Articles by our Guatemala travel advisors

Mayan Temples Beyond the Obvious: How to Choose the Right Ruins for Your Guatemala Itinerary

By Gisela Bayer, March 6th, 2026

Guatemala isn’t just home to one iconic Mayan site — it’s the beating heart of the ancient Maya world, with more than 2,400 registered archaeological sites scattered across jungles, highlands, and river valleys. While Tikal rightfully draws travelers from around the globe with its towering pyramids piercing the rainforest canopy, limiting your itinerary to the “must-see” superstar means missing the magic of places that feel far more personal, intimate, and alive.
We craft Guatemala itineraries that mix iconic sites with hidden gems — perfectly paced for you. Ready to plan yours? Get in touch.

Whether you’re a first-timer seeking that iconic “wow,” a repeat visitor craving hidden depths, a family wanting easy adventures, a couple chasing romantic sunsets, or a history lover hunting carved stories, Guatemala’s Mayan ruins have your perfect match.

Grand Plaza at Tikal with Temple I rising above the jungle canopy in Guatemala
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Guatemala’s Lakes: Beyond Lake Atitlán

By Gisela Bayer, February 25th, 2026

Discover Crater Lakes, Caribbean Waters, and Sacred Highland Lagoons
When travelers think of lakes in Guatemala, one name rises above the rest: Lake Atitlán. Framed by volcanoes and dotted with colorful Maya villages, it’s easy to see why. But Guatemala is home to far more than just one iconic lake – and if you’re ready to experience crater lagoonsjungle-fringed waters, and Caribbean-connected waterwayscontact our team today to design your custom Guatemala lakes itinerary.

From sacred highland basins to tropical lakes near ancient Maya ruins, Guatemala’s waters offer extraordinary diversity for photographers, birdwatchers, and nature travelers alike. Here’s your complete guide to Guatemala’s most spectacular lakes – and how to visit several in one unforgettable journey.

People paddling a traditional canoe on the Río Dulce in Guatemala, surrounded by lush jungle along the scenic waterway near Lake Izabal.
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Planning Your Guatemala Trip: 7-Day, 10-Day, and 14-Day Itineraries

By Gisela Bayer, February 18th, 2026

Guatemala is one of Central America’s most rewarding destinations – a country where ancient Maya civilizations, colonial charm, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant living cultures come together. From misty highland villages and colorful markets to jungle-covered ruins and Caribbean beaches, Guatemala offers incredible diversity in a relatively compact area. Ready to explore Guatemala? Let’s plan your perfect itinerary.

Whether you have one week or two, the key to a great trip is choosing the right balance of destinations, pace, and experiences. Below, we break down 7-day, 10-day, and 14-day itineraries, along with practical tips on the best time to visit, budget, transportation, packing, and how to tailor your journey to your interests.

Mayan woman holding incense during a traditional festival parade in Guatemala, showcasing indigenous culture, colorful garments, and ceremonial rituals
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Guatemalan Food Traditions: A Culinary Journey Through Mayan and Colonial Flavors

By Gisela Bayer, February 3rd, 2026

Guatemalan food tells its story quietly but confidently—and to truly experience Guatemala, it’s best to begin at the table. From the aroma of fresh tortillas cooking over a clay comal to the deep bitterness of hand-ground cacao and slow-simmered stews rich with centuries of tradition, each dish invites you deeper into the country’s culture. And if tasting these flavors in their place of origin is on your mind, start planning a culinary journey through Guatemala and experience authentic local cuisine firsthand.

Rooted in ancient Mayan culture and shaped by colonial history, Guatemalan food is not just something you eat—it’s something you experience. From bustling markets to family kitchens, traditional dishes reveal the rhythms of everyday life and the stories passed down through generations.

Traditional guatemalan tamales
Traditional Tamales
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Hidden Mayan Temples: 5 Lesser-Known Archaeological Sites Beyond Tikal

by Silvanna Pacheco, December 18th, 2025

While Tikal draws the crowds, Guatemala is the heart of the ancient Maya world, home to over 2,400 registered archaeological sites. These range from the towering pyramids of the northern jungles to the highland fortresses of the late Post-Classic period. If you’re looking for an authentic adventure in 2026, here are five Mayan archaeological sites that offer a deeper and more mystical connection to the Mayan Kingdom. Start your trip now! Let our travel consultants craft your personalized itinerary.

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Guatemala’s Wild Heart: Where Ancient History Meets Untamed Nature

by Silvanna Pacheco, December 2nd, 2025

Guatemala, a land filled with ancient Mayan history is also a treasure for wildlife enthusiasts. From the misty cloud forests to the dense lowland jungles, this Central American gem boasts incredible biodiversity. Tikal, El Mirador, and Yaxha are not just monuments to human ingenuity but also vital habitats for countless species such as jaguars, monkeys, and exotic birds that have roamed these lands for centuries. Ready to explore? Let our travel consultants craft your personalized itinerary.

Tikal temple 4

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Discover Guatemalan Chocolate

by Ana Cetina, January 21, 2025

A distinctive chocolate experience may be found in guatemala, a country rich in ancient Mayan culture. Chocolate is not just a tasty delicacy; it is part of the traditions and history of Guatemala.

Long before the Spaniards arrived in America, the Mayans cultivated cacao and used it in various ways. Cacao beans were used as a calculable form of currency, a testament to their economic importance. When consumed during religious ceremonies and rituals, often mixed with spices and served as a beverage, it was ceremonial. It was also used as medicine, as the Mayans recognized the potential health benefits of cacao.

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The Rich Textiles of Guatemala

by Ana Cetina, December 27, 2024

A remarkable manifestation of cultural heritage, Guatemala’s indigenous textiles, have been handed down through the years and are deeply ingrained in the nation’s colorful identity. These textiles are more than simply cloth; they are symbols of history, folklore, and the distinctive traditions of Guatemala’s many indigenous communities.


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