Travel to Guatemala

A Land of Culture: In the Footsteps of the Mayas

Guatemala has a richly layered cultural identity. A deeply multi-ethnic country, it is home to no fewer than 23 communities (and as many languages), many of them descended from the ancient Maya. K’iche’, Kaqchikel, Q’anjob’al… Each ethnic group has its own specialities, from crafts to traditional commerce.

Over the centuries, these traditions have been shaped and blended with those of the Spanish colonisers, giving rise to a genuine cultural and religious syncretism. You can experience this living blend by exploring colourful markets, charming colonial cities such as Antigua or Flores, and the many churches where Maya and Catholic rites interweave.

Guatemala’s pre-Columbian history reveals itself through its precious remains: Maya archaeological sites, often hidden deep in the jungle. To travel back through 2,000 years of history, head to the Petén department, on the border with Mexico. Among the jewels of Guatemalan archaeology: the extraordinary city of Tikal, Yaxhá, and El Mirador, accessible only on foot.

In short, Guatemala is a perfect destination for cultural travel!

Trekking in Guatemala: Jungle and Volcanoes

A stay in Guatemala is equally a journey into adventure. The country has 37 volcanoes, of which 3 remain particularly active: Pacaya, Fuego and Santiaguito. Sitting on the Pacific Ring of Fire, Guatemala boasts the highest concentration of volcanoes in Central America! They shape the landscape in spectacular fashion, most dramatically on the shores of Lake Atitlán and around Antigua Guatemala.

Guatemala is therefore a superb playground for hikers and summit seekers. Among the most celebrated treks: the ascent of Acatenango Volcano, rising to nearly 4,000 metres. This 2-day hike (moderate difficulty) rewards you with a breathtaking natural spectacle: a grandstand view of the continuous eruptions of the neighbouring Fuego Volcano.

In this tropical country, the jungle also offers outstanding adventures. A prime example is the El Mirador trek: a 5-day epic through the rainforest leading to a magnificent Maya city hidden within a jewel of lush nature.

Guatemala: A Destination for Everyone

Whether travelling as a couple, solo, with friends or as a family, Guatemala is an ideal destination for every type of traveller. Looking for a honeymoon off the beaten track? With its exceptional addresses, delicious cuisine and dreamlike landscapes, Guatemala is a perfect romantic getaway.

Planning a family trip during the school holidays? Guatemala is a genuinely safe country for travellers. Your children will be spellbound by the natural spectacle the country puts on at every turn. In the jungle, they can become explorers in search of the Quetzal (the colourful bird that is Guatemala’s national emblem) or turn into junior archaeologists as they uncover the secrets of the Maya cities!

Our Favourite Trip: From the Mayan Ruins of Tikal to Copán

A 2-week circuit through Guatemala and Honduras, following in the footsteps of the Maya – in both history and the living present.

Get to know the local communities who live on the shores of Lake Atitlán, and explore the fabulous Maya archaeological sites buried deep in the jungle, like modern-day adventurers!

Guatemala: A Land of a Thousand Faces

Dreaming of an unforgettable adventure in a country of a thousand facets? Welcome to Guatemala: a fascinating destination that promises unique experiences at every turn.

A Land of Fire and Ice

Guatemala is dotted with majestic volcanoes and dramatic mountain ranges. Volcanoes such as Fuego, Pacaya and Acatenango offer opportunities for ascent and hiking, rewarding visitors with spectacular panoramic views.

Remarkable Ethnic Diversity

Guatemala is extraordinarily rich in cultural diversity, with numerous communities preserving their ancestral traditions. The Maya peoples (including the Kaqchikel, K’iche’, Mam and Q’eqchi’) and the Garifuna community contribute to the country’s extraordinary cultural fabric through their crafts, customs and languages.

An Ancient Civilisation

The country is home to numerous Maya ruins, testament to the ancient civilisation that flourished here. Archaeological sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites – including Tikal, El Mirador, Yaxhá and Quiriguá – give visitors the opportunity to explore magnificent temples, lost cities, mysterious pyramids and remarkably well-preserved palaces.

Rich Wildlife and Plant Life

Guatemala harbours incredible biodiversity. From the lush jungles of Tikal National Park to the Maya Biosphere Reserve, numerous opportunities to discover the country’s tropical wildlife and abundant plant life await nature lovers.

A Distinctive Culinary Heritage

Guatemalan cuisine offers a variety of fragrant, delicious and traditional dishes. Specialities such as tamales, pepián, kak’ik and tortillas are absolute must-tastes for experiencing the full depth of local flavour.

Guatemala Circuit: The Country’s Must-Sees

Planning a Guatemala circuit? Here are the highlights to include in your itinerary:

Guatemala City: the vibrant capital offers museums, art galleries, restaurants and a lively nightlife
Antigua: the former colonial capital, a city of extraordinary charm with cobbled streets, baroque churches and impressive ruins. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has been called the ‘most beautiful city in the Indies’. Also the starting point for the ascent of Pacaya Volcano
Lake Atitlán: often considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, surrounded by majestic volcanoes and dotted with traditional Maya villages such as San Pedro, Santiago and San Marcos. Its turquoise waters and spectacular setting make it simply unmissable
The Ruins of Tikal: nestled in the heart of the Guatemalan jungle, Tikal is a major archaeological site of the ancient Maya civilisation: pyramids, temples and palaces surrounded by extraordinary wildlife
Chichicastenango: famous for its colourful market, one of the largest and most vibrant in Central America: traditional crafts, textiles, fresh produce and local goods. Also a centre of Maya worship, with ceremonies regularly held in the Santo Tomás church
Semuc Champey: in the heart of the Guatemalan jungle, a magnificent series of turquoise natural pools fed by the Cahabón River. Swimming, hiking and sheer natural beauty in an untouched setting

Travelling to Guatemala with Tierra Latina

Guatemala is a fascinating country and a perfect destination for an adventure-and-culture journey. At Tierra Latina, we specialise in tailor-made travel and immersive homestay experiences. We maintain a high standard of service with our local partners, to whom we are committed for the long term. All our guides, drivers and hosts (passionate and inspiring!) are recognised for their professionalism.

Our philosophy: to put people at the heart of every journey, with deep respect for local communities. We place the emphasis on genuine human encounters throughout your stay, as part of a sustainable and community-based approach to tourism. Among the authentic experiences you can live during your Guatemala stay with Tierra Latina:

Taking part in a painting class with local artists
Sharing lunches with a Guatemalan family
Meeting fair-trade coffee producers

Want to live alongside Maya communities? Opt for a homestay: sharing the daily life of Guatemalan families, taking part in craft and cooking activities, and learning about their traditions and way of life. A responsible, eco-conscious journey built on exchange and sharing and a circuit that also directly supports the local economy and contributes to community wellbeing.

Want to take part in festivals and traditional celebrations? Guatemala is renowned for its many colourful festivals and vibrant cultural events. Try to time your Guatemala trip to coincide with celebrations such as Semana Santa (Holy Week), patron saint festivals or Maya ceremonies, where you can witness traditional dances, colourful processions and authentic rituals.

With Tierra Latina, you are guaranteed to travel differently, well off the beaten track and far from mass tourism. You explore little-known trails to discover spectacular landscapes and meet communities in remote villages.

Guatemala: A Preserved Destination

The Best Time to Visit Guatemala

Guatemala: Discover our trips

Explore the blog

Guatemala: Our travelers' reviews

Tell us everything

Fill in our form

Receive a personalised quote

We handle all your bookings

Enjoy every moment of your trip

Your Latin American adventure
starts now!

A Land of Culture: In the Footsteps of the Mayas

Trekking in Guatemala: Jungle and Volcanoes

Guatemala: A Destination for Everyone

Our Favourite Trip: From the Mayan Ruins of Tikal to Copán

Guatemala: A Land of a Thousand Faces

A Land of Fire and Ice

Remarkable Ethnic Diversity

An Ancient Civilisation

Rich Wildlife and Plant Life

A Distinctive Culinary Heritage

Guatemala Circuit: The Country’s Must-Sees

Travelling to Guatemala with Tierra Latina

Expert Advice

24/7 Assistance

Dual Presence

Latin America's best kept secrets

Travel to Guatemala

Guatemala: A Preserved Destination

The Best Time to Visit Guatemala

Guatemala: Discover our trips

Explore the blog

Guatemala: Our travelers' reviews

Tell us everything

Fill in our form

Receive a personalised quote

We handle all your bookings

Enjoy every moment of your trip

Your Latin American adventurestarts now!

A Land of Culture: In the Footsteps of the Mayas

Trekking in Guatemala: Jungle and Volcanoes

Guatemala: A Destination for Everyone

Our Favourite Trip: From the Mayan Ruins of Tikal to Copán

Guatemala: A Land of a Thousand Faces

A Land of Fire and Ice

Remarkable Ethnic Diversity

An Ancient Civilisation

Rich Wildlife and Plant Life

A Distinctive Culinary Heritage

Guatemala Circuit: The Country’s Must-Sees

Travelling to Guatemala with Tierra Latina

Expert Advice

24/7 Assistance

Dual Presence

Latin America's best kept secrets

Your Latin American adventure
starts now!