Your Travel Guide to the Best Things to See, Do, and Eat in Guatemala
In this episode, Alexis Schmoer dives into all the details of what makes Guatemala a bucket list destination! From hiking volcanoes and wandering ancient pyramids to relaxing beside turquoise jungle pools, Alexis shares all her favorite tips and must-see spots to help you plan your own unforgettable adventure.
Why Visit Guatemala?
If you love a destination that has a little bit of everything! From beaches and mountains to jungles and history, Guatemala should be high on your list. It has volcanoes, pyramids, beaches, and beautiful scenery all in one trip! This trip combines adventure with culture, which keeps things exciting and full of things to do.
When to Go
The best time to visit is during the dry season (November–April). You’ll have the best chance at clear skies and great hiking weather.
However, Alexis went in November and got caught in a rainstorm during her volcano hike, so plan carefully if that’s high on your list!
Getting There & Around
You’ll fly into Guatemala City, the country’s main international hub. From there, most travelers branch out to other parts of the country. Alexis recommends skipping extended time in Guatemala City, and using it as a jumping-off point for adventures elsewhere.
When it comes to getting around, she strongly suggests avoiding rental cars. Long bus rides are common (some up to nine hours), but tour buses are the safest and easiest way to reach remote areas.
Top Experiences in Guatemala
Hike the Acatenango Volcano
If you love to hike and you’re looking for a challenge, this one’s for you! It’s about four hours straight uphill, so you’ll want to train for it.
The Acatenango Volcano hike is one of Guatemala’s most famous activities. Alexis described it as one of the hardest hikes she’s ever done, but also one of the most rewarding.
If you get lucky with great weather, you’ll have an amazing sunrise! This is a once in a lifetime experience of seeing real lava up close.
Alexis hiked with a company called Wicho & Charlie’s, a highly-rated tour company that provides all the gear, food, and even cozy mountain cabins instead of tents.
Explore the Mayan Pyramids of Tikal and Yaxhá
You don’t want to miss these ancient pyramids! The main site, Tikal, is spectacular, but Alexis recommends making time for Yaxhá, too.
A local tip led her to visit Yaxhá at sunset, when the jungle comes alive with the sounds of howler monkeys. Alexis says it sounded like Jurassic Park!
To get there, you’ll take a short flight north from Guatemala City to Flores, then spend a couple of days exploring.
Swim in the Mineral Pools of Semuc Champey
Hidden deep in the jungle, Semuc Champey is a natural wonder made up of tiered turquoise pools.
Getting there isn’t easy, as it’s a nine-hour bus ride each way. But Alexis says it’s worth every minute!
She stayed at Zephyr Lodge, a beautiful hostel with a pool and great food. You can hike to a viewpoint, explore nearby caves, and even go river tubing if you have an extra day.
Release Baby Turtles at El Paredón
For a beach escape, head to El Paredón, a black-sand beach just a few hours away. The highlight here is volunteering with local nonprofits to release baby turtles into the ocean.
“It was such a beautiful experience,” Alexis said. She stayed at the El Paredón Surf House, an open-air bungalow right on the beach—mosquitoes and all!
Relax at Lake Atitlán
This is Alexis’s favorite part of Guatemala!
Surrounded by volcanoes and dotted with small villages (pueblos), Lake Atitlán offers a mix of adventure and relaxation.
You can kayak, hike, or simply boat-hop between towns.
A local recommended a hidden artisanal cheese and wine experience at a small hotel called El Zapote.
Alexis hiked 15 minutes through the forest to get there, and it ended up being this magical spot with 25 different kinds of cheese!
Where to Eat
In Antigua, Alexis loved exploring the city’s hidden restaurants.
Her favorite restaurant was Porque No, a tiny local gem she walked past several times before discovering.
She also recommends checking out Ulew, a speakeasy hidden inside a brewery that serves an unforgettable pumpkin-seed cocktail.
Other Details
Where to Stay
Guatemala has options for every budget, from hostels with private rooms, to boutique lakefront lodges.
Alexis chose hostels for their great tour connections but noted that there are stunning luxury stays around Lake Atitlán if you prefer something upscale.
Staying Safe
Aside from Guatemala City (which she recommends treating as a transit point), Alexis said she felt safe throughout the rest of the country by using common sense (sticking to main areas, not walking alone at night, and booking reliable tours).
A bucket list destination
Guatemala is one of those destinations that surprises you at every turn. Whether you’re hiking beside erupting volcanoes, soaking in jungle pools, or listening to monkeys roar at sunset, it’s a place that stays with you.
If you’re ready for an adventure full of history, nature, and hidden gems, Guatemala is calling!