Guatemala Highlights in 2026: The 12 Most Beautiful Places to Visit

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I love Guatemala. The moment I watched the sunrise over Tikal’s ancient pyramids pierce through the jungle mist, I knew this country was different. I spent two weeks last year trekking through its highlands and deep into the Petén jungle, and I’m still trying to process the magic of it all. From volcano hikes that left me breathless to the colors of Lake Atitlan changing with every cloud, this place keeps pulling me back.

Guatemala is truly a country that demands your full attention. One day you’re navigating the neon-colored chaos of a local “chicken bus,” and the next you’re swimming in the tiered, emerald pools of Semuc Champey. There are layers of soul here that are unlike anywhere else I’ve been on Earth. It’s in the smell of handmade tortillas and woodsmoke drifting through the cobblestone streets of Antigua, the vibrant, woven textiles that seem to hold the history of the Maya people in every thread, and the literal rumble of the earth beneath your feet as Volcán de Fuego puffs smoke into the sky.

Here are the 12 most beautiful places to visit in Guatemala…a mix of the iconic landmarks that live up to the hype and the quiet, hidden spots that remind me why I keep coming back.

Exploring the Beauty of Guatemala 🇬🇹

Few countries pack this much raw, geological drama into such a manageable space. Guatemala’s landscapes shift with dizzying speed. One minute you’re navigating the pine-covered Western Highlands, the next you’re standing in a humid jungle clearing surrounded by thousand-year-old Maya pyramids.

Travel here is an adventure in itself. “Chicken buses” (vibrant, repurposed North American school buses) roar over mountain passes, tuk-tuks zip through colonial alleyways, and lanchas (speedboats) are the only way to hop between the lakeside villages of Atitlán. It’s an incredibly rewarding country to explore independently…provided you have a sense of humor and a bit of patience for the occasional unpaved road.

My best words of advice? Follow the “Ruta Maya.” Guatemala might look small, but the terrain is rugged and travel times are deceptively long. For first-timers, don’t try to see both coasts and the deep jungle in one go. Pick a few hubs and let the culture sink in.

Where to Go for Beauty in Guatemala

• Antigua & Central Highlands: The cultural heart. Best for cobblestone charm, volcano hiking (Acatenango is a must), and world-class coffee.
• Lake Atitlán: A volcanic crater lake surrounded by three massive peaks and a dozen unique Maya villages—each with its own distinct vibe and textile traditions.
• The Petén (Tikal Region): Deep jungle territory in the north. This is the place for massive archaeological sites like Tikal and Yaxhá, and the colorful island town of Flores.
• The Verapaces (Semuc Champey): A lush, subtropical paradise famous for its turquoise limestone pools and massive cave systems hidden in the cloud forest.
• The Pacific Coast (El Paredón): Dark volcanic sand beaches, surf culture, and laid-back mangroves.
• The Caribbean & Río Dulce: A blend of Garifuna culture in Livingston and jungle-walled river canyons that feel like a scene from Indiana Jones.

Here’s my take: Fly into Guatemala City, but head straight to Antigua to find your feet. Build your loop around the “Big Three”…Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal. If you have extra time, venture into the “wildcard” regions like the emerald pools of Semuc Champey or the surf breaks of El Paredón. My guide below breaks down exactly how I personally navigate this beautiful, chaotic, and soul-stirring country.

👉 Find Your Perfect Guatemala Accommodation
👉 My Favorite Tour in Guatemala

My #1 tip to save money on your trip to Guatemala

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Guatemalan adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last winter, I flew to Guatemala City for just $275 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better! If you’re traveling in 2026, getting here just got a lot easier. Avianca has launched a new seasonal nonstop route between San Francisco and Guatemala City (running through August). It’s a huge win for West Coast travelers who want to skip the long layovers and dive straight into the Highlands.
• Food: The comedores inside Antigua’s market serve huge portions of pepián and jocon for under $4, while tourist restaurants charge triple. For multi-day hikes, grab fresh avocados and tortillas from village markets. In Lake Atitlan, seek out the local comedor row in San Pedro rather than lakefront restaurants.
• Transport: I recommend using chicken buses between major towns. They’re a third of shuttle prices and run more frequently. For Lake Atitlan, public lanchas (boats) cost half of private ones if you board from local docks. Consider collectivos (shared taxis) for shorter trips like Antigua to Guatemala City.

Guatemala may have a reputation for adventure travel, but there are plenty of ways to experience its incredible ruins and volcanoes on a budget.

Guatemala has so many highlights to explore, so I mapped out the top places to visit below. Save this map to your phone so you can easily plan your route between historic towns, natural wonders, and cultural sites.

The Prettiest Places in Guatemala

Ready to explore Guatemala’s magic? From misty volcano lakes to rainbow mountain towns, here are the spots that made me ditch my flight home!

1. Antigua

• 📍 Location: Sacatepéquez Department, Central Guatemala
• 🏆 Best For: Colonial charm lovers 🏛️, coffee fans ☕, culture walkers 🧭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing Cerro de la Cruz, exploring La Merced Church, visiting local coffee farms
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April for dry days and lively festivals ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Porta Hotel Antigua – Elegant colonial-style hotel with gardens, pool, and walkable access to landmarks

Antigua is the kind of city that feels like a storybook. Cobblestone streets wind between pastel buildings, all set against a dramatic backdrop of volcanoes. This UNESCO World Heritage site blends history and color in a way that makes wandering feel like time travel. You’ll pass crumbling churches next to trendy cafes, with live marimba music floating through the air.

The city’s heartbeat is Parque Central, where locals sell handmade goods and travelers rest under jacaranda trees. Around the plaza, you’ll find some of Guatemala’s most stunning colonial architecture, from bright yellow La Merced Church to the ruins of ancient convents.

Antigua also thrives with culture. Take a coffee tour at a local finca, join a salsa class, or dive into Guatemalan cuisine at a bustling market comedor.

For those who need to stay connected, the 2026 infrastructure upgrades have been a game-changer. Reliable high-speed Wi-Fi is now the standard in the colonial cores of Antigua and the main villages of Lake Atitlán. Plus, the new GuateR initiative has improved shuttle connections and safety protocols on major tourist routes, making independent travel smoother than it was even a year or two ago.

2. Lake Atitlán

• 📍 Location: Sololá Department, Southwestern Guatemala
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌋, digital nomads 💻, lakeside wanderers 🚤
• 📸 Top Experiences: Kayaking at sunrise, hiking to Indian Nose, exploring villages like San Juan and Santa Cruz
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April for clear skies and calm water 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lush Atitlán – Eco-chic hillside stay with lake views and easy access to San Marcos

Lake Atitlán is a peaceful getaway ringed by volcanoes and dotted with colorful Mayan villages. It’s a place where the water reflects the sky and each town feels like its own world. You can reach spots like San Pedro, San Juan, and Santa Cruz by boat, with each offering something different, from artisan markets to yoga retreats.

The lake itself is perfect for kayaking, swimming, or just watching the light change throughout the day. Early mornings bring misty reflections while evenings offer deep orange sunsets over the water. Hikers often climb Indian Nose or Volcán San Pedro for panoramic views of the entire basin.

Atitlán also attracts a creative crowd. Artists, musicians, and remote workers come here for the relaxed energy. Whether you’re in a hammock or a boat, this lake has a calm that pulls you in and makes it hard to leave.

• Read also: My Favorite Places to See in Central America

3. Tikal

• 📍 Location: Petén Department, Northern Guatemala
• 🏆 Best For: History explorers 🏺, wildlife watchers 🐒, ancient ruin chasers 🌿
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing Temple IV, spotting howler monkeys, watching sunrise over the jungle
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to April for cooler days and minimal rain 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Jungle Lodge Tikal – Rustic lodge with forest views just steps from the ruins

Tikal is one of the most iconic Maya ruins in the world, and walking through its towering temples feels like entering a lost kingdom. The site is surrounded by dense jungle, so howler monkeys, toucans, and coatis often steal the spotlight as much as the ruins themselves.

One of the best experiences is climbing Temple IV early in the morning. You’ll rise above the canopy to watch the sun break over the misty treetops, with other temples poking out in the distance. It’s quiet, surreal, and definitely worth the early wake-up call.

Paths wind through ceremonial plazas, stone pyramids, and ancient stelae covered in carvings. Tikal isn’t just about old stones. It’s an immersive, jungle-drenched experience that connects nature and history in a way that hits deep. Bring good shoes and plenty of water, exploring Tikal is a full-body adventure.

4. Semuc Champey

• 📍 Location: Alta Verapaz Department, Central Guatemala
• 🏆 Best For: Pool hoppers 🏊, jungle trekkers 🌴, natural bridge admirers 🌉
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to El Mirador viewpoint, swimming in turquoise pools, exploring K’an Ba cave
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to April for lower water levels and warm sunshine ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: La Lancha Eco Lodge – Riverside cabins with hammocks, local meals, and easy trail access

Semuc Champey is a hidden jewel in Guatemala’s jungle heart. A natural limestone bridge arches over the Cahabón River, creating a series of terraced emerald pools that glow under the sun. Hikers love the climb to El Mirador for soaring views of the pools and dense canopy below.

Each pool feels like its own private oasis. After a morning swim, you can venture into K’an Ba cave by flashlight, where the river tunnels through towering stalactites. The contrast between cool cave air and warm jungle light makes every step feel like a discovery.

This area remains delightfully low-key despite its beauty. Local guides offer multi-day camping trips that include overnight stays beside the pools. Whether you’re seeking adventure or just a serene swim in clear waters, Semuc Champey delivers an unforgettable slice of Guatemala’s raw, unspoiled nature.

5. Quetzaltenango (Xela)

• 📍 Location: Quetzaltenango Department, Western Highlands, Guatemala
• 🏆 Best For: Language learners 🗣️, volcano hikers 🌋, hot spring seekers ♨️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Soaking in Fuentes Georginas, climbing Santa María volcano, exploring Central Park
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for crisp air and clear summit hikes 🏞️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Modelo – Charming historic hotel with city views and authentic breakfast

Quetzaltenango, known as Xela, sits high in Guatemala’s western highlands and blends indigenous culture with lively urban energy. The city’s Parque Centro América buzzes with locals selling crafts and students practicing Spanish in outdoor cafés.

Just outside town, Fuentes Georginas hot springs offer warm mineral baths tucked among misty pine forests. It’s a perfect reward after tackling the hike up Santa María volcano. Reaching the crater rim at dawn reveals a sea of clouds below, with steaming volcanic vents at your feet.

Xela’s streets showcase neoclassical architecture alongside colorful markets where traditional weavings and fresh produce fill every stall. Cultural festivals, like the Mam Mayan Rabin Ajau celebration, add lively music and dance to the calendar.

One of my favorite shifts in 2026 is the focus on regenerative tourism. You’ll notice more ‘indigenous-led’ eco-lodges and community tours in the Western Highlands. These aren’t just tours…they’re designed to ensure your visit directly supports the Maya communities that keep these traditions alive. It makes the ‘authentic’ experience feel even more meaningful.

6. Flores

• 📍 Location: Petén Department, Northern Guatemala
• 🏆 Best For: Island explorers 🏝️, sunset lovers 🌅, Tikal day-trippers 🏺
• 📸 Top Experiences: Wandering cobblestone streets, boating on Lake Petén Itzá, dining at lakeside cafes
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to April for breezy weather and clear skies 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Isla de Flores – Bright lakeside stay with rooftop pool and central access to town

Flores is a tiny island town known for its colorful buildings, relaxed atmosphere, and scenic position on Lake Petén Itzá. A short bridge connects it to the mainland, making it a convenient base for travelers heading to nearby Maya ruins like Tikal and Yaxhá while offering a more peaceful vibe in the evenings.

Mornings are ideal for walking the cobbled streets and grabbing breakfast by the lake. As the day warms up, boat tours become popular, taking you to quiet swimming spots or local villages across the water. At sunset, the waterfront lights up with food stalls, music, and glowing skies that reflect off the lake.

The island is small enough to explore on foot in an hour, but there’s plenty to keep you busy. If you’re planning to visit Tikal, staying in Flores lets you balance big adventures with easy downtime and great food close by.

7. Chichicastenango

• 📍 Location: Quiché Department, Western Highlands, Guatemala
• 🏆 Best For: Market lovers 🧺, cultural photographers 📸, textile collectors 🧶
• 📸 Top Experiences: Shopping at the Thursday and Sunday market, visiting Santo Tomás Church, watching local ceremonies
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to February for festive energy and cool mountain air 🎉
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Museo Mayan Inn – Rustic hotel with antique decor and a quiet courtyard

Chichicastenango is best known for its massive open-air market, one of the largest and most colorful in Central America. On Thursdays and Sundays, the town fills with vendors selling textiles, masks, candles, and handmade crafts. The streets turn into a maze of color, sound, and scent, drawing travelers and locals alike.

The Santo Tomás Church is more than a backdrop. It’s an active place of worship where Maya and Catholic rituals blend. Visitors will often see locals burning incense or laying flowers on the church steps as part of traditional ceremonies.

Outside market days, Chichi slows down and becomes easier to explore. You can visit local museums, walk through the brightly painted cemetery, or enjoy a quiet meal at a nearby comedor. Planning your visit around the market schedule helps make the most of your time, especially if you’re interested in crafts or photography.

8. Monterrico

• 📍 Location: Santa Rosa Department, Southern Pacific Coast, Guatemala
• 🏆 Best For: Beach chillers 🏖️, wildlife spotters 🐢, weekenders from the city 🚐
• 📸 Top Experiences: Relaxing on volcanic black sand, visiting Tortugario Monterrico, taking a mangrove boat tour
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April for dry, sunny days by the coast ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel El Delfin – Laid-back beachfront stay with hammocks, ocean views, and local tours available

Monterrico is Guatemala’s most popular beach escape, known for its dramatic black sand, crashing Pacific waves, and relaxed coastal vibe. It’s an easy weekend trip from Guatemala City or Antigua, making it a top pick for travelers needing a break from mountain adventures.

The beach is raw and unpolished. Swimming can be rough because of the currents, but lounging under a palapa or walking along the shore is what most people come for. If you visit between July and December, you might even catch baby sea turtles being released into the ocean at the Tortugario Monterrico conservation center.

Nearby, the Monterrico Nature Reserve offers boat rides through mangrove canals where you can spot birds, iguanas, and sometimes caimans. Monterrico isn’t flashy, but that’s part of the charm. It’s all about slowing down, enjoying the sun, and soaking in simple coastal life.

9. Livingston

• 📍 Location: Izabal Department, Caribbean Coast, Guatemala
• 🏆 Best For: Afro-Caribbean culture fans 🎶, river adventurers 🚤, seafood lovers 🦐
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Garifuna music and food, boating along the Río Dulce, swimming at Siete Altares
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February to May for warm, calm weather along the coast 🌴
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Villa Caribe – Caribbean-style stay with sea views and lush tropical gardens

Livingston feels like a world apart from the rest of Guatemala. You can only get there by boat, either from Puerto Barrios or via a scenic ride along the Río Dulce, which sets the tone for the slower, coastal pace. Once in town, you’ll find a vibrant Afro-Caribbean community rooted in Garifuna culture, with rhythms, food, and traditions all their own.

Local dishes like tapado, a rich seafood stew, are reason enough to stay a few days. The sound of drums often fills the air, especially in the evenings when the town comes alive with dancing and music. A hike or boat ride to Siete Altares, a series of jungle waterfalls and natural pools, adds a refreshing side trip.

Livingston is great if you’re looking for something less touristy and more culturally immersive. Just bring cash and patience, since everything here moves on island time.

10. Cobán

• 📍 Location: Alta Verapaz Department, Central Guatemala
• 🏆 Best For: Orchid hunters 🌸, cloud forest trekkers 🌫️, off-the-beaten-path travelers 🧭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Orquigonia orchid reserve, exploring El Calvario viewpoint, hiking in cloud forests
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: February to May for drier weather and clearer views 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Casa Duranta – Cozy stay with colonial charm, garden views, and easy access to central Cobán

Cobán sits high in Guatemala’s cloud forest region, surrounded by lush greenery, waterfalls, and rare orchids. The town itself is cool and misty, offering a welcome contrast to the hotter lowlands. It’s a great base for travelers heading to Semuc Champey, but Cobán has plenty of charm in its own right.

Orquigonia, a nearby orchid sanctuary, showcases hundreds of species found only in Guatemala’s forests. Nature lovers will also enjoy trails in Biotopo del Quetzal, where spotting Guatemala’s national bird is part of the thrill. In town, El Calvario hill provides panoramic views over the valley and distant peaks.

Cobán moves at a slower pace, with local cafes, colorful markets, and friendly locals. It’s a good stop for travelers who want quiet nature without long travel times or crowds. Bring a light jacket and expect cool nights even in the dry season.

11. Pacaya Volcano

• 📍 Location: Escuintla Department, Southern Guatemala
• 🏆 Best For: Volcano trekkers 🌋, adventure photographers 📷, short-day hikers 🥾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to lava fields, roasting marshmallows on hot rocks, horseback riding on the trail
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for clear skies and safer trails ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Earth Lodge Antigua – Eco-lodge nestled in avocado groves with Pacaya volcano views

Pacaya Volcano is one of the most accessible active volcanoes in Central America. Located about an hour from Antigua, it’s a popular day hike that delivers dramatic landscapes without needing to be a hardcore trekker. The trail is manageable and usually guided, with the option to rent a horse if needed.

As you get higher, the terrain turns to volcanic rock, with steam rising from cracks in the ground. You won’t reach the crater, but the lava fields are close enough to feel the heat and even roast marshmallows over hot vents.

It’s a short but memorable hike with views of nearby volcanoes and wide open skies. The path can be dusty and steep in parts, so sturdy shoes and a windbreaker come in handy. This is a great add-on to your Antigua stay if you’re craving a half-day adventure.

12. Río Dulce

• 📍 Location: Izabal Department, Eastern Guatemala
• 🏆 Best For: River cruisers 🛶, nature lovers 🌿, jungle lodge seekers 🌳
• 📸 Top Experiences: Boating from Livingston to Río Dulce, visiting Castillo de San Felipe, spotting wildlife from the water
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to April for calm river conditions and bright days 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Tortugal Boutique River Lodge – Riverside cabins with hammocks, on-site dining, and boat access to nearby attractions

Río Dulce is one of Guatemala’s most scenic and underrated waterways. Stretching between Lake Izabal and the Caribbean coast, it’s lined with lush jungle, limestone cliffs, and occasional riverfront villages. The best way to experience it is by boat, either coming from Livingston or starting near Castillo de San Felipe.

The river is rich with wildlife. Expect to see herons, monkeys, and even manatees if you’re lucky. Locals fish along the banks while small eco-lodges blend into the trees. Some tours stop at natural hot springs or riverside markets, making the ride more than just a transfer.

Staying in a jungle lodge along the river gives you front-row seats to sunsets and morning mist. If you’re planning a visit, be ready for basic comforts, plenty of nature, and a slower travel rhythm.