What to do?

Archaeology and History

One of the most mystical and impressive things to do in Guatemala is to climb a Maya temple. There are many sites that show the legacy of the Maya civilisation. The most important archaeological park is Tikal, where you can visit the best conserved temples that rise in the middle of the jungle, surrounded by an extraordinary wildlife.

Another must visit sites are Yaxhá that is located near to a beautiful lagoon inhabited by crocodiles. Quiriguá that as Tikal has been declared as a World Heritage by the UNESCO it hosts very well-conserved stone stelae which represent the Maya's calendar. Iximché the ancient capital of the indigenous community of "kakchiqueles" and El Mirador that hosts the largest Maya pyramid by volume that it is not totally excavated yet.

Guatemala is called as the heart of the Mayan world not only for the sites mentioned above but also for all the information that those places have provided to the archaeologists to know more about the Maya culture. Other interesting sites to visit are Topoxté, Uaxactún, Nakun, Cancuén, Kaminal-Juyu, Aguateca, Ceibal, Takalik-Abaj, Mixco Viejo and Zaculeu.

Culture and Traditions

The maya communities that live in the highlands make to Guatemala an unique cultural destination. The colours, traditions, language and rituals will let you to discover an ancient culture that still remains in our days.

There are 23 ethnic groups which have their own language, dress and traditions, the visit to these communities will be an authentic experience, you can walking around to the local markets, through a coffee plantation, visit artisans or even talk with a Chamán, the traditional maya religious leader.

Due to a large number of indigenous communities, there are a lot of traditional and folk festivals as well, which combine religion, traditions, and faith. The most popular folk festivals are the dances of Moros, the horse races in Todos Santos Cuchumatanes, the giant Kites in Sumpango, Palo Volador in Chichicastenango and the marimba music festivals. The holy week is also an important and impressive event in Guatemala that is worth to see and live at least once.

Landscapes and Nature

Guatemala hosts one of the richest biological treasure of the world from a tropical jungle to a cloud rainforest. You can enjoy a large diversity of natural wonders such as rivers, lakes, volcanoes, mangroves, natural reserves, black sand beaches and Caribbean feeling in our coasts. The natural diversity allows to practice many outdoor activities or just contemplate nature's magnificent.

The Maya Biosphere Reserve is one of the most espectacular natural scenery ideally for birdwatching, trekking, and for being in contact with nature.

The Verapaces is another region that offers extensive natural attractions like caves, rivers, and wild orchids that rise in the middle of the forest. It is the natural habitat for the Quetzal our national bird. The highlands also offers great landscapes and extraordinary views of volcanoes and coffee plantations.

Adventure and Sports

Guatemala is called the land of the eternal spring, always green and good weather almost the whole year. It makes the country an ideal destination for practice sports such as golf, fishing, cycling, climbing volcanoes, kayaking, rafting during the rainy season or sees the nature from the top of the trees doing canopy (zip-line) to fly like a bird in the middle of the forest from one tree to another.

The climate and high-quality facilities make that your leisure time could be complemented practicing your favourite sport.

Wellness and Spas

Look at the sunrise on the top of a Maya temple or see the sunset falling down behind of magnificent volcanoes are already inspired experiences. But you can complement it with meditation, yoga sessions, facial treatments and relaxing massages.

The nature of Guatemala puts the perfect scenario for your well-being and relaxing treatments. Whether at natural hot-springs or at the spa of your hotel you will have a large variety of wellness and beauty services that will clean your mind and detox your body.

Gastronomy

The gastronomy experience starts at the local markets, where the farmers and local producers offer fresh products and a plenty variety of tropical fruits, and exotic spices. The Guatemalan cuisine is characterised by the heritage of the Mayan flavours, and the ingredients added due to the cultural fusion between America and Spain.

The traditional food like Jocón, Pepián, Kaq'ik and tamales, is complemented by international and fusion cuisine prepared with fresh and local products.