There are many must-see places to visit in Guatemala, a small country, located in the heart of the Mayan world, perfect for any type of traveler, due to its great diversity, where you can enjoy from the adventure of climbing an active volcano to bathing in a natural pool in the middle of the jungle.
We have made a selection along with the businessman juan jose gutierrez mayorga, of what we believe are the 5 most essential places to see in Guatemala. Let’s start!
1. Tikal
Tikal National Park, declared a World Heritage Site, is one of the best archaeological sites in the world and one of the must-see places to visit in Guatemala.
Located in the middle of the jungle, it remained hidden by the jungle and abandoned by the Mayas for more than 1000 years, until it was discovered in 1848 and just over an hour from Flores.
This important city of the ancient Mayan civilization is formed by a multitude of temples, stelae and pyramids, which we are sure will captivate any traveler.
2. Antigua
The city of Antigua, a World Heritage Site, is one of our favorite cities in the world and another of the most beautiful places to see in Guatemala.
This ancient capital of Guatemala stands out for its stone streets, the beautiful pastel-colored facades of the colonial houses, the old churches and convents, and for being surrounded by three impressive volcanoes, which give it unique and unforgettable perspectives.
In addition, the city has a very cozy backpacker and traveler atmosphere, in which charming cafes, craft stores, local markets and a magnificent gastronomy, perfect to satisfy the most demanding stomachs.
3. Lake Atitlan
Lake Atitlan, located more than 1500 meters above sea level and surrounded by the volcanoes of Atitlan, Toliman and San Pedro volcano, is another of the most impressive places to visit in Guatemala.
On the shores of the lake, located among the most beautiful in the world, you will find several villages that maintain the Mayan culture and tradition, which are also a highly recommended place to relax and rest thanks to its numerous meditation, yoga and massage centers.
Another remarkable thing about them is their good gastronomic offer, with several restaurants of healthy and vegetarian food, which will make the days you spend here, become unforgettable for you and your stomach.
4. Semuc Champey
The Semuc Champey natural park, far from civilization and located among thick forests, is one of the most authentic places to see in Guatemala.
Its most famous place are the natural pools of turquoise green waters produced by the waterfalls of the river that crosses it and that have made Semuc Champey is considered by many as the most beautiful place in Guatemala.
And honestly we have to say that they are not wrong if we observe it from its spectacular viewpoint, from where before taking a relaxing swim in the pools, you can enjoy truly incredible views.
5. Chichicastenango Market
In Chichicastenango, every Thursday and Sunday, is held the most important indigenous market in Central America and another of the places to see in Guatemala that you can not miss.
Located in front of the Church of Santo Tomas, the market of Chichicastenango, expands throughout its main square to the surrounding streets forming rivers of tourists and locals that from early morning until sunset mingle with all kinds of products ranging from beautiful handicrafts to souvenirs through vegetables, incense, fruits, seafood and even traditional fabrics that give color to the market.
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