Best things to do in Guatemala: our top picks

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Spanning a mountainous stretch of Central America, Guatemala is shaped by dramatic landscapes and deep cultural roots. It’s considered the heartland of the ancient Maya, and that influence is still easy to see — in the languages spoken, the textiles worn, and the ruins scattered across the countryside. If you’re heading that way, here are some of the best things to do in Guatemala.

1. Acatenango

If you’re up for a challenge, hiking Acatenango is one of those things you’ll probably always remember. It’s a tough climb — around 13,045 feet (3,976m) — and you’ll definitely feel it, especially with the altitude and cold. But the main reason people do it is for the views of Fuego, the nearby volcano that’s active and often erupts throughout the night.

Most people camp near the summit. That way, you can catch Fuego’s eruptions after dark, then wake up early for sunrise above the clouds. Just be ready for freezing temperatures and sore muscles the next day.

How to get to Acatenango

Antigua is the usual base. Most hikers join a guided overnight trip, which includes transport and gear. You’ll want good boots, warm clothes, and enough water — the hike starts at about 7,875 feet (2,400m) and gets steep pretty quickly.

When to visit Acatenango

November to April is the dry season, which usually means better views of Fuego. If you can, try going during the week to avoid big crowds at the campsite. Nights are always cold, no matter the season, so bring layers. Most groups start early in the day to make it to camp before sunset.

2. Antigua

Antigua is one of those places where you can spend days just walking around. It’s known for its colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and a pretty relaxed pace. A lot of travelers end up staying longer than planned — there are language schools, cafés, bars, and markets, and it’s just easy to be here.

How to get to Antigua

It’s an easy ride from Guatemala City. Shuttles from the airport take around 45 minutes, and public buses leave from the main terminal. Some travelers book a private car for convenience. Once you're in Antigua, you probably won’t need transport — it’s very walkable, but tuk-tuks are around if you need them.

When to visit Antigua

Dry season (November through April) usually means clear skies and less rain. If you’re around for Semana Santa (Easter week), you’ll see big processions and elaborate street carpets. Mornings are usually quieter and a good time to explore before it gets busy.
 

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El Arco in Antigua © Shutterstock

3. Ixil region

The Ixil region is way up in the highlands and feels completely different from other parts of Guatemala. The towns of Nebaj, Chajul, and Cotzal each have their own character, but all three share a language that’s only spoken here. People here wear traditional clothing, and the pace of life is slow. The landscape’s all steep hills, forested valleys, and fast-moving rivers.

It’s not the easiest place to reach, and the roads can be rough, especially during rainy season. But once you’re there, it’s worth slowing down and spending a few days to take it all in.

How to get to the Ixil region

Nebaj is the easiest place to start. You can catch a direct bus from Guatemala City (about 6 hours) or Quetzaltenango (around 5 hours), though the route winds through the mountains. From Nebaj, microbuses connect to Chajul and Cotzal. If it’s rainy, expect delays — the roads can get muddy and slow.

When to visit the Ixil region

November to April is best for clearer weather and easier travel. Market days — like Thursdays in Nebaj — are a good way to see the local textiles and crafts. It stays cool year-round because of the altitude, so it’s comfortable for walking. If you want to visit all three towns, give yourself 3 to 4 days.
 

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Nebaj © Milonk/Shutterstock

4. Try traditional sauna in Todos Santos Cuchumatán

Todos Santos is a mountain town where Maya traditions are very much alive. You’ll see men wearing their red-striped pants and embroidered shirts around town, and women dressed in beautifully woven huipiles. Things get especially lively around the annual fiesta, which includes a chaotic horse race right through the main street.

One thing worth trying while you’re here is a traditional Maya sauna, known as a chuc. These small, dome-shaped steam baths are usually made of stone and clay. A lot of guesthouses have one on-site—just ask.

How to get to Todos Santos Cuchumatán

The easiest way to get here is from Huehuetenango. There’s a direct bus that takes around 3 hours along a scenic, winding road. You can also get here from La Mesilla with a transfer, though it’s a bit longer. As you get closer, the road climbs steeply through forested hills. Some tours leave from Quetzaltenango, but they tend to start early since it’s a long drive.

When to visit Todos Santos Cuchumatán

If you're curious about local culture, plan your trip around All Saints’ Day (November 1st). That’s when the big celebration and horse race happens. For drier weather and better road conditions, aim for November through April. Weekdays are quieter if you want a more laid-back experience, while Sundays bring out more stalls and traditional textiles at the market.
 

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Todos Santos Cuchumatan village, Guatemala © streetflash/Shutterstock

6.Tikal

Tikal is one of those places that feels like it’s part of the jungle rather than separate from it. You’ll hear monkeys overhead, birds calling through the trees, and maybe even catch a few animals darting through the undergrowth. The ruins themselves are huge, with steep temple pyramids rising above the forest canopy.

The site sits about 40 miles (64km) from Flores, and the road there is paved the whole way. Five main temples tower over the jungle—each over 200 feet (60m) tall—and there are thousands of other buildings, some half-buried in vines and soil. It’s part of Tikal National Park, which protects a large stretch of forest on the edge of the Maya Biosphere Reserve.

If you're looking to explore more ruins in the area, Petexbatún Lake has some lesser-known sites that feel way more off the path.

How to get to Tikal

Most people fly into Flores and take a shuttle—it’s about an hour to Tikal from there. You can also take an overnight bus from Guatemala City, which takes around 8 to 10 hours. Day tours and longer trips run out of Flores, Antigua, and the capital, and usually include a guide and transportation.

When to visit Tikal

Try to arrive early in the morning—before 8am—if you want a quieter visit and a better chance of seeing wildlife. November through April is usually a better time for walking around, since it’s the dry season. Staying overnight nearby means you can enter the park right at sunrise, when the jungle is cool and active. Around midday, especially March through May, it gets pretty hot—so early is best if you want to avoid the heat.
 

Tikal National Park, Guatemala © WitR/Shutterstock

Tikal, Guatemala © WitR/Shutterstock

7. Take spanish classes

Learning spanish in Guatemala is a smart move if you’re planning to stay a while or want to connect more with people while you travel. The country is known for affordable one-on-one lessons, and a lot of programs include homestays, which can really help you improve quickly.

You’ll find schools in Antigua, Xela (short for Quetzaltenango), and towns around Lake Atitlán. Some people go with private tutors or university-linked programs, too. It helps to think about what you want—how long you’ll stay, how structured you want the classes to be, and if living with a host family feels right.

Where to find spanish schools

Antigua is an easy starting point, with schools mostly near the historic center. Xela has a more local vibe and schools spread throughout the city. Around Lake Atitlán, San Pedro and San Marcos are both popular with travelers looking to combine study with a slower pace. Many schools arrange airport pickups, which can make things easier when you arrive.

When to visit for spanish classes

Classes run all year, but January to April is usually the busiest time. May and September tend to be quieter, which can mean smaller class sizes and more flexible housing. Most schools ask new students to start on a Monday, and you can usually choose anything from a one-week course to a few months, depending on your goals.
 

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Learning Spanish is one of the things to do in Guatemala for self-development © Shutterstock

8. Copán ruins

Just across the border in Honduras, the ruins at Copán are known for their detailed stone carvings and well-preserved structures. The hieroglyphic stairway and on-site museum are worth taking your time with, especially if you're interested in Maya history.

The town of Copán itself is small and laid-back, with cobblestone streets and red-roofed buildings. It’s surrounded by green hills and has a slower rhythm than some of the bigger places in Guatemala, which makes it a nice break in your trip.

How to get to Copán ruins

You can catch a direct shuttle from either Antigua or Guatemala City—it takes around 6–7 hours. Another option is traveling to Chiquimula, then crossing into Honduras and continuing to Copán by bus. There are day tours, but it’s worth staying at least one night so you’re not rushing through the site.

When to visit Copán ruins

It’s easiest to walk around during the dry season, from November to April. Try to get there early when the gates open at 8am—it’s cooler, and usually quieter. Give yourself a few hours to see everything, including the sculptures and museum. Bring water and something to block the sun—it gets hot fast.

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Copan, Guatemala © Vladislav T. Jirousek/Shutterstock

9. Boat cruise through the Río Dulce

The Río Dulce is a calm stretch of water surrounded by steep cliffs and jungle. It’s a peaceful way to see another side of Guatemala, and there’s plenty to look at—white herons, parakeets, even the occasional manatee if you're lucky. The river runs from Livingston to Río Dulce town, and the trip through the canyon section is especially beautiful.

Most of the journey is quiet and scenic, passing through villages and thick greenery. Early mornings are best if you’re hoping to see more wildlife.

How to get to the Río Dulce

Buses run from Guatemala City to Río Dulce town in about 5–6 hours. If you're coming from Flores, it’s closer—around 3 hours. From Livingston, boats head upriver daily. Once you’re in Río Dulce town, it’s easy to hire a lancha (small motorboat) for a few hours or longer. Some people connect through here on their way to or from Belize.

When to visit the Río Dulce

May–June and September–October usually have decent weather and fewer people. Early morning is the best time for wildlife and smooth boat rides. The river stays navigable all year, but if you’re traveling during the rainy season (May through October), be ready for afternoon storms. Binoculars come in handy if you're into birdwatching.
 

Lone Kayak From Behind with Female Paddling through Dense Remote Jungle River. Rio Dulce, Izabal, Guatemala © Daniel Andis/Shutterstock

Kayaking in Rio Dulce © Daniel Andis/Shutterstock

10. Chichicastenango market

If you’re in Guatemala on a Thursday or Sunday, it’s worth planning your trip around Chichicastenango’s market. It’s been around for generations—long before tourists showed up—and it’s still a busy trading day for people in the highlands. The town fills with vendors selling everything from handwoven textiles and wood carvings to produce and household goods.

It’s not just about shopping, either. This is one of those places where you can see everyday life happening around you. People are catching up with neighbors, buying supplies, and keeping traditions alive. Around the main church, you’ll notice rituals that blend Catholic and Maya practices, like incense burning and prayer ceremonies on the church steps.

How to get to Chichicastenango Market

The market is about 2–3 hours from Antigua or Guatemala City by direct shuttle. If you’re watching your budget, you can take chicken buses through towns like Quiché or Sololá. Most buses stop close enough that you can walk right into the market. It’s a good idea to arrive before 9am—earlier if you're driving—to avoid crowds and see the stalls being set up.

When to visit Chichicastenango Market

Go on a Thursday or Sunday—that’s when the market is active. Getting there early, around 7–8am, gives you a quieter experience and a chance to see things before the crowds build. The dry season (December to March) is a comfortable time to walk around. Big holidays like Christmas or Semana Santa bring in more people and special merchandise. Sundays tend to be busier than Thursdays.
 

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Colourful Cemetery in Chichicastenango, Guatemala © Martin Froyda/Shutterstock

11. National Archeological Museum

The National Archaeological Museum in Guatemala City is a good place to start if you want to understand more about Maya history before heading out to the major ruins. You’ll find carved stelae, ceramics, jade masks, and artifacts from sites like Tikal, Takalik Abaj, and Río Azul. One of the standout pieces is a full replica of a royal tomb.

The museum isn’t flashy, but the collection is strong and gives you a good foundation for the rest of your trip—especially if you’re planning to visit places in Petén or around the highlands.

How to get to the National Archaeological Museum

The museum is in Zone 13, not far from Guatemala City’s airport. You can get there by taxi, Uber, or public bus. Some travelers visit after a stop at the nearby zoo. If you’re coming from Antigua, there are guided day trips that include the museum. Plan for about 2–3 hours to see everything properly.

When to visit the National Archaeological Museum

It’s usually quiet on weekday mornings, and the museum is closed on Mondays. If you can, go early in your trip—it gives useful context for everything you’ll see later. The building is air-conditioned, so it’s a good option if the weather turns. English-speaking guides are available, but it’s best to book in advance.
 

Gold artifacts on display in the Museo del Oro, Bogota

Golden mask in National Archeological Museum © Shutterstock

12. Volcán de Pacaya

Pacaya is one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes, and it’s close enough to make for an easy day trip from Antigua or Guatemala City. It’s not a technical hike—more of a steady uphill walk—but the landscape is striking. You’ll walk over old lava flows, pass steam vents, and if the volcano’s active, you might see glowing lava in the distance, especially in the evening.

The volcano’s been erupting on and off since the 1960s, and while it’s not always spewing lava, it’s still a dynamic place. Hikes usually bring you to a safe distance with clear views of the cone and surrounding valley.

How to get to Volcán de Pacaya

Shuttles from Antigua take about an hour to reach the park entrance near San Francisco de Sales. From Guatemala City, take a bus to Escuintla and connect from there. Most people join a tour, which usually includes transport, entrance fees, and a guide—required for the 2-hour hike.

When to visit Volcán de Pacaya

Dry season (November–April) is a good time for clear views and stable trails. Afternoon hikes are popular for sunset views, especially if there’s visible lava. Mornings are cooler and usually less busy. The level of volcanic activity changes, so check recent updates before you go. Weekdays tend to be quieter.

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Volcán de Pacaya © Shutterstock

13. Lívingston

Lívingston doesn’t feel like the rest of Guatemala. It’s a Caribbean town where Garífuna culture shapes the rhythm of daily life—literally, thanks to the punta beats you’ll hear coming from homes and bars. It's also home to Q’eqchi’ Maya communities, and that mix gives the town its character.

You’ll hear mixed reviews. Some travelers love the slower pace and music in the air, others find it a bit worn-down. Either way, it’s a noticeable change from the ladino-majority towns inland. The food is mostly Caribbean—lots of coconut, fresh fish, and plantains.

How to get to Lívingston

Lívingston is only accessible by water. Boats leave twice daily from Puerto Barrios (around 45 minutes) and Río Dulce town (around 2.5 hours). From Guatemala City, you can take a bus to Puerto Barrios—expect a 5–6 hour ride. Some travelers come in from Belize by boat.

When to visit Lívingston

Garífuna Settlement Day in November is a great time to see traditional music and dance. Dry season (December through April) usually means calmer boat rides. Weekends tend to be livelier, with more locals coming in from nearby towns. Yurumein, on November 26, is one of the biggest cultural celebrations in town.
 

Guatemala Livingston Garifuna village © Francky38/Shutterstock

Guatemala Livingston Garifuna village © Francky38/Shutterstock

14. Yaxhá

Yaxhá is a large Maya site surrounded by jungle and two lakes—Laguna Yaxhá and Laguna Sacnab. It doesn’t draw the same crowds as Tikal, so the atmosphere’s usually quieter. You’ll walk among dozens of ancient temples and structures, many still partly hidden by forest.

The area is part of the Yaxhá–Nakúm–Naranjo protected region, which stretches across about 143 square miles (370 sq km). It’s home to a mix of ecosystems—wetlands, savannah, and forest—so there’s a chance you’ll hear howler monkeys or spot crocodiles. Birdwatchers tend to do well here too.

How to get to Yaxhá

Most people get here from Flores, about 1.5 hours by car. Day tours are common and include transport. If you’re going on your own, you can hire a taxi or arrange a driver. The last stretch of road can be bumpy. Some tours also stop at the smaller Topoxte ruins on the lake.

When to visit Yaxhá

It’s easier to visit during the dry season (November to April), especially for walking the trails and avoiding muddy roads. If you can, aim to be there around sunset—Temple 216 has a wide view over the lakes and jungle. Most people spend 3–4 hours exploring the main part of the site.

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Pyramid Maler in Yaxha, Guatemala © Matyas Rehak/Shutterstock

15. Lago de Atitlán

Lago de Atitlán sits high in the mountains, ringed by volcanoes and steep cliffs. It’s deep—over 1,000 feet (320m)—and the colors shift throughout the day depending on the weather and light. Mornings are usually calm, but by early afternoon, the xocomil wind tends to stir things up.

There are several villages around the lake, each with a different feel. San Pedro is popular with backpackers and Spanish learners. Santiago Atitlán is more traditional and good for local markets. San Marcos draws a quieter crowd, with yoga and retreats. You can easily get around by boat.

How to get to Lago de Atitlán

From Antigua or Guatemala City, shuttles run to Panajachel in about 3–4 hours. Public buses are also an option, though they require a transfer in Sololá. Panajachel is the main boat hub—public lanchas connect the lake’s villages throughout the day. Private boats are available too.

When to visit Lago de Atitlán

Dry season (November–April) usually brings better views and calmer water in the mornings. Boat rides get bumpier in the afternoon once the wind picks up. Market days vary—San Pedro’s are on Tuesday and Friday, Santiago’s on Sunday. Give yourself at least a few days if you want to get a feel for more than one village.

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Lago de Atitlán © Shutterstock

16. Take a ride on the chicken buses

Riding a chicken bus in Guatemala is more than just a way to get around — it’s a full-on experience. These buses are old American school buses that have been repainted in wild colors and fitted with booming sound systems. They’re usually packed with people (and sometimes livestock), and the ride can be loud, bumpy, and chaotic — but also a window into daily life.

You’ll see families commuting, kids heading to school, and vendors jumping on and off to sell snacks. The name “chicken bus” isn’t just a joke — you might actually end up next to someone with a live chicken in a box or basket.

How to get to chicken buses

You’ll find them in just about every town. In Guatemala City, head to La Terminal in Zone 4 — that’s the main hub. For short trips, you can often flag one down along the road. Schedules aren’t always posted, so it’s best to ask someone nearby where the next bus is going. Most routes start early and wrap up before nightfall.

When to use chicken buses

Mid-morning is usually the least crowded time. Weekdays are easier than weekends, but things can get especially busy on market days — like in Chichicastenango. During the rainy season (May–October), delays are common, especially on mountain routes. Try to avoid night travel and keep your valuables somewhere secure and close to your body.
 

Chicken bus, Guatemala

Taking a ride in chicken buses - one of the most unusual things to do in Guatemala © Eric Kukulowicz/Shutterstock

17. Watch Semana Santa celebration

Semana Santa is a big deal in Guatemala, especially in Antigua. The whole city gets involved with massive processions, elaborate floats, and colorful carpets laid out on the streets — made from sawdust, flowers, and pine needles. Everything kicks off on Palm Sunday and builds up to Good Friday, when the biggest events take place.

If you're near Lake Atitlán, Santiago Atitlán has its own version of the celebration, where Catholic and Mayan traditions come together. One of the main figures is Maximón — a local folk saint who’s carried around town during the rituals.

How to get to Semana Santa Celebrations

Antigua is about a 45-minute drive from Guatemala City, and you can catch a shuttle or local bus pretty easily. Just know that it gets booked up months ahead of time, so sort out your hotel well in advance. For Santiago Atitlán, take a boat from Panajachel. Transportation can be limited that week, so it’s good to plan ahead.

When to visit Semana Santa Celebrations

Semana Santa moves around each year depending on Easter, usually falling in March or April. The biggest processions are on Palm Sunday and Good Friday. If you want to catch the alfombras being made, aim to arrive early in the morning — or even the day before — to watch them come together. Smaller towns also hold events that are less crowded but still meaningful.

Jesus Christ with the cross in procession © Shutterstock

Jesus Christ with the cross in procession © Shutterstock

18. The western highlands

The western highlands are one of the best places to go hiking in Guatemala. Towns like Quetzaltenango (also known as Xela) and Nebaj make great bases. Nebaj in particular still feels quiet and less developed for tourism, so it’s a good pick if you’re looking for a slower pace.

There’s a range of hiking trails around — some you can walk straight out to from town, like those heading toward Acul or Cocop. If you’re short on time (or energy), you can always hop in a microbus to get closer to the trailhead.

How to get to the western highlands

Xela is easy to reach from Guatemala City or Antigua by bus, and it’s where a lot of guided treks start. If you’re heading to Nebaj, you’ll need to travel through Santa Cruz del Quiché. Groups like Quetzaltrekkers organize multi-day hikes if you want to go with a guide, or you can ask around locally for shorter routes.

When to visit western highlands

Dry season (November to April) is the most reliable for hiking — the trails are clearer and views are better. If you’re planning a long trek, it’s worth starting early in the morning to avoid afternoon fog or showers. Weekdays tend to be quieter, which is nice if you’re hoping to avoid crowds on popular routes. If you’re hiking around the edges of the rainy season, keep an extra day or two free just in case the weather shifts.

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Quetzaltenango © Francisco Sandoval Guate/Shutterstock

19. Try local coffee

If you drink coffee, it’s worth trying it straight from the source while you’re in Guatemala. The beans are grown high up on volcanic slopes, which gives them a rich, layered taste—usually chocolatey or nutty, sometimes with a bit of fruit or citrus in the background. Guatemala has a long history of coffee farming and is the biggest producer in Central America.

Cobán is a relaxed place in the Alta Verapaz region where you can try single estate brews. You’ll also find farms near Antigua and around Lake Atitlán. Many of them run tours, and if you’re visiting in harvest season, you might catch the picking and drying process in action.

Where to try coffee

From Guatemala City, buses to Cobán take about 4–5 hours. If you’re based in Antigua, local shuttles or tuk-tuks can get you to nearby farms. Around Lake Atitlán, you’ll need to take a boat and do a bit of walking to reach the coffee-growing areas on the volcano slopes. Most farms prefer advance bookings—your hotel can usually help set it up.

When to visit for coffee

The coffee harvest runs from December to March, with February and March being the peak. That’s when the farms are busiest and the processing is in full swing. Tours still run outside those months, but if you want to see the full production cycle, aim for harvest season. Try going in the morning for clearer mountain views. Some places also do cupping sessions so you can taste different varieties side by side.
 

Coffee mugs with bread basket from Guatemala, traditional bread © Shutterstock

Coffee mugs with traditional bread from Guatemala © Shutterstock

20. Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey is a series of natural pools in the middle of the jungle. They sit above a limestone bridge with a river flowing underneath. Most people come here to swim, cool off, or just relax for the day. It’s surrounded by forested hills, and even though it’s become more popular, you can still find quieter areas if you’re willing to wander a bit.

It’s not the easiest place to get to, but once you’re there, it’s a great way to break up a long travel stretch or just slow down for a day.

How to get to Semuc Champey

The usual route is a shuttle from Guatemala City or Antigua to Lanquín—around 8–9 hours on winding roads. From Lanquín, pickup trucks make the 7-mile (11 km) trip to Semuc Champey. That last stretch takes about 45 minutes on a bumpy dirt road. You can also find tours that leave from Flores or Cobán. If you’re coming from Guatemala City, breaking up the trip with a stop in Cobán can make it a little easier.

When to visit Semuc Champey

May–June and September–October are quieter, with decent water levels. If you're going during the rainy season, it’s better to visit early in the day—afternoon showers are common. Trails can get slick, especially the one up to the viewpoint, so bring shoes with grip. Plan on a full day to swim, explore the caves, and wander around the forest paths.
 

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Semuc Champey, Guatemala © Shutterstock

21. El Mirador ruins

El Mirador is buried deep in the jungle near the border with Mexico. It’s bigger than Tikal and dates back even earlier. Most of it hasn’t been fully excavated yet, and a lot of what we know is still evolving. The city might have been called Ox Te Tun, but no one’s sure—El Mirador just means “the lookout” in Spanish.

Getting there takes time and effort. You’ll hike for days through the jungle with a guide and pack animals, but if you're interested in history and don’t mind being off-grid, it’s one of those experiences that sticks with you.

How to get to El Mirador

Most trips start from Flores. From there, you’ll travel to Carmelita, the village where the hike begins. The trek takes 2–3 days each way, and you’ll be camping along the route. Guides are required, and most tours include mules to carry food and gear. There’s also a helicopter option from Flores if you’re short on time and have the budget for it, but most people go the slow way in and out.

When to visit El Mirador

Dry season—December through April—is the most manageable time for the hike. January and February usually bring the best weather. Since the trek is long and remote, you’ll want to plan ahead. Tours can fill up, especially in high season, so book in advance. Expect to spend around 5–6 days total, which includes travel time and at least a full day to explore the ruins.
 

Mayan Pyramid in the forests of Peten, Guatemala © Shutterstock

Mayan Pyramid in the forests of Peten, Guatemala © Shutterstock

22. Castillo de San Felipe

Castillo de San Felipe looks a bit like a toy castle, but it was built for serious business. Back in the 1600s, British pirates were making their way up the Río Dulce to raid supplies, so the Spanish built this small fort in 1652 to block their path. At one point, there was even a heavy chain stretched across the river to stop the ships.

Today, you can wander through its small stone rooms, climb the stairs, and check out the cannons still lined up by the walls. The views over Lago de Izabal are wide and open, and it’s a quiet place to take in some history and nature if you’re already around Río Dulce.

How to get to Castillo de San Felipe

From the town of Río Dulce, you can either take a boat (around 15 minutes) or drive along the lake’s northern edge (around 30 minutes). Some local tours include the fort as part of a longer day on the lake. Public boats leave from the main dock in town, or you can grab a water taxi if you want a bit more flexibility.

When to visit Castillo de San Felipe

Mornings are usually calmer on the water and quieter at the fort. It gets busier on weekends, especially with local families. The fort is open daily, though it may close around major holidays. If you want clearer weather, dry season runs from November to April.
 

Fortress Castillo de San Felipe de Lara looking over Izabal lake in Guatemala © Shutterstock

Fortress Castillo de San Felipe de Lara looking over Izabal lake in Guatemala © Shutterstock

23. Taste local Guatemalan food

Guatemalan food is filling, affordable, and shaped by a mix of Maya, Latin American, and European cooking. These influences have blended into what’s known as comida típica—the kind of meals you’ll see at local markets and family-run eateries.

Most dishes are built around beans and maize, but you’ll see regional variations depending on where you are. In places like Antigua or around Lake Atitlán, you’ll also find more international food and plenty of vegetarian options. If you're curious about local flavors, try pepian (a meat stew), jocón (chicken in green sauce), or just a simple breakfast of eggs, black beans, plantains, and cream.

Where to try Guatemalan food

You’ll find traditional meals all over the country. Antigua and Guatemala City are good places for cooking classes—you can usually book through your hotel or directly with a school. If you're after ingredients and local flavors, the markets in Chichicastenango, Sololá, and Quetzaltenango are worth checking out. Street food is easiest to explore with a local, especially in bigger towns or during festivals.

When to try Guatemalan food

Market days are great for fresh produce and snacks. During festivals or saint’s days, towns often make special dishes you won’t find other times of year. Breakfast is an important meal here—most restaurants serve traditional options between 7 and 10 a.m. If you’re thinking about a cooking class, try to book ahead, especially between December and April when more travelers are around.
 

Guatemalan style enchiladas displayed to show their ingredients on a white plate © Shutterstock

Guatemalan style enchiladas © Shutterstock

Dre Roelandt

written by
Dre Roelandt

updated 24.07.2025

Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.

  • Activity
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • Authentic Experiences
  • History Culture Heritage
  • Central America & the Caribbean
  • Guatemala
  • Antigua
  • Guatemala City
  • Todos Santos Cuchumatán
  • Chichicastenango
  • Lívingston
  • Inspiration
  • See & Do
  • Where to stay

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