Dense jungles, serene lakes, misty mountains and charming colonial cities — Guatemala’s got them all, and then some. Compared to its northerly neighbor, Mexico, Guatemala’s a relatively small country, but the richness of its culture, the beauty of its landscapes and the friendliness of its people make it a rewarding destination.
Many people look for Central America vacations that offer beaches and a warm escape from their everyday lives. While the region does have a number of great destinations to choose from, Guatemala stands out. The following sights and cities are part of what set it apart.
* Antigua Guatemala. Better known as simply “Antigua,” this low-slung, candy-colored colonial town will steal your heart and not give it back. It was once the country’s capital, but a series of devastating earthquakes forced a decision to move the center of government about an hour’s drive away, in Guatemala City. The three volcanoes that surround the city are a reminder of the city’s lively geological history, as are the ruins of many of the city’s former convents, churches and abbeys. When you stroll the city’s cobblestone lanes, there’s a lovely scene almost everywhere you turn, whether it’s purple jacaranda tree blossoms raining down on the central square or the riot of colors that adorn the markets set up in the shadow of a ruined church.
* Tikal. The dense jungle of the Peten region is a vast green sea, but at Tikal, sharp stone ridges rise abruptly out of the foliage. These are the roof combs of the temples built by the Mayan civilization in this sprawling, now long-abandoned city. Tikal is a site so extensive that while it takes days to fully explore as a visitor, is still being excavated and restored — some temples have not yet been extricated from the thick forest growth that makes them look more like hills than temples. You can stay just outside the grounds of the park (there are three hotels, which fill up quickly) or you can take a bus ride from the tropical-flavored city of Flores. Inside the park, in addition to the magnificent and rather mind-boggling architecture, you’ll see and hear a chorus of wildlife, possibly including howler monkeys, coatimundis, toucans and more.
* Lake Atitlan. They say there’s a powerful mystic force that draws people into the area and convinces them to stay. It could be that, or it could simply be the fact that there are few places more serenely beautiful than Lake Atitlan. Some Central America vacations are focused on high-energy pursuits like river rafting, but Lake Atitlan is the perfect place to find relaxation. There are a handful of villages dotted around the lake, most with accommodation for travelers. Most people enter the area through the town of Panajachel, which makes a good base, though it’s a little busier than some of the other villages. For a small fee, you can take “lanchas” to visit other places on the lake — simply go down to the shore in the morning and ask who’s going where. Panajachel is also a good point of departure for exploring other nearby towns like Chichicastenango, home to one of the liveliest markets in the country. You’ll find everything from textiles and hand-carved masks to vegetables, fruit and livestock for sale.
To start planning your trip, explore your options online. Cheap hotels are abundant and readily available throughout Central America, and you’ll be amazed at how far your dollar will stretch. Sites like Travelocity.com can help you find the best deals on airfare and hotels, and even offer services like a fare-watching tool that informs you when prices drop.
Courtesy of ARAcontent
