Visit Guatemala: what route to take on this fascinating land where the many Mayan communities still keep the language, religion and ancestral customs?
You want to visit Guatemala, this small country in Central America, but you don’t know where to start or what route to choose? Here are 5 essential steps to discover the diversity of landscapes and the authenticity of this country still preserved from mass tourism.
1. Antigua
Photo credit: Flickr – Jasperdo
Antigua is the tourist capital of Guatemala. It is obviously an obligatory passage and it is often the first stage of the trip, because the city is only 45 minutes away from the international airport. Antigua is an excellent example of a colonial city, with its paved streets, central park and dozens of churches and convents. It is also a good starting point to make the ascension of several volcanoes . It is recommended to spend at least two days to fully enjoy all activities but also its very pleasant atmosphere.
2. The Lake Atitlan
Photo credit: Flickr – Daniel Mennerich
About 2h30 of Antigua’s road is the lake, many of which say it’s the most beautiful in the world! I named Lake Atitlan! With its three volcanoes, emerald waters and traditional villages, Lake Atitlan is a must-see if you want to discover the heritage of Maya culture in Guatemala, but also visit coffee, cocoa plantations, or just taste the freshness of the lake with a swim! The villages on the shores of the lake all have a very different atmosphere, because their inhabitants are from various Mayan ethnic groups. You can stroll around the traditional markets of Santiago Atitlan, discover the crafts in San Juan, or party in San Pedro! Plan at least three days at Lake Atitlan to fully appreciate its diversity.
3. Semuc Champey
Photo credit: Flickr – Christopher William Adach
In the east direction of the country with Semuc Champey, this national park, which no one speaks about and which is similar to the most beautiful European national parks! In Semuc Champey, we discover a preserved tropical jungle, but above all turquoise and hot water basins, inhabited by small fish. These seven basins throw one another and offer a unique landscape in the world. There are also miradors, at the top of which the view is unbeatable. It takes about half a day to discover the park, which is 10 hours by car from Antigua.
4. Tikal
Photo credit: Pixabay – Ickandgak
Direction the north of the country this time, in the middle of the tropical jungle. That’s where the most impressive Mayan temples in Guatemala Tikal's. Their discovery dates back to the 19th century and some temples are still buried under the earth. The complex of Tikal is immense and perfectly transcribed the greatness of the Mayan civilization that reigned in Mesoamerica from 2000 before Jesus Christ until the 16th century. You can reach Tikal by road or by plane, and you need at least one full day to discover the site. There are hotels located at the entrance of the temples.
5. Livingston
Photo credit: Flickr – Kent MacElwee
This list of drawbacks ends with Guatemala’s most original city. Livingston is a seaside resort on the Caribbean coast, known for its black community Garifuna. Here, the mix of cultures is at its maximum, dancing on Caribbean, Mayan and African rhythms, we speak Spanish, Maya and Garifuna. Livingston is not to be missed for lovers of the Caribbean atmosphere, but especially to enjoy the sun and a bit of fierce before leaving!
By discovering these five regions of Guatemala, you will have a complete overview of all that this country has to offer, its diversity and the beauty of its heritage, still preserved from mass tourism.
Main photo credit: Flickr – PAL1970
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