On the Pacific Coast, you’ll find El Paredon, a quaint surf town where you can spend your days in the waves or lounging on the black sand beach soaking up the sun. Driftwood Surfer hostel is a great place to stay, with a restaurant & swim-up pool bar.
2 hours north of El Paredon you’ll reach the city of Antigua. This gorgeous city is often seen as the shining star of Guatemala, as the city is nestled between multiple volcanoes, giving the colourful Spanish colonial buildings that line the streets a background that will leave you speechless. If you fancy stretching your legs, head up the Hill of the Cross, where you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking view of Antigua, with Volcano Agua in the background.
For the adrenaline seekers, if spending a night on the side of a volcano before hiking to the summit for sunrise sounds like your cup of tea, then Volcano Acatenango should be your next stop. With an elevation of almost 4000 metres, this volcano hike will be well worth your time for what’s at the top. As the sun rises in the distance, you’ll be met with Volcano Fuego in the background, erupting lava, in what can only be described as a bucket list experience. There are multiple travel companies in Antigua providing a tour package to hike Acatenango, but Witcho & Charlie’s is my recommendation.
Looking for somewhere to rest your feet post-volcano hike? Head to Lake Atitlan, where you can relax in an array of small towns, such as San Pedro and San Marcos. If you’re looking for good food, relaxation & yoga, San Marcos is the place for you. If you’re up for a bit of partying (and good food), San Pedro is the town for you. Still looking for an activity to keep you bust whilst at the lake? Walking up Indian Nose at sunrise/sunset will provide you with a view of Lake Atitlan like no other.
Heading further north into the jungle you’ll stumble across the town of Lanqúin, which is the perfect base for travellers to rest up before exploring the nature reserve Semuc Champey. Turquoise blue waterfalls, and dark caves ventured by candlelight, your tour guide through this divine natural paradise will have you moving non-stop. The following day, taking a more relaxed approach, grab some beers and a rubber ring and float your way down the river basking in the sunlight.
If you're keen to further your knowledge of Mayan Culture & it's rich history, head further north to the town of Flores, nestled on Lake Petén Itzá. This tranquil town is perfect to call home for a couple of days, whilst you take a day tour up to Tikal National Park, where you are free to explore the breathtaking Mayan temple ruins surrounded by the jungle.
Last but certainly not least, to finish off your adrenaline-filled journey through Guatemala, make your way to Rio Dulce, a river surrounded by jungle that feeds into the Caribbean Sea. Stay at Hotelito Perdido, an adorable family-run hostel on the river, surrounded by the jungle. Spend your days lying in a hammock over the water with a book in hand. A quick boat ride to the mouth of the river is Livingston, a rustic town best known for its unique Garifuna culture. Gorge yourself on local delicacies before walking along the beach to Siete Altares, a collection of mini waterfalls to swim & relax in under the jungle canopy