Guatemala is a small country with a big attitude. This Central American country has something for everyone, from ancient ruins and colorful markets to active volcanoes and breathtaking lakes. In this post, we will look at the best things to do in Guatemala if you have 10 Days or less to spend and I will take you to some of Guatemala’s most beautiful places.
Hiking a Volcano
No trip to Guatemala is complete without hiking one of the country’s numerous volcanoes. Pacaya is the most accessible, being only an hour’s drive from Antigua. The hike to the summit is easy and takes about two hours. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including other nearby volcanoes, once you arrive. The heat from the volcano can even be used to roast marshmallows. For people who like to go a little bit crazier, there is a 2 Day volcano hiking tour with an amazing Sunset and Sunrise. I planned to do the 2 Days hiking tour but unfortunately, I was not able to do it, because I got blisters all over my feet two days before the tour. But I talked with a few people who climbed the volcano on the one-day and the two-day tour aswell and everyone told me it is the best thing they experienced in Guatemala. If you have the chance do it!
Exploring Guatemala City and Antigua
Guatemala City, the country’s capital, is a thriving metropolis with a lot to offer. Visit the National Museum of Anthropology and Ethnology if you’re interested in history. Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets (take care to not break your ankles, you can even see locals stumble), colonial architecture, and colorful buildings, is a more laid-back option. Antigua is also famous for its coffee, so try some while you’re there.
Visiting Hobbitenango
Hobbitenango will appeal to Lord of the Rings fans. This eco-park, located just outside of Antigua, is designed to resemble Hobbiton, the fictional village from the popular book and film series. You can stay in a Hobbit house, go on a hike, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views of the valley. Its a great place to have a relaxing day. Hobbitenango is around 20 Minutes away from Antigua. You can either take an uber to get there or take a Taxi.
Relaxing at Lake Atitlan
Lake Atitlan is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, and it’s surrounded by several charming towns and volcanos. Make sure you have your sunscreen and Insect Repellent ready before heading to the lake.
Panajachel is an excellent place to stay while visiting Lake Atitlan. This charming town on the lake’s northern shore offers a variety of activities, such as visiting the local market, taking a boat tour of the lake, or simply relaxing and admiring the scenery. There are numerous lodging options available here, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Don’t pass up the chance to sample some of the local cuisine, which includes dishes made with fresh lake fish. Personally, I haven’t tried it because I don’t like seafood at all, but if you do, give it a shot.
If you have time, you should also consider visiting the Chichicastenango Market, which is one of Central America’s largest and most colorful markets. This market, located in Guatemala’s highlands, is a hub of Mayan culture and offers a variety of handmade crafts, textiles, and fresh produce. Remember to bargain for the best price!
Conclusion
Guatemala is a country that’s full of surprises, with something new to discover around every corner. This are in my opinion some of the best places to visit in Guatemala. I did the activities above in around 10 Days These Activities will take you to some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Guatemala, from hiking a volcano to exploring colonial towns and relaxing by a stunning lake. If you have even more time you should definitely explore more of the northern part aswell. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Guatemala today!
Find out more about Guatemala and jump over to the Guatemala Overview Page