Many travelers are excited to see the marvelous sites of Guatemala but are hesitant because it is perceived to be a dangerous country with high levels of violence. Nearly two million people visit Guatemala each year, and the great majority does not encounter anything but a spectacular visit. When you take safety precautions, and have an understanding of where to go and where tourists should generally avoid, then you can have the trip of a lifetime. Guatemala offers a host of benefits for travelers.
Often, Guatemala is seen from the plane window as tourists head to Mexico or Belize. Here are five (of many!) reasons why you should make the stop:
1. Mayan Ruins of Tikal
Remarkable for the sheer amount of ruins – 3000 – and for its locale – in the midst of a dense, lush jungle, Tikal is not to be missed. The beautiful contrast of soaring architecture and primal landscape is striking enough to be a highlight of the trip. But take it further and start climbing. Some of the temples extend beyond the tree line so beware! And wear comfortable shoes. Stay for the gorgeous sunset, which lets loose the cry of the howler monkeys. You won’t forget the ruins – and you certainly won’t forget that screech!
2. Chichicastenango
Perched in the mountains about 87 miles (140 kilometers) from Guatemala City, Chichicastenango is a world away. Not only are the views stunning, the shopping is extraordinary! Famed for its twice-weekly market, the city brings those who want to load up on pottery, jewelry, placemats, textiles, and much more at unbeatable prices. The handicrafts are all unique; no two are alike, and all make wonderful souvenirs and gifts. Remember to save room in your luggage and bring cash.
3. Antigua
Tourist trap that it is, Antigua is still well worth a visit. The colonial architecture is interesting and charm fills the central plaza, cobblestone streets, and the beautiful Cathedral de Santiago. Its locale is perhaps most interesting: Antigua is surrounded by three volcanoes!
4. Volcanoes
Speaking of these infernos, they are a perfect reason to visit Guatemala. Volcan Pacaya will give you memories that will last a lifetime. Molten lava so close you could touch it – but don’t! If you crave a good hike (or a nasty, hard hike!) go to Volcan Santiaguito, which erupts every 45 minutes or so.
5. The prices
The budget-conscious traveler can use every dollar – or quetzal – to its fullest advantage. Guatemala is affordable; you can treat yourself to a longer vacation or do more (and shop more) than in more expensive locales. You can climb volcanoes, visit authentic marketplaces, look into the turquoise water of Semuc Champey, and visit “pricy” Antigua without breaking the bank.
One other reason to visit Guatemala: its people. They will make the sights, sounds, tastes, and experiences of this unique country all the better and more vibrant.
Tikal National Park is home to one of the largest archaeological sites of the ancient Mayan civilization. Located in the Petén Basin region of northern Guatemala, Tikal was once the capital city and because one of the most powerful Mayan kingdoms. Today, Tikal National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and attracts travelers from all over the world with this history and culture.
The ruins of Tikal are among the lush rainforests of northern Guatemala and sit on top of very fertile land. Spectacular plant life such as tropical cedar, big leaf mahogany, and giant kapok thrive here. A variety of animals can be found in Tikal National Park as well. Howler monkeys, spider monkeys, falcons, parrots, gray foxes, and the white-nosed coatis can all be spotted with a trained eye.
The centerpiece of Tikal National Park is the Tikal ruins themselves. These vast ruins feature architecture of the ancient Maya and was constructed with limestone. As you can imagine, time has been rough on the ruins. Years ago, the University of Pennsylvania and the Guatemalan government combined efforts to partially restore Tikal. Among the buildings left standing are vaulting towers, royal palaces, homes, stone monuments and small pyramids. If the ruins are not enough to feed your hunger for history, there are also two museums located in the national park. The Stelae Museum and the Sylvannus G. Morley Museum are both wonderful places to learn more about the history of Tikal.
Tours of Tikal National Park are available and are sure to delight history lovers and animal lovers alike!
Guatemala’s capitol city is the most modern and cosmopolitan city in Central America. Guatemala City is a vibrant and fast paced city that blends old and new with a distinct Latin charm. It location, facilities and the “La Aurora” airport make it a great starting point for visits to all areas of the country. Founded in 1776, Guatemala City came about after an earthquake destroyed the former Spanish capital of Antigua. This city is very prone to earthquakes as it is sitting on top of three tectonic plates.
If you are hoping to get a taste of Guatemalan culture, then Guatemala city is where you want to go! There are There are seven museums, including the National Museum of Modern Art, the National Museum of Archeology and Ethnology, and theNationalNaturalHistoryMuseum. There are also more than 30 galleries showing Guatemalan artists in painting, photography, engraving and sculpture. One particularly interesting cultural site is the “Torre El Reformador”. This is the only scale replica of the Eiffel Tower in the world.
While the cultural aspect of Guatemala is very enriching, sometimes we all get the urge to just get out and dance. Guatemala City’s nightlife is very alive and active. The Zona Viva is the city’s center for nightlife, offering everything from causal bars to booming discos. Expect lines at the more popular places, but in a colorful place like Guatemala City, people watching in line can also be very fun.
No matter when you decide to visit Guatemala City, there is sure to be something exciting going on. Get a feel for all the culture and excitement that Guatemala City has to offer by planning a trip very soon. It is sure to be full of laughs and memories.
