Why should you travel to Guatemala?
Guatemala is bursting with adventure and is the perfect choice if you’re looking to combine stunning natural beauty with fascinating cultural encounters and captivating history.
Here, you’ll not only have the chance to trek through lush jungle landscapes and marvel at majestic volcanoes. You can also look forward to immersing yourself in Guatemala’s rich history and culture as you explore ancient Mayan ruins and charming colonial towns.
A tour to Guatemala promises you a truly unique experience filled with memories to last a lifetime!
Our tours in Guatemala
A tour to Guatemala has something to offer everyone: world-famous cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and a welcoming local population.
Please note: at present, we only offer tours to Guatemala in combination with Mexico.
Below, you can read more about some of the many highlights that await you in this Central American gem.
Tikal National Park
Tikal National Park, nestled in the heart of the jungle in northern Guatemala, is one of the country’s greatest highlights and truly a must-see on any tour here.
Here, you can explore the iconic city ruins, featuring stunning pyramids and imposing temples scattered throughout the rainforest. The national park, which is on the UNESCO world heritage list, stands as a testament to Guatemala’s history and cultural heritage, deeply influenced by the ancient Maya civilisation.
During the height of the Maya Empire, from around 200 to 900 AD, the city was home to as many as 90,000 inhabitants.
Today, nearly half of Guatemala’s population are descendants of the ancient Maya, whose legacy continues to play a major role in Guatemalan society.
Antigua Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala is one of the country’s most enchanting cities, and ranks among the most beautiful in all of Latin America.
The city has a truly unique atmosphere, hinting at Guatemala’s heritage as a Spanish colony. Here, horse-drawn carriages clip-clop over cobbled streets lined with vibrant buildings, Spanish Baroque churches, and bustling markets. Highlights include the lovely cathedral, the Capuchinas Convent, and the San Francisco el Grande Church.
In addition to its beautiful architecture and cosy atmosphere, Antigua Guatemala is renowned for its unique location. The city is nestled between three towering volcanoes—Volcán de Agua, Volcán de Fuego, and Volcán Acatenango—which can be admired from the city centre or from scenic viewpoints such as Cerro de la Cruz.
Panajachel
Situated in Guatemala’s western highlands, you’ll find the atmospheric town of Panajachel, affectionately known as “Pana” by the locals. Here, you can look forward to spectacular views across Lake Atitlán, which is surrounded by the volcanoes San Pedro, Atitlán, and Tolimán.
The town also offers vibrant markets, lively streets, and delightful cafés, where you can sample aromatic, locally grown coffee.
More unforgettable highlights in Guatemala
Guatemala is a country that never ceases to amaze, and the following highlights are also well worth discovering on your tour to this beautiful land.
- The charming island of Flores in northern Guatemala, connected by a bridge to the mainland, offers colourful streets and a wonderfully unique atmosphere. The only way to get around the island is by tuk tuk, providing a quick and fun way to experience everything it has to offer.
- On a boat trip across Lake Atitlán, you’ll be treated to breathtaking volcanic scenery as you glide past vibrant villages, each with its own distinctive character. Along the way, you’ll discover local Maya culture and enjoy truly spectacular views over the surrounding highlands.
- Treat yourself to a taste of authentic Guatemalan coffee. If you’re a true coffee enthusiast, why not take an excursion from Antigua to the local community of San Miguel Escobar on the city’s outskirts, where you can follow the journey of coffee beans from plant to steaming cup?
Combine Guatemala with Mexico
We offer Guatemala in combination with a tour to Mexico.
After encountering the jungle-clad highlands and mystical Mayan ruins of Guatemala, your adventure will continue in Mexico, where even more magical experiences await.
In Mexico, you can look forward to visiting the charming little town of Bacalar, beautifully situated on the shores of the famous Laguna de los Siete Colores (the Lagoon of Seven Colours). You can explore the lagoon on an exciting boat trip or enjoy a refreshing swim in its crystal-clear waters. Life in the town moves at a relaxed pace, and you’ll have the chance to savour traditional dishes at the cosy, local cafés.
Complete your tour with the Caribbean beaches along Mexico’s coast and unwind in exotic surroundings at Playa del Carmen. In this lively seaside town, you can spend your days relaxing on the beach, enjoy leisurely evenings at local restaurants, or soak up the atmosphere with colourful nights where the bars and music venues are buzzing with life.
If you dream of discovering even more of Mexico’s Caribbean coastline, you can continue your tour to Isla Holbox or Isla Mujeres.
Frequently asked questions about tours to Guatemala
There are always plenty of questions that can pop up when you’re visiting a country for the first time. To help you prepare, we’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked questions about travelling to Guatemala below.
Is it safe to travel to Guatemala?
At TourCompass, all excursions and activities are conducted alongside our experienced local guides, who have in-depth knowledge of the country and its conditions.
The places you visit with us on a tour to Guatemala are generally considered safe for travellers. However, we recommend that you follow official advice and use common sense: do not walk alone after dark, avoid deserted areas, and keep your valuables discreetly out of sight.
If you need assistance or have any questions during your tour, you can contact our travel specialists and local partners around the clock via our emergency hotline.
Is Guatemala worth visiting?
Absolutely! Guatemala is brimming with experiences and attractions, making it an ideal destination for anyone dreaming of enchanting landscapes, fascinating culture, and a rich history.
When is the best time to travel to Guatemala?
Many people prefer to travel to Guatemala during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is at its best. However, Guatemala is a fantastic destination year-round, and there are also benefits to visiting outside the dry season, which is considered the high season.
The rainy season often means more affordable prices (outside of peak holiday periods), fewer visitors, afternoon showers, and warm temperatures. In September, you can also experience the country’s Independence Day celebrations.
Why tour Guatemala with TourCompass?
At TourCompass, we are true specialists in creating unforgettable tours you’ll remember for a lifetime.
When you book a tour to Guatemala with us, you enjoy the freedom of independent travel combined with the reassurance that comes from travelling with an experienced tour operator. Your tour always includes flights, hotels, and a carefully curated itinerary featuring all the destination’s major highlights. Along the way, we work with local guides who know Guatemala like the back of their hand.
In addition, both our team and our local partners are on hand throughout your journey, and you can reach us at any time via our 24-hour emergency hotline should you need assistance. That means you can explore Guatemala with complete peace of mind, knowing you are never alone.
Book your tour of Guatemala with TourCompass
Unforgettable experiences await you in Guatemala!
Would you like to discover Guatemala’s stunning landscapes, captivating culture, and fascinating history?
Contact our travel specialists today. We’re on hand and ready to answer any questions you may have.
Exploring the world with TourCompass means travelling with confidence – we’re with you all the way!
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