Antigua Guatamala is known as one of the best-preserved Spanish colonial cities in Central America. It has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The historical town, with its cobblestone streets at every turn, handicraft shops, and good restaurants and coffee places, is worth at least a few days visit.

Tip: The city is 40 minutes from Guatemala International airport by car/taxi and it’s wise to go there right after arrival.

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Acatenango is a stratovolcano in Guatemala, close to the city of Antigua. The volcano has two peaks, Pico Mayor (3,976 m) and Yepocapa (3,880 m).

Tip: While staying in Antigua, an overnight tour to the Acatenango volcano is ideal for adventurous people. You can find a guide and book a trip online or at your hotel.

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Atitlan Lake is the deepest lake in Central America and it’s surrounded by three volcanos on its southern part.

Tip: The drive from Antigua to Lake Atitlan’s Panajachel city takes about three hours. You can take a boat trip to explore the volcanos and cities surrounding the lake.

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The best view of Lake Atitlan is from the San Pedro Volcano, 3,000 meters above sea level. The hike is quite challenging and takes about five hours, round trip. The entrance costs 100 quetzales, which includes a local guide.

Tip: There are many mosquitos on the hiking trail. Don’t forget about proper clothes and repellents. Even if you travel on a hot day, it might be cool and windy at the top of the volcano and a long-sleeve jacket is worth bringing.

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Volcanically heated hot springs of incredible beauty.

Tip: Las Fuentes Georginas is about 140 miles from Guatemala City and five miles from the town of Zunil. Transportation is available by calling +502-4766-7066, 7761-6547, or 5704-2959. Easily accessible from Quetzaltenango (Xela) by reserving a charter bus seat from any travel agency.

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The Semuc Champey natural monument consists of several tiered pools, an extensive cave network complete with underground waterfalls, a natural 300 m limestone bridge, and stunning, picturesque views!

Tip: If you’re visiting on a tour, some guides will take you down a rope ladder from the lowest pool to the river, which gushes out from the rocks below. 

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Rio Dulce (literally, “Sweet River”) is part of a lake and river system and is a popular cruising sailboat destination. A boat trip here is marked by scenic beauty and unique vegetation, as you float through a refuge for various native and migratory birds. The Dulce River is located within the Río Dulce National Park area, which has helped protect the Guatemalan ecosystem since 1955, containing a great diversity of fauna, including manatees and crocodiles.

Tip: Use the water transportation services available at the docks of Fronteras, El Relleno, and Livingston for your visit. For 20 quetzales, you’ll be able to visit the ex-pirate fortress of Castillo De San Felipe.

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