There are many beautiful scenery and cultural activities in Guatemala, giving its tourism a steady growth over the past years exemplified in 2017 with over 2 million tourists.
In order to make the list of things to do in Guatemala and make your dream vacation come true, it is better that you know these best things to do in the place, considering there are many things you can do and see there.
The first thing we suggest is to visit Semuc Champey, a site that is made up of several stepped and turquoise pools which you can swim in and get those pics for posting in your various social media accounts. Be informed that this place is far from the other famous tourist hubs requiring you to take an 8-hour bus ride one way alone.
Roasting marshmallows is something we all love, and what can be more exciting than doing this activity on an open fire like an on an active volcano, which you should put on your list when in Guatemala. Among the many volcanoes in Guatemala, Pacaya is the most famous, and it would take you a long bus ride, an hour and a half of hiking to reach the steep of this volcano, with an option to rent horses to make your pace faster.
The next thing we can mention for your to do list in Guatemala is to see the ruins of Tikal, which among the Mayan ruins, is by far the most famous one. Among the Mayan ruins in Guatemala, this particular ruin is one of the largest and is still in great form to show the beauty of the Mayan empire. In order to get the most of your experience, learn more about the ruins and the people who once lived in the place, it is advisable that you hire an English speaking guide or sign up for a family tour.
Next on your list to do when in Guatemala is to swim, paddleboard, hike or shop at the local markets in the place of Lake Atitlan, which is actually inside the crater of a huge volcano. There are several villages here with each having a distinct personality, where San Pedro is considered as a place to party among visitors with its bars, hostels, and restaurants. Another village surrounding the lake is San Marcos which is more relaxed and spiritual in its personality where you can find plenty of yoga classes and multi-day yoga retreats, and restaurants offering vegetarian foods.
Shopping is always on our list when we go on vacation, and in the Lake Atitlan village of San Marcos, you will find the most famous place to shop called Chichicastenango market.