Guatemala

Heart of the Mayan World

An incredibly diverse and beautiful nation, Guatemala is both the ancient and modern heart of the Maya world. Guatemala is a Central American country that stands out due to its vivid culture, intriguing history, and fascinating nature. It boasts volcanoes, natural lakes, turquoise waters, a lush jungle, and colourful indigenous markets. A combination of colonial architecture, ancient and modern Maya culture, and breath-taking scenery, Guatemala is an intoxicating country to explore.

Top 10 Highlights

The World Largest Pyramid

Guatemala is home to the world's largest known pyramid by volume, the ancient Mayan structure known as El Mirador. Buried deep within the Petén jungle, El Mirador's construction predates that of the Egyptian pyramids. Its sheer size is staggering; it covers over 2.8 million square meters and rises more than 70 meters above the rainforest floor, offering a glimpse into the remarkable engineering achievements of the ancient Maya civilization.

Lake Atitlán

Guatemala's Lake Atitlán is renowned not only for its stunning beauty but also for its mysterious depths. Jacques Cousteau famously explored its waters in 1976, determining that its depth is still undetermined. Despite numerous attempts, no one has been able to find the bottom, adding an air of mystique to this already enchanting destination, often referred to as the "most beautiful lake in the world."

Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal, hidden within the dense jungle of the Petén region.
Immerse yourself in the colorful indigenous culture of Chichicastenango by visiting its vibrant market, one of the largest in Central America.
Take a boat tour of Lake Atitlán, surrounded by picturesque villages and towering volcanoes.
Hike to the summit of Pacaya Volcano for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to roast marshmallows over its lava vents.
Wander through the colonial streets of Antigua Guatemala, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Spanish architecture.
Experience the natural beauty of Semuc Champey, where you can swim in crystal-clear turquoise pools formed by natural limestone bridges.
Discover the traditional Mayan way of life in the highland villages around Lake Atitlán, such as San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlán.
Learn about Guatemala's indigenous textiles and weaving techniques at the Ixchel Museum of Indigenous Textiles and Clothing in Guatemala City.
Visit the colorful town of Livingston, known for its Afro-Caribbean culture, beautiful beaches, and Garifuna music.
Go birdwatching in the cloud forests of the Sierra de las Minas Biosphere Reserve, home to a diverse array of bird species, including the resplendent quetzal.

Capital

Guatemala City

Time

GMT -6

Currency

Guatemalan quetzal

Religion

Catholicism

Population

18.6 Million

Language

Spanish

International Airports

Guatemala City

Weather

Guatemala's weather varies significantly depending on altitude and region. In the highlands, including popular destinations like Antigua and Lake Atitlán, the climate is generally mild with cool nights. The lowlands, such as the Petén region where Tikal is located, tend to be hot and humid. Guatemala has two distinct seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (May to October).

Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia

Journey along the meandering canals and meet the local people as you discover the beauty of the Mekong Delta on an one night river cruise before a speedboat journey to bustling Phnom Penh. Take a Tuk Tuk to Angkor Wat and explore the grounds by torchlight, something few travellers get to explore. Travel like a local as you glide through Saigon‘s fascinating streets on a traditional tuk tuk

$4,416

Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia

$4,416

Small Group Journey

Essence of Vietnam & Cambodia

$4,416

Private Tour

Discover Belize and Guatemala

This diversified roundtrip through Belize includes most important atractions in this small, central american country located between Mexico and Guatemala. You walk in the steps of a lost high civilization and visit mystical Mayan sites in Lamanai, Xunantunich and Caracol. The absolute highlight is visit of Mayan metropolis Tikal located in Guatemala's rainforest. Take an adventurous cave tubing tour floating on a calm river into the magical underworld, snorkel on the second largest coral reef at Bounty island South Water Caye. In southern most district Toledo you meet cacao farmers and get a impression of their natural life style and cultivation of cacao plants.