coffee tour antigua guatemala

11 Best Coffee Tours Antigua Guatemala Has to Offer

Are you looking for the best coffee tours Antigua Guatemala has to offer? If so, you’re in luck! In this post, I’ll cover all of the best coffee tours available in Guatemala’s colonial city to help you explore the amazing world of caffeine.

***This page contains affiliate links, so if you book a tour through those links, I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more in my  disclaimer .***

*This post was written by Val McArthur, a special guest writer.

Don’t have time to read the whole post? Skip straight to the good stuff and book the Antigua Coffee Crawl . You’ll get the full experience, from coffee plantation to barista magic.

Or jump to the Quick Guides section for a review of my top three picks.

Why take a coffee tour in Antigua?

Guatemala is well-renowned for its gourmet coffee . In. fact, it is one of the top ten coffee exporters in the world. And Antigua is one of Guatemala’s premier coffee-growing regions!

Taking a tour here is something any visiting coffee aficionado should take advantage of!

Still not convinced? This has been my experience: I love Guatemalan coffee and thoroughly enjoy drinking as much of it as I possibly can, but learning about the process makes me appreciate my cup of Joe even more.

I’m positive that you, too, can benefit from the wealth of knowledge available about Guatemalan coffee production!

Quick Guide: Top Coffee Tours Antigua

#1 Top Pick ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Antigua Coffee Crawl

Visit an authentic Antigua Coffee Farm and learn all about the process from an expert local farmer. Back in town, you’ll get hands on, blending, tasting, smelling, and preparing coffee beverages. It’s the full experience from sprout to cup! Book it

#2 Pick ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ATV Coffee Tour

Add some adrenaline to your caffeine buzz by zooming to a coffee plantation for an incredible tour, learning a ton, and getting the wind in your face. End with great views of Antigua from the Cerro de la Cruz. Book it

#3 Pick ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Rural Farm Coffee Tour

Immerse yourself in the world of small-scale rural coffee farms on this wonderful community-based tour to San Pedro de las Huertas on the outskirts of Antigua. Taste, inhale delicious aromas, and learn from Guatemalans on the ground. Book it

With lots of different coffee tours, Antigua Guatemala has something for any kind of traveler. Whether you’re interested in exploring coffee farms, biking the countryside before drinking a cup of coffee, or a cultural deep-dive, there are coffee tours on this list for you!

Read on to discover my top picks for Antigua coffee tours.

1. Antigua Guatemala Coffee Crawl

This Antigua Guatemala coffee crawl will take you to a genuine coffee farm where you’ll learn how a coffee cherry turns into a delicious cup. 

The tour takes place on a farm south of Antigua Guatemala. During the guided excursion, you’ll learn about different types of coffee plants, soil considerations, harvesting, and even about the drying process. You’ll discover how the entire environment affects the way coffee tastes, a phenomenon referred to as terroir.

We started with a tour of a coffee farm at the skirts of the water volcano in Antigua. We learned all the steps of growing coffee, types of plants, soil, cropping the beans and it’s drying process. We ended the tour with a coffee tasting and with a workshop of the different types of coffees, blending different beans, smelling, etc. and the steps to make a perfect espresso coffee, latte and cappuccino… I highly recommend the tour! wendy (Read more reviews )

Finish off with coffee tasting extraordinaire. Blend different beans, smell, and then sip. Learn the steps to making perfect espresso coffee drinks, all while using the best Guatemala Antigua coffee beans available. Yum! Sign me up!

Antigua Guatemala Coffee Crawl At a Glance

• Price : From $103
• Maximum group size : ten people
• Duration : 4 hours
• What’s included : Private transportation, snacks, bottled water, coffee/tea, alcoholic beverages
• Meeting point : Antigua Guatemala Cathedral

2. Antigua ATV Coffee Tour *Top Adrenaline*

Ready for adrenaline on top of caffeine jitters? If so, this multi-stop Antigua ATV coffee tour in Guatemala could be a perfect choice! Hop on your four-wheel rig and roar across cobbled and paved streets to the nearby city of Jocotenango.

After a fifteen-minute joy ride, you’ll reach La Azotea coffee plantation. This is a prime spot to see coffee production on a property with beautiful grounds.

The coffee tour lasts an hour, but as a bonus, you can visit a music museum on the farm as well! 

Ready to ride? Hop back on the ATVs and head to one of Antigua’s well-known landmarks “El Cerro de la Cruz.” This “Hill of the Cross” is an iconic lookout offering panoramas of the colonial city and volcanoes.

We really enjoyed riding through the streets and hills of Antigua on this tour. Further, our guide (Gio … I believe) was very knowledgeable and made the ride fun. The coffee tour was incredibly informative and I certainly appreciate my daily cup of joe a lot more. I’d recommend booking again! KATHERINE (READ more reviews )

Coffee and a bird’s eye view of the city of Antigua, Guatemala! Sounds like a great day.

Antigua ATV Coffee Tour At a Glance

• Price : $46
• Maximum group size :  15 people 
• Duration : 3 hours
• What’s included : coffee/tea, all fees, and taxes
• Meeting point : 6a Avenida Norte 60

3. Rural Farm Coffee Tour Antigua Guatemala *Sustainable Tourism*

Want to see a small business in action? This rural coffee farm tour teaches you all about small-scale Guatemala Antigua coffee bean production. 

Learn why most coffee in the area is shade grown! Taste what a coffee cherry is like fresh off the tree. Best of all, you’re learning from a local farmer who has grown up in the trade.

Incredibly interesting history and production, both our guide and the expert joining us did an amazing job with explaining everything and letting us try and taste anything we wanted to. Very immersive experience! Astalinn (Read more reviews )

You also get to learn about the history and architecture of the Spanish colonial period.

Note: Other guests recommend bringing a curious mind as well as your hiking shoes for a “trip up the hill.”

Rural Farm Coffee Tour Antigua Guatemala At a Glance

• Price : From $30
• Maximum group size : 15 people
• Duration : 2 to 3 hours 
• What’s included : guided tour of a coffee farm & downtown
• Meeting point : San Pedro Las Huertas

4. Sip’n Cycle Coffee & Mountain Bike Tour

What better way to explore a coffee farm than on a mountain bike? Deemed an intermediate ride, this Sip’n Cycle Coffee & Mountain Bike Tour is good for all but the most beginner bike riders.

This fun excursion gives a unique on-the-ground experience of the beautiful Guatemalan countryside. Cycle past idyllic farms and take in the surrounding volcanoes. Arrive at the farm and get shown around by a local co-op member. Learn how to flame-roast and hand-grind coffee beans after being shown the growing process. 

Enjoy some of the best coffee in Antigua, Guatemala brewed by your own hands! Finish the day with a family-style meal of traditional Guatemalan food.

Amazing experience! Bike riding through Antigua was beautiful and the visit to see how coffee was made with lunch with a local family was great too. Highly recommend. Good people. nicole (read more reviews )

This tour is a perfect choice if you want to support small-scale farmers and get to know some locals!

Sip’n Cycle Coffee & Mountain Bike Tour At a Glance

• Price : $122
• Duration : 4 to 5 hours
• What’s included : bottled water, lunch, activities, local guides, all equipment needed, coffee, tea
• Meeting point : Old Town Outfitters, starting time: 9:00 am

5. Coffee Finca & Macadamia Farm Combo Tour

This two-for-one Coffee Finca & Macadamia combo tour from Antigua Guatemala is an awesome choice for curious minds! Tour both a coffee and a macadamia nut farm. Even better, both plantations are sustainable and eco-friendly!

Not only do you see the best Guatemala Antigua coffee beans getting produced, you also get to explore a beautiful coffee plantation called La Azotea. 

Next, you’ll get to visit the Valhalla Experimental Station. This Macadamia Farm is sure to be intriguing. Eat yummy macadamias, learn about the production process, and try some macadamia beauty products. Fun!

Really interesting tour learning about not only coffee and macadamia nut production but rural life, Guatemala as a whole and multiple other things. The driver stopped whenever we wanted photographs, anticipated our wishes and even added things outside of the itinerary. I really enjoyed the side excursion to Aliotenango which was totally off the tourist map samantha (Read more reviews )

Note : The admissions cost to the coffee plantation and Valhalla experimental station are not included in the tour price so you’ll need to bring additional cash for that. 

Coffee Finca & Macadamia Farm Combo Tour At a Glance

• Price : From $60
• Maximum group size : 8 people
• Duration : approximately 4 hours
• What’s included : private transportation, a professional guide
• Meeting point : Hotel Pick Up offered

6. Coffee Beverage-Making Techniques Workshop

Want to learn how to brew a delicious cup of coffee every time? I definitely do! This hands-on beverage-making technique workshop at an Antigua Guatemala coffee shop sounds amazing.

During the workshop, you’ll learn how to make the best cup of coffee in a variety of brew methods. It’s ideal for any coffee aficionado who wants to learn more about the intricacies of brewing! 

You’ll get a step-by-step guide and demonstration in V60, Chemex, Tornado, and Origami brewing methods. Not only do you get to drink the fruits of your labor that day, but any day you choose in the future thanks to your new knowledge!

Great experience! Very informative presentation with a really friendly guide. Everything was explained patiently. 10/10 would recommend Sanchit (Read more reviews )

Coffee Beverage-Making Techniques Workshop At a Glance

• Price : From $40
• Maximum group size : 8 travelers
• Duration : 1.5 hours
• What’s included : equipment, explanation by a professional barista, 400 grams of specialty coffee
• Meeting point : hotel pickup
• Start time : 9:00 am

7. Coffee Plantation and Antigua City Combo *Best for Cruise Ship Travelers*

If you’re dropping into Guatemala during a cruise, this Combo Plantation and Antigua City Tour is a perfect choice! It leaves from Puerto Quetzal and includes a bunch of fabulous stops! 

During this tour, you’ll visit the Centro Cultural La Azotea, a cultural center that has three separate museums! Coffee is first on the docket of course! You’ll head out to the farm to see the plants growing and learn lots of interesting facts about them.

After visiting the coffee plantation, you can learn even more about coffee in the coffee museum.

Billy was our tour guide and Billy our driver. They were wonderful, and very informative!! We had a great tour and highly recommend them, very knowledgeable!! Thanks for a wonderful tour of your Country. The Seattle Group (read more Reviews )

As added bonuses, check out the Mayan Music Museum to learn about ancestral instruments, and the Rincon de Sacatepéquez Museum to learn about traditional Guatemalan attire. Definitely come prepared to learn a lot!

Next, visit downtown Antigua Guatemala with a pass through the Cathedral and the Palace of the Lords. End with a delicious lunch. Talk about a day out!

Coffee Plantation and Antigua City Combo At a Glance

• Price : From $101.54
• Duration : 6 hours
• What’s included : snacks, bottled water, all fees and taxes
• Meeting point : Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala, start time at 9:00 am.

8. Coffee Tour in Sacatepequez with Tasting

Go to Sacatepequez for a tour with a tasting! Live a day in the life of a coffee farmer, and learn about each step of the coffee process. With ten steps before the beans are even ready to roast, there is a lot to learn!

It doesn’t stop with the “green beans” either. Move right along and learn about the roasting and brewing stages. 

Finish the tour learning how to make a well-balanced cup of coffee, then drink coffee grown and roasted by locals. From sprout to cup, discover the life cycle of a coffee bean. 

Excellent tour with Baudilio. His knowledge of the coffee journey from harvesting to tasting is amazing! We did a tour of the farm, and then back to his hour to learn more about coffee processing, roasting and tasting! Baudilio was so friendly and answered all my questions. The tour was so interesting. The coffee tasted so good, with such differences between brewing techniques. Amazing tour and well recommended! Barry (read more reviews )

Coffee Tour in Sacatepequez with Tasting At a Glance

• Price : From $50
• What’s included : Transportation, entrance to the plantation, guide, coffee tasting
• Meeting point : hotel pickup 

9. Villages And Plantations Around Antigua Guatemala *Multi-Stop*

This Villages And Plantations Around Antigua Guatemala Tours has four stops! It’s a marvelous way to see a lot in one jam-packed tour.

Start your day with a trip to San Juan del Obispo for insight into the Guatemalan drinking chocolate. (One of my favorite stops and extremely delicious).

Next, you’ll explore the Valhalla Macadamia Nut Farm where you might even have the option of a facial. Learning about the health benefits of macadamia oil and how these super hard nuts are processed is intriguing.

On the third stop, learn about the local weaving process at San Antonio Aguas Calientes, and try on the traditional clothes. (This is definitely worth doing! Although it isn’t coffee related, the typical clothing is beautiful).

Last but not least, you’ll visit La Azotea for a spectacular coffee plantation tour. While you’re there, you’ll learn about the process of growing and harvesting coffee beans. Guatemalan coffee is delicious, so this is bound to be a highlight!

Loved this tour! The artisanal demos and historic sites in the villages were so interesting, and we loved touring the macadamia farm and the coffee plantation! Nelson is an amazing tour guide with a wealth of knowledge of the area and its rich history. We highly recommend this tour!! Joan (Read more reviews )

This is definitely one of the best Antigua Guatemala coffee tours you can find!

Villages And Plantations Around Antigua Guatemala

• Duration : 5 hours
• What’s included : private transportation, bottled water, hotel pickup and dropoff
• Meeting point : Hotel Pick Up

10. Coffee & Culture Tour – Antigua City & Coffee Farm

The Coffee and Culture tour starts with a visit to Cerro de la Cruz. This scenic hill looks out over the colonial city and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes. 

Did you know that coffee trees were originally brought to Guatemala by Jesuit priests in Antigua? It’s true! So it’s appropriate that your next stops will take you to some historic buildings.

Visit monasteries like the one that brought coffee to the country, churches with intricate artwork, and important monuments.

Enjoy a delicious lunch before beginning your coffee tour at a local coffee plantation. You get a full afternoon of coffee education. Hurray for caffeine!

We have had many-many tours in different places around the world and Gustavo is one of the best guides we have met so far. And the city itself- so beautiful and has such a good vibe (there is something special about this town)… Also, the coffee plantation visit was really interesting. I don’t drink coffee, but it still was worth to visit. They have chocolate “section” also and we had some amazing chocolate tea and rum! Get Your Guide Traveler (see more reviews )

Don’t forget to try Antigua Guatemala coffee beans before heading home after a full day in this beautiful city!

Coffee & Culture Tour – Antigua City & Coffee Farm At a Glance

• Price : From $72
• Maximum group size : not specified
• Duration : 9 hours 
• What’s included: transportation, professional guide, entrance fees, taxes
• Meeting point: hotel pick up in Guatemala City

11. Private Walking Tour in Antigua & Coffee Plantation Experience

Explore Antigua and its surroundings for intriguing insight into the culture, history, and coffee scene in Guatemala. This Private Walking Tour & Coffee Plantation Experience is going to be awesome.

Kick off this tour from your hotel in Antigua or Guatemala City. You’ll start off with a fascinating step back into time at the Casa de Santo Domingo. It was built for Dominican monks in the 16th century and represents a key period in Guatemala’s colonial beginnings.

Next, you’ll explore three iconic Antigua sites: the Cerro de la Cruz, Iglesia la Merced, and the Santa Catalina Arch. At each stop you’ll learn the stories and even some secrets behind the buildings.

After a visit to the central park and a cool visit to a Jade factory, you’ll get to visit La Azotea. This is the part you’ve been waiting for: coffee extraordinaire. You’ll see the plantation, a 19th-century coffee mill, and an industrial coffee mill.

Walking Tour in Antigua & Coffee Plantation Experience At a Glance

• Price : From $195
• Maximum group size : your party only
• Duration : 7-8 hours 
• What’s included: transportation, professional guide, entrance fees, taxes, bottled water
• Meeting point: hotel pick up in Guatemala City or Antigua Guatemala

Best Coffee Tours Antigua Guatemala: FAQs

If you have more questions after reading these FAQs, check out my guide to Guatemalan coffee . I cover everything you need to know about these amazing Central American beans.

Is Guatemala Antigua coffee good?

Yes! Guatemala Antigua coffee is well-known and delicious. It has a sweet full body and complex flavor profile and gets good reviews from coffee consumers globally. 

Almost all the beans grown in the region are high-quality Arabica beans. Definitely take advantage and buy local beans while visiting! 

Several of the best coffee shops Antigua Guatemala has to offer use 100% coffee grown in the region. 

Where does Guatemala grow coffee?

Guatemala has eight distinct coffee-growing regions, with distinct flavor profiles. The regions include Acatenango Valley, Antigua Coffee, Traditional Atitlan , Rainforest Coban, Fraijanes Plateau, Highland Huehue , New Oriente, and Volcanic San Marcos. 

It’s worth trying each region as they’re all unique. You might walk away with a few different favorites!

Best Coffee Tours Antigua Guatemala Has to Offer: Final Thoughts

No matter which Antigua Guatemala coffee tour you book, you’re bound to have an incredible time.

I love tramping around the farms, and trying fresh coffee cherries off the bush! Plus, drinking a cup after watching the whole process is cool.

While you can’t go wrong with any of the tours listed above (they truly are the best coffee tours Antigua Guatemala has to offer). I think the Antigua Coffee Crawl sounds like an amazing way to explore the countryside. I’m definitely adding it to my Guatemala bucket list!

What about you? Which of these Antigua Guatemala coffee tours do you like the most?

Looking for more activities in the area? Discover more things to do in Antigua Guatemala . I recommend you go on a Pacaya Volcano hike from Antigua , or choose one of these mouthwatering Antigua food tours !

Heading further afield? The destinations page lets you search by Guatemalan department.

About the Author

Val McArthur is a communications specialist currently living on the island of Maui. She grew up in Guatemala where she developed a taste for high-quality coffee, the outdoors, and multi-cultural experiences.

*** GUATEMALA TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE *** Should I buy Guatemala travel insurance? YES  — Personally, I always travel with travel insurance because it gives me extra peace of mind.  SafetyWing  is an excellent travel insurance company that’s quite affordable. Plus, if you travel longterm, it’s a snap to renew on a month to month basis. You can keep renewing for up to a year and still pay the same deductible. Where’s the best place for finding cheap flights to Guatemala? When I purchase a ticket, I always search several different sites.  Kayak  and  Expedia  are great places to start running a search. Spirit is usually the cheapest carrier, but American Airlines and United also sometimes offer excellent deals. What’s the best way to book my Guatemala accommodations? I recommend  booking.com  for finding and booking hotels in Guatemala. For vacation rentals, I recommend  VRBO.com  — it offers beautiful and unique spots to stay. What’s the best way to book Guatemala tours? Viator  is a great tour booking site with several excellent options available in Guatemala’s main tourist areas including Tikal, Atitlán, Antigua, and Acatenango. There’s a nice range of prices and options available. Can you drink the water in Guatemala? No – Don’t drink the tap water! Instead, buy purified water from any corner store or grocery store in Guatemala. Be sure to brush your teeth with that water as well to avoid getting sick. And hydrated, especially when traveling to high elevations. Do I need a visa for Guatemala? Probably not — Visitors to Guatemala from “Category A” countries like the United States, Canada, the UK, New Zealand, Australia, and most European countries are automatically given a 90-day tourist visa (in the form of a passport stamp) when entering Guatemala. This visa is valid for Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador. At the end of 90 days, it can be renewed once at Guatemala’s Migración without leaving the country. After 180 days, you will have to travel outside of Central America before returning. Check to see  if you need a visa . Will my phone work in Guatemala? It’s possible, but check with your provider in advance to see if Guatemala is covered. If not, you can easily pick up a local SIM card. There are essentially only two carriers in the country: TIGO and CLARO. Both have good coverage.

Yvonne McArthur is a writer, word-lover, and adventurer born and raised in Guatemala. Since starting her niche travel blog in 2021, she's helped thousands of people discover Guatemala, from top tourist attractions to far-flung destinations.

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A Little Aroma… Learning the Art of Coffee in Antigua, Guatemala

Last updated on January 21, 2024 by Shannon

A fantasy series that I read and loved use a phrase that drove the heroine throughout the novels: All knowledge is worth having. The idea resonated deeply since closely echoes my own approach to life. I love to learn .

Learning was a driving force for taking my round the world trip , and I love sharing cool little facts and tidbits that I’ve learned over the years (it’s a key characteristics most people either love or hate about me!).

That’s what brought me on a coffee tour outside of Antigua, Guatemala at the Finca Filadelfia Coffee Plantation.

It’s funny how I found out about the coffee farm tour: I overhead another traveler complaining about an overly-detailed coffee tour they had just returned from—a tour that journeyed from the field to the tasting room, and explained everything in between about how coffee is grown, harvested, and roasted.

Sign me up for that!

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Coffee Tour Company

In the years since my first trip to Antigua, Guatemala, the coffee tour business has grown immeasurably larger. There are not many great options—I recommend booking your coffee tour with De La Gente .

This fantastic social enterprise operates as a nonprofit and is deeply embedded with local communities. It’s the only coffee tour in Antigua confronting issues and injustices within the coffee supply chain by incorporating more cooperatives on a large scale, and accompanying and assisting them in becoming sustainable and thriving coffee producers.

That said, I did my coffee journey at the Finca Filadelfia Coffee Plantation located outskirts of Antigua, Guatemala —De La Gente didn’t yet exist. But this is what you can expect from a tour of a working coffee farm. Let’s review the entire process of making this aromatic drink beloved by cultures all over the world.

Pick out accommodation on Booking.com.

This is the only booking platform I use because it rewards you for loyalty, and I regularly score free breakfasts and 15% off my hotel.

A Brief History of Coffee in Antigua, Guatemala

Coffee has a long and important history in the Antigua region of Guatemala. Coffee production in Antigua dates back to the late 18th century , when the first coffee plants were introduced to the region by the Spanish.

At the time, coffee was a highly sought-after commodity, and it quickly became a major source of wealth and economic development for Antigua and the surrounding region.

Over the years, coffee production in Antigua has undergone many changes. In the early 19th century, coffee was primarily grown on small, family-owned farms. However, as the demand for coffee grew, larger plantations began to emerge, and many of these were owned by wealthy landowners.

Coffee production in Antigua reached its peak in the mid-19th century, when the region was producing some of the highest-quality coffee in the world.

Today, coffee is still an important crop in the Antigua region, and it is known for its high-quality beans and unique flavor profiles. Many local coffee farmers follow traditional methods of production, using organic fertilizers and natural pest control methods to produce coffee that is both sustainable and delicious.

The coffee industry in Antigua is also an important source of employment and economic development for the region, with many small coffee farmers relying on coffee production (and coffee tours for travelers) as their primary source of income.

Overall, the history of coffee in Antigua reflects the region’s long and rich cultural heritage, and it continues to play a central role in the region’s economy and society.

Don’t forget to  book travel insurance for your trip —a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used  IMG Global  for more than a decade  highly recommend it !

Discoveries on a Coffee Farm Tour Near Antigua

1. It’s All About Bean Selection

Our tour started in lush surroundings—right among the fragrant coffee trees. Finca Filadelfia has over 130 years of tradition, having grown coffee from 1870.

The grounds are vast and well maintained, and it’s a shady, beautiful walk as our guide details that any good cup of coffee starts with seed selection.

There are two main types of coffee. Arabica is the tastiest, but Robusta is hardier. Both beans also have different flavor characteristics.

Although Robusta has a notably more bitter flavor, that’s spot on for taste preferences and a fair few countries actually only grow Robusta—likewise, some countries tend to produce Arabica varieties due to climate and soil.

Finca Filadelfia produces Arabica beans—but with a twist. Because Robusta trees are heartier and more resistant to diseases and bugs, the coffee plantation splices together baby plants, using the root system from Robusta seedlings and the actual Arabica plant.

At this plantation, women do most of the splicing work because their fingers are smaller and better suited to the delicate task with such fragile seedlings.

2. Wait, Is that Coffee or a Cherry?

Coffee trees need three years to mature enough to produce coffee beans. You know a coffee bean is ready to pick with the bright red coffee cherries look plump and pretty among the leaves (note that red cherries actually come down to varieties—my Thailand coffee journey into the mountains north of Chiang Rai yielded both beautifully red and yellow fruits).

During the harvest season, more than 150 families move onto the plantation—kids and all. All beans are handpicked at the estate, and parents pick the beans while children attend makeshift schools and run through the rows of trees.

The cherry actually tastes like a sweet red pepper, which tastes completely bizarre if you anticipate anything like the end-product: a dark brown roasted coffee bean.

3. Separate the Coffee Beans, Sort, Dry, and Sort Again

Huge trucks drive through the farm and to transport ripe and freshly picked coffee cherries to the processing center. It’s important this happens regularly to prevent fermentation. During this process, the cherry-like skin is removed, along a thin sticky layer covering the seed itself.

Once the coffee beans are free from gooey-outer layers, they are sorted by color—color at this stage is the first indicator of quality. Light and perfectly ripe beans are sorted for export or for sale to tourists, while dark and irregular colored beans are sold within Guatemala as a cheaper coffee brand.

Once the uniform, creamy white beans have been sorted, they are laid out and turned in mass for two weeks to dry in the fierce Guatemalan sun.

Semi-dry white beans smell a bit like white chocolate, a fact that had my stomach rumbling as I inhaled deeply into a sun-warmed handful of coffee beans.

Once dry, it’s time to sort beans by size—another key indicator of bean quality, and uniform beans are an essential part of ensuring an even roasting experience.

4. But Wait: A Final Hand-Sort of the Coffee Beans

The coffee making process at Finca Filadelfia is a hands-on event and there is no leaving to chance the process of selecting the beans that will make it into the plantation’s premium roasts.

A conveyor belt apparatus slowly drives the beans through another visual sort, where a pro coffee picker digs through the beans and plucks out any beans showing slight defects that will impact the final result.

By now, the beans have been spliced together for heartiness, fertilized, plucked, and sorted with intense scrutiny. Now it’s time for the final stages of the process that will eventually end with an aromatic, steaming cup o’ joe.

5. Sampling a Slice of Heaven: Fresh Roasted and Brewed Coffee

Walking into the roasting room, the rich aroma of coffee beans flooded my senses. It smelled like lazy Sunday mornings.

Various machines process beans according to desired roast—light, medium, and dark. Darker roasts have more flavor, because it’s through the roasting process that the caffeine and flavor is released into the beans through the tiny coffee seed at the center of the bean.

Once we’ve walked through the roasting process our guide delivers the good stuff: a sample cup of the estate’s premium roast.

It’s good. In fact, it’s amazing.

Maybe knowing all the work that went into my cup is why it tasted exactly like a little slice of heaven. One thing is for sure, Finca Filadelfia knows how to make a fine cup coffee.

How to Plan an Antigua, Guatemala Coffee Tour

Booking a coffee tour.

The full two-hour tour is bookable directly through the Finca Filadelfia Plantation —it costs $20 for non-Guatemalans. There are also add-ons like an included breakfast, or an advanced coffee tasting sessions for true coffee aficionados.

You could also make a full day of it on the plantation by booking a horseback ride, paintball, birdwatching, or—and this looks so cool—a camping experience that includes a nighttime hike in the cloud forest.

Here’s how to book a De La Gente Coffee Tour .

Where to Stay

For budget travelers, I just loved the Yellow House Hostel , it’s by far the best hostel if you like a social atmosphere but a decent night’s sleep, too. Mid-range travelers should look no further than Hotel Casa Cristina .

And if you want a treat, book the Finca Filadelfia Resort & Spa for so much more than coffee tour—the grounds are gorgeous.

Book a day tour to maximize your time.

GetYourGuide has a phenomenal range of tours, and they’re affordable too. Maximize your time by booking your must-dos as a tour, and then slot in the rest as time permits.

Getting to Your Finca Filadelfia Coffee Tour

It’s a long but doable walk from the city center if you’re on a very tight budget, or the Finca usually offers a free shuttle several times a day. Or it’s about 24 quetzales for an Uber, which will likely cost about a third of hailing a taxi there (note that every traveler should have Uber on their phone, it comes in handy when you need it!).

Other Things to Do Near Antigua

If you loved the coffee tour and want another supremely cool experience outside of Antigua, look no further than the  Valhalla Macadamia Farm , which serves the creamiest, most delicious pancakes around.

If you’re heading out of town, don’t miss a ride down Guatemala’s Rio Dulce River or a hike through the jungles of Tikal . Then pick up the Guatemala Lonely Planet for transport suggestions, and use my free Guatemala Travel Guide for a full list of the country’s highlights.

Onward travel

Having spent a number of months backpacking Central America and Mexico across multiple trips, plan your time in the following locations.

Mexico » Yucatan Peninsula | Yucatan with Kids | Oaxaca City | San Pancho | Guanajuato | Chichen Itza | Secret Mud Beach | Cultural Immersion | Taco History | Colonial Mexico

Guatemala » Antigua | Tikal | Rio Dulce | Xela | Chichicastenango | Learning Spanish | Semana Santa | Easter Traditions

Belize » Chetumal Border | Culture

Honduras » Copan Ruinas | Utila | Culture

Guatemala Travel Guide

My free guide lists out everything I did and loved during a three month backpacking trip all over the country.

3 thoughts on “A Little Aroma… Learning the Art of Coffee in Antigua, Guatemala”

There is nothing like really fresh coffee. I hope one day to be fortunate enough to visit a coffee plantation. Nice pictures.

I was there and the sample cup of coffee I had was the best coffee I ever tasted.

Thanks so much! I highly recommend that you visit one at the first chance you get…it's infinitely interesting for a coffee fan :-)

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Coffee Tour in Antigua Guatemala

150 meters north of San Felipe de Jesús Church, Antigua Guatemala

Coffee Tour in a Coffee Plantation

In this Coffee Tour in Antigua Guatemala you will learn all about coffee grooves, coffee plantation and all the interesting facts of your favorite beverage. How coffee is grown , the cultivation, the plantation and the history of Coffee in Guatemala . Check out our packages to search for the best that suits you.

9:00am, 11:00am, 2:00pm

From $20 to $25 USD per person

150 meter north of San Felipe de Jesús Church, Antigua

TripAdvisor: “”. – 

Exploring and sightseeing tour

Coffee Tour

The most complete insightful and exciting way to experience the origins of true gourmet coffee . On this Antigua Guatemala tour  visitors will learn about coffee , how coffee is grown in the  coffee plantation with a history of more than 130 years that dates from the first growers in 1870 including a visit to the coffee seedlings and follow the valley where the plantation is found, wet and dry mills, sun dried patios, appreciating the labour that goes into the production. As well a visit trough the  coffee   roasting process and packing area, ending the tour tasting the best coffee produced at the coffee plantation in Antigua Guatemala .

• Tour length: 2 hours approx.
• Schedule: 9am / 11am / 2pm
• Capacity: No limited

FROM $20 per person

Coffee Tasting

This session is ideal for those coffee lovers who wish to learn about coffee and widen their knowledge on aromatic cupping . This  Antigua Guatemala Tour  takes place in coffee plantation`s cupping laboratory which is fully equipped so that participants may learn about the generalities of classifying coffee , the roasting process, preparation and  tasting coffee . Learn about the profile of coffee and on the bean characteristics such as fragrance, aroma, acidity and the aftertaste.

• Tour Length: 2 hours approx.
• Schedule: 9am /11am / 2pm
• Capacity: Minimum 2 guests, Maximum 6 guests per session

FROM $25 per person

Latté Art Session

During this session in  Antigua Guatemala  participants will be introduced to the marvelous World of creation and design using coffee and milk, called  Latte Art , as in the world of the Baristas (creator of beverages using as a base an espresso) general aspects of the use of the espresso machines and grainer machines ; the rules of graining and the preparation of an espresso also the different varieties of coffee beverages ; all the properties of coffee and type of milk that has to be used. Once they the participants learn they must put in practice creating their own beverages and designs.

• Tour Length: 2 hours Approx.
• Capacity: Minimum 2 guests, maximum 6 guests per session

Transportation

Note that the transportation is included in the price when taking the shuttles in the schedules below.  These shuttles are available from monday to Friday .  You just have to tell us where are you staying at and we will give you the exact best location where the shuttle can pick you up.  From Saturdays and Sundays the transportation will pick you at Isabel la Catolica Park in front of the IGSS clinics (6th Avenue north end, Antigua Guatemala).

Shuttle Pick up time:

• 08:20am // 08:30am
• 10:20am // 10:30am
• 01:20pm // 01:30pm

When you reserve your tour  don’t forget to send us the place where you are staying at  so we can send you the pickup place.

We recommend this transportation, but if you don’t need it, we can send you the address with your tour confirmation voucher.

What to Bring?

• Comfortable Shoes
• Comfortable clothes
• Insect repellent
• Sun Glasses
• Water Bottled

The Tour includes:

• Transportation from Antigua to the coffee plantation
• Guide explaining the coffee process
• 1 cup of coffee
• Transportation back to Antigua
• Things to do
• Restaurants
• About Antigua
• Antigua Today!
• Antigua Guatemala map
• Classified ads
• Photo gallery
• Virtual Tours
• Terms of use
• Advertise with us

Av. Puente La Gloria, Riveras del río Michatoya, Interior Santa Teresita PBX: (502) 6644-0999 US Phone Number 407-371-3039 [email protected]

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15 Best Coffee Tours Antigua Guatemala Offers in 2024

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Have you been wondering about the coffee tours Antigua Guatemala offers? You’ve come to the right place!

Antigua Guatemala coffee tours are one of the most popular activities for tourists exploring the area. With its rolling hills, quaint cobblestone streets, and stunning colonial architecture, it’s no wonder that people flock to visit!

We’ve gone on coffee tours all over Central and South America, like Costa Rica’s Don Juan Coffee plantation , but Antigua is one of our favorite spots for coffee tours because of its unique beauty and culture that make it so special. So if you’re planning a vacation in Guatemala and you’re trying to choose what coffee tour to book during your trip, Antigua is the place to do it. Here are all the top coffee tours Antigua Guatemala offers for your trip! ☕️

My Top 3 Picks: Coffee Tours in Antigua Guatemala

Rural Coffee Tour

✅ Authentic coffee experience

✅ Meet local farmers

✅ Learn artisanal coffee production

Antigua ATV Coffee Tour

✅ ATV to a local plantation

✅ Learn about and taste local coffee

✅ ATV to Cerro de la Luz

Sip ‘n’ Cycle Coffee & Mountain Bike Tour

✅ Coffee co-op tour

✅ Have lunch in the farmer’s home

✅ Bike through the countryside

10 Best Antigua Guatemala Coffee Tours

Antigua is full of fascinating history, amazing scenery, great food, and plenty of opportunities for learning about traditional coffee growing and harvesting practices along with their cultural significance.

These are the top Antigua Guatemala tours to do that!

1. Rural Coffee Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2-3 hours | ✅ Book Now!

The Rural Coffee Tour takes you to a local farm just outside Antigua Guatemala , one of the most beautiful colonial towns in Latin America. Here you will meet the coffee farmer and their family who have been cultivating coffee for generations.

You’ll learn what makes their special coffee so unique, such as its intense flavor or its rich aroma. You’ll also get to witness the entire process from seed to cup—including harvesting, drying, roasting, grinding, and packaging. It’s sure to be an unforgettable experience that connects you to another world! Plus, by booking this Antigua Guatemala coffee farm tour you are supporting small farmers and helping sustain local communities.

It was such a lovely experience! Filiberto…is really nice & Axel the tour guide is also perfect for this tour! I definitely recommand to do this, even more if you want to support local community. ludivine d (read more Reviews )

🔑 Key Essentials

☑️ History of the town ☑️ Tour in the community park ☑️ Maximum group size of 20 people ☑️ Kids 10+ can participate ☑️ Must get your own transport to San Pedro Las Huertas

🤩 Check Rates and Availability! 🤩

2. Antigua ATV Coffee Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✅ Book Now!

From seed to mug, you’ll learn the entire coffee making process process that goes into crafting this delicious beverage. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy a hot cup of locally-produced coffee right in the middle of your excursion. If you’re looking for something exciting to do during your Antigua vacation, this is it: Climb on board your very own ATV and head to a local plantation where you’ll be immersed in the culture and history of coffee production.

But the real highlight of this tour is yet to come! After a hot cup of the finest locally-grown Guatemalan coffee, venture up Cerro de la Cruz and take in breathtaking views of beautiful Antigua Guatemala and its surrounding volcanic mountains .

Great adventure!…Beyond the coffee museum and coffee fields, the coffee finca has activities for children…bikes to use to tour around the fields, and even a chocolate shop. rachael M (read more Reviews )

☑️ ATV riding instructions from your guide ☑️ All taxes and fees included ☑️ Coffee and tea sampling included ☑️ Kids 9+ can participate in this tour ☑️ 15 travelers maximum

3. Sip ‘n’ Cycle Coffee & Mountain Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4-5 hours | ✅  Book Now!

Not only do you get to witness the breathtaking beauty of the Guatemalan countryside as you ride your bike around, but you also get up close and personal with coffee production.

This Mountain Bike Tour allows you to explore a local coffee farm with a co-op member, who will show you how beans are traditionally flame roasted and ground by hand.

You’ll even have the opportunity to share lunch with the host family – a truly amazing chance to connect with them on an intimate level! While the farm doesn’t offer tea tours, it does have tea available to drink at lunchtime.

By taking part in this tour, you don’t just get a snapshot of life in Guatemala. You also get an insight into what sustainable living looks like!

Amazing experience! Bike riding through Antigua was beautiful and the visit to see how coffee was made with lunch with a local family was great too. Highly recommend. Good people. nicole t (read more Reviews )

☑️ Bottled water, lunch, and coffee/tea included ☑️ Local guide ☑️ All bike and safety equipment provided ☑️ 15 participants maximum ☑️ Kids 10+ can participate

4. Coffee & Culture Full-Day Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.9/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  7-8 hours | ✅   Book Now!

This full-day tour is the perfect way to get the complete experience of Antigua Guatemala. It’s got views, cultural gems, and best of all – coffee!

You’ll visit el Cerro de La Cruz for panoramic views overlooking Antigua and see some of Antigua’s most important cultural icons like San Francisco Church, La Merced, and Calle del Arco. Plus, you’ll taste (IMO) the best coffee you’ll find anywhere! On this tour, you’ll get to see firsthand how coffee is made from start to finish, from harvesting the beans at one of Guatemala’s best plantations all the way down to tasting it! You may even find you don’t need cream or sugar anymore.

We have had many-many tours in different places around the world and Gustavo is one of the best guide we have met so far…the coffee plantation visit was really interesting! getyourguide traveler (read more Reviews )

☑️ Round trip hotel transport provided ☑️ Professional bilingual guide ☑️ Entrance fees and taxes included ☑️ All ages welcome

5. Villages and Plantations Around Antigua Guatemala

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  5 hours | ✅  Book Now!

Visiting a coffee tour in Antigua Guatemala can be a truly enriching experience. On this 5-hour private tour , you will get to explore the gorgeous natural scenery and immerse yourself in the Indigenous lead industries of Guatemala. The tour offers a full range of experiences – from visiting a traditional coffee plantation Antigua Guatemala to exploring the textile museum in San Antonio Aguas Calientes, where you can observe Mayan weavers at work.

You will also have the chance to taste chocolates from a local chocolate workshop, macadamia nuts from a local farm, and coffee from a local plantation. Plus, you’ll enjoy it all from a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle!

Loved this tour! The artisanal demos & historic sites in the villages were so interesting, & we loved touring the macadamia farm & the coffee plantation!…Highly recommend this tour!! joan j (read more Reviews )

☑️ Bottled water provided ☑️ Professional guide ☑️ Hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned minivan ☑️ Tastings at local farms ☑️ Private tour for your group only ☑️ All ages welcome

6. Coffee Tour in Sacatepéquez with Tasting

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✅  Book Now!

Sacatepéquez in Guatemala is tucked away in the mountains near Antigua . It’s an ideal destination for coffee lovers looking to learn more about this brew’s rich history and it offers a unique opportunity to connect with local coffee growers.

On this tour, you will explore parts of the agricultural town and learn about some of the processes used to grow coffee. You’ll even have the chance to learn how to make your perfect cup from experts in the area! Your guide will share details about their farm, from which fertilizers are used, how plants are treated, and when and where they harvest their coffee beans. Plus, you’ll get to make your own cup of coffee using 100% local produce. Delish!

Baudilio was so friendly & answered all my questions. The tour was so interesting. The coffee tasted so good with such differences between brewing techniques. Amazing tour. Well recommended! barry s (read more Reviews )

☑️ Transportation ☑️ Entrance to the Plantation ☑️ Professional guide ☑️ Local coffee tasting ☑️ 20 travelers maximum ☑️ Kids 7+ are welcome on the tour

7. Coffee & Macadamia Fincas Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | ✅  Book Now!

Exploring a coffee farm in the beautiful countryside of Antigua Guatemala can be an unforgettable experience. You’ll get a chance to take in the stunning views and visit farms that benefit the indigenous community and environment.

Weave your way through gorgeous landscapes while learning about sustainable agriculture methods used for growing high-quality coffee and macadamia nuts. You’ll even get to sample some of their delicious local products!

Then, visit Casa Kojom, where you can learn about Guatemala’s Indigenous Mayan music. With round-trip hotel transport allowing you to relax between stops, this is sure to be an amazing adventure that you won’t soon forget!

Really interesting tour learning about not only coffee and macadamia nut production but rural life, Guatemala as a whole and multiple other things! samantha h (read more Reviews )

☑️ Transport by air-conditioned minivan ☑️ Professional guide ☑️ Private transportation ☑️ 8 travelers maximum ☑️ All ages welcome

8. Coffee Plantation & Antigua Combo Cruise Excursion

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  6 hours | ✅  Book Now!

The Coffee Plantation and Antigua Combo cruise excursion is a great way to explore the natural beauty and culture of Guatemala. You’ll start at a coffee plantation Guatemala, to learn about the process of growing, harvesting, and roasting coffee beans.

From there you will visit La Azotea Cultural Center which is a cultural center and museum complex located in Jocotenango. Here you’ll see volcanoes, cattle, and sugar cane plantations at every turn.

The museum complex has three separate museums. One is a coffee museum that illustrates the history of processing and marketing coffee production in Guatemala, but you’ll visit all three for a real taste of Mayan culture!

[Our guide and driver] were wonderful, & very informative!! We had a great tour & highly recommend them, very knowledgeable!! Thanks for a wonderful tour of your Country. tripadvisor reviewer (read more Reviews )

☑️ Snacks and bottled water provided ☑️ All entry fees and taxes included ☑️ Round trip transportation from the Puerto Quetzal cruise port ☑️ Kids 6+ are welcome on this tour

9. Coffee Making Workshop

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1.5 hours | ✅ Book Now!

During this coffee ‘ cooking class ‘, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with the process of extracting a cup of specialty coffee, from understanding how the beans are exposed to getting your own cup of excellence. You’ll learn about the eight different regions where coffee is grown in Guatemala, including how it’s marketed within the country. You’ll also learn about the differences between specialty and commercial coffees. Jesús has been part of this fascinating story for some time now, and at Coffee Workshop you can learn more about his company and its involvement. Plus, you’ll even take home a pound of specialty coffee when you finish class!

Great experience! Very informative presentation with a really friendly guide. Everything was explained patiently. 10/10 would recommend! sanchit s (read more Reviews )

☑️ Includes all equipment for the workshop and coffee tasting ☑️ Presentation by a professional barista ☑️ 400 grams of specialty coffee ☑️ 8 participants maximum ☑️ Kids 14+ can participate in this tour

10. 8-Day Best of Guatemala Tour: Antigua, Pacaya Volcano, Lake Atitlan and Tikal Ruins

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8 days | ✅  Book Now!

Immerse yourself in Guatemala’s colorful culture, stunning scenery, and archaeological sites on this 8-day Best of Guatemala Tour.

It showcases the best of Guatemala, from the vibrant colonial city of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , to exploring a local coffee farm and marveling at the stunning natural beauty of Lake Atitlan and its idyllic villages.

👉 There’s also a really cool coffee tour Lake Atitlan option if you’re planning to visit!

You will also get to discover ancient Mayan history by visiting the famed ruins of Tikal and Yaxha before taking on the challenge of an exciting hike up Pacaya Volcano. You’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking guide who will provide historical commentary about each location. All transportation needs between destinations, entrance fees, overnight accommodation, and most meals are included!

Gustavo, our guide was fantastic!…The hotels we staying in were absolutely beautiful with great included breakfasts. We saw so much of Guatemala. This tour was great! MezaMeza (read more Reviews )

☑️ Private boat tour ☑️ Transport between sites ☑️ Professional English-speaking guide ☑️ 7 nights of accommodation ☑️ Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch) ☑️ Small group tour of 15 pax maximum ☑️ 7 Breakfasts ☑️ All ages welcome

5 More Unique Antigua Guatemala Coffee Tours

11. The Community Tourism Chocolate Experience & Coffee Tour Guatemala takes you just outside Antigua Guatemala to learn and experience the artisanal production of chocolate as a prehispanic drink and local coffee production. It includes a chocolate workshop, a coffee experience, and traditional lunch.

12. The Coffee and Gastronomic Bike Tour in Antigua teaches you about the history of Guatemalan coffee while you cycle through an organic coffee farm and taste it, too! You’ll also explore an artisan market in Antigua and learn about traditional Guatemalan foods along the way.

13. During this Private Walking Tour in Antigua Guatemala+Coffee Plantation Experience you’ll tour La Azotea Coffee Farm and get a private guided tour of Antigua’s top tourist spots! Departs from Guatemala City. 18+ only.

14. The Finca Filiadelphia Coffee Farm tour is at a coffee estate steeped in family tradition. From coffee tours Guatemala , latte art, and coffee tasting to mule rides, bike rides, and bird watching there’s something for everyone at this commercial grower.

15. The Antigua Coffee Crawl starts at a traditional coffee farm, then proceeds to two different coffee shops for tasting. It ends with a refreshing beer at a craft brewery while learning about the use of the coffee bean in other products. 18+ only.

FAQs About Coffee Tours Antigua Guatemala

Do you still have questions about the coffee tours Antigua Guatemala offers? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions.

What to pair with a Guatemala Antigua coffee?

The perfect accompaniment to a Guatemala Antigua coffee is a tamale or chile relleno. Both dishes bring out the unique flavors of this delightful coffee bean from Guatemala!

For those who want something lighter, pairing Guatemala Antigua coffee with fresh pan dulce or custard pastries is also an excellent choice.

Is Antigua coffee good?

Yes, Antigua coffee is very good! Grown in the volcanic soils of Antigua, Guatemala, this unique coffee has a rich and smooth flavor.

The mild acidity of the beans combined with their chocolatey aroma makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a balanced cup of joe.

Are there coffee plantations in Guatemala?

Yes, there are indeed coffee plantations in Guatemala. Coffee farms in Guatemala are called fincas. They are located in the higher altitude areas of Guatemala, and the majority of them are family-run operations.

The coffee grown in these fincas is considered among the finest in the world.

What region in Guatemala is best for coffee?

Coffee production in Guatemala is concentrated around the northern and western parts of the country, mainly in the departments of Quiché, Huehuetenango, San Marcos, and Totonicapán.

Huehuetenango is perhaps the most renowned region for producing some of Guatemala’s finest coffees. It’s grown high up in the mountains at altitudes between 5600 and 8200 feet.

What is the best coffee in Antigua Guatemala?

Coffee lovers agree that the best coffee in Antigua Guatemala comes from Cafe Condesa . With its rich, medium-bodied flavor and notes of caramel, chocolate, and toffee, it’s a coffee that is consistently enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

However, as with anything, it really depends on your own personal taste. Some may prefer a more acidic or bolder cup of joe.

🤩 The Rural Coffee Tour is the best coffee tour Antigua Guatemala offers because it directly supports a lovely local community. 🤩

Final Thoughts: Antigua Guatemala Coffee Tours

Once you’ve experienced a coffee tour in Antigua Guatemala, you’ll never forget it. From the lush plantations to the vibrant culture, you’ll feel like you stepped into a different world. Not to mention the amazing coffee itself!

If you’re looking for what to do in Antigua Guatemala and want an unforgettable adventure, then book one of these coffee tours from this list and find out why Antigua Guatemala is so highly regarded for its coffee experience. Whether it’s learning about the history or discovering new and unique flavors, there’s something for everyone on one of these tours. The locals will welcome you with open arms and help make your experience truly special.

So don’t wait any longer. Book one of the coffee tours Antigua Guatemala from this list and have an awesome time!

👉 While we have global health insurance for our day-to-day lives, we also elect travel insurance with SafetyWing for our spurts of fast travel adventure!

Author: Brodi Cole

Brodi Cole is a full-time digital nomad who travels the world with her family. She made the switch to blogging and content writing after spending more than a decade and a half working as a Human Resources Manager and Director. Since transitioning her family to a digital nomad lifestyle, they've visited over 20 countries together (and counting) in the last ten years! In addition to traveling extensively through Canada, the USA, and the Caribbean, she's also visited Asia, Europe, and South America. She spent most of the pandemic living in Malaysia before living in Mexico for over a year and then driving the Pan-American Highway from the USA to the southernmost tip of Argentina. Brodi is also a freelance SEO writer and editor, sharing her expertise with other companies and bloggers. She has a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature and a Master's Degree in Human Resources Management.

Brodi Cole is a full-time digital nomad who travels the world with her family. She made the switch to blogging and content writing after spending more than a decade and a half working as a Human Resources Manager and Director.

Since transitioning her family to a digital nomad lifestyle, they've visited over 20 countries together (and counting) in the last ten years!

In addition to traveling extensively through Canada, the USA, and the Caribbean, she's also visited Asia, Europe, and South America.

She spent most of the pandemic living in Malaysia before living in Mexico for over a year and then driving the Pan-American Highway from the USA to the southernmost tip of Argentina.

Brodi is also a freelance SEO writer and editor, sharing her expertise with other companies and bloggers. She has a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature and a Master's Degree in Human Resources Management.

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Coffee Tour

Description.

Join us for a thrilling and educational experience as we explore the best views of Antigua Guatemala!  We will got to the town of San Felipe where we will visit an incredible coffee farm to see the plantation in a 4×4 truck and we will be able to learn its entire process and taste a delicious cup of coffee.

Here, get to learn about the history of coffee in Guatemala and take a look at the drying patios and plantations full of beans (November – March). The next stop we will visit Cerro de la Cruz to appreciate the view of the Panchoy Valley and the volcano Agua. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience!

• Min. 2 pax / Max. 20 pax
• Duration: 3 hours
• Requirements: DRIVER: Over 16 years old with a driver’s license

Vehicle ATV or UTV

Entrance to Cerro de la Cruz 

Admission to a private coffee farm

Not included: Lunch and other goods.

• $100 per driver
• $90 per passenger
• Tuesday to Sunday

 10:00 am or 3:00pm

(Show up 20 minutes before departure)

• Previous booking required

Departure Location

1 Avenida Norte #36, Antigua Guatemala

Amazing tour with the best tour guide Oseas ���� well recommended...we loved it � especially our 3 year old boy Hendrix ����

this is a totally different way to see and enjoy Antigua.

+502 4911 9723

[email protected]

Tue - Sun: 8 am to 5 pm

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Digital Nomad Tips, Guides & Resources

Antigua Guatemala Coffee Tour 2024: What To Expect

Category Guatemala , Antigua Updated on January 23, 2024

Got what it takes to be a coffee farmer?

You can find out what it’s really like on an Antigua Guatemala coffee tour!

As true coffee lovers, we have always wanted to see the process of going from the bean to a delicious brew. More than that, it was important for us to learn what it’s like for the coffee farmers who work so hard to make people happy all over the world.

Guatemala is the 8th largest coffee producer in the world producing a whopping 500,000,000 pounds of coffee a year. In other words, Guatemalans know what it takes to plant, grow, roast and brew coffee.

We were Antigua digital nomads for 2 months and we couldn’t miss out on the opportunity to learn about the drink we can’t live without! When our friend, Robert, invited us – we quickly signed up!

Here’s a review of our Antigua Guatemala coffee tour, a brief explanation of the coffee process and things you should know before booking your tour.

Should You Go On A Coffee Tour In Antigua, Guatemala?

If you could do a coffee tour anywhere in the world, why not Guatemala?

Guatemalans are serious about their coffee. It’s evident all across Antigua because there’s cafes around every corner that serve decent coffee. We found it very easy to get a good cup of coffee (unlike our time as Mexico digital nomads ).

As one of the biggest leaders in exporting coffee, it’s a no-brainer – YES you should definitely take the chance to go on a coffee tour in Antigua, Guatemala!

You will learn a whole lot about the process of harvesting, planting and roasting from a coffee farmer. You’ll see just how hard each person in the industry works to make your morning coffee the best it can be!

Antigua Guatemala Coffee Tour: Our Personal Experience

We didn’t really know what to expect because this was our first coffee tour experience. It’s safe to say that we absolutely enjoyed it and learned so much about the process and the people involved in this $20 billion industry !

Here’s our experience of the Antigua Guatemala coffee tours.

Before The Tour – Choosing A Company

Our friend, Robert, kindly invited us to join him on a coffee tour in Antigua Guatemala. He found the company that we went with and we simply booked it all online.

We went with a company called “De La Gente Coffee” which translates to “for the people” in Spanish. It’s a non-profit organization that partners with local communities to help them improve production and get paid fairly for their hard work.

You can buy coffee beans from De La Gente which brings the consumers and farmers directly together. This way, the farmers that De La Gente is associated with receives up to 250% more for their coffee.

The coffee industry can be pretty brutal and that’s why it’s important to choose a company that is fair trade for all parties involved. We were glad we went with De La Gente for this exact reason!

Getting To The Coffee Farm

Our coffee tour with De La Gente also included transportation from Antigua to the coffee farm which we found out was located in the town of San Miguel Escobar. We were instructed to head to Cafe Estudio at 8:45am and we waited for the van to show up.

Once the van arrived, we were off to the coffee farm. It’s only a 15 minute drive from Antigua!

Meeting Our Local Guide

We stepped off the van and we were met by our guide from De La Gente. This guide wasn’t the coffee farmer but rather he helped facilitate the tour and translate everything into English for us.

Our guide introduced us to the coffee farmer, Eduardo, that would show us his farm, beans and ultimately teach us his process of planting, harvesting and roasting the coffee beans. We were welcomed into the coffee farmer’s home and met with friendly smiles from his family members.

Walking Through The Coffee Fields

The Antigua Guatemala coffee tour was off to a great start!

We started walking from Eduardo’s house to his workplace (the coffee farm). It was a beautiful walk with the coffee fields surrounding us and the majestic Agua Volcan on the horizon.

The walk takes around 30 minutes with a couple of breaks in between to learn about certain steps in the coffee farming process and you get the opportunity to also ask any questions. It wasn’t as easy as we thought – you have to walk uphill at times which can be challenging in the sun. I’d say it’s an easy to moderate walk for all ages!

Once you reach Eduardo’s coffee farm, you’ll have a break to hear more from this talented coffee farmer and the coffee he was growing.

Learning The Process To Go From Bean To Brew

Coffee is a tricky thing to grow. It’s quite picky – from the kind of weather it needs, the altitude, the watering and the list goes on!

Here’s some things we learned about the coffee farming process (which we now have so much appreciation for).

1. Growing The Coffee Plants

Take a guess at how long it takes for the coffee plants to be ready for harvest…

• Is it 3 months?
• Is it 6 months?
• Is it 1 year?

Not even close! It takes 3-4 years before a coffee plant can be ready to harvest. This makes it very hard for coffee farmers to make their income and it’s why they need to plant other things in the meantime.

Eduardo also explained that he had to convince his wife to get into the coffee farming business. His wife was reluctant because it could take years and years before they saw any of the fruit. Before the plant can even be ready to harvest, it takes 4-7 years for the seedling to become mature enough to harvest. This required Eduardo’s family to have patience and trust that it will all work out in the end. Truly inspiring to hear!

2. Selecting The Right Beans

There are 2 different kinds of coffee beans grown:

A lot of people prefer Arabica because it is much tastier while Robusta has a more bitter flavor. On the coffee farm tour in the hills of Antigua, they were harvesting Arabica beans.

How to tell if it’s time to pick the coffee bean? Easy!

Just check if the bean is a cherry red color. They spend hours and days just picking the beans.

To help them get through the process quicker, they have these baskets that hang around your waist to make it easy to place all the beans you pick.

3. Sorting The Coffee Beans

Once that’s been separated, the coffee beans that stay will be used for cheaper coffee brands. They dry these white beans on the ground for the hot Guatemalan sun for a couple of days to weeks.

4. Roasting & Coffee Making Process

We made our way back to Eduardo’s home so his family could show us the roasting process.

He guided us out back where they had created their roasting room. As soon as you entered, the wonderful aroma of coffee beans satisfied your senses. They used a very old and traditional way to roast the coffee beans – in a pan on a bed of hot charcoal. It took around 5-10 minutes for the coffee beans to be ready for crushing.

Eduardo’s wife showed us the old way of turning the coffee beans into coffee grinds. It did not look like an easy task but was it worthwhile? Oh yes!

Finally – Tasting The Delicious Coffee

Matthew and I had been looking forward to the tasting during the whole tour! We didn’t drink any coffee beforehand and didn’t realize it wouldn’t be till 11am that we took our first sip of coffee. Make sure to drink some before you get in the van if you need it!

Eduardo’s family began serving the hot Guatemalan coffee and finally it was time to taste it. They served it Americano style which they believed was the best way to drink coffee. No milk, no flavoring – just pure coffee. As someone who loves iced vanilla lattes, I wasn’t sure I’d like the taste.

But as Matt and I took that first sip, we quickly looked at each other and were amazed! It was one of the best cups of coffee we have ever tasted. There were plenty of flavors and you could tell it was a premium roast.

Eduardo and his family used to have instant coffee before they got into the industry and now they can’t imagine having anything less than their premium roast beans.

We asked Eduardo, “how many cups of coffee do you drink a day?”.

He casually answered, “9-11 cups of coffee a day” . Yes – you read that right!

We loved hearing their stories of how they became coffee farmers. You can easily see the hard work, grit and perseverance it took to get where they are. I guess we resonated with their story because it reminded us of the entrepreneur journey we had been on.

Heading Back To Antigua Guatemala

As we finished our coffees, we actually received a gift of 2 bags of Guatemala coffee from Eduardo. It was a nice little touch at the end and you can always tip at the end of the tour and/or buy coffee bags like us.

Once we finished our cup of coffee and yummy Guatemalan pastries, our guide led us back to the van and off we went to Antigua!

Antigua Guatemala Coffee Tours – De La Gente Review

Not sure which company to go with? We highly recommend De La Gente because they partner directly with the coffee farmers and ensure there is fair trade.

For the coffee tours, they have 2 pick up times in the day:

It only takes around 3-3.5 hours for the entire tour from start to finish. You need to make a reservation in advance on their website here. Fill out the form, choose a time, a type of tour and you’ll receive an email confirmation. If you have any questions, you can WhatsApp them.

We paid $30 USD for the tour and it was well worth it for us! We were really happy they had a guide to translate everything for us from Spanish to English otherwise we wouldn’t have known what was going on.

• Company: De La Gente
• Farm Location: San Miguel Escobar (10-15 mins from Antigua)
• Price: $35 USD
• Duration: 3 to 3.5+ Hours
• Other Tours Available: Pepian Cooking Class, Peanut Butter Workshop, and more.
• Contact Info: Website – DLG Coffee , WhatsApp – + 502 4179 2970 , Email – [email protected]

Antigua Guatemala Coffee Tour – Frequently Asked Questions

Where to book an antigua guatemala coffee tour.

There are 2 companies that come highly recommended:

• Finca Filadelfia Plantation
• De La Gente Coffee

You can message them via WhatsApp or Email to book a tour. Make sure to do this at least a couple of days in advance.

How To Get To The Coffee Farm?

You can take public transportation yourself (ie. Uber) or you can ask if they have a van that can pick you up. With DLG, we met at Cafe Estudio. The shared van picked us up and dropped us off after the tour.

Will There Be A Coffee Tasting?

Yes, there will be but at the very end! Make sure you have some kind of breakfast or coffee beforehand (if you need it) because that first sip of coffee could be anywhere from 11-12pm midday.

How Long Is The Antigua Guatemala Coffee Tour?

It usually takes around 3-3.5 hours for the entire tour including the van ride and the coffee tasting at the end.

When Is The Best Time To Go On An Antigua Guatemala Coffee Tour?

The best time to go on an Antigua Guatemala coffee tour is from November to March which is the dry season. You’ll be able to see more beans ready for harvest at that time. The weather in Guatemala is pretty good throughout the year for tourists but generally, they don’t pick their harvest during the rainy season.

Is The Coffee Tour In English Or Spanish?

In our personal experience with De La Gente Coffee, it was both in Spanish and English. The coffee farmer, Eduardo, spoke in Spanish while the guide from DLG translated everything into English for us.

Make sure you ask before you book – we have had tours where it was entirely in Spanish and had no clue what was going on!

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Coffee Addict

The Coffee Addict cultural bike tour takes us out of Antigua and into a majestic coffee farm where you take a tour of the coffee process, from bean to cup!

For all you coffee lovers out there, this is the tour for you! Enjoy a scenic bike ride past the main Antigua sites and into the beautiful back streets surrounding the town. We then wind our way towards the most prestigious coffee farm of them all; Finca Azotea.

Antigua Guatemala has long been recognized for growing the highest quality coffee in the world. This is on account of it’s climate, high altitude, fertile volcanic soils and traditional farming practices. The guides on the Finca Azotea tour will teach you about the history and process of coffee from seed to cup.

TRIP HIGHLIGHT:

Without doubt trying the delicious coffee grown in the Antigua Valley. Afterwards you will cycle back to Antigua at record speed on a caffeine high!

0 - 15mins Meet at OX

15mins – 1hr: ride out to the coffee farm, 1hr- 2.30hrs: coffee tour, 2,30hrs – 3hrs: ride back to antigua.

Coffee Farm Tour

• Destinations
• Things to do

Guatemala produces some of the best coffee in the world. On this tour, you’ll visit a coffee farm outside La Antigua to learn about the history and production of coffee in Guatemala.

Have you ever wondered how coffee is produced? Do you sip the stuff every morning but have no idea what a coffee plant even looks like? If so, then this tour may be right for you.

During this guided tour you’ll explore a Guatemalan coffee plantation. The tour starts with a visit to the nursery, which is where the coffee seedling is selected. You’ll learn about how the seedling is transferred to the plantation and how the plants are grown, pruned, and eventually harvested. As you walk alongside the rows of coffee plants, look closely at the cherries that hide the bean inside. Your guide will teach you how the beans are collected and how shade-grown coffee works.

You’ll then visit the wet mill, which is where the coffee beans are de-pulped, fermented, and washed. After the wet mill comes the dry mill, where the final process of extracting the coffee bean occurs. You’ll then learn about how different types of coffee are separated and discover the packaging and exporting process.

This tour ends, as it should, with a deliciously fresh cup of coffee. The whole tour lasts 3 hours.

What to Bring

Sunscreen, camera, comfortable shoes, hat or cap and money for meals not specified, personal expenses, handicrafts, and tipping the guide-driver.

What's included

Transportation to/from farm, professional Guide and Coffee

Transportation

Many of our tours and activities offer transportation pick up & drop off options from several locations and destinations. Options vary by tour, see “BOOKING REQUEST” for full details.

Traveler Comments

Informative and interesting

Similar things to do

Tour Finca Filadelfia, a coffee plantation outside Antigua that’s been in operation for more than 140 years. You’ll learn about the cultivation and processing of coffee on this farm.

Finca Filadelfia has had the same purpose for several generations – growing and selling high-quality coffee. Here you’ll get to see over a hundred different species of birds that live throughout the 535.5 acres of the reserve.

Guatemala produces some of the world’s finest coffee. This tour will give you a better understanding of the subtleties and secrets involved with the production and classification of coffee.

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Guatemala’s Coffee Wonders: 13 Top Tours & Tastings Revealed!

Guatemala is widely known for its vast coffee production and plantation culture. In recent years, Guatemala Coffee Farms and Tours have become increasingly popular among travelers, offering visitors an immersive experience of the region’s history of coffee production and culture.

Guatemala is home to some of the best coffee beans in the world, harvested from its Western Highlands region. On a plantation tour, you can learn all about how this exceptional brew is produced while exploring its vast reserves.

From the Filadelfia Coffee Plantation and Tour to the Chicoj Coffee Tour, this blog post provides an overview of some of the best Guatemala Coffee Farms and Tours available today.

These tours provide visitors with unique opportunities to learn about Guatemalan coffee cultivation methods, taste some of the country’s most famous coffees, and explore some of its most scenic plantations.

Additionally, this post also highlights a few of the coffee-focused cafes located in urban areas like Antigua and Cobán, allowing travelers to get their fix even if they can’t make it out to one of the plantations.

1. Filadelfia Coffee Plantation and Tour

Finca Filadelfia coffee plantation is a unique place to visit. It has been owned by the same family for over 150 years and still produces coffee in the traditional way.

During your visit, you’ll be taken on an unforgettable ten-minute Unimog truck ride through the rows of coffee bushes – quite possibly the most scenic form of transport you’ll ever find!

You’ll also have the opportunity to learn all about coffee production from a knowledgeable guide, who will inform you about the fascinating history and culture of coffee in Guatemala.

An experience at Finca Filadelfia is not only educational but also incredibly rewarding. So next time you’re in La Antigua, hop on board for an unforgettable tour that’s full of surprises!

Experience the allure of coffee culture at its finest. Explore the world’s best coffee estates in Guatemala. Immerse yourself in the journey of coffee from farm to cup. Discover Premier Coffee Farms Worldwide

2. Sip n’ Cycle Coffee and Mountain Bike Tour

Experience coffee production and the Guatemala countryside with a unique 4-5 hour mountain biking tour from Antigua.

Sip n’ Cycle Coffee and Mountain Bike Tour is perfect for all ages – from 10 to 75 – with a maximum of 15 people per group, so it’s not too crowded.

Before the tour, you’ll receive mobile tickets and choose your start time, while an English or Spanish guide will be available to answer any questions.

During the excursion, you’ll wind through picturesque hills and get an intimate look at coffee production first-hand before stopping for lunch with a co-op family who will demonstrate traditional flame roasting and grinding techniques. For only $122.00, Sip n’ Cycle guarantees memories to last a lifetime!

3. ATV Coffee Tour in Antigua

The Antigua ATV Coffee Tour in Antigua, Guatemala offers an unforgettable experience. Climb on board your ATV to take you to a local plantation where you will learn the entire process of making coffee, from seed to mug.

You will also get to visit Cerro de la Cruz, which boasts a spectacular view of the city and surrounding mountains.

Open for travelers aged 9-54, this 3-hour tour allows up to 15 people per group with bilingual English/Spanish guidance from experts.

Furthermore, the tour offers ease and convenience when booking with its mobile ticket availability, free cancellation, alternate payment options, and even the lowest price guarantee. Reserve your place now and experience Antigua in a different light!

4. Atitlán Coffee Tour

An exciting opportunity awaits adventure seekers looking to experience a unique day in Guatemala. Located near the beautiful Lake Atitlán, the Atitlán Coffee Tour provides participants with an overview of coffee farming practices used in this region.

Participants are invited to explore unspoiled lands and explore the modern-day techniques and organic flavors used for cultivation.

An experienced guide will take you through each step of the process, from planting through harvest, using their educational background to provide insight into each activity.

After the tour is completed, participants can enjoy a fresh cup of locally grown and produced coffee to reward themselves for a day well spent!

5. Pacific Coast Coffee Plantation Tours

Experience the wonders of Guatemalan coffee plantations with a half-day excursion to the Pacific Coast.

Visit El Patrocinio Reserve , where visitors can sample some of its papayas, macadamia nuts, and ginger flowers while they admire breathtaking views of the Santiaguito volcano.

A few hours away lies Nueva Alianza’s century-old plantation ; take an agricultural tour to witness the amazing variety of macadamia nuts and medicinal plants or a hike up to a hidden waterfall.

Santa Elena offers guests a unique holistic experience with its guided tours around the family-owned plantation, where you’ll get to learn about harvesting coffee, honey, bananas, and coconuts in their natural habitat.

Last but not least, Takalik Mayan Lodge will amaze you with its postcard views from Chicabal. There simply is no better way to explore Guatemala’s picturesque mountain landscapes while tasting some of the best local coffees this side of Central America!

6. Coffee Plantations Bicycle Tour

If you’re looking for an adventure, take a bicycle tour around Lake Atitlan. Start by taking a boat ride from Panajachel to the remote Mayan village of Tzununa and hop on a bike for an off-road journey through the countryside.

Throughout this unique 6-hour tour lasting tours, you will visit weaving cooperatives, coffee plantations, art galleries, and some of the lake’s best viewpoints.

Not only will you get fitted for your bike and helmet before cycling through San Marcos, San Pablo, San Juan, and San Pedro over 5km of dirt road and a paved road but also make sure to stop at Crystalline Beach to swim or take in the view before boarding a boat back to Panajachel.

With mobile ticketing starting from $111.95, guided by an English-speaking guide, this awesome experience is suitable for ages 13-70 with a max group size of 8!

7. Coban Coffee Tours

There’s no better way to explore Coban and learn more about Guatemalan coffee than by joining an authentic coffee tour.

Expert guides will take you to a century-old coffee plantation during your half-day tour, where you can witness firsthand the production techniques and processes used by Mayan Q’eqchi locals.

Admire the picturesque views on your way there, and if that isn’t enough, take a thrilling canopy ride above the plantations for spectacular views.

Of course, no visit would be complete without sampling some delicious Guatemala coffee , followed by souvenir shopping at local shops before being dropped off back at your hotel lobby in Coban. Join now for an unforgettable experience!

8. Chicoj Coffee Tour

If you’re seeking a unique and experiential way to discover the taste of Guatemalan coffee, then look no further than the Chicoj Coffee Tour in Cobán, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala.

From learning about local Q’eqchi farming techniques by sorting, fermenting, washing, and drying the beans near small lagoon with conifer forests filled with coffee berries and cardamom pods, to enjoying a cup of the local brew and zip-lining over the plantation canopy for a better view of its trees

An informative hike around this farm owned by the local government is bound to be an educational and enjoyable experience. Afterward, browse through the handicraft shop for jewelry and coffee-based souvenirs made by hand as a take-home memory to remember your day.

If you’re intrigued by coffee tours, don’t miss exploring the top Brazilian coffee cultivation for a deeper dive into Brazil’s coffee scene.

9. Rural de Café Coffee Tour

Rural de Café Coffee Tour is a unique way for coffee aficionados to explore the production process behind their beloved beverage. Located just a short drive from Antigua, Guatemala,

Visitors can learn about everything that goes into making an amazing cup of coffee, from growing to harvesting and roasting. This experience will provide insight into rural life while also supporting local farmers and other industry experts.

The tour accommodates various age levels (10-100) and language needs (English and Spanish). Plus, groups are kept small with no more than 20 people per group. With tickets starting at $30.00, it’s an enjoyable and economical way to learn more about the world’s favorite drink!

10. City Coffee Shops Tour

If you’ve ever wanted to experience coffee like a barista, then this is your chance! Join us on our Guatemala-based city tour and explore the country’s eight coffee-producing regions.

Visit four of the city’s most popular coffee shops and learn more about the distinct qualities of each one!

On top of that, cross off all the must-see sights on your list during a mini-walking tour around town.

And if want to really feel like one of the locals, you can enjoy a classic Gujarati café experience at Sixth Avenue in the heart of the historic district before getting picked up and taken back to your hotel at the end of this five to six-hour tour.

All for as little as $110.00! This could be your moment to brew up something special that won’t soon be forgotten.

11. Filadelfia Coffee Tour

For coffee connoisseurs, taking the Filadelfia Coffee Tour in Guatemala is an opportunity to learn about the country’s incredible rich coffee culture.

Finca Filadelfia has been growing and processing coffee since 1866, making it one of the oldest establishments in Guatemala’s coffee industry.

This tour follows the production process from planting to cup, including stops at the nursery, wet mill, patio for drying, and dry processing station.

All of this is led by a bilingual guide who explains the methods of cultivation used throughout as visitors observe each step of the journey.

At the end of it all, guests are treated to a tasting session featuring an Americano or espresso coffee made from freshly roasted beans – providing them with an unforgettable experience that will stay with them long after they leave.

12. Coffee & Macadamia Fincas Tour

The Coffee and Macadamia Fincas Tour from La Antigua is the perfect way to explore the beautiful countryside while learning more about Guatemala’s coffee production and sustainable agriculture.

With a private guide, visit a coffee plantation and macadamia nut plantation to see how these high-quality products are grown without damaging the environment.

Not only will you get to sample delicious treats made with coffee beans and nuts, but you’ll also be treated to a lesson in indigenous Mayan music at Casa Kojom.

Hotels provide transportation to start the four-hour journey, making it easy for individuals ages 1-99 (maximum eight per group).

All tours are conducted in either English, Italian, or Spanish. At La Azotea, enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee alongside a discussion on the production process.

Finally, an experimental plantation of Macadamias at Valhalla will round out your experience with these unique nuts.

13. Sacatepéquez Coffee Tour

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience on your next holiday in Guatemala, why not take a coffee tour in Sacatepéquez?

This 6-hour guided trip is great for travelers of all ages, from 13 to 70. You’ll explore the majestic landscape around Lake Atitlan by boat, foot, and bicycle.

During the journey, you can appreciate the unique local culture of Tzununa, visit stunning coffee plantations, meet friendly farmers, and stumble across enchanting art galleries.

The tour’s price starts from $111.95 and includes fitted bikes and helmets as well as an English-speaking guide who will be there to make sure every moment is memorable. Don’t miss out – book now as limited editions are available with just 8 people per group!

Exploring Guatemala’s Rich Coffee Heritage and Puerto Rico’s Unique Coffee Farm Tours!

Discover the world of coffee through two exciting journeys. Embark on an amazing exploration of Guatemala’s thirteen captivating coffee farms, where you’ll learn about the art of coffee cultivation and experience the breathtaking landscapes that give birth to this delicious drink.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there! Venture to the enchanting Puerto Rico, where you can immerse yourself in the heartwarming culture of coffee farm tours. With each sip, you’ll taste the distinct flavors that make Guatemalan and Puerto Rican coffees so special.

Join us for an unforgettable coffee odyssey that spans continents and cultures, all while learning the secrets behind the perfect cup. Are you ready to take the first step on this caffeinated journey? Don’t miss out on our Puerto Rico coffee farm tours guide that promise an experience like no other!

Born in Sidamo, Ethiopia, Fikru combines a Harvard History degree with certifications in Coffee Culture. Adept in traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremonies and a lover of Drip Coffee, his expertise offers readers a deep dive into coffee’s rich tapestry. Join him on a caffeinated journey at Coffeescan.com.

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James Neubauer, born in Austin, TX (Feb 27, 1991), is the Senior Coffee Writer & Social Media Editor for Coffeescan.com. A GWU grad with a passion for unique brews, he’s recognized for his Coffee Chemistry expertise. Author of an innovative cold brew manual, James’s favorite sip is the balanced Cortado. He steers Coffeescan’s content and social outreach with flair.

Portland-born Matthew Bash is the Senior Coffee Editor for Coffeescan.com. A Columbia grad in Food Journalism and a certified Q Grader by CQI, his passion for coffee runs deep, from barista expertise to Webby-winning content. Iced Latte enthusiast, he ensures authentic coffee insights for readers.

Detroit-based writer for Coffeescan.com and Cornell grad with a passion for coffee rooted in a transformative trip to Vienna. Recognized by the Association of Food Journalists, she’s a certified expert from the SCA and an AeroPress aficionado. An insightful voice in the coffee community.

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Learning what goes into a great cup of coffee at Finca Filadelfia in Antigua

For those of us who drink coffee on a regular basis, it’s really more of a way of life than it is a simple beverage. Personally, I can’t imagine starting my day any other way than with a great French Press of coffee ! That’s why when I found out that we could go on a tour of one of Antigua’s local coffee farms, I was excited for the chance to share my love of coffee with the kids!

Finca Filadelfia

Farm Hours: 7:00 am- 6:00 pm Walking Tours start at 9:00, 11:00, and 2:00, Monday-Friday Tour Price: $20/person Tour Length: Roughly an hour Website: Finca Filadelfia (Facebook)

My family has been incredibly lucky to have only needed doctors a handful of times throughout our travels. And the few times we have needed a doctor, it has always been relatively small things.

However, there’s always a chance that something bigger will happen, and that possibility has often left me feeling a bit uneasy. Which is why I’m excited to now be an affiliate with SafetyWing!

Specifically, I highly recommend getting the Travel Medical Insurance offered through Nomad Insurance by SafetyWing. They cover a pretty wide selection of medical needs for travelers in more than 175 different countries and they cover one kid for free for each adult on their family policy (2 max), which is super important for our family of four.

I just finished a blog post on why I think Travel Medical Insurance is a important for families traveling overseas, as well as a more in-depth look at why I think SafetyWing in particular is a great choice of provider.

Be sure to check it out if you’re looking for ways to keep your family safe while traveling, or click through to SafetyWing directly to check out what their plans for yourself!

What is La Finca Filadelfia?

Finca Filadelfia is a historical coffee farm on the outskirts of Antigua, Guatemala. They have been producing coffee locally since the 1870s, more than 150 years, making them one of the first commercial coffee farms in the Antigua area. 

Today, they are still using over 200 hectares of land for growing coffee. Some of that is roasted locally and used in their coffee shop, but the majority of it is shipped out to other roasters and coffee producers worldwide. 

Apart from simply growing and roasting coffee, Finca Filadelfia also has luxurious hotel accommodations, 2 separate restaurants serving delicious food, and one of the best coffee tours in Antigua.

Finca Filadelfia Coffee Tour

The hotel sounded lovely, and the restaurants promised a great meal, but we already had a place to stay, and there are amazing restaurants all over Antigua. It was the tour that we were interested in. 

Right off the bat, we knew we had the right place for a kid-friendly tour of a coffee plantation. Before we had even asked about getting a coffee tour, we were warmly greeted, and our kids were invited to pet the resident burro!

We put our names on the list for a walking tour and within a short time, we were greeted by our guide, who greeted us warmly. And we were off! 

Why Antigua, Guatemala is great for growing coffee

The plants themselves were a short walk away, so he began by telling us all about why Guatemala is such an ideal place for growing coffee. 

Arabica coffee grows best at altitudes of around 5,000ft (1,500m), which is right where Antigua sits. That’s in contrast to the less tasty Robusta coffee variety which is decidedly less tasty, but easier to grow due to being, well, more robust . It typically grows at lower elevations, too. Estimates for its ideal altitude vary between 600 and 2,400 ft (200- 700m).

Antigua also has amazing weather for growing coffee, with a temperate climate that earned it the nickname, “the land of eternal spring.” Combine that with the rich, volcanic soil from the many volcanoes surrounding the area and you have a coffee grower’s paradise!

That’s not to say there aren’t challenges as well. Arabica beans, while more flavorful and profitable than the robusta variety, is also less hearty. The roots are smaller and weaker, and pests like nematodes have a tendency to wreak havoc on them. 

That’s why Finca Filadelfia grafts their arabica plants onto rootstock from the robusta variety! It’s very similar to the way different varieties of grapes get grafted onto parasite-resistant rootstock in vineyards, and it results in plants that do very well in Guatemala. 

As we continued our tour, we came face to leaf with rows of these grafted plants, each in their own bit of soil. These were coffee seedlings awaiting planting, and there were tons of them. Coffee plants stop producing as much coffee after about 25 years, so raising up new generations of coffee to replace the old plants is important to remaining in business. 

As we moved from seedlings towards the older plants, our guide informed us that we came at a good time, since the coffee cherries were ripe and ready for picking. The ripe coffee cherries are hand-picked at Finca Filadelfia, which employs a large number of locals for that task. 

As we looked at the larger coffee plants in front of us, we could see why the fruit is called coffee cherries. Groups of bright red fruit grew among the leaves. Our guide asked if we would like to try some, and our kids jumped at the chance. He helped them to pick a few straight from the tree and warned us not to bite straight in since the coffee bean was at the center.

The flesh of the ripe coffee cherry is sweet and sugary, but it’s not the part that gets used for making coffee. The beans, meanwhile, are sent to be processed.

Processing, Drying, and Sorting Coffee

Unfortunately, because we visited in 2020, we were unable to go inside the processing facility itself. However, our guide did a great job explaining what happens. 

After the beans are harvested, they are run through a machine that essentially squeezes the coffee beans out of the fruit. The pulp is sent is drained away and sent to be made into jellies and such.

Invariably, some of the coffee cherries end up not being up to Finca Filadelfia’s standards, and these are removed and dried separately from the higher-quality beans However, they don’t go to waste! The lower-quality coffee gets sent to roasters that make instant coffee products.  

The high-quality coffee beans, meanwhile, are sent to be fermented. Coffee that is fermented before getting roasted is typically less bitter than coffee that is not fermented, so most of the best coffees in the world go through this process. The beans are allowed to ferment in a tank for a few days before being moved out to the courtyard for drying. 

Finca Filadelfia sun dries their beans in a large courtyard adjacent to the processing facility. Each batch is laid out in a large rectangle, and men with rakes regularly stir the beans to make sure everything dries evenly. My kids loved watching them because they would make patterned designs in the beans with the rakes, similar to the circles and rows you can sometimes see in zen gardens. 

Once the beans are finished drying, the Coffee Masters sort and rate the beans according to quality before bagging them up to be shipped to the roasters. 

At this point, the coffee tour was finished, but our guide informed us that the price also includes a coffee tasting, so we headed back toward the restaurant where the tasting would take place.  

The Cafetenango Restaurant at Finca Filadelfia

On the day that we chose to visit, the Cafetenango restaurant was hosting a brunch, so the cafe was bustling with activity when we entered. Our guide was able to secure our family with a table and then left us in the capable hands of one of the waiters. 

Each of us was able to choose a coffee to taste from a small tasting menu. My wife and I are avid coffee drinkers and enjoyed the coffee we were served. It wasn’t the best we’d ever had, but was good enough that we’d do it again. 

Our kids, however, are not fans of coffee, and made that abundantly clear. 

By this point, we were getting hungry and asked if we could go ahead and order lunch. Cafetenango features a great selection of authentic Guatemalan food, and in contrast to the coffees, the kids loved the fresh juices.

Afterwards, we weren’t quite ready to leave, so we decided to explore a bit more.

While we loved the variety of things to do and see in and around Antigua, one of the things that is lacking is easily accessible playgrounds for the kids. What we found was that the farms just outside of town, like Caoba Farms, ended up being the best places for finding great play time for the kids. Finca Filadelfia continued this trend with a great looking playset and some really cool seesaws made from upcycled farm supplies. 

We stayed for another half an hour to give the kids some time to play. 

Overall, the coffee tour was an amazing experience, and well worth the price. 

Also check out Restaurants with a view

Antigua, Guatemala is a city filled to the brim with beautiful views. Why not immerse yourself in that beauty from the comfort of a restaurant terrace?

Staying at Finca Filadelfia Coffee Resort

While we really enjoyed the tour and the restaurant, we didn’t have an opportunity to book a stay in one of Finca Filadelfia’s hotel rooms. Which is unfortunate, because it sounds like they would make for an incredible stay!

As with most hotels in the Antigua area, there are relatively few rooms available (only 20), but the upside of that is that each of them is beautiful and well taken care of. Reviews say that the beds are comfortable, the rooms are clean, and the views are amazing. Plus, it’s a great location for making the most of your time in Antigua since there are a variety of tours offered by Finca Filadelfia itself, and the staff can arrange transportation to the main plaza in Antigua for other activities. 

Other Top Coffee Tours in Antigua, Guatemala

While Finca Filadelfia is the tour that my family chose, there are tons of coffee growers in the area, and many of them have tours as well. Larger farms and co-ops like Finca Filadelfia typically handle their own bookings, while smaller farms often use sites like GetYourGuide to book tours of their farms.

Here are some of the top-rated coffee farm tours you can find in the area:

See all my posts on Guatemala

Amazing places for families to stay in Antigua, Guatemala

Visiting Guatemala’s Beautiful Black Sand Beaches

On the Farm with Kids – Caoba Farms Restaurant and Tour

5 Beautiful Spanish Ruins to visit in Antigua, Guatemala

3 Amazing Places to Learn about Chocolate in Guatemala

Restaurants with a view – 10 Rooftop Terraces in Antigua Guatemala

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20 Best Coffee Shops and Cafes in Antigua, Guatemala: Where to Find the Perfect Cup

last Updated: April 23, 2023 antigua guatemala

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Need some caffeine and looking for the best coffee shops and cafes in Antigua, Guatemala?! Keep on reading, because I’m sharing all my favorites here, plus some popular coffee tours in Antigua as well!

Antigua (and Guatemala in general) is world-renowned for its super high-quality coffee (just like Panama and Colombia are). As a coffee lover myself, I was downright thrilled! Of course I made a long list of all the coffee shops and cafes in Antigua to add to my recent itinerary. The biggest problem? Narrowing down which ones to check off!

Antigua is home to a vibrant and eclectic coffee scene, with cafes and coffee shops dotted throughout the city. I swear, it seems like there’s at least a handful of cafes down each and every block. The city is just bursting with these charming cafes, each with its own unique personality and vibe. 

Many have charming outdoor patios with relaxing atmospheres, knowledgeable (and friendly!) baristas, and use locally sourced coffee beans. It’s Guatemala after all — we’re talking about some of the best coffee in the world here! And, by supporting small, independent farmers in the region, these cafes in Antigua are also contributing to the local economy and community.

Others are known for their delectable chocolates, fresh juices, and colorful gardens. Some even have volcano views from their rooftop terraces! 

Since cafe culture is such an important part of life here, you’ve gotta check out a few yourself while visiting Antigua. Plus, who doesn’t love stunning views of the city’s colonial architecture while sipping a freshly brewed cup of caffeine?! Wandering around checking out all the cafes is easily one of the best things to do in Antigua (at least in my book!).

Here’s a list of my favorite coffee shops and cafes in Antigua, Guatemala, plus a few I had on my list but unfortunately didn’t have time for! Lemme know down in the comments if I missed any good ones!

Coffee in Antigua, Guatemala FAQs

What makes coffee in antigua, guatemala so special.

This is Antigua – one of the finest coffee capitals of the world! Coffee here is meant to be sipped and savored; so don’t rush your morning cup. The region has a long history of producing high-quality coffee, and for good reason. 

Firstly, the climate and soil are perfectly suited for growing coffee beans. The volcanic soil is rich in nutrients for the coffee plants, while the altitude and temperature create a slow growth process. All this ultimately leads to a more flavorful and complex bean.

Secondly, the traditional methods used to cultivate and harvest coffee in Antigua, Guatemala are still being used today – giving the coffee a unique and authentic flavor profile. Many of the coffee farms in the region are small and family-owned, and the beans are harvested by hand to ensure the highest quality.

But what really sets Antigua coffee apart from the others is the meticulous attention to detail during the roasting process. The beans are carefully roasted to bring out their unique flavor notes, ranging from chocolate and caramel to fruity and even floral.

With all this amazing coffee in Antigua, it makes perfect sense for the dozens upon dozens of coffee shops and cafes in Antigua. Which I happen to think is just the cutest colonial city in the highlands of the country! 

Buying Beans to take Home in Antigua

I was so glad to find so many coffee shops in Antigua selling coffee beans from local farms. It was honestly quite hard to choose where to buy some, and honestly, I just picked the one with the prettiest packaging, haha. It’s currently sitting in my freezer waiting to be ground. Mmm… I’m so excited for those delicious smells to take over my apartment, haha.

When purchasing coffee beans in Antigua, Guatemala, it’s important to look for beans that are labeled as “single origin” or “estate coffee.” These terms indicate that the beans come from a specific farm or region, which ensures a higher level of quality and consistency in flavor. 

The coffee shops and cafes will grind the beans for you on the spot, but I recommend waiting to do so until you get home! The sooner you drink the coffee after grinding the beans, the fresher your cup will be. Just like when I got home from Colombia , I put my bag of beans from Antigua straight into the freezer. 

Antigua Coffee Farm Tours

Are you a diehard coffee aficionado and wanna learn all about the coffee in Antigua, Guatemala? You’ve gotta sign up for a coffee farm tour! You’ll see firsthand how the coffee is grown, harvested, and then processed, and even pick some of your own beans (called coffee cherries).

Many coffee farm tours also include a walk through the fields, a visit to the processing plant, and yes, of course a coffee tasting where you can sample the different flavors and roast levels of the coffee.

There’s quite a few tours to pick from, but not all are created equal. Here’s a few popular ones:

• Coffee Culture Full-Day Tour from Antigua: Not only will you tour a coffee plantation and taste some of the finest coffee in the world, but you’ll also walk around Antigua with a local, learning all about Guatemala’s rich culture. Kinda like two tours in one!
• Sip N Cycle Half-Day Bike Ride and Coffee Tour: Cycle the backroads from Antigua to the best coffee farm in the valley! You’ll see the coffee plantation, and learn all about the entire process from picking to packaging. And of course sample a whole bunch of different varieties and blends of coffee.
• Antigua ATV Coffee Tour : Caffeine and adrenaline in one tour – what could be better?! Ride an ATV to a local coffee plantation, where you’ll discover the entire coffee making process from seed to mug. Definitely one of the most exciting things to do in Antigua.

Best Coffee Shops and Cafes in Antigua, Guatemala

Finally, what you probably came here for — my favorite coffee shops and cafes in Antigua! Get ready for lots of caffeine.

Let’s start with one of my all-time favorite cafes in Antigua, Guatemala – 12 Onzas! As soon as I walked in, I knew I had found my coffee shop. When you know, you know, right?! Aesthetics is just as important to me as the actual coffee, so of course I was naturally drawn to 12 Onzas. 

Their branding is so spot on; I could spend all morning in there and never get tired of staring at those gorgeous turquoise tiles. The space is very cute and sleek and bright and modern – I totally felt like I was in a chic coffee shop in Sydney or Southern California. I loved the juxtaposition of the old school walls amongst the minimalist design. It all just works!

Photos used with permission from 12 Onzas

Plus, there’s a gorgeous back patio filled with green, leafy plants everywhere – such a serene spot to chill for a while! I can see 12 Onzas being a great space to work since the wifi is nice and strong and there’s plenty of power outlets. As soon as I walked in I could tell the atmosphere was super warm and welcoming, and the staff were all incredibly friendly. While unnecessary, I appreciated that menus were in both English and Spanish! I’m trying to learn but it doesn’t help that I only make it to Spanish-speaking countries a few times a year (I’d love to do a Spanish immersion program in Antigua someday).

Of course the coffee here is top notch, and I love how they roast their own coffee beans right there in the shop. They actually sell bags of beans on the shelves right next to the counter, so pick up a bag to bring home yourself (the packaging is oh so cute as well).

Choose from the many excellent coffee drinks (like flat whites and cold brew, with plenty of various milk options – regular, soy, almond, and oat).

12 Onzas also has an amazing brunch, with some really fun menu items. Think red velvet beet coffee, pink lattes, penguin cake, pink beet hummus, gorgonzola mushroom buns, banana bread, and oh so much more. Everything sounded absolutely delicious, and I’d love to come for a bite next time. I didn’t expect them to have a full brunch/lunch menu so I had unfortunately already eaten that morning (sad face).

Don’t sleep on this place – it’s got by far the best latte in all of Antigua. They actually have 2 locations in Guatemala City as well, which I’m hoping to check out on my next trip!

El Gran Cafe

Another coffee shop in Antigua, Guatemala that I absolutely adore is El Gran Cafe. The spot is super aesthetically pleasing, with its mini hexagonal tiles, gorgeous floral flooring, and super cute packaging. I love being inside pretty places, and El Gran easily fits the bill.

Photos used with permission from El Gran Cafe

The staff who work here are incredibly kind – I couldn’t decide what to get and they didn’t rush me at all. Next time I’m gonna try a mocha – some say it’s the best they’ve ever had!

In a rush? El Gran Cafe has “coffee of the day” (cafe del dia) so you don’t even need to make a decision, haha. My kinda place. 

I love how the cafe owner works directly with the producers to pay a fair price for the coffee beans. All the beans are bought directly from the farm/origin, including Finca La Esperanza (a pioneer in certified organic coffee beans), Finca El Pintado (one of the most historic farms in the Antigua region), and Finca Santa Isabel (a farm who uses very advanced agricultural practices). Kinda cool to know exactly where your coffee is coming from!

Out of all the cafes in Antigua, I decided to buy a bag of beans for my husband here! The barista was able to explain all the differences in the beans and the different flavor profiles they had which I greatly appreciated since I’m definitely no expert. 

My only gripe with El Gran Cafe? There’s not much seating in the shop, but well worth the wait if you don’t wanna take your coffee para llevar (to go)!

Artista de Cafe – Speciality Coffeeshop

Artista de Cafe is another charming coffee shop with cool branding and loads of plants located on a quiet street in Antigua, Guatemala. It’s a great place to grab a cup of coffee or tea, and their milk is actually delivered fresh daily from a local farm (how cool is that?!). 

Photos used with permission from Artista de Cafe

They offer a wide variety of coffee and non-coffee drinks, like cappuccinos, mochaccinos, matcha lattes, turmeric lattes, and green tea. They’ve also got some really good gluten-free carrot cake. 

The downside of this coffee shop is that they can only make one drink at a time due to their setup. So, if things get busy, you’ll have to wait. Definitely worth it though. Plus, the coffee can be kinda expensive compared to other coffee shops in Antigua. I’ll gladly overpay if it means hanging out in an airy and chic minimalistic space – yes, I’m a sucker for anything trendy and cool, haha.

You can totally tell the ambiance is amazing with great vibes and music, and the staff is friendly and accommodating for the digital nomad crowd. The wifi at Artista de Cafe is great for Zoom video calls, although I’m told it may not work as well if the cafe gets busy. 

If you have the chance to visit Artista de Cafe, be sure to try an affogato. It’s rumored to be downright amazing!

Cafe Estudio

I included Cafe Estudio on this list of best cafes in Antigua because of its incredible rooftop terrace, with views of both Acatenango and Fuego volcanoes! A great way to spend an hour or so, soaking up the views. However, there’s hardly any shade up here so remember your sunscreen and a hat.

This coffee shop offers seasonal coffee flavors like amaretto and pumpkin spice, along with a small selection of cakes, smoothies, crepes, sandwiches, nachos, and guacamole. Ugh I so wished I tried the french toast, one of the main highlights of Cafe Estudio.

What’s better than hanging out in a charming flower garden, listening to calming music in the background, with a snack or two and some coffee? Since the internet’s reliable and the atmosphere is quiet, I can see it being a great place for all you digital nomads to get some work done.

Alegria Cafe

Consider yourself a coffee connoisseur looking for the best cafes in Antigua, Guatemala? You need to add Alegria Cafe to your list, located less than a block away from the city center. 

The interior design of this cafe is gorgeous and features funky artwork by local artists. The shop actually partners with local artists on exclusive limited-release merch, so if you see something you like, buy it then and there – it may not be available next time you pop in!

Photos used with permission from Alegria Cafe

Not only is the interior worth checking out, but of course the coffee is expertly prepared and super delicious. I swear, all the baristas are super talented. The cold brew tonic, iced mocha (delicious but not too sweet), avocado toast, green goddess smoothies, affogatos, and kombucha all come highly recommended. 

And if you have a sweet tooth, there’s cookies! Think peanut butter with chocolate and sea salt, and oatmeal with coconut oil, honey, and raisins — both simply divine.

While I didn’t have any work to do (hello vacation!), the cafe’s known to have flawless wifi, making it an ideal spot to get some remote work done on your laptop. 

Basically, everything about this cafe is top notch – I loved the aesthetic, coffee presentation, art on the walls, and overall vibe. Super spacious, too! Easily one of the best coffee shops in Antigua, Guatemala. Don’t miss it. And if you happen to catch one of their vintage pop-ups, make sure to grab a few things – you won’t regret it!

Cafe Sky is probably one of the most popular cafes in Antigua, Guatemala, so of course I had to include it on this list. It’s known for its breathtaking views of the Agua and Fuego volcanoes from the rooftop terrace, as well as the surrounding area and city below. 

Photos used with permission from Cafe Sky

To fully appreciate the views, I highly recommend coming early in the morning before the clouds roll in and obstruct the volcanoes. That happens more than you think unfortunately!

While the views are absolutely stellar, the terrace is much smaller than it looks AND you’ll be sitting in the blistering sun since there’s little to no shade up there. Just something to keep in mind.

Cafe Sky is a great spot for breakfast or brunch, with a fairly large menu selection. However, the food can be a bit pricey, so it’s important to keep in mind that you’re really paying for the view. Fine by me, as volcanoes are definitely not something I see back home in San Francisco , haha.

I cannot believe I didn’t make it here myself – I was too busy wandering the city and checking out all the other things to do in Antigua, Guatemala ! Next time for sure!

Cafe Cafe Guatemala

Cafe Cafe Guatemala is one of the trendiest cafes in Antigua, Guatemala, so of course I had to check it out. We loved just how cute the cafe was decorated, with such a cool ambiance and cute decorations. 

It comes with no surprise that there’s even dedicated spots for Instagram photos, haha. Thankfully, the prices are very reasonable, especially considering the quality of the food and service. We popped in when we were frantically on the lookout for some food before our chocolate-making class, and I totally wish we had more time to savor the cafe.

Coffee photo used with permission from Cafe Cafe Guatemala

The space is kinda indoor and outdoor, which I really liked, especially since there was a nice breeze that afternoon. The service is excellent, and you can tell the baristas really know their stuff and are super talented. 

Want something super creative? Order a latte with some art of the Guatemalan flag! How cool is that?! – photo on IG

The cafe is a great spot to get breakfast or lunch, as the food is not only fresh but also very delicious. The fruit juices are freshly made (my favorite!!!), and there’s plenty of foodie options to choose from, including specialty coffees, frappes, blackberry crepes, smoothie bowls (my Rainbow Bowl loaded with fresh fruit was delicious), salads, sandwiches, and fresh lemonades.

Amanecer Juice Bar 

Amanecer Juice Bar is a popular juice bar and coffee shop located right in town. It’s known for its fresh juices, smoothies, and delicious coffee, and the second I saw its colorful mural inside, I knew I needed to pop in for a drink.

The name “Amanecer” means “sunrise” in Spanish, which totally reflects the cafe’s focus on healthy and fresh ingredients to start your day right. We love a good play on words here, haha.

Photos used with permission from Amanecer Juice Bar

The juice bar has an extensive menu of fresh juices and smoothies made with locally sourced fruits and vegetables. Popular options include the “Green Power” juice (with spinach, cucumber, apple, and ginger), and the “Tropical Paradise” smoothie (with banana, pineapple, and mango). 

I decided to sit for a smoothie bowl as I was kinda hungry, and lemme just say – it was one of the best smoothie bowls I had in my entire life. Such a huge portion I couldn’t even finish my bowl despite how delicious it was.

In addition to all those fresh juices and smoothies, Amanecer Juice Bar also serves a variety of coffee drinks, including cappuccinos, lattes, and espressos. A colorful little spot to relax and enjoy your drink in such a cozy and bright atmosphere!

Fernando’s Kaffee

Fernando’s Kaffee is one of the most popular coffee shops in Antigua, Guatemala. And for good reason – there’s a beautiful courtyard with excellent coffee and food and CHOCOLATE! Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the shop’s known for its ridiculously high-quality coffee, sourced directly from Fernando Moscoso’s family’s coffee farm. 

Plus, there’s loads of cocoa items here, which of course puts the shop high on my list, haha. It’s actually technically also a chocolate factory, so that makes a lot of sense. Don’t miss the hot chocolate – it’s known to be some of the best in all of Antigua! Perfect on a chilly day.

Photos used with permission from Fernandos Kaffee

Fernando’s Kaffee offers a variety of coffee and chocolate drinks, including espressos, cappuccinos, drinking chocolate, lattes, and even cacao juice, all made with their own beans/cacao. There’s also homemade pastries and baked goods, (made fresh daily!), plus dark and milk chocolate bars, cocoa nibs, and chocolate spread. The ultimate chocolate heaven.

One of the unique aspects of Fernando’s Kaffee is its coffee roasting process, which takes place right in the cafe. You can even watch as the coffee beans are roasted, and then purchase bags of freshly roasted coffee to take home with you! Doesn’t get fresher than that.

If you’ve got time, make sure to sign up for a coffee tasting and a tour of their coffee farm! You’ll get an in-depth understanding of the coffee-making process, and really appreciate how much time and energy goes into brewing the perfect cup.

And don’t miss the lovely house cat who hangs out in the shop! The back courtyard is quiet and cozy, perfect for a little cafe. I reckon it’s a great place to get some work done.

We popped into Cafe Sol on a whim because I was getting hangry and hot, and needed a cold drink and something to snack on. Well, what’d ya know, it ended up being one of our favorite cafes in Antigua! 

Photos used with permission from Cafe Sol

Their branding is so spot on (super cozy and inviting), and my parfait fruit bowl was super fresh (it even had loads of passionfruit in it which most don’t!). My friend said her coffee was some of the best she’s ever had.

Unfortunately I realized too late (after we left!) that they’ve got a small rooftop terrace/garden with a view of Volcan Agua upstairs – perfect when you want some fresh mountain air with a side of cute tiny hummingbirds! 

It’s a great spot for breakfast, with items like oat pancakes, huevos rancheros, and spinach omelettes on the menu. If you’re feeling spicy definitely order the El Diablo, an iced coffee drink with chili peppers, cocoa, and cinnamon.

Since Cafe Sol’s on the edge of town, I don’t think many people make it here which is such a shame! 

Algo Bueno (in Ojala Hotel)

We stayed at Ojala Hostel, so naturally, spent a lot of time at Algo Bueno, the cafe/bar connected to the hotel. The “desayuno típico” (typical Guatemalan breakfast) is really yummy and filling, with a selection of egg dishes, beans, fried plantains, fresh tortillas, fruit, and yogurt bowls. 

And the best part – it was included with our stay! You could tell they only use fresh and natural ingredients in all their food/drinks. 

If you’re staying at the hotel, there’s free morning coffee available which is greatly appreciated! My friend ordered a speciality drink, the cold dirty chai from the coffee shop, and said it was one of the best they’ve ever had. The wifi worked really well so my friends were able to get some work done in the courtyard. 

But the outdoor seating area is really what makes Algo Bueno one of the best cafes in Antigua, Guatemala. Just look at all those leafy green plants, gorgeous landscaping, and cozy hammocks to relax in. Plus tons of natural light!  

Don’t miss the stunning backyard garden with the most beautiful purple flowers hanging from the structure and hummingbirds flying around. So much attention to detail – I’d move in if I could. I can’t think of a better spot to walk down to every morning!

Cafe Boheme

Cafe Boheme is a cute and colorful place to sip some coffee or hot chocolate, and indulge in a sweet tart (or two). It’s a super chill area and just feels extremely peaceful. Cafe Boheme is actually a popular French spot and I definitely recommend it for breakfast or a mid-day snack if you’re in the area. Those fresh raspberry tarts look oh so perfect and delicious. 

We came here for the rooftop terrace view and lemme just tell ya, it did not disappoint. On a clear day, you can even see the volcanoes that surround Antigua. Always super impressive. Just know you’ll need to grab one of the 4 or 5 tables at the end of the terrace to get the great views (I didn’t realize this and we unfortunately sat on the opposite side).

Fat Cat Coffee House

Serious coffee drinkers, this coffee shop is for you. Fat Cat Coffee House offers a wide range of coffee options, including espresso, cappuccino, lattes, and a wide variety of pour-overs, all made with locally sourced and freshly roasted beans. Try a flat white, affogato, and/or a cortado (with a strong body and strong hints of dark chocolate – yum!)! You can really tell they love their coffee here.

Photos used with permission from Fat Cat Coffee House

It’s not as vibey or aesthetic as other cafes in Antigua, but still worthy of a visit for their downright delectable coffee. How a true coffee shop should really be judged, right? Some even say they’ve truly got the best coffee in all of Antigua. Can’t beat that!

Other cute coffee shops and cafes in Antigua, Guatemala:

• Cafe Condesa: Cafe Condesa’s been serving coffee daily since 1993, in a gorgeous colonial setting with three courtyards right in the main Central Park of Antigua. And breakfast is served all day long, woo! Can’t get much better than that. Their house blend is 100% Antigua coffee; it’s a mix of three roasts to give a subtle aroma and lots of flavor.
• La Vid Coffee Roasters: Looking for high quality coffee? Come here – La Vid’s got a killer cold brew and a rotating selection of pour overs. It’s evident they take their coffee seriously and trendy combos or overly sweet syrups aren’t their thing. While La Vid is definitely a coffee shop and not a cafe (they specialize in coffee and even roast their own beans), you’ve gotta try their famous carrot cake square. The interior is minimalist and rustic, although unfortunately not very well lit, so it may be hard to do work here. 

Photos used with permission from La Vid Coffee Roasters

• Starbucks : Okay, okay. I get it — yes, I’m including Starbucks on this list of the best coffee shops and cafes in Antigua, Guatemala. But hear me out! This location has one of the prettiest courtyards you’ll ever see, and not only at a Starbucks, but in general. As soon as we walked in I was amazed. Just look at all those colors and Guatemalan touches! Makes sense since the cafe was designed with the input of local artists and artisans to truly capture the colorful spirit of the colonial city.

• El Viejo Café: One of the oldest cafes in Antigua, Guatemala, open for over 25 years. Sip some coffee amongst the rustic decor, including antique coffee grinders and photographs of the city’s colonial past. They’ve got great cortaditos here, a type of coffee drink with a strong, rich espresso flavor and a touch of sweetness. El Viejo also has a bakery & pastry shop, and even a gelateria.
• Union Cafe: Very colorful and trendy with a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere and the prettiest floral wallpaper around. The coffee is excellent, and the food is always fresh and delicious. Try a beetroot latte and a breakfast burrito (with a side of fresh watermelon). This is a great spot to hang out with friends, catch up on some work, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee in a cool and stylish setting.
• Rooftop Antigua: We loved hanging out at Rooftop Antigua one evening for sunset, and it honestly kinda feels like a hidden gem in the city. You could’ve guessed it, but the main draw of this cafe is the terrace with views to ALL THREE VOLCANOES and breathtaking views of the colonial city. The service can be kinda slow and the menu isn’t anything crazy special, but honestly, who cares?! You come here for the absolutely spectacular views – the drinks and food are just to keep you full and satisfied while you’re staring out at sunset.

Photos used with permission from Rooftop Antigua

• La Bruja: This charming little spot is completely vegan, so I highly recommend La Bruja if you’re plant based, or not! My friends ordered a few empanadas so of course I had to try a few bites. They’ve also got fresh smoothies, falafel and black quinoa burgers, and even gluten free pizzas. Sit outside in the back courtyard by the large fountain – such a relaxing atmosphere and so lively with all the other shops/restaurants nearby.
• Cafe La Parada: The café interior is no frills and down to earth, and leans a bit towards 50’s Americana, with their metal signs and silly coffee jokes, haha. But the coffee is just wow – locally sourced from Huehuetenango (often considered the best in the entire country), roasted locally in Antigua. You might even hear Taylor Swift on the radio. Delicious, inexpensive coffee and great wifi – can’t go wrong here! Delicious lattes, fresh croissants, and great people! Some argue it’s the best coffee in Antigua, Guatemala!

I could have spent weeks just sitting in coffee shops on the lookout for even more cafes in Antigua, Guatemala. It’s just that kinda place, considering there’s a cute cafe around every corner, haha. I can’t wait to come back and take my husband next time – I know he’ll love spending lazy mornings at all these cafes in Antigua. 

Which of these coffee shops and cafes in Antigua will you visit on your next trip to Guatemala?! Did I miss any special ones?!

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Despite a recent surge in popularity, Antigua, Guatemala , has always been outrageously beautiful. This Central American secret, which was devastated by an earthquake in 1773, has been in recovery ever since—but there’s a new swagger to this city of Spanish colonial bones, impossibly gorgeous baroque churches, cloistered patios, and toppled saints of stone and stucco.

Amid colorful homes, new places to stay, and things to do plus new flights to the country make Antigua an enchanting place to visit. Villa Bokeh , a Relais & Chateaux property opened in Antigua during the pandemic and the team behind Luna Zorro Studio—known for its textiles, workshops, and curated trips—will open La Valiente, a two-bedroomed boutique rental by the end of the year alongside a café/wine bar and store. Every easter, Antigua’s Holy Week processions are the most mesmerizing on earth (outside of perhaps Seville, Spain 's). El Pregón , a new indispensable digital guide to the routes has been published. Each year, locals lay carpets of dyed wood shavings colored with seeds, cocoa beans and flowers over which religious brotherhoods—made up of columns of up to 80 men draped in purple robes—process through the antique streets. These fraternities carry religious statues through clouds of billowing incense against a soundtrack of solemn music. It’s a heady and unforgettable experience. Ask your hotel about taking part in a carpet-making class, or contact Jharan Marroquín at Luna Nueva to arrange.

Antigua swells each weekend as Guatemalans from the capital seek escape in the boutique stays of the city. It’s at these times the journey from Guatemala City takes longer than the usual 60-minute trip. The “Land of Eternal Spring’, so named for its year-round temperatures of a balmy average of 82 degrees and biodiverse landscapes, makes for a year-round vacation destination. Alaska began a daily service from Los Angeles to Guatemala City in December. Delta has increased its frequency to Guatemala from Atlanta to twice a week. Avianca flies from multiple cities and has resumed its flights from Chicago joining United Airlines and Volaris at O’Hare. American flies from Miami .

Luna Zorro Studio is set in a 19th-century coffee plantation on the outskirts of the city.

The studio offers a natural dye workshop.

The best things to do

Antigua’s historic heart has been unesco-protected since 1979 and is best explored on foot. Begin at the Dominican Monastery ruins scattered around the Hotel Casa Santo Domingo . Stroll the cobbled streets of fallen churches and homes in sorbet shades of mint, mango and tangerine with a guide from Viaventure . The tour ends in the leafy main square where the handsome buildings of the Spanish conquest span whole city streets. San José Cathedral with its 66 collapsed cupolas sits diagonal to the Captaincy General. Once off-limits to the public, this repurposed building opened as the National Museum of Art Guatemala (MUNAG) in autumn 2021. It’s a deeply impressive venue with exhibits celebrating 3,000 years of history: jade pieces from the grave burial of King K’utz Chman (350 BC) at the Maya site of Tak’alik Ab’aj, enormous canvases from the Passion of Christ series by 18 th -century painter Tomás de Merlo, and the ethereal resin and mixed media work of contemporary sculptor Maríadolores Castellanos and conceptual artist Darío Escobar’s gold estofado -decorated McDonald’s soft drink cup.

If you’re looking for more deeply rooted traditions of art, find them in the textiles of Guatemala’s Maya, too. Most Maya of the Antigua region are Kaqchikel, one of the country’s 22 indigenous communities. Each Maya group wears its own hand-woven traje (outfit) for men and women. The richly worked fabrics and clothing can be found in stores such as Colibrí , founded to assist women widowed during Guatemala’s 1960-1996 civil war. Today, Colibrí sells the work of 500 Maya weavers. A pick and mix approach underscores emporium Nim P’ot . Look for the exquisite long headpieces from the Western Highlands village of Aguacatán. At Museo Carolina’s Textiles weaving studio just outside the city at San Antonio Aguas Calientes, Carolina’s daughter Astrid Guaran tells the stories of their trajes and heirlooms—giving you the opportunity for firsthand insight into the world of Guatemala’s beautiful threads.

Journey deeper at weaving classes with experts at Kakaw Designs or at a natural dye workshop at Luna Zorro Studio unwrapped in the fresh-air grounds of a 19 th -century coffee plantation on the outskirts of Antigua. American Molly Berry and her team source hand loomed fabrics and other work crafted by 35 Maya artisans at an on-site studio .

With all the dipping into irresistible stores, you’ll need to fuel up at Artista de Café or turquoise-tiled 12 onzas . But for the full 360 bean-to-brew, ramble the lower slopes of Agua Volcano for an immersive introduction to Guatemalan coffee with the González family who tend 30,000 arabica coffee plants followed by a grinding class and tasting at their home.

Antigua’s trio of volcanoes have shaped the fate and fortunes of the city. Fuego flicks ash several times a day; Pacaya is a little further from Antigua. It’s active on a whim but not spilling fiery lava at the moment. Horse ride up the serried fragmented scree on a micro-adventure with sustainable Guatemalan Horse Tours . The kick? Lava cooked pizza, wine and roasting marshmallows at the base of the show-stealing volcano as dusk slips to inky darkness.

Wild Daughter has gorgeous alfresco dining tables decorated with wildflowers.

Wild Daughter serves up many of its dishes atop homemeade brioche.

Where to eat and drink

A ripple of restaurants in a city with a great number of Guatemalan and international treats are treasured addresses in town. The pork dumplings are legendary at Barriga Llena , a hole-in-the-wall style restaurant with walk-ins only. Brainchild of chef Mario Godinez, lately of long-standing Antigua favorite Bistro Cinq and Carlos Sosa of Opíparo (burgers in the capital and Antigua), the dumplings are slathered in pickled veg and chimichurri sauce. Wash them down with chicha (maize) soda.

Olivia Morelli

Caitlin Morton

Stacey Lastoe

The elegant, candle-lit La Cueva, part of the restaurant of Mesón Panza Verde serves robust dishes of poultry, duck and red meat with big-hitting flavors. In 2004 Alex Kronick turned the soil of a roses and coffee plantation into Caoba Farms , serving farm-to-fork lunches. Think bowls stuffed full of organic leafy greens, buffalo burgers, mozzarella salads and pizzas. Temple to vegan cuisine is once:once , where Asian and Mexican fusion are strong on the menu in the patio garden as is panache and conscience. Sundays are for the flavor-laced renowned brunches of chef Mario Campollo at the Hotel Santo Domingo . Feast on chuchitos (corn husk-wrapped tamales stuffed with pork in spiced paste), pupusas , homemade breads and crepes in the historic setting. Noemi Dulischewski formerly of Berlin Brünch in London arranges new brunch pop-ups with botanical cocktails in the Finca La Azotea grounds of Luna Zorro. Wild Daughter sees gorgeous alfresco dining tables decorated with wildflowers where Noemi creates cochinita pibil , a Maya slow-roasted pork dish on home-made brioche and chilaquiles verdes , fried tortilla chips made from El Comalote heirloom corn served with fire-roasted black corn, tomato salsa, avocado, black lime and cilantro flowers.

Nights are for magical experimentation. Reach speakeasy-style Ulew via a red telephone-style box below Antigua Brewing Company where craft cocktails are unscripted and mixed to order after barflies suggest their favorite tipples and flavors. At boho haunt Café No Sé you’ll need to crouch to get through to a secret spot to sample Ilegal Mezcal, a double-distilled agave liquor that Oaxacans call the ‘drops of time’.

Where to stay

Childhood friendship brought Claudia Bosch to the door of a down-on-its-luck, hacienda-style villa coddled in greenery on the outskirts of Antigua. Claudia’s daughter, Katina Jongenzoon, grew up with the daughter of American photographer and textile entrepreneur Mitchell Denburg, the owner of the property. Claudia and Katina, a designer, transformed Villa Bokeh which opened with 15 striking rooms in a color palette that roams from onyx to rose pink. The hideaway is artfully decorated with the work of contemporary Guatemalan artists and the restaurant, overseen by executive chef Marcos Sáenz (who worked at Spain’s two-Michelin star Mugaritz), opens out onto lush gardens of palms and fruit trees and parasoled tables with a show-stopping view of Agua.

Good Hotel is a design-forward stay with a big heart. Dutchman Martin Dresen invests 100% of Good Hotel profits into powering education for Guatemalan children from low-income families. The rooms—pared back and minimalist—with an outsized portrait of each child newly schooled—will be joined by 24 more plus a six-meter-long pool by the end of the year.

Luna Zorro ’s La Valiente, a two-bedroomed boutique stay designed by Molly Berry and her Guatemalan husband, will soon open. The property uses sustainable hardwood harvested from his family’s forestry plantation and furnished with a curated selection of the studio’s textiles, ceramics, and lighting.

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14 Ideas For What to Do in Antigua, Guatemala

A ntigua is one of the most captivating destinations in Guatemala. It has a unique blend of colonial charm and natural wonders, making it a dazzling sight to witness no matter when you visit.

From walking the city’s cobblestone streets to marveling at ancient churches and bustling markets to hiking active volcanoes and diving into the city’s gastronomic delights – there is no shortage of things to do in Antigua, Guatemala.

But if you’re not sure what to do in Antigua, Guatemala, then you’ve come to the right place. We’ve listed some of our favorite attractions and activities so you can plan the perfect trip.

Is Antigua Worth Visiting?

1. admire the ruins of antigua, 2. try guatemalan coffee, 3. try the street food, 4. hit the markets, 5. check out day of the dead kite festival, 6. attend semana santa – easter/holy week, 7. go on a volcano hike, 8. take a day trip to lake atilan, 9. take a trip to tikal, 10. take a photo of santa catalina arch, 11. admire views from cerro de la cruz, 12. relax on one of the rooftop terraces, 13. learn about craft beer at antigua brewing company, 14. take a chocolate making workshop, best time of year to visit antigua, getting to and around antigua, where to stay in antigua, final thoughts, more guatemala travel tips.

Antigua is the last true Colonial City remaining in Latin America . It’s small enough to walk around and yet brimming with attractions and things to do.

You can have the cheapest Spanish lessons in the world here, and the locals are so friendly and welcoming. The Mayan culture still breathes deep for the local people, which intermingle with the foreigners.

The cobblestone streets, colorful houses and huge Central Park offer the perfect backdrop for photos, as well as a quiet spot to watch the local life go by.

Not only is the city beautiful, but Antigua is surrounded by three gorgeous volcanoes (one of which is VERY active and gives off smoke daily – but more on that later).

If you’re wondering if Antigua is worth visit, the answer is a resounding yes. Not only do you get history, beauty, and surrounded by nature’s ferocious tenacity, but you simply get SO much more for your money with hotels, restaurants, souvenirs and other stuff because Guatemala is a cheap country to visit.

What to Do in Antigua

Antigua experienced two severe earthquakes; in 1843 and 1974. These quakes caused a lot of damage and destruction, and you can visit hundreds of ruins all around the city that are preserved to bring you back to those moments.

The most notable ruins are the churches. These were built during the colonial era and were not built to last the magnitude of earthquakes.

One of the most famous is of the La Ermita de la Santa Cruz, which was built in the colonial era and has stunning Baroque architecture.

One of my favorite ruins is that of Convento Capuchinas, which is a former monastery that features both European and Mesoamerican architecture.

This former santuary home features the ruins of a church, cloister, and the nuns living quarters, as well as a striking central courtyard with a fountain.

Along with the ruins of churches and cathedrals that once were, there are still 35 active churches in Antigua as well. The most popular one stands along Antigua’s famous Parque Central (Central Park), known as Catedral San José, which retains much of its 16th century beauty.

Check out this walking tour of Antigua which takes you to see the most iconic ruins and landmarks.

Coffee is one of Guatemala’s most priced commodities and some of the best coffee plantations are just a few minutes outside of Antigua.

If you want to try the freshest beans, then you will find it here in Antigua.

I highly recommend you take a Guatemalan coffee tour to find the best cafes and coffee shops.

Combo Tour: Colonial Antigua & Guatemala City Explorer Tour: Enjoy 2 wonderful cities, ancient colonial city of Antigua, a UNRSCO World Heritage Site, and Modern Guatemala City at the same day. Learn more here !

Antigua is probably one of the best places in Central America for restaurants. You can find everything from typical Guatemalan restaurants to internationally known chefs cooking up gastronomical masterpieces.

However, it’s the street food that will give you the best flavors and is so cheap. There are street vendors all around Antigua, mainly by the parks and churches.

From the savory Chuchitos, which are flavorful tamales wrapped in a corn husk, to the aromatic and rich chicken pepián, the street food scene offers a diverse culinary experience.

Look out for tantalizing options like Atol, Rellenitos, and Tostadas with guacamole, beans, or tomato sauce, each providing a unique taste of the region’s gastronomic heritage.

Want to learn about street food from a local? Check out this street food tour at night!

If you want to do some shopping and bring home souvenirs, there are three places you can shop; Arc Street where all the best Jade is sold, Central Market (Central Mercado), which is close to the bus terminal (this is more of a local market with a handicraft market attached to it), and Capuchinas Ruins Market .

Antigua is world known for the best jade. This was a sacred stone to the Maya and is sold in stores all over the city.

One word of advice, for good quality Jade get it in the stores, not at the markets.

For souvenirs, I recommend Capuchinas Ruins market . This is a year round market of great handicrafts. Market days are every day, but during the week it’s only indoors and on weekends they have more vendors sit outside.

The Day of the Dead Kite Festival is a vibrant and poignant celebration honoring departed loved ones. This ancient tradition, held annually on November 1st, brings together families to fly exquisitely crafted kites adorned with intricate designs and vibrant colors.

The kites are on average between 10 – 30 feet in diameter – they are huge!

As the kites soar into the sky, it is believed that they carry messages to the spirits of their loved ones.

The festival blends solemn remembrance with artistic expression, serving as a beautiful symbol of the enduring connection between the living and the departed.

Semana Santa is a vibrant celebration that commemorates the passion, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

This annual event, held from Sunday, March 24 to Saturday, March 30 in 2024, is a deeply cherished tradition in Guatemala, and is filled with elaborate processions, colorful street carpets made of flowers and sawdust, and religious reenactments.

It holds immense significance for the local community and attracts over a million visitors each year.

The festivities blend both indigenous Mayan traditions with Catholic rituals, creating a unique cultural tapestry.

No where in the world will you see alfombras (carpets) and processions as you would in Antigua. The two main days are the Thursday and Friday before Easter Sunday.

Antigua is surrounded by volcanoes. Not just dormant ones, but active ones too. The most famous is Fuego, the notoriously active volcano responsible for causing much devastation, including in November 2018 when the eruption took the lives of 4,000 people.

If you want to see Fuego spit it’s firey flames into the air, then you’re better off hiking Acatenango Volcano, which offers an amazing view of Fuego but at a safe distance.

The hike is pretty challenging, not going to lie to you, and you’ll need to prepare for the altitude of 3,976 meters above sea level. The altitude is tough but the trail is tougher, since you’re hiking up volcanic ash and sand. Hiking boots and poles will help you a lot here.

If you want to see a volcano without a difficult hike, Pacaya is a good alternative. The hike can be done in half a day and takes you up the side of this active volcano, where you can gaze upon lava flows and toast marshmellows over hot spots. You can also do ATV tours of Pacaya too if you don’t want to hike.

Check out this half day hiking tour of Pacaya Volcano from Antigua!

Check out this 2 Day / 1 Night hiking tour of Acatenango from Antigua!

One of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Guatemala is Lake Atitlán, which is nestled amidst towering volcanoes and surrounded by charming Mayan villages.

This is a volcanic lake, which was formed 84,000 years ago after a volcanic eruption, and sits at 1,500 meters above sea level.

It’s a huge lake spanning 18 kilometers, and is also the deepest lake in Central America .

You can go kayaking in the shimmering waters or relax at one of the lake-side restaurants, go for a swim (though we wouldn’t recommend it – it’s said that waste and sewage run off into the lake . Though it’s pretty to look at!) or you can explore the vibrant markets brimming with local crafts.

It’s the perfect day trip to take if you want a serene escape from the bustling Antigua.

Check out this day tour of Lake Atilan from Antigua!

Possibly the most famous Mayan ruins (aside from Machu Picchu) is Tikal. Tikal isn’t close to Antigua, however it’s one of the most unmissable attractions in Guatamala, so you can many tours that include flights to this iconic archaeological site easily in Antigua.

The beauty of visiting Tikal from Antigua is that the flight allows you to gaze upon the ruins from above, offering a bird’s eye view from the plane.

Nestled in the depths of the Guatemalan jungle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site spans for miles, with the occasional temple ruin perched beneath the trees.

Tikal is still an ongoing archaeological site, so with each visit there is something new to explore. It’s estimated that it dates back to the 1st century A.D., and was once a thriving citadel and city with temples and palaces, but was later abandoned and left to ruin.

Some of the most notable sites in the park include the Lost World Pyramid (Mundo Perdido) and the Temple IV, which is a staggering 70 meters tall. This makes it the tallest pre-Columbian structure in the whole of the Americas.

Check out this tour of Tikal from Antigua which includes the flight.

One of the most iconic scenes in Antigua is of the Santa Catalina Arch, which could be considered an artistic ode to the city’s vivid narrative.

This architectural masterpiece, adorned with vibrant yellow tones and intricate details, allows you to capture the iconic cobbled streets and colonial heritage, set against the backdrop of majestic volcanoes.

No tourists visiting Antigua can leave without capturing a photograph of the Santa Catalina Arch, which is the backdrop that says “I’ve been to Antigua!”.

Overlooking the colonial splendor of Antigua, is the Cerro de la Cruz. This enchanting vantage point is the perfect place to go for sunset or to get a unique perspective of the city.

The ascent to this hill of the cross unveils a mesmerizing panorama, offering sweeping views of the city’s iconic architecture, nestled amidst the breathtaking backdrop of Volcán Agua.

One of the best places to relax in Antigua is from a seat at one of the city’s rooftop bars. This is the best place to see the incredible volcano vistas and colonial rooftops that make Antigua so unique.

My favorite rooftop bar is Café Sky, which has a lovely rooftop terrace with incredible views. The menu serves up traditional Guatemalan dishes and a few international favorites, but it’s the view you come for.

It’s the perfect place to relax after a day of adventure and sightseeing.

The Antigua Brewing Company is a craft brewery, housed within a captivating colonial house, which offers a delightful fusion of handcrafted artisanal beers and delectable cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere.

Indulge in the rich flavors of their meticulously brewed beers, whilst admiring the historical charm of the setting.

The Antigua Brewing Company is one of the most bustling places to be in Antigua, and should be high on your list of things to do in Antigua at night.

As well as coffee beans, Guatemala also has rich soil perfect for growing cacao beans, used for making chocolate.

You can visit The Chocolate Museum in Antigua where you can make your own chocolate with a chocolate making workshop.

This is not only a memorable activity, but a great way to bring home a unique souvenir from your trip.

The best time to visit Antigua is during the dry season, which is when you have the best weather of the year. This runs from November through April, and June until August.

If you want to come for Semana Santa, then Easter week is the best time.

The low season is May (the weather is still great) and also September and October (but it can get rainy during those months).

My advice, if you’re not coming for the major festivals, coming off season is the perfect time to be here . It hardly rains, certainly not enough to put a dampen on your trip. Plus, you have Antigua for yourself!

To get to Antigua, Guatemala you need to fly to Aurora International Airport (Guatemala City Airport) in Guatemala City which is about 45 minutes from Antigua itself.

To travel within Guatemala you will need to do either private or collective shuttles to other destinations such as Lake Atitlan, Chichicastenango, Tikal and other areas of interest.

Antigua is small enough to be able to walk everywhere you have to. However, if you want to get somewhere fast or are tired there are hundreds of Tuk Tuk’s and taxis.

The public buses take too long and are more for getting to the surrounding areas rather than Antigua center.

When you want to explore more of Antigua, such as Lake Atitlán, you’ll need to look out for one of these…

Antigua has some of the most gorgeous colonial hotels in this part of the world. You can stay in a luxury hotel for less than other countries.

Although, there is no shortage of the hundreds of hostels with dorms and private rooms for backpackers, too.

One hotel stands out above all else; Casa Santo Domingo . Staying here is more of an experience rather than just a place to sleep. It doubles up as a museum and is one of the most historic hotels in the city.

Chances are if you don’t stay here you will definitely visit it at one time or another during your visit to Antigua.

Antigua is so special and unique on every level. It’s small enough, yet big enough to have everything you need.

The people are humble and kind and they love kids. The food selection is amazing. Best of all, there is always something to do.

We hope that this guide gave you some inspiration for what to do in Antigua and helped you plan your trip!

Bio: Marina K. Villatoro is an expat living and traveling in Central America with her family for over 10 years. She blogs all about her family’s adventures and life at TravelExperta.com . With all their miles under their belts, she’s written a useful family guide book for traveling to Guatemala with kids – tested and approved by her family. Join Marina on Twitter for more fun Central and Latin American fun.

Need more inspiration for your trip to Guatemala? Here are some other helpful guides…

• Reasons why you need to visit Guatemala
• Experiencing the Best and Worst Guatemala Has to Offer in One Weekend
• How to choose a Spanish speaking school in Guatemala

Do you have any tips on what to do in Antigua Guatemala? Let us know in the comments!