling across the country, trekking across the rainforest, visiting small towns and observing the real life in Guatemala.
2-week itinerary for Guatemala.
Here is my 2-week itinerary for Guatemala, focused mainly around volcano hiking – note this is an extremely strenuous itinerary, remember the hikes exceed the elevation of 4200 meters above sea level, Tajumulco and Acatenango are both extremely exhausting. If you don’t like tight schedules, consider dropping some positions.
- Day 1: Arriving in Guatemala and transferring to Antigua.
- Day 2: ANTIGUA & “Cerro de la Cruz”. Antigua is a great place to acclimatize after your travels. Go hiking “Cerro de la Cruz”, a scenic hilltop with a cross, with panoramic views of Antigua and the nearby Agua Volcano. It’s a half-hour hike from the city center.
- Day 3: Xela City
- Day 4-5: Hiking Tajumulco Volcano – the highest peak in Central America.
- Day 6: Lake Atitlan
- Day 7-8: Hiking Acatenango Volcano (along with Fuego hike).
- Day 9: Antigua – hiking Finca el Pilar near Antigua and exploring local villages.
- Day 10: Hiking Pacaya Volcano
- Day 11-13: Tikal
- Day 14: Departure from Guatemala.
Places to visit in Guatemala - Antigua.
Antigua is a colourful travel hub. It’s an amazing spot to chill, explore colonial architecture while walking cobblestone streets with Agua Volcano in the background.
RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES IN ANTIGUA:
- I highly advise taking an Antigua Cultural Walking Tour.
- Coffee workshop and Antigua ATV Coffee Tour.
- Pacaya Volcano ATV Tour. I highly recommend booking the Pacaya ATV tour instead of a hiking tour, which often equals issues with guides, costs, disappointing experiences, and scam-like practices.
- Cuisine tasting! Guatemalan food is a blend of Mayan, Spanish, and other influences. Check the best restaurants in Antigua.
Where to stay in Antigua?
FAMILY CASA: I’ve stayed is Casa Ela – a lovely family home with incredible volcano view from a terrace!
BACKPACKERS PLACE (the best one): Selina Antigua – great travelers hub with gardens, hammocks and plenty of amazing facilities!
HOTEL: Posada Dona Luisa OR Adra Hostel Boutique – with lots of in-house facilities.
Hiking Volcán Acatenango .
No visit to Guatemala is complete without hiking Acatenango Volcano, standing at 3,976 meters.
It’s a two-day hike leading to the stunning views of the active Volcán Fuego. The hiking trail is challenging but uniquely rewarding, especially when you reach the summit in the morning for a spectacular sunrise. This is the number 1 attraction from all the things to do in Guatemala, ensuring lifetime memories!
The best option is booking a 2-day Acatenango Volcano hike – after reaching the Base Camp in the afternoon, you will take an extra 4-hour hike (both ways) toward Fuego Volcano. Make sure you do this extra mile – as this hike offers the closest and most dramatic views of Fuego lava explosions.
Trekking Lake Atitlan.
Lake Atitlán is often considered the most beautiful lake in the world, surrounded by volcanoes and charming villages.
TRAVEL TIP: Don’t miss the chance to experience the rich traditions of the indigenous communities, a traditional Mayan ceremony at one of the local villages, and the cultural Upper and Lower Mayan Trail hikes through communities like Santa Catarina Palopó.
Each village around the lake has its unique character, with traditional textiles and handcrafted goods, and vibrant culture.
TOP RATED LAKE ATITLAN TOURS:
Hiking the highest peak of Central America - Tajumulco 'Above the clouds'.
Hiking Tajumulco was my primary goal for the Guatemala trip. I couldn’t believe the peak is such an unpopular destination, perhaps due to its remote location. Hiking Tajumulco volcano is generally considered challenging, mainly due to an altitude of over 4000 meters above sea level and the necessity of carrying all the equipment on your back, as there is literally no infrastructure on the way.
2-day Tajumulco hike.
If you are an active traveler wondering what to do in Guatemala, hiking Tajumulco is going to be a top adventure! Tajumulco – ‘Above the clouds’ in a local language is an amazing expedition.
- STARTING POINT – XELA: It takes about 3-3.5 hours to reach the starting point for Tajumulco hike.
- START OF THE HIKE: 10am. The trail usually starts from the town of San Marcos La Laguna.
- Hiking to the camping site for 4pm, with many breaks for lunch and hydration.
- THE ROUTE: Moderate but the altitude can be a challenge. Drink 4-5 litres of water per day!
- Hiking to the peak of Tajumulco: 4 am, it’s a 2-hour climb. The views will bring you to your knees.
Tikal National Park.
Visiting Tikal National Park is among the best things to do in Guatemala. It’s one of the largest ancient Mayan cities, Tikal is a UNESCO World Heritage site with towering pyramids and ancient temples, surrounded by dense jungle.
VISITING TIPS: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and witness the sunrise illuminating the pyramids. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water in case you decide to explore various hiking trails,
Climb to the top of Temple IV for breathtaking views of the jungle canopy. Temple IV is thought to be the tallest structure built by the ancient Maya.
Outdoor activities near Semuc Champey.
Here are some outdoor activities for adventure lovers:
- Water rafting in Rio Cahabon,
- Zip-lining through the jungle canopy,
- Caving in Semuc Champey – it’s a truly unique adventure, including trekking to Semuc Champey, a natural limestone bridge with turquoise pools that are perfect for swimming. You can also explore the nearby Kan’ba caves. You’ll be wading through underground rivers and climbing waterfalls.
Try amazing Guatemalan food.
Guatemalan cuisine is not only a food, it’s the whole atmosphere, aroma, dishes are colourful, complex, rich in flavours and vegetables, generally based on fresh local ingredients, where Spanish influence is very visible.
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