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Mayan ruins, smoking volcanoes, colourful markets, and Lake Atitlán — the most beautiful lake in the world.
Guatemala punches above its weight as a destination — Lake Atitlán is one of the world's most beautiful lakes, Tikal is a world-class Mayan ruin, Antigua is a colonial gem, and the indigenous Mayan culture is the most visible and vibrant in Central America.
Each region has a completely different character. Here is what to expect.
One of the most beautiful lakes in the world — three volcanoes reflected in a crater lake at 1,500m. The villages around the lake each have a completely different character. San Juan La Laguna for textiles, Santiago Atitlan for Maya culture, San Pedro for the backpacker scene. Cross by boat (£1) rather than the road.
The greatest Mayan city in the jungle — pyramids rising above the forest canopy, howler monkeys and toucans in the trees. Arrive at dawn and climb Temple IV for the view above the canopy. Stay overnight in the park to experience it without day-trippers.
Guatemala's most beautiful colonial city — cobblestone streets, baroque churches ruined by earthquakes, excellent Spanish language schools (2 weeks immersion from £200 including homestay), and the most photogenic Semana Santa procession in Latin America.
The heart of Mayan Guatemala — weekly markets in Chichicastenango (Thursday and Sunday, the most colourful indigenous market in Central America), weaving cooperatives in Todo Santos Cuchumatan, and the active Santa Maria volcano above Quetzaltenango.
Guatemala is excellent value.
Local comida tipica meal (rice, beans, chicken, tortillas) £2-4.
Chicken bus between cities £0.50-2.
Hostel dorm £5-10.
Spanish school £130-200/week including homestay and 20 hours of classes.
Guatemala's Mayan weaving cooperatives (CECAP in San Juan La Laguna) are women-owned and pay fair wages — buy directly from them rather than market traders. Tikal's jungle requires conservation fees — pay them and stay on marked paths. Lake Atitlan's water quality is threatened by agricultural runoff — choose accommodation with proper waste management.
Tell us where you want to go and your budget — we'll build a personalised quote with routes, hostels, and transport sorted.
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