5 Must-Do’s in Guatemala
Ohhh Guate…I wasn’t expecting much during my visit to Guatemala, but boy did I fall in love! In my opinion, Guatemala is one of the most underrated countries, and I tell everyone I meet that they need to add it to their bucket list. Here’s. List of 5 things to do to make the most of your time:
1. Hike a volcano! There are many to choose from and they vary in difficulty. If you’re up for a challenge, do a hiking tour up Volcan de Acatenango to Volcan de Fuego. There’s tons of tour companies available, just do your research and see which works best for you!
2. Visit Lake Atitlan - volcano AND lake views! Pure beauty. Not only is it beautiful, but the different towns around the lake are each unique in their own way and there is something for everyone and every mood you’re in.
3. Take in those volcano views - they’re unique af! Enough said.
4. Visit a traditional Mayan weaving co-op - learning about the Mayan culture and seeing the women weaving in the traditional way they were taught by their mother and grandmothers was beautiful. You can also buy items woven by the women there! Women supporting women baby!
5. Take a cooking class! I love doing this in every country because 1) you get to make/eat delicious food and 2) you get to meet so many awesome people. Whether it’s the cooking instructor or other people in the class, you meet me learn a lot.
Have I convinced ya yet?
Okay, so you're thinking about hiking a volcano in Guatemala? Trust me, the views are worth every step! When I hiked Acatenango, I honestly wasn't prepared for how challenging it would be, but also how incredibly rewarding. Most tours leave from Antigua and include guides, gear, and food. Make sure to pack layers – it gets freezing at night! And those sunrise views over Fuego erupting? Absolutely mind-blowing. It's not just a hike; it's an experience that truly puts you in awe of nature's power. Lake Atitlan is pure magic, and each town has its own vibe. I loved hopping between them by boat – it’s super easy and affordable. Panajachel is often the entry point, but San Pedro La Laguna is great for backpackers, while San Juan La Laguna offers a more traditional Mayan experience with its art galleries and cooperative workshops. Don't miss out on trying a local coffee tour or just finding a quiet spot to watch the sun set behind the volcanoes. The tranquility there just washes over you. Learning about Mayan weaving was such an eye-opener. It's not just about buying souvenirs; it's about connecting with a centuries-old tradition. I visited a co-op where the women shared their stories and showed us the intricate process of natural dyeing and backstrap weaving. It felt so good knowing my purchase directly supported their community and helped preserve their cultural heritage. Look for co-ops in places like San Juan La Laguna around Lake Atitlan or Chichicastenango. If you love food as much as I do, a cooking class is a must! I learned to make traditional Guatemalan dishes like Pepian and Tamales, and it was such a fun way to dive deeper into the culture. Plus, you get to eat your delicious creations afterward! I found a class in Antigua that started with a market visit, which was fascinating to see all the fresh, local ingredients like plantains, various chilis, and unique vegetables. It's a fantastic way to meet fellow travelers and learn skills you can take home. And speaking of hidden gems, you absolutely have to seek out those breathtaking bougainvillea-covered spots, like the ones you might see referred to as 'Clara Santiago bougainvillea.' While not a specific location on all maps, it embodies the charm of places like Antigua. Wandering through Antigua's cobblestone streets, I stumbled upon so many vibrant, patterned buildings, sometimes a rich blue or sunny yellow, draped with cascades of fuchsia, purple, and red bougainvillea. These aren't just pretty flowers; they add such character and a pop of color to the colonial architecture, making every corner feel like a postcard. Keep your eyes peeled, especially in the historic districts – you'll know it when you see it, and it's truly Instagram-worthy!
Which hotel is that in slide 3?😍