Guatemala Highlights: Best Attractions, Adventures & Hidden Gems

Guatemala has been one of my favourite places to visit to date. It’s full of culture, tradition, history and of course adventure. This central American country truly has something for every type of traveler, from exploring ancient Mayan ruins to hiking active volcanoes to relaxing at lakeside yoga retreats.

I spent two weeks exploring this beautiful country, and here are my top recommendations for the best things to do and must-see places in Guatemala.

Want a full day-by-day breakdown?
💡 Check out my full guide: Ultimate 12-Day Guatemala Itinerary – Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Hidden deep in the jungles of northern Guatemala, Tikal National Park is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world. Towering temples rise above the rainforest canopy, surrounded by the sounds of howler monkeys and tropical birds.

I’ve visited a few different Mayan ruins before and these take the cake. You can wander freely through the park, exploring countless temples and plazas. For the best view, climb Temple IV, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of the jungle stretching endlessly to the horizon.

🛰️Fun fact: Tikal’s jungle canopy was featured as the Rebel base on Yavin 4 in Star Wars: A New Hope. It’s easy to see why — the misty treetops and towering temples feel completely otherworldly. Climb Temple IV to see exactly where the scene was shot!

Plus for a unique experience, stay overnight inside the park. I stayed at Jungle Lodge Tikal, which came with a private hot tub surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest. Watching the sunset while listening to howler monkeys echo through the trees was one of those once-in-a-lifetime travel moments.

If you’re looking for something seriously adventurous, Guatemala’s volcano hikes are absolutely unforgettable.

Acatenango offers a front-row seat to Volcán de Fuego’s eruptions. It’s a challenging overnight trek, but easily one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever done. Camping on top of the volcano and falling asleep to the glow of fiery eruptions lighting up the night sky was surreal. The summit of Acatenango is at 3,976m (13,045 ft) and involves an elevation gain of over 1500m (5150ft).

There are a few ways to tackle this hike depending on your comfort level, most opt to carry your own stuff up; however, you can hire a porter to carry your gear, or even opt for an ATV-assisted tour that takes you most of the way up before the final climb. If you want more details on the hike, check out my in-depth post – What to Expect Hiking Acatenango Volcano: My Honest Experience.

🌋 Here’s a great option through GetYourGuide: Acatenango 2-Day Volcano Hike

For something shorter (but no less memorable), try the Pacaya Volcano hike near Antigua — a half-day adventure where you can actually roast marshmallows over hot lava rocks while watching the volcano smoke in the distance. Check out some of the tour options here!

Hidden deep within the dense jungles of northern Guatemala lies El Mirador, one of the largest and oldest Mayan archaeological sites ever discovered. Its’ one that few travelers ever get to see. Unlike Tikal, which is accessible by road, El Mirador can only be reached by a multi-day jungle trek or helicopter, adding to its air of mystery and adventure.

The site is home to La Danta Pyramid, considered one of the largest structures ever built by the Maya, even bigger in volume than Egypt’s Great Pyramid of Giza. Hiking through the thick jungle, you’ll pass ancient causeways, overgrown temples, and hear nothing but the sounds of parrots, cicadas, and distant howler monkeys.

If you’re up for a challenge, we chose to do a 4 day hike, while taking a helicoper out. It’s rugged, muddy, and remote, but reaching the top of La Danta to watch the sunrise over the jungle canopy feels like stepping back in time. If you want more information check out my more detailed guide: (Link to come soon!)

🌿 Fun fact: Many archaeologists refer to El Mirador as the “Cradle of the Maya Civilization,” as it predates even Tikal by hundreds of years.

Surrounded by towering volcanoes and vibrant Mayan villages, Lake Atitlán feels like something straight out of a dream. Formed by a massive volcanic eruption roughly 84,000 years ago, the lake sits in a vast caldera and is actually the deepest lake in Central America, reaching depths of over 340 meters (1,100 feet).

The water shimmers in shades of blue, framed by dramatic peaks and colorful lakeside towns that each have their own distinct vibe. Hop aboard the local water taxis to explore different villages and find your favorite. San Marcos is known for yoga and wellness retreats, San Juan for art and weaving cooperatives, and San Pedro for backpacker nightlife and sunset bars.

There are countless ways to experience this area — from joining a yoga retreat to volunteering at a local school or simply relaxing on the dock with a good book. Whatever your travel style, Lake Atitlán has something for you. Here is a great option if you want to sit back and explore the towns with a group!

📍 Want more inspiration? Check out my detailed Lake Atitlán guide to see what each village has to offer!

Antigua is seriously a place you can’t miss. Once the capital city of Guatemala during Spanish colonial times, this UNESCO World Heritage Site charms visitors with its cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and stunning volcano views.

Spend the day exploring the ruins of Antigua Cathedral, strolling beneath the iconic Santa Catalina Arch, and climbing to Cerro de la Cruz for a panoramic view of the city framed by Volcán de Agua. Everywhere you look, history and beauty blend seamlessly, from vibrant local markets to hidden courtyards filled with flowers.

If you’re looking for a truly memorable stay, check out Hotel Casa Santo Domingo, one of the most iconic hotels in Antigua Guatemala. The property itself is built around centuries-old monastery ruins, which you can still explore as part of the hotel grounds.

☕ Don’t miss: A cup of locally grown coffee — Antigua is world-famous for its rich, volcanic soil coffee beans. Take a tour to a coffee farm here!

Tucked away in northern Guatemala’s Petén region, the colorful island town of Flores is one of the most picturesque destinations in the country. Built on a small island in Lake Petén Itzá, this laid-back spot is connected to the mainland by a single causeway and surrounded by shimmering water on all sides.

The cobblestone streets are lined with pastel-colored houses, cozy cafés, and boutique hotels. Spend the afternoon wandering through town, browsing little artisan shops, or cooling off with a swim in the lake. As the sun begins to set, the whole island glows in golden light, making it one of the most photogenic places in Guatemala.

There are also plenty of fun things to do in Flores, like taking a boat tour of Lake Petén Itzá or visiting the magical Crater Azul, a hidden turquoise lagoon surrounded by lush jungle.

☀️Don’t miss: Grabbing a lakeside drink at sunset – the views are absolutely stunning.

Whether you’re unwinding after an adventure-filled trek or gearing up for your trip into the jungle, Flores offers the perfect mix of charm, relaxation, and convenience.

While many travelers skip over Guatemala City, it’s worth spending at least a day exploring the country’s bustling capital. As the largest city in Central America, it’s a vibrant mix of modern energy and deep cultural roots.

Visit Zona 1 to see historic landmarks like the National Palace and Metropolitan Cathedral, or head to Zona 4 and Zona 10 for trendy cafés, art galleries, and some of the best restaurants in the country.

🚶‍➡️One of my favourite ways to see a city is to do a walking tour – here is a great option if you want to learn about the history from a local!

For a dose of history and culture, stop by the Museo Nacional de Arqueología y Etnología, which houses fascinating artifacts from ancient Mayan civilizations — including many discovered at Tikal and El Mirador.

After all the hiking, ruins, and jungle adventures, El Paredón is the perfect place to slow down and soak up Guatemala’s laid-back beach life. This small surf town on the Pacific coast has become a hidden gem for travelers looking to relax, surf, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets away from the crowds.

The beaches here are wild and beautiful – long stretches of dark volcanic sand framed by crashing waves and palm trees. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, you can take a surf lesson from one of the local schools or simply watch the surfers ride waves while sipping a cold drink from a beachfront hammock.

For a bit of adventure, join a mangrove tour through the nearby Sipacate-Naranjo National Park, where you can spot birds and wildlife as you paddle through calm waterways. I would’ve loved to explore this Pacific surf town, but just didn’t have the time. All the people I talked to while in Guatemala absolutely loved it!

From ancient Mayan temples and misty volcano peaks to colorful colonial towns and quiet coastal sunsets, Guatemala is a country that surprised me at every turn. Each region has its own rhythm, whether you’re exploring the jungles of Tikal, hiking the volcanoes above Antigua, or relaxing by the shores of Lake Atitlán.

For me, it’s the blend of adventure, culture, and kindness that makes Guatemala so unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip soon, these highlights are the perfect starting point – a glimpse into the best things to do in Guatemala and the incredible experiences waiting to be discovered.