solo travel antigua guatemala

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CENTRAL AMERICA , GUATEMALA · May 16, 2017 Last Updated on March 10, 2024

A SOLO FEMALE TRAVEL GUIDE FOR GUATEMALA

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With its endless volcano views, picturesque landscapes, and lush mountains, Guatemala is one of the most beautiful countries I have ever been to. Unfortunately, because of its reputation in the media as a nation filled with gang and drug-related violence, it is often avoided as tourists opt to flock to the “safer” Belize or Costa Rica. But trust me, Guatemala is not one to be missed.

As my first destination as a solo female traveler, I spent 15 days in this incredible country and while I was a bit afraid at first, I returned home a changed woman with a new perspective on the world. In this post I share tips on where to go, how to get around and how to travel safely as a woman in Guatemala.

WHERE TO GO IN GUATEMALA:

Guatemala city.

If you are flying to Guatemala, chances are your flight will be landing in Guatemala City . Most people use this place solely as a pit-stop and I was no exception. From what I had read, this is where most of the gang-related violence occurs and is very dangerous at night. I avoided this city, instead heading straight to Antigua, about an hour west of Guatemala City.

This cute little colonial town of Antigua was where I spent most of my time. With its incredible view of the Agua Volcano and colorful stone buildings, you will not get bored walking these cobblestone streets.

There are tons of things to do in town as well, from exploring the traditional markets to sampling the Guatemalan cuisine at one of the many cafes and restaurants, to taking Spanish lessons at a local school. Antigua is a town to immerse yourself in.

PACAYA VOLCANO

The Pacaya Volcano is a great half-day trip for those looking to have a more active holiday. Take a quick tour here so you get in your daily work out AND get to look at some pretty cool views while doing it!

The volcano itself is active and you will have the opportunity to roast some marshmallows over the volcanic rock! Did someone say volcano s’mores?!

EARTH LODGE

Nestled in the mountains above the town of Agua, the Earth Lodge offers spectacular views of the three volcanoes (Agua, Acatenango, and Fuego). I stayed at the Earth Lodge my first night in Guatemala and I highly recommend this place to anyone who is near Antigua.

Accommodation options here range from camping in tents to dorm rooms to a tree house with a balcony facing the volcanoes. Also, the lodge is on an avocado farm so make sure you order the guacamole at their restaurant. You’re welcome.

SEMUC CHAMPEY

One of my favorite destinations in Guatemala, Semuc Champey is unlike any place I have ever been to. It’s a long journey from Antigua (10 hours, one-way), but it is so worth it!

This natural beauty consists of little limestone rock infinity pools filled with emerald green water. You can opt to visit just the pools or take a full-day tour around the area, which includes exploring local caves, tubing, hiking to the Semuc Champey viewpoint, and a Guatemalan BBQ!

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LAKE ATITLAN

Lake Atitlan has something for everyone! The lake is surrounded by many villages, each with their own unique culture and lifestyle.

Panajachel is the main town where buses arrive and depart, as well as where many tours will depart from. I recommend San Marcos La Laguna for those who are interested in natural beauty, as there are places to hike, kayak, and cliff-jump from. It’s also known as the “hippie town” for its laid-back vibe.

Another town popular among backpackers is San Pedro La Laguna . Here you can find cheap prices, cheap food, and an awesome nightlife scene.

HOW TO GET AROUND GUATEMALA:

• Chicken Buses – The local way of getting around! Before arriving to Guatemala, I remember reading various blogs claiming that the chicken buses are dangerous (due to theft). However, I took them almost every day and felt completely safe. I would recommend keeping your bags on your lap and not having any of your belongings out in plain sight.
• Shuttle Buses  – I would say definitely take the tourist shuttle buses if you are traveling long distances. They are relatively cheap (usually $8-$15 one-way) and are the most efficient way to get to your destination. You can take chicken buses, but they have frequent stops and you would need to change buses sometimes as well.
• Flying – This is an expensive option for those looking to get to Tikal. The shuttle bus ride ranges from 12-14 hours, so for those short on time, a flight to Flores may be the best way to go.

FEMALE SAFETY TIPS FOR GUATEMALA:

• Money Belt – The only money I had on me was the money I needed for the day. I kept the majority of it in my money belt, and the rest in my purse, just in case I needed to retrieve it quickly.
• Don’t Go Out Alone At Night  – This is a common solo female rule, but in Guatemala, I would suggest both genders take caution. Robberies are more likely to happen at night and they may possibly have a weapon. My advice is to take extra precaution here and be proactive by not putting yourself in that position at all. If you feel unsafe, have the place you’re at call a taxi or tut-tut for you.
• Taxis – if you are wanting to go somewhere at night, but don’t want to walk, have your hostel or hotel call a taxi for you. Most of the time, the taxi driver will be able to drop you off and pick you up after. Do NOT take random taxis at night if you are by yourself.
• Have Your Information Ready  – I wrote down the names and addresses of all the places I was staying at. This made it easy for taxi drivers to know where I was going, even if they had not heard of the hostel before. I would also collect the business cards or phone numbers of the places I was staying at just in case. I always keep two paper copies of my passport so I am prepared if my passport happens to get stolen or lost.
• Trust Your Gut – Most of the time, your gut is right. If something feels sketchy, or you feel uncomfortable in an area, make sure to put your safety first and figure a way out of the situation. That could be calling a taxi or staying at a different hotel. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, we all need it sometimes.
• Make Sure At Least One Person Knows Your Plan  – I know going off the grid can feel amazing, but as a solo traveler, it’s good for one person to know your (tentative) plan. I’m a college student and my parents are always worried when I decide to travel alone. I help ease their minds by providing them with the names and contact information of the hostels I am staying at. I also check-in about once every two days to let them know that yes, I am still alive.
• Buy a Local Sim Card:  If your phone is unlocked (call your home carrier before you go), you can buy a local Guatemalan sim card at most major mobile phone shops and local convenience stores. This way you can stay in touch with friends and family back home, make sure your ride is taking you the right direction, and even share your location with a trusted friend. Traveling is a great time to unplug, but using a sim card for safety is a great tip.

GUATEMALA WRAP UP

All in all, Guatemala is an incredible place to travel through. Great food, thrilling adventures, and a nice tropical climate to relax in. I could not ask for more from a country. I encourage solo women to come and experience the laid-back Guatemalan culture and discover that, perhaps they do need a little Guatemala!

Have you visited Guatemala? Please share your own tips and favourite places to visit with our readers in the comments below.

Do you want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Please visit our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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Read More About Central America

• 5 Waterfalls You Can’t Miss When Visiting Costa Rica
• Off The Beaten Path: Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
• Paradise Found On Little Corn Island, Nicaragua
• How To Travel To Costa Rica On A Budget

By We Are Travel Girls Contributor Mariah Henderson of WanderWithMariah.com Connect with Mariah  Instagram

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Tilly Horseman says

May 19, 2017 at 12:01 pm

This country looks like it has so many beautiful geological features. Your photos are fantastic. It’s not anywhere I’ll be going to any time soon as I have have a million other places on my bucket list to head to first, but lovely to read about and see the beauty of the place!

We Are Travel Girls says

May 20, 2017 at 6:18 am

Thanks for reading and commenting Tilly! Pleased that you enjoyed reading this post, and once you get through your bucketlist hope you add Guatemala! XO, Becky

Dalit Barrett says

May 19, 2017 at 8:45 pm

I traveled to Guatamala as a solo female in 2014 and it was the best trip I’ve ever taken! Now that I’m married and expecting a little one this summer, I can’t help but be so happy I took this trip by myself when I did. Definitely recommend a solo trip to Guatemala to any ladies out there considering it.

May 20, 2017 at 6:22 am

Thanks for reading and commenting Dalit, And for recommending others do the same as you and travel solo to Guatemala! XO, Becky

Perla Medina says

September 7, 2017 at 2:00 pm

Now I want to go to Guatemala! Love this article! C:

Becky van Dijk says

September 8, 2017 at 1:56 am

Guatemala is beautiful – you should definitely add it to your list! Thanks for reading!

November 24, 2017 at 1:01 pm

This post has jump started my solo trip to Guatemala. I just started teaching English in the USA and want to volunteer in Guatemala. Do you know of any English language schools?

Michele says

February 13, 2018 at 8:36 pm

Robbery and Attempted Murder at the Summit of La Nariz

On February 13, 2018, a friend and I hiked to the popular La Nariz on Atitlan for the sunrise. What started as a promising sunrise excursion turned into a harrowing experience that highlights how I believe tourists are openly targeted for violent crime by the locals with the tacit permission of the local authorities.

On our journey up the mountain, guides and other tourists accompanied us. After the sunrise, my friend and I followed behind the group. However, as my friend tried to descend from the peak, a young guatemalan man in front of my friend turned, pulled out a machete, put it to my friend’s throat and demanded his money. My friend quickly backed away and ran down the hill through the brush. As my friend ran, the man picked up and threw grapefruit sized rocks trying to kill him. Already being further down the mountain, the guides and the other tourists fled.

Unfortunately, everyone else’s escape left the young man shoving me at machete point demanding my money. After a tense few minutes of talking, I gave him my money (120Q) and ran down behind my friend. As we descended, another man with a machete blocked our path and demanded even more money. We ran through the brush and escaped.

When we arrived at the town below, we stopped at a small tienda and told the lady what had happened. While talking with her, the two bandits walked past. We told the lady they were the criminals who had assaulted us. She knew who they were and gave us their names. She also called the police for us and told us that she was afraid to get involved.

Twenty minutes later, when the Guatemala national police arrived, we told them what happened and gave them the criminals’ names and a picture. The police asked us if we wanted to file a report. We told them that this was their community. If it helped the community, we would. Otherwise, we would just leave. They said they wanted us to file a report so we followed them to the police station.

As it turned out, we didn’t need the criminals’ pictures or names. They met us and the police as we walked through town. As expected, they denied holding us at knifepoint, kidnapping me, or trying to kill my friend. When we arrived at the police station, neither the town police nor the national police took a report. We reviewed nothing. We signed nothing. Neither man was arrested. We left enlightened.

Upon returning, I researched La Nariz more thoroughly combing through travel blogs. I found that the two criminals are a father and son team who have been committing violent crime against tourists for years. Here is a blog entry from 2016 that spells out their activities:

https://diytravelhq.com/hike-indian-nose/

It’s highly unlikely that the local authorities don’t know this.

In the end, going to La Nariz is simply dangerous. It is remote and away from town giving criminals the time and space they need for their dirty work. With proper support from the police, it could be safe. But in my experience you, as a tourist, are considered by the police and the guides to be fair game to the locals who are regularly committing violent crime against foreigners.

If you are the adventuresome type and don’t mind being robbed at knifepoint for a few bucks, then the sunrise at La Nariz is nice enough. You’ll get some exercise and see a pretty sunrise. If you are squeamish about being subjected to violent crime, you may want to consider other sightseeing options.

After talking with lot of people, it also seems that virtually all paths around the lake are being worked similarly by violent criminals. The guides will tell you that it’s safe if you go with them, but it’s not.

February 14, 2018 at 4:47 pm

Thanks for your comment Michele and sharing your experience to help our readers make informed and safe choices in planning their travels to this area in future. I am sorry that this happened to you, it sounds like a terrifying experience. Becky, Founder – We Are Travel Girls

February 9, 2019 at 8:05 pm

The more I read about Guatemala the more I get excited to travel in that part of the world. This blog really helps Becky and Van.

January 4, 2020 at 2:09 pm

Am leaving for a few months stay in Guatemala on January 29, 2020 first landing in Belize and will bus to Flores to start my solo female journey till March 25 when I will return to Northern Ontario, Canada

Jessica Maldonado says

March 13, 2020 at 10:03 pm

Hi Dee! I would love to hear about your journey! im inspired

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A Solo Traveller's Guide to Guatemala

Freelance writer

Guatemala is the heart of Central America , and one of the most popular stops on the classic backpacker’s trail. An inexpensive and stunningly beautiful country , it’s long been popular with solo travellers – but that doesn’t mean that exploring this country is always plain sailing. Here’s everything you need to know.

Guatemala city.

If you’re flying into Guatemala you’ll probably land in Guatemala City. Unless the capital has a particular draw for you, it’s wise not to spend too much time here. Guatemala City is where most of the gang-related violence occurs in the country, and it can be very dangerous at night. It has its fair share of interesting museums, markets and galleries, but nothing that the much safer colonial city of Antigua doesn’t have. Just an hour’s drive from Guatemala City, Antigua is the most popular travel destination for a reason.

Antigua is famous for its excellent Spanish schools, so you’ll have no problem meeting people from all over the world. If you don’t fancy staying in a hostel, try a family homestay, which is a great way to meet locals. Make sure you visit some of the city’s fascinating museums and art galleries , and take your time wandering through the many colourful markets throughout town. Be sure to schedule enough time here… Antigua is a place to immerse yourself in and you can spend weeks exploring without getting bored.

Pacaya Volcano

Whether you’re happy travelling solo or are hoping to make some friends along the way, a trip to Guatemala isn’t complete without hiking up one of its iconic volcanoes. Visiting the active Pacaya Volcano is one of the best activities to do from Antigua, and it’s close enough to complete in a single afternoon. There are lots of volcano tours you can do from Antigua, but the best ones include toasting marshmallows on the still-hot rocks.

Lake Atitlan

Gorgeous Lake Atitlan is an important stop-off on the solo traveller’s schedule. Framed by three volcanoes and several traditional villages, each with their own unique culture and lifestyle, it’s one of the most beautiful and interesting spots in the country. The touristy village of Panajachel is a great base where you can easily arrange tours of the lake and volcanoes, and its bustling bars, restaurants and cafes mean you’ll find it easy to meet people.

Flores and Tikal National Park

The tourist-friendly town of Flores is the gateway to the Mayan ruins of Tikal. Located on an island in the middle of Lake Peten Itza, Flores is pretty, packed with travellers and safe, so if you have the time to spend a few days here kicking back, it’s always a good idea.

Of course, the main reason people visit Flores is to visit Guatemala ’s most famous cultural attraction, Tikal. Hidden in dense jungle, this is the largest excavated Mayan site in the world, and it’s a joy to explore. There are all kinds of different tours you can do here, but to make it extra special why not stay the night in the park? Catching the sunrise over the pyramids is something you’ll never forget. Keep an ear out for the roars of the howler monkeys, too!

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A Little Learning… Finding Authenticity in Antigua, Guatemala

Last updated on March 3, 2024 by Shannon

I have a confession: I deeply love Antigua, Guatemala. Why a confession? The town seems so tourist-purposed and overrun by westerners that it feels like a place easily shunned by snobby tourists.

Antigua is such a marked contrast to the dangerous and grittier reality in nearby Guatemala City, and far more developed than Xela in the north. When I mention to other travelers I spent a month total (split across three visits) in Antigua, I often get a judgmentally-inquisitive raised eyebrow. And that I have expat friends who raised kids there for 15 years—an even bigger eyebrow raise.

Antigua’s cobblestone, idyllically-pretty streets are clean. The low-slung buildings are a rainbow of neatly painted cookie-cutter storefronts. Crumbling ruins dot the corners of the city’s small blocks at a regular interval—they clearly point to the town’s colonial past. It is, in a grossly simplistic word, cute.

And there are a ton of interesting things to do nearby, and tasty foods to sample. It’s just an excellent travel experience all around.

Table of Contents

Is Antigua, Guatemala Safe?

I take safety as a solo female traveler seriously, and I felt safe on the streets of Antigua. A solo female friend was in Guatemala for a month in late 2022, and she confirmed that Antigua is still a safe and charming place for travelers.

In terms of safety, though, it felt absolutely safe for travelers during the day, and at night, I felt safe in a group. There are few places in the world I ever think it’s wise to walk alone at night, and that includes Antigua.

Pickpocketing is the biggest threat here, but I don’t weight that against my big “should I travel here?” lists because it’s mostly opportunistic crimes versus violent crimes, thus not really affecting my core safety.

That said, this doesn’t mean that I didn’t keep my wits about me in Antigua, because I did. Traveling Guatemala is not inherently safe—there are more risks than other places. But I never felt unsafe, and even locals from Guatemala City admitted that they drove to Antigua for drinks and nights out because it’s safer than the capital.

I always have travel insurance through IMG Global , as well as gear insurance when I am on the road, so I generally rate places against the threat of real bodily harm. If you are aware of the main concerns, then both Antigua and the many other parts of Guatemala can be safe for travelers. (My Guatemala Travel Guide more deeply covers the core safety concerns for Guatemala as a whole.)

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.

All There is to Love About Antigua

The city has slowly and steadily built a strong tourism industry to cater to the droves of tourists passing through this Guatemalan hub. A variety of vegetarian food is also plentiful, and the local artisans market was well stocked with something for just about everyone on my Christmas list.

My love of Antigua highlights one of those never-ending debates about experiencing the “real” heart of a country when you visit. Other backpackers so often make a pissing contest over who went further “off the path.” Who saw the “real” Guatemala.

Is there a fake Guatemala?

To tell the truth, I had some of my best conversations with locals sitting at Reilly’s, a painfully westernized Irish pub in the center of Antigua. And does the fact that some of these conversations took place in English make a difference? I don’t think so.

Reilly’s turned out to be a perfect place to meet other locals my age; Guate City isn’t exactly a hub of safe partying. Local Guatemalans flood Antigua on the weekends, a mere 45 minute drive away.

Visiting Antigua for weeks gave me a deep glimpse into a vastly different, and yet so very similar, middle class. These twenty-somethings sport slicked-back hair, the women teeter through the uneven streets on pointy heels, which accent their trendy legging/long shirt ensembles. And all carry the ubiquitous smartphone.

And so many of the twenty-somethings I encountered felt like they have something to prove to backpackers visiting their country. The Guatemalans I met worked hard to avoid the stereotype that they “lacked” what we have in the West, or that they felt in anyway inferior because they’re Guatemalan. That was a very real issue in my many conversations with locals.

Travelers come to developing countries quick to dismiss the wealthier areas, the prosperous side of a country. Many travelers look to fulfill a narrative they wrote before they left home. They look for the poverty, for something to pity .

And this isn’t only my opinion—this was the communicated opinion of Guatemalans I met in Antigua. They meet many backpackers with this viewpoint, and locals are eager to express their feelings and concerns over this worldview that paints any place different as inferior.

Many locals I met were proud of their country and wanted a willing and receptive ear. To a person they also acknowledged some of the deep poverty, crime, and other issues that affect pockets of the country (and drive a mass exodus for some to see refuge in Mexico and the U.S.). But just as living in South Side Chicago is a far cry different than a wealthy suburb in Orlando, Guatemala has a diverse peoples.

I would have missed a deeply real side of Guatemala if I had avoided the gringo-fied areas. I would have created, and thus received, a very different version of Guatemala if I had stuck only to the countryside; the off-the-path locations.

I did “go local” when I volunteered outside of Xela . I stomped through the forests of Tikal , and I found remote regions, too. Like the sweet Rio Dulce and the adventure waterfall destination of Semuc Champey .

But the lovely, cute, touristy little city of Antigua, Guatemala? Well it served me just as well in my efforts to understand this dynamic country. I will raise my eyebrows right back at those who want to start a pissing contest with me, because no matter where I go, I am always able to learn something new. At the end of the day, that’s exactly why I travel and what has formed my most transformative travel experiences .

Don’t forget to  book travel insurance for your trip to Guatemala —I had my debit card cloned, and a travel friend had their bag swiped on a bus. 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 !

Best Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala

I loved my time in Guatemala. In fact, it’s one of my favorite spots in Central America. I wrote a free and comprehensive Guatemala Travel Guide . It includes everything you should know before you go: responsible travel, book recs, what to see and do, where to study Spanish. A total knowledge dump from my months traveling Guate.

If you’re just heading to Antigua, these tips will get you started on the best things to do.

Hike Acatenango Volcano

For pretty much one of the coolest experiences you’ll ever have, hike Acatenango Volcano for the views of Volcano Fuego. Volcano Fuego actively spews lava often enough that you have a pretty good chance of seeing it if you hike Acatenango. This is a hard hike, but doable for most who have a decent level of fitness.

To book this activity, you’ll see signs all over Antigua offering packaged treks to Acatenango, so shop around and find a good deal. Or you could book online to reserve your preferred date and time—this one on Get Your Guide or Viator is your best bet for a day tour from Antigua.

Roast Marshmallows on Pacaya Volcano

If you’ve dreamed of actually getting up close and personal with the lava, then hiking Pacaya Volcano . This hike is not as pretty or scenic as Acatenango, but it’s a highlight because you will get up close and see real lava—it was my first time ever doing so and it was memorable!

Usually, if travelers do one thing in the city, it’s this activity. One of the more fun aspects unique to this hike is the roasting of marshmallows. Because you’re so close to real lava flows, the steam coming up from the rocks is hot enough for some toasty warm marshmallows—most tour guides will bring a bag and pass them out to participants.

If you plan to hike Pacaya, you must dress appropriately, and that includes wearing the right shoes—wear hiking boots or shoes with a thick sole. If you’re not wearing the right footwear you may very well injure your feet because the hot rocks will melt the soles of your shoes down to your sock—this happened to a woman on my hike who was wearing sneakers.

The rocks even melted a bit of the side of my hiking shoe, but at least there was a lot of rubber to get through. Also, wear long trousers since the heat seeping up from the rocks is no joke.

If you’re a more serious hiker, book a tour to hike Acatenango Volcano—it’s a much harder hike and should not be done casually. Pacaya is not only an easier hike, but also a much cheaper day tour for those visiting Antigua on a tight budget.

Hike to Cerro de la Cruz

Frame your time in Antigua with a pick picture look at the town as you walk to the Hill of the Cross. As you ascend, you’ll pass locals, joggers, and fellow travelers, all looking to pay homage to the sight that awaits—Antigua framed by Volcán de Agua. It’s not just a photo-op, but a lovely walk and views.

You don’t need a tour or guide for this hike just outside of town, so if you’re on limited time or have little interest in volcanoes, this is your best option to still stretch your legs.

Visit the Macadamia Farm Outside of Antigua

An offbeat activity is to visit a macadamia nut farm , which has amazing pancakes. It’s a fun day trip from the city and really under-visited by travelers in Antigua considering it’s a mere 10 minute bus ride outside of town.

It’s best to visit for breakfast so that you can enjoy fluffy pancakes made with macadamia flour, smothered in the creamiest macadamia butter imaginable, and topped with a dollop of blueberries from the blueberry farm they also own in own in a nearby region of Guatemala.

The owners are very embedded in the local community so your money is also going to good work employing locals and helping conserve the local environment.

Tour a Working Coffee Plantation

Visit a coffee plantation just outside of Antigua—this is an excellent way to spend half a day if you want another short day trip near the city. The tour is well done demonstrates the entire process of making coffee, from picking the coffee cherries to roasting the beans and then serving up a fresh, hot cup ‘o joe.

Sample Joy at the ChocoMuseo

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill tourist trap. Take part in a chocolate-making workshop, tracing cacao’s journey from bean to bar. It’s an opportunity to connect with the ancient Mayan heritage that reveres chocolate as the “drink of the gods.”

Take a Sustainable Walking Tour

Visiting social enterprises while in Guatemala is a fantastic way to ensure your tourism dollars are going direct to marginalized people. Most of these social enterprises are located right in Antigua, making it a great option for responsible travelers. Most things to do in Antigua can be done using social enterprises or hyper-local guides.

Consider using this social enterprise, Experience Guatemala Tour, to visit nearby villages , or De La Gente for a responsible coffee tour near Antigua .

And unlike your run-of-the-mill walking tours, some of Antigua’s walking tours support the marginalized in and around Antigua. Ninos de Guatemala has a great walking tour, and also sells tours to the volcanoes and most of the popular things to do.

Shop at Antigua’s Mercado Central

Venture into the belly of local life. The central market buzzes with vendors selling everything from fruits and textiles to curiously powerful love potions.

While many travelers wait to do their shopping at Chichicastenango , the main market in Antigua actually offers a better selection of locally made textiles and souvenirs—and at far better prices. I bought my dad a gorgeous striped blanket at a great price.

Because I bought it my last week in the country—after I had already traveled in Guatemala for a good amount of time—I knew what I should expect to pay and how hard to haggle.

Waiting to shop at the market on my way out of the country also meant I didn’t have carry extra souvenirs with me as I backpacked Guatemala ( down the Rio Dulce , waterfall hopping at Semuc Champey , exploring Tikal , learning Spanish in Xela , and more).

If you are keen to see Chichicastenango and you’re short on time, you could book a day tour that stops at both Lake Atitlan and the market . It’s a long day, but it’s worth doing the tour if you can’t spend longer up that way (or if you’re looking for transport north).

Additionally, and it cannot be overstated, just outside of the Artisan’s Market is Antigua’s local market for fresh fruit and veggies. A mere 5Q (about 60 cents) yields a heaping cup full of fresh fruit and when I parted with another 5Q a nearby stall handed over a plate full of freshly grilled plantain—does lunch get much better than that?

Go to Church

There’s something transcendental about standing in the courtyard of La Merced, surrounded by Baroque architecture with intricate yellow-and-white stucco work. Whether you’re religious or not, the space hums with a spiritual quietude that welcomes all.

Visit Casa Santo Domingo

Far beyond just a hotel, this establishment hosts a maze of museums, gardens, and even an archeological site. The candlelit hallways and art installations tell stories that span centuries. If you dine here, try to reserve a table outdoors—the atmosphere comes alive under the Guatemalan sky.

Antigua’s Hotel Casa Domingo is located on the grounds of the Santo Domingo Monastery and it’s absolutely gorgeous.

Pack the right clothes for Guatemala.

I’ve collected my favorite gear from 15+ years of travel. Here’s exactly what you should pack for your trip.

Explore Antigua’s Crumbling Churches

In Antigua, the ruins of long-ago churches stand as stoic timekeepers, ever-so-gently decaying under the warm Guatemalan sun. These sanctuaries, like San Jerónimo and Santa Clara, carry an ethereal grace, their crumbling walls and archways inviting you into a secret dance between history and the present moment.

You could spend a day exploring the city’s ruined churches—because Antigua is an earthquake zone, there are many photogenic ruins around town. This is a good guide to the city’s many ruins but here are four to visit that are ruins, and two that stand at the intersection of restoration and historical preservation, offering you a unique blend of past and present.

Iglesia de San Jerónimo : Originally built as a monastery in 1757, San Jerónimo now stands as a testament to elegant deterioration. Its orange and brown hues dance with the sunlight, casting an array of intricate shadows.

The manicured gardens within its enclosure offer a resplendent contrast to its declining structure. There’s a palpable silence here, broken only by your footsteps echoing through its empty halls.

Santa Clara Convent : Standing elegantly with an almost wistful air, the ruins of Santa Clara offer more than mere aesthetics. The colonnaded archways open up to an intimate courtyard, once trodden by the nuns who called this place home.

Today, it’s a sanctuary of serenity, where you can sit by the ancient fountain and let your mind wander through time.

El Carmen : From the front, El Carmen gives the appearance of a still-functioning church, but as you venture around, its true state of romantic decay is revealed. It’s here that you’ll find a tiered, cascading façade paired with an open-air nave that welcomes the sky as its new ceiling. In many ways, El Carmen captures the resilient spirit of Antigua—beautiful, even in its ruin.

La Recolección : An architectural marvel, this church was once an 18th-century monastery and one of Antigua’s most significant religious sites. It’s grand, almost intimidating, with its lofty pillars and ornate friezes now partially eroded. Yet, its vast open spaces offer a sense of liberation, an invitation to envision the rituals and ceremonies that once resonated within its walls.

Catedral de Santiago : What you’ll experience here is a haunting juxtaposition. The original cathedral was devastated by earthquakes in the 18th century, and only a part of it has been restored.

You can attend services in the smaller, functional cathedral, but then you can also wander into the ruins of the original behemoth. Arched passageways, open to the sky, give a haunting sense of grandiosity that once was. It’s like walking through the skeleton of a giant, pondering its life story and feeling a bit of its soul clinging to the stones.

The cathedral fronts the bustling Parque Central, and it’s this juxtaposition of the active and the sacred that makes the Cathedral of San José such an evocative place. You can hear the laughter of children playing near the fountain, the murmur of couples whispering sweet nothings on wrought-iron benches, and then you step into the cathedral

San Francisco Church : Contrary to the spectral beauty of the more dilapidated churches, San Francisco Church is very much alive. Yes, there are ruins attached to it, remnants of its turbulent past, repeatedly felled by earthquakes and time.

However, the church itself has been lovingly restored and serves as an active place of worship. It also holds the tomb of Peter of Saint Joseph de Betancur, Central America’s first saint, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. When you wander through its premises, you feel a seamless blend of living faith and historical homage.

Enjoy Drinks with Friends & Locals Alike

Even if you’re traveling solo , spend at least one night at a local bar. You’ll find an great mix of travelers and locals enjoying the scene. I went to Reilly’s Irish Tavern and it’s one of the top spots for a good night in town.

Tip One Back at the Antigua Brewing Company

Enjoying a craft beer here comes with an unbeatable panoramic view of the city. It’s an ideal way to digest the day’s adventures and muse over what tomorrow holds.

Experience Semana Santa Week

If you’re in Central America during Easter, head straight to Antigua, Guatemala for one of the most memorable Guatemalan Easter week parades in the world. Antigua goes all out decorating elaborate “carpets” along the streets.

These carpets are built by entire blocks of neighbors who collaborate to construct intricate works of art made from highly pigmented sand or sawdust, flowers, and even chocolate. These carpets are usually finished for mere hours before the parades come through the streets and destroy them.

It’s an incredible thing to do in Antigua if you’re lucky enough to visit during this special week leading up to Easter Sunday. I stayed for the entire experience and documented Semana Santa in Guatemala here .

Just Wander Antigua’s Cobblestone Streets

Sometimes, the magic lies in the unmarked spots—a hidden courtyard, a local bakery, or a humble church. Allow yourself the luxury of unplanned hours, and you’ll discover Antigua’s less obvious treasures.

Most travelers will enjoy wandering the streets and getting a feel for the town, so don’t over-plan your time in Antigua with too many things to do. It’s a lovely city and you’ll enjoy just soaking in the vibes.

You’ll have your fill of Baroque architecture and charming, low-slung buildings. There are also many shady squares begging for you to cozy up under a tree with a good book.

When in doubt, end a the main square and grab an ice cream from a street food vendor and hunker down on a curb to soak in the pace of life.

Sip and Relax at Local Coffee Shops

Places like Café Estudio and Fernando’s Kaffee serve more than just coffee; they serve experiences. Sit down, sip a cup made from locally sourced beans, and feel the warmth of Antigua’s character fill you up.

Learn Salsa Dancing

At Las Palmas or Café No Sé, the rhythm of salsa pervades the night air. Even if you’re a beginner, Antigua welcomes you with open arms. It’s more about the spirit you bring to the dance floor than the steps you take.

Take a Traditional Textile Workshop

Dive hands-first into the Mayan art of textile weaving at a workshop . Understanding the intricate patterns and designs elevates your appreciation for the textiles you’ll see around the city and country—and you’ll have a better idea of what type of textile souvenir you want to take home with you. It’s sustainability and cultural appreciation in action.

Three social enterprises operating these types of workshops in Antigua include Kakaw Deisgns and Etnica Travel .

Try the Street Food

Ah, the savory sizzle of meats and corn, the zing of freshly squeezed fruit juices! By all means, indulge in local street food. A pupusa or chuchito here is not just a snack; it’s an entry into the communal Guatemalan dinner table.

And if you’re wary of the street vendor experience, look for spots where locals are lined up. Their presence is the best seal of approval.

Bonus: What Not to Do in Antigua, Guatemala

Some travelers and websites recommend day tripping to Lake Atitlan or Chichicastenango, but you should not! Enjoy Antigua, soak in the vibes and explore everything this charming city has to offer. Then, when you’ve had your fill, go spend a few days (minimum) at the lake.

From Lake Atitlan, it’s a much easier (and faster) day trip to Chichicastenango. Sure, there are vendors in Antigua selling these two locations as day trips, but if you have the time, ignore all of that. There are plenty of things to do right within or around Antigua that you don’t need to go further afield for entertainment.

Plan Your Time in Antigua, Guatemala

Where to Sleep

Budget | For backpackers, I recommend Three Monkeys Hostel  or Yellow House . Both offer good amenities, help booking tours, clean spaces and Yellow House has an amazing breakfast. 

Midrange | If you have a higher budget, VRBO has some truly gorgeous properties in and around Antigua that would make a great base for your explorations. Some are even the same price as a hotel but offer better vibes and a full kitchen.

How to Get Around

Chicken buses are a fun and local form of transport everyone should try at least once. But even if you’re a hardcore budget backpacker, there are times you should just splurge on private transport via minivans, shuttles, and taxis.

Bookaway is your best option for getting to Antigua from Guatemala City , Flores , the Rio Dulce , Copan Ruinas , or other locations you might have visited first.

Where to Eat

I loved Bagel Barn. Go here for the breakfast and plan out the rest of your trip with their tasty coffee and fast wifi.

Also, take a food tour of Antigua! This would be memorable and really give you the lay of the land for all of your time in Guatemala, so you would know what to street eats and local things to look for as you explore the country.

What to Read

Consider When the Ground Turns in Its Sleep for a beautiful novel about Guatemala, and I used the Lonely Planet Guatemala to navigate the country. It’s always nice to understand a place before you go. Also check out my additional recommended pre-trip Guate readings .

Pack strong insect repellent.

Many parts of Guatemala are tropical regions—pack insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects. This Off! Repellent is a great option.

Travel Tips for Antigua

• Pack lightweight and breathable clothing : Antigua is located in a tropical region and has a hot, humid climate. Pack lightweight and breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the heat.
• Pack light : Antigua is also a small city, and it is easy to get around on foot. Packing light will make it easier to walk around the city and visit its many cultural attractions. Here’s my complete packing list .
• Wear sunscreen : The sun can be strong in Antigua, especially at high altitudes. Wear sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from the sun’s rays. I prefer La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen SPF 60 because it’s highly rated, and it’s great for acne-prone skin.
• Bring insect repellent : Mosquitoes and other insects can be a problem in Antigua, especially during the rainy season. Bring a good insect repellent like Off! Botanicals and use it to prevent bites.
• Drink bottled water : The tap water in Antigua is not safe to drink, so it is important to drink bottled water or water that has been properly treated using something like a SteriPen or Lifestraw . Bring a reusable water bottle and you can fill up at guesthouses, or buy a huge jug and refill every evening.
• Use caution when taking taxis : It is generally safe to take taxis in Antigua, but it is a good idea to use caution and make sure the taxi is licensed and legitimate.
• Learn some basic Spanish : While many people in Antigua speak English, it is helpful to know some basic Spanish phrases to communicate with locals and make your trip more enjoyable.
• Respect local customs : Antigua is a culturally rich and diverse city, and it is important to respect local customs and traditions. This includes dressing modestly and avoiding public displays of affection.

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

A download on everything I learned from backpacking across Guatemala. It’s one of top three favorite countries in the world—here’s where to go, my favorite places and everything you should know before you go to Guatemala!

44 thoughts on “A Little Learning… Finding Authenticity in Antigua, Guatemala”

I am leaving for Guatemala on Saturday. Going to Flores, Antiqua and Lake Atitlan

I have heard getting money from atms is difficult, is this true? Can I exchange US dollars at the bank?

So, I am originally from Guatemala, and Antigua is one of my favorite cities there. The weather, the views, the architecture and safety. In fact I am looking to purchase a home there for my later years. Reading this blog is amazing! I used to backpack some, and realize that initially backpackers help putting a place on the map, but what that place really need is higher quality tourism that has the money to spend and sustain the local economy. All tourism is good but one has much more of an economic Inpact on the place than the other. There are many places in Guatemala that are off the beaten path, check them out in Instagram thanks to the pandemic

Thank you for sharing your experiences REM! I agree with every single thing you said—it’s just an incredible city to visit. As is the rest of the country. I was originally going to say just a couple weeks in Guatemala, but ended up exploring all the different regions for nearly three months. Your home country is full of beauty, culture, and so many kind people.

Thanks Shannon for sharing about our beloved country!

Greetings from Antigua, Guatemala :)

Enjoyed your insights. Wondering how a youthful 70 yr old would adjust to Antigua for a month or so, maybe more. The cost of living has gotten so high in Sarasota.

I think you should give it a try! There are certainly expat communities there and you could get to know them, they would help you get the lay of the land. I definitely recommend it, and I think a youthful 70 year old would thrive. :) (Also, I was born and raised in St. Pete, but live in Spain for similar reasons—love the food, culture, and it’s affordable!)

I have spent 20 plus years living in 8 different countries btw Asua, Europe, the U.K. and the USA and I think Central America us my top pick since, at 62, I want to be able to get back to the US every 3 or 4 montgs to see my grand kids. I own beach property in the Phillipines and highly recommend that country too.

Do you think it is absolutely necessary for a healthy individual to get vaccines coming to Guatemala for one week with a charity organization who is going to plan out each day and provide bottled water as well as strictly provide all food you will eat? I’m looking into hepatitis A and typhoid but the trip coordinator I talked to from the charity I’m going with said she can’t recommend anything but that her personally she does not get vaccinated but just maintains good hygiene, washing hands frequently and using common sense, no street food. I’d love to hear your experience, never traveled abroad.

Hi Shannon, that’s a good question and I have to say, I do think vaccines are a good idea. These are illnesses we can actually prevent. And in the case of Typhoid, it’s not your hand-washing that’s a concern. You may be diligent, but it’s passed through water and other peoples’ hands, and a lot of people may interact with your food before it reaches you. I have all of my vaccines and I stay updated on them because I see it as proactively addressing the preventable, because you already have a whole host of things you could also get that do not have vaccines (food poisoning, Zika, giardia, etc). If you chose not to get them, I totally get it, and in that case I would assess it based on time of year. Many illnesses spread more easily in rainy season and very wet conditions, for example. Hope that helps!

For hardcore backpackers, it can be quite a turn off. Some travelers really to visit places that are raw and not adulterated or tourist-centered.

But hey, if you love the place, “Touristy” or not, you just need to appreciate!

By the way, have you ever gone to the Philippines?

Thanks for weighing in on the debate – I definitely think that you can get trapped in your own thinking if you tell yourself that “touristy” places suck – some can have their own charm!

I actually haven't yet been to the Philippines but might go when I make it back over to Asia next month :-)

“Hardcore backpackers”. The name is a contradiction. As an expat, most I have met who would adopt such a monicker are self-indulgent and insufferable. The blog is right. Backpacking for many has simply become virtue signalling and about denying agency to the people in the country they are visiting. Most have a “white savior complex” in which the only correct locals are those in need of saving…by them of course. So what if the locals enjoy being able to drink starbucks and eat KFC? We have deemed it improper. They should live in such a way that reinforces our notions of them being innocent primitives, helpless in the face of crushing consumerism and in need of our guidance. To the “hardcore backpacker”, what guatemalans want is irrelevant.

Love your article on Antigua and I go quite often and every time I have beautiful experiences and I have made friends from all over North America and Europe and other places in Antigua Guatemala I love this place and it does feel safe

I have lived in the Philippines twice and LOVE the people, food, and scenery. In fact, I just bought beach property on Cebu Island where I own a business that employs 22 awesome staff.

I didn't know people viewed Antigua that way, but this is not the first time I've heard that this town is too touristy / not the real Guatemala, etc. However, I still want to go :)

I definitely think you should! (obviously) :-) There is no denying the tourists, but there is also no ignoring the pretty architecture and fun vibe. Let me know when you make it that way, I've got some fav spots!

I wouldn't even call it *normal* per say as just another side of the country. Some developing nations have a middle class – one who travels and is exposed to Western culture. Obviously the Irish bar stands out, but there should be no guilt involved. I'm starting to get weary of this argument between authentic or not. All of it is!

Couldn't agree more! It also just points to the fact that travel is highly personal – what one person loves could be a real dud to someone else…but through it all, dud or not, touristy or not, it is all real :-)

You are not alone my friend. I once sat at Reilly's too and wondered “Is this right?” It was. Sometimes it's nice to have a little slice of normal life when traveling even if it comes in the form of an Irish pub in the middle of Guatemala. Antigua is beautiful but I didn't fall in love with it, not sure why. We ended up going to ChiChi as well and I really loved it there. Have you been there? Overall though, I absolutely loved Guatemala and would go back again in a heartbeat.

It's so funny how highly personal travel can be – I fully loved Antigua, and went to ChiChi and was fully ready to leave within a few hours! :-) Glad you liked Guatemala too – it ranks as one of my most enjoyed countries!

Great post Shannon! Travel is all relative. My boyfriend and I are currently in Yangshuo, China which is definitely a stop on the backpacker trail. We are here for the rock climbing and many people tell us to go elsewhere to see the “real China, but we hop onto our bikes and ride 10-15 k into the rice paddies and karst towers, chatting (or at least smiling) at the farmers along the way—don't think you can get much more real than that. (Photos will soon be up on our blog if you want to check them out!)

Clearly all the rock climbing is going to my head.

Bike riding around is such a fantastic way to see a country – and you are so right, just 20 minutes from where all of the tourists are can be the most amazingly local little shops that few people visit because they stay within such a small vicinity around the tourist sites! I am jealous of your China travels and look forward to looking through your photos! :-)

Antigua was our first stop in Latin America. We were fortunate enough to stay with a woman we had met hiking in Laos two years prior and she turned out to be from a family with money. As we walked up to the rooftop terrace of her place (with a jacuzzi) and looked over the volcanoes around, there was such a sense of peace. Sure, the streets of Antigua are touristy and there are touristy restaurants, but that doesn't take away from the fact that it's a beautiful place with “real” people and “real” experiences. Travelers who get into pissing contests about not visiting the “real” part of the country usually aren't savvy enough to find the “real” in the place they are in.

Her house sounds like such an amazing oasis in the city, and I have to say that meeting up with people I've met previously on the road is one of my favorite parts – they show you around and it's even better than couchsurfing because you've already met and bonded and can just jump right :-)

Shannon, Thank you. Thank you for articulating so well the beauty and charm of Antigua. I get it, because, well, my son and I have been living here for the last six months! He's 11 and we actually set out on a world tour, taking our time. After eight months of traveling through all of Central America, we decided to stop, stay here for a rest. It is easy and safe and does attract a lot of locals because of that reason. There are the daily infusion of typical backpackers, yes that's for sure. And actually, my son and I meet a good deal of them, since we are one of the only couchsurfing hosts in this city. I get to experience this city again and again through their eyes and always find inspiration. Again, thank you for this wonderful post!

So awesome that you are a part of couchsurfing – I really should have been using it more during my Central America travels – then I would have found you guys! Enjoy the rest of your time in Antigua, I'm jealous that you get to still be there, I will be coming back there one day! :-)

I've been looking for the past few months (via the Internet and HGTV's House Hunters International television show) for a new place to call home. My conditions for the area are: it must have a cultural relevance of its country, be near the water, have a vibrant community, embraces the ex-pats living there, and must be easy to travel to and from for my elderly parents. Having lived in Asia for almost a decade, I am now looking for a home in Latin America. Your description of Antigua is now firmly listed on my 'check it out' list and I'll be researching cost of housing there. Keep up the good work Shannon and all you RTWers. Some of us armchair people are living through you and taking to heart your descriptions of places and people.

Glad that I've added a place to your list – Antigua is definitely a great place to check out – and with Guatemala City so close, getting to and from is really a cinch! Also, there really is a great expat community there, so you would be in good company! You'll have to remember to let me know down the line what you think. :-)

Wowww, Antigua looks STUNNING. Screw authenticity, good travel is all about those experiences that stick.

Couldn't agree more! Adding Antigua to your RTW now?! ;-)

Who cares if it's a tourist hot spot. How could you not fall in love with such stunning architecture and the cobblestone streets? I was in Antigua about 4 years ago and would definitely return!

Glad to hear that you liked it too Laura! Such a pretty little town :-)

A lot of people go traveling with pre-concieved notions of what they want to see and wha thte place will be like. Sometimes if these aren't initially visible, they declare it as “not real” and go searching for what you want to find. Every city, country, region has poverty, why is it any more interesting in one place or another; because people expect to find it and go looking for it. Great post, Irish Pubs are my favorite place all over the world to hang out.

I have to admit, an Irish pub will rarely let you down! Cheers to the rest, it's managing expectations and going with an open mind that could be the key to travel…”pre-concieved notions” should just be a dirty word ;-)

I don't subscribe to the setting of rules for travel and being judgemental, in the name of going off 'the beaten track'. Whatever happened to an open mind… I think too much analysis goes into something that can be simply enjoyed for what it is.

Good post, Shannon! :)

(Sorry for my absence. Your RSS feeds suddenly appeared in my reader over the weekend, all at once! I've missed catching up with your travels :) )

Thanks! I love that travelers are supposed to be really open minded and yet these debates still happen out there :-)

(As for the blog…yikes :( must have been a result of the site hack…had to relocate to a new server….wires must of gotten crossed in the webi-verse :)

Sometimes there is a reason why there are many tourists in one place and that reason may just be that it is a good place to go. At this point, I usually stop all pissing contests by telling people that I am a tourist and I like to do tourist activities.

Antigua's a nice city; enjoy it!

Nice! I bet that stops them in their tracks :-) Anyway, as you said they are tourist activities for a reason and usually because they're pretty freakin neat things! Cheers, I'm a tourist too!

I'm with you – it's all real! Just because somewhere is poorer or more dangerous doesn't make it closer to any absolute truth or hidden culture. I think seeing the spectrum tells you more than anything about the variety that exists within every culture and location.

I remember that you did a piece similar to this as well, and it's the same issue that seems to crop up – thanks for weighing in Anil! :-)

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Black Solo Female Travel Guide: A Solo Trip to Guatemala

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Solo female travelers in Guatemala will be satisfied. Central America is full of beautiful destinations such as Panama, Costa Rica, Belize, etc. However, Guatemala is often overlooked, and after visiting myself, I do not think it should be.

Antigua and Lake Atitlan provide two sides of Guatemala that solo female travelers should experience. They are doable on the same trip, and each brings its own flavor and traveler personality. So if you’re considering a solo trip to Guatemala, here’s what you need to know. 

FYI: This post may have affiliate links ! This means if you buy something using my link, I get a small percentage for mentioning/recommending it. Lucky for you it doesn’t change the price for you at all and it’s a super easy and generous way to say thanks for all the work I put into writing this post!!

Table of Contents

When is the best time to visit Guatemala?

For solo travelers looking to go to Guatemala, their dry season is between November and April. Their rainy season begins in May and ends in October, with the heaviest rain in September and October. As a result, the summer months can be more humid than December and January (which are good times to hike the volcanoes).

Is Guatemala safe for solo female travelers? 

After visiting Antigua and Lake Atitlan, Guatemala is a good destination for solo travelers. Antigua, in particular, is very walkable and easy to get around. While I recommend minimizing how much you walk around at night no matter where you are, I did in Antigua and felt safe. 

Lake Atitlan also felt safe to me as a solo traveler. But, as with any place you visit, stay alert and trust your gut! Scroll down to the end of this post for more safety tips for solo female travelers in Guatemala.

Should I learn Spanish before traveling to Guatemala?

If you speak a little Spanish, it may be easier to travel in Guatemala compared to more touristy places in Central America. Therefore, learning at least a few phrases in Spanish is beneficial before going. As a Black solo female traveler who does speak Spanish, I think it made my experience even more accessible. But it’s still possible to enjoy Guatemala with minimal Spanish.

Where to stay as a solo traveler in Guatemala 

Selina Antigua 

Selina hostels are my go-to as a boujee hostel solo traveler. I love the privacy of private rooms and the solo aspects of the hostel, such as events and tours. Additionally, the layout of Selina Antigua was stunning, with a  garden and hammocks between the pillars.  For my first day, I worked remotely, but I also got to relax outside and take in the sun. They even offered massages and additional amenities for an extra cost!

Adra Hostel in Antigua 

For a more traditional hostel experience as a solo traveler in Guatemala, head to Adra Hostel . It’s a boutique hostel with conventional dorm rooms. However, they also have a beautiful cafe, bar/restaurant, and open patio. Take part in the salsa dancing or just relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Selin a Atitlan 

I chose Selina Atitlan on a whim because I know it’s reliable! I had a private room with a shared bathroom. It was convenient for walking around Panajachel and getting to and from the ferries. I also got a massage here; it was the best money I’ve ever spent at a hostel.

However, there are other accommodations in the lake villages, such as Mandala’s Hostel in San Pedro. This hostel would also be ideal if you wanted to hike Indian Nose at sunrise. Once you figure out what you want, you can strategize the best location for your trip. 

How to get around Guatemala alone as a solo female traveler

I used more Ubers in Antigua compared to Lake Atitlan. If you are not a solo female traveler backpacker in Guatemala, Ubers are an option to help transport your luggage. An Uber may be best because the cobblestone and small streets make traveling with a wheeled bag more difficult. Also, they are only a few dollars since Antigua is tiny. 

To travel between Guatemala City airport, Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and Chichicastenango shuttles are the way to go. Most tourists prefer these versus renting a car because it’s cheaper and parking is few and far between. But, again, you can coordinate them with your hostel or hotel. 

As a solo traveler in Guatemala, tuk-tuks are the local way of getting around Antigua and Lake Atitlan. For Q10, you can go around the various Guatemalan towns and villages. They don’t have seatbelts, but the drivers are accustomed to the roads and make it work. If you do not want to walk, hop in a tuk-tuk instead!

Water taxis/ferries

Once you take a shuttle from Antigua to Lake Atitlan, walking tuk-tuks and water taxis are your primary forms of transportation. You can use water taxis/ferries to get to the other villages in Lake Atitlan. Public ferries are inexpensive and convenient. Private ferries are also an option (and more expensive).

The most popular tours in Antigua:

• 🚁 Experience one of the ancient world’s most incredible archaeological sites at Tikal, a celebrated Mayan city deep in the Guatemalan jungle, on this trip by air from Antigua
• 🚴 See Antigua from above on this half-day ATV discovery tour , where you’ll journey up into the mountains on a quest to get the best view for sunset
• 🏞️ Spend a day on the shores of Lake Atitlan with this private tour from Antigua
• 🌋 Hike to Pacaya Volcano, one of the most active and most popular in all of Guatemala, on this tour
• 🍲 Go beyond just sampling Guatemalan cuisine at Antigua’s restaurants and learn to cook it for yourself at a cooking class

Things to do in Antigua for solo female travelers

Hike the famous Volcano Acatenango

Going up to Volcano Acatenango was the primary reason I booked this solo trip to Guatemala. It is one of Guatemala’s highest volcanoes, almost 4,000 meters above sea level. It is a must-do!

I booked my tour with Tropicana Hostel . It was $68 for the overnight hike, which included food, cabins with bunk beds, and the shuttle to and from the starting point. I would recommend them for all solo travelers in Guatemala.

Visit the Hobbitenango

Hobbitenango is an eco-park, hotel, and restaurant all in one. They have games such as archery, a giant swing, axe-throwing and more. And if you love to take photos as a solo female traveler in Guatemala, they have tons of opportunities for that too.

Get a post-hike massage 

Part of traveling solo and Guatemala is also relaxing. Whether you need a massage after your hike or just want a general massage, I recommend them. With all the walking and caring of your backpack as a solo, female traveler in Guatemala, taking care of your body is a mess, and there are many options in Antigua in Lake Atitlan. 

Shop around the stores & markets

Solo female travelers in Guatemala will love shopping. Guatemala is your place if you enjoy colorful fabrics, purses, jewelry, and more. As you waltz around Antigua, there will be many shops to spend money on souvenirs for yourself and others.

Hike for pizza with Pizza Pacaya 

Hiking the Volcano Pacaya is a popular activity in Antigua. However, hiking a volcano for pizza is unique to Volcano Pacaya. A chef named Mario David founded Pizza Pacaya, where he and his team carry the supplies they need to make pizza on the volcano.

For solo female travelers, who are looking for a shorter hike, this is the one to do. You are guided up the volcano, and it takes under two hours to hike from the beginning to the end. Yet, you do not go up to the top of Volcano Pacaya, but you will have pizza greet you at the end.

Things to do in Lake Atitlan for solo female travelers 

Go to the lake villages 

San Juan is known as the artsy village, and San Pedro is known as the party village. If you want to see all three, you can also visit San Marcos, coined by my local guide as the hippie yoga village. Ferries from Panajachel leave daily, with the last leaving around 4 pm or 4:30 pm.

If you go to San Juan, be sure to go to their Mirador. For Q30, you have a 15-minute mini-hike up to the top with a gorgeous town view. You can also get snacks and fruit at the top as you see the picture and rest. 

Visit the Nature Reserve

While in Panajachel, you can spend a day or half-day at the Nature Reserve Atitlan . At the reserve, you can zipline, walk on the hanging bridges, stroll on the trails, and more. Solo female travelers in Guatemala who visit Lake Atitlan can also visit the butterfly preserve and ride cable bikes.

Spend a Thursday or Sunday at Chichicastenango 

Chichicastenango is one of the most vibrant markets you will ever visit. It has been named the most colorful market in Central America! Around two hours from Lake Atitlan, you can get a shuttle from the lake to the market. But the market only happens on Thursdays and Sundays.

I booked mine through Eterna Primavera for Thursday, which is the less busy day. Your hostel or hotel may host an experience or can recommend another agency. Be prepared to go through the market with your tour group. Only shuttles to and from the market are included, not a personal guide!

Do the Indian Nose Hike

If you cannot get enough hiking in Antigua, this is another hike for you! It is best to do the Indian Nose Hike at sunrise to get a gorgeous view. While you can travel there from Panajachel, visiting San Pedro Laguna to get the sunrise is best.

General safety and solo travel tips for Guatemala

I felt safe traveling in Antigua and Lake Atitlan. However, as a solo female traveler, you should still use common sense and trust your gut. So here are some safety tips for a solo trip to Guatemala. 

– Do not travel at night – this is a general tip for all solo female travelers, especially to Lake Atitlan as I found it was the darkest with minimal street lights. I took the 4 pm shuttle and arrived after dark. Only do this if it’s door to door to avoid lugging your stuff on the cobblestone and making yourself a target.

– Take the public ferries to the lake villages. While you can use the tuk-tuks once you get to the villages, they take longer and aren’t very secure for long periods. 

– Leave some cash on you and some at your accommodations. Only some places will take your credit card, so carrying cash is critical.

– Tuk-tuks and public ferries only take cash. Speaking of money, tuk-tuks and water taxis are cash exchanges. A tuk-tuk can be roughly Q10 from point A to point B, which also depends on distance. For example, the public ferry to the villages in Lake Atitlan is Q25 one-way from Panajachel.

On being a Black solo female traveler in Guatemala 

Safety as a solo female traveler can vary based on the people you interact with while traveling. For example, I experienced a bit of catcalling while I was in Antigua. And I did have an annoying encounter with someone at the airport in Guatemala City, but that was because they assumed I did not speak Spanish.

Aside from those two interactions, thankfully, I did not face any severe issues in Guatemala as a Black solo female traveler. Most Guatemalans I interacted with in Antigua and Lake Atitlan were extremely lovely. They were some of the nicest people I have met while traveling through Central America. 

Final thoughts on traveling solo in Guatemala 

My solo trip to Guatemala was a last-minute decision, and I could not be happier. Antigua is small and walkable, with lots of colorful buildings and delicious food. Then, Lake Atitlan brings that relaxation and slow-paced lifestyle that so many solo female travelers in Guatemala are looking for on a trip. I recommend you go for it and see what it’s all about for yourself!

Excited about Guatemala and want to plan your first solo trip? Read this post here .

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TRAVEL TIPS

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Sojourner White is a remote social worker, train travel queen, and award-winning travel journalist. Hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin she has been a digital nomad and called both Spain and Germany home. Through her platform Sojournies, she helps 9-5ers fulfill their career goals and bucket list dreams to find freedom and flexibility outside the office. Sojourner has been featured in Buzzfeed, PopSugar, The Matador Network, HuffPost, and Thrillist and written for Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Fodor’s, Insider, Lonely Planet, Viator, and more.

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Black solo female travel guide: a solo trip to mexico city, you may also like, perurail luxury train from cusco to lake titicaca, black solo female travel guide: peru, solo train travel guide: a holiday day trip to portland, maine, black solo female travel guide: colombia, black travel groups to join and inspire you to travel, being black in europe: as told by black americans, 34 gifts for train travelers that they’ll love, black women it’s time to travel solo, black hair abroad tips and a packing list for travelers, is solo travel boring how to make solo travel fun and safe.

I just booked a birthday trip to Guatemala! It’s my first solo trip and I’m so grateful to have come upon your blog as a Black woman in my later 20’s trying to actualize on my goal to travel more. Thank you!

Oh yay!! Have so much fun – I hope I can continue to be a resource for you.

I am a solo female traveler looking to do my first solo female trip ever to Guatemala! This was a great resource, so thank you so much! I do have a question- in Antigua, what are the sites to see there specifically? Any churches or museums? Thank you so much!!

Hi! My solo trip was a more adventure and outdoorsy-focused trip. But there may be other guides you can Google with that information.

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The Ultimate Antigua Guatemala Travel Guide

(Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.)

Last Updated on April 21, 2024 by sydabroad

If you are planning a trip to Central America any time soon, this Antigua Guatemala travel guide is for you!

Welcome to the picturesque colonial town of Antigua, Guatemala. I recently got back from a solo trip to Antigua and in this guide, I’m going to share everything you need to know before you visit. Keep reading to find the best activities in Antigua, where to stay, how to get around, delicious cafes and more! 

I spent just about 4 days in Antigua, Guatemala and that was simply not enough. This was seriously one of the most incredible places I have visited. Antigua is a small colonial town located about 25 miles from Guatemala City surrounded by three volcanos, making it one of the most unique cities in the world.

I mean, what other city is surrounded by volcanoes? Antigua’s laid-back atmosphere and very rich culture most definitely make it worth a spot on your bucket list, so let’s get into this Antigua Guatemala travel guide!

Looking for more Central America travel guides?

• The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Acatenango Volcano
• 19 Photos of Guatemala to Inspire Your Next Trip
• How to Spend One Week in Costa Rica
• The Best Coffee in Antigua, Guatemala
• 18 of The Best Restaurants in Antigua, Guatemala

This post is all about the ultimate Antigua Guatemala travel guide .  

Table of Contents

Antigua, Guatemala Travel Guide – The Basics

Currency = guatemalan quetzal.

The currency in Guatemala is the quetzal. (GTQ)

1 USD = 7.7 Guatemalan Quetzal

Many restaurants and shops do accept card payments but I also found that I needed cash for many activities as well. There are plenty of ATMs in the city center, “BAC” ATM is a reliable ATM to use in Antigua. You can find them in the main square.

Language = Spanish

The local language is Spanish, however, I found some people did speak English. I know a bit of Spanish here and there but I’m not fluent whatsoever. Everyone was patient with me and Google Translate was helpful! Don’t worry if you don’t speak Spanish, you will get around fine. However, I do suggest learning a few phrases to be polite.

Short on time? Here is everything you need to plan your trip to Guatemala

🏠Book accommodation in Guatemala via Booking.com and Hostelworld

✈️Book flights to Guatemala on Skyscanner

🏔️Find activities and tours for Guatemala via Get Your Guide and Viator

👩🏽‍💻Get travel insurance for your trip to Guatemala through SafetyWing

🚌Find trains and buses for your trip to Guatemala with Omio and Trainline

📱Access the internet anywhere in Guatemala with Airalo

💭Find more travel recommendations for Guatemala on the Out Of Office app

🚘Rent a car in Guatemala with Rentalcars.com

🌎Looking to join a group trip? Search tours with EF Ultimate Break

Phone & Internet

Antigua is a digital nomad hot spot with cafes on every corner and great spots to work! You will find so many places with reliable wifi in the city.

Daily Budget

Antigua is an affordable city to visit. Expect to pay 3 to 8 USD for a meal, 12 to 20 USD for a hostel, and 5 to 10 USD for activities. You can budget as little as 20 to 35 USD per day if you are traveling on a budget. The most costly activity I did was the Acatenango overnight trek (about 65 USD) but it was well worth it!

Can You Drink The Tap Water?

No, avoid tap water in Antigua and Guatemala in general. Pick up bottled water or use a Life Straw . Most likely your accommodation will provide a place to fill up your water bottle with fresh filtered water.

Tipping in Antigua

From my experience at restaurants and cafes, most of the time the tip was included. Make sure to tip if you are doing any activities. For instance, on a walking tour, tip the local guide.

The Ultimate Antigua Travel Guide

How many days in antigua.

I only spent about three and a half days in Antigua and I easily could have spent over a week. To get the most out of the city I suggest staying five days (especially if you are going to do the overnight volcano trek to Acatentango ). I promise you won’t get tired of this little colonial town. There is so much to explore. 

Best Time to Visit Antigua Guatemala

Ideally, for the best weather, the time to visit Guatemala is from November to April (the dry season). However, I did visit in June during the rainy season and it was honestly perfect. I ended up getting lucky with the weather as it only rained during my first day in Antigua. It was also much easier to book last-minute tours and I didn’t find the city too crowded. 

The Best Things to Do in Antigua Guatemala

Convento santa clara.

The Santa Clara Convent ruins are the remains of a religious complex from the early 1700s. The convent and church were founded by nuns from Puebla, Mexico. 

There is so much to explore here – the beautiful courtyard with its fountain, the remains of the convent, a church, and even underground tombs. I didn’t end up going into the tombs but I explored the ruins for a while. 

This is a great place to bring a picnic or a coffee and relax and enjoy the beautiful views. Entrance to Convento Santa Clara costs Q40, and plan for about an hour here. 

I had the most perfect solo afternoon exploring these ruins! After picking up a coffee from Artista de Cafe, I headed over to Convento Santa Clara to check it out before I left. I went about an hour and a half before closing and there was practically no one there. It was incredible being able to enjoy the place for myself.

Cerro De La Cruz

You can’t miss the short hike to Cerro de la Cruz for the best views of the city. It’s honestly not much of a hike, anyone can do it. From the base of the stairs, it probably took about 10ish minutes to reach the top. Plan to spend as little or as long as you’d like here. I think this is the perfect picnic spot if the weather is good! A must on your Antigua Guatemala travel guide.

RELATED POST : HOW TO SPEND ONE WEEK IN COSTA RICA

Parque Central

Parque Central is a small park centrally located in the city’s square. It’s a great place to chill in the shade, people-watch, or pick up a souvenir. You will find locals selling handcrafted items and many cute shops nearby. 

Santa Catalina Arch

Your Antigua Guatemala travel guide isn’t complete without this on the list! The most notable landmark in the city, the Santa Catalina Arch, was built in 1694 and connected the Santa Catalina Covent to a school on the other side of the street. The nuns could not come into contact with the outside world and so they needed to reach the school somehow. Hence, the Santa Catalina arch was built with a hidden walkway inside that the nuns used to cross.

Now, the Santa Catalina Arch is the most photographed spot in the city. On a clear day, you can capture the arch with a perfect view of the volcano in the background. If you are looking to take good photos, come here early in the morning (like before 8 AM) so you can have it practically to yourself. Otherwise, it’s incredibly crowded in the afternoon. 

Antigua Guatemala Cathedral

Located right next to Parque Central in the main square, you won’t miss the Antigua Guatemala Cathedral. The original building was built in 1541 but many earthquakes damaged the original building leading to the construction of the new building in 1680. It’s a beautiful place to peek inside if it’s open!

Casa Santo Domingo Museums

I love to visit museums when I travel, and the museums here at Hotel Casa San Domingo are a must when in Antigua! It was such a unique place to see because there are six museums and two art galleries all located on the beautiful hotel property. The museums are located in what was once the convent of Santo Domingo.

There are a couple of galleries at the front of the hotel that you can see for free and to access all of the museums, it costs Q40 . You will find art that dates back to the ancient Mayan culture, archaeological artifacts, paintings, glassware, sculptures, and more. Well worth it in my opinion, and a great activity if it’s raining. I enjoyed exploring the museums and learning about Antigua’s rich history.

Hobbitenango

Hobbitenango is essentially an amusement park attraction inspired by the movie, Lord Of The Rings. It’s located about a 20-minute drive away from Antigua. I wanted to visit during my trip, but unfortunately, I didn’t have the time. There are plenty of activities to do here including, ax throwing, archery, mini golf, a tree swing, and more

To get to Hobbitenango from Antigua I suggest taking an Uber or visiting the Hobbitengo office in Antigua and booking a shuttle. It’s a great way to spend a few hours in the afternoon and there are great photo opportunities here as well!

La Merced Church

If you are into architecture you have to stop by La Merced. Its unique Baroque-style architecture makes it an eye-catching place to see! It’s open to the public daily from 9 am to 6 pm.

Volcano Acatenango Trek

This is the bucket list thing to do while in Antigua. Not going to lie, I was pretty nervous. I haven’t done too much hiking and have never done an overnight trek. This trek was quite literally the hardest thing I have ever done, but so incredibly rewarding.

I got to sleep on a volcano and watch a volcano erupt so many times! It was absolutely amazing. I will have a full blog post about the Acatenango trek and my experience soon. 

Pacaya Volcano Hike

This was the hike I was originally signed up for and then I joined some friends from my hostel on the overnight Acatenango trek. If I had a few weeks in Antigua I would do this hike as well. The Pacaya volcano hike is a half-day hike that costs about 25 USD.

It’s not nearly as taxing on your body and much quicker than hiking Acatenango. If you don’t have the time for Acatenango, then I suggest the Pacaya hike. You have to do at least one volcano hike while in Antigua! Also, I’ve heard you can roast marshmallows with the lava on this hike, so fun! 

Book the Pacaya Volcano hike here.

Walking Tour of Antigua

There’s no better way to get to know a city than by doing a walking tour . Unfortunately, I never got the chance to take an official walking tour (which I usually never miss) but time got the best of me.

To find a free walking tour, google “free walking tours Antigua Guatemala” or ask the front desk at your accommodation. My hostel had a walking tour scheduled for every week that anyone could join.

Also, make sure to tip your guide! Another option is to download the “GPS My City” app . There are a variety of curated walking tours you can take on your own. The app gives you the route and the specific site information you can read about. 

Chocolate Museum

The Choco Museo is another great rainy day activity. It’s located right in the town square near the park. They offer chocolate-making classes and more. A friend and I escaped the rain and stopped in to taste local chocolate and chocolate tea, everything was delicious! 

Explore The Local Market

At the local market, you will find a variety of handmade local goods. Everything from jewelry to blankets, and so much more. This is the perfect place to pick a souvenir or a gift for someone. The market is also covered, so if it’s raining, check it out.

Eat + Drink in Antigua  

Restaurants + bars.

• Antigua Brewing Co.: Such a fun vibe, they have a great rooftop and good beer.
• Ulew Cocktail Bar: for cocktails 
• Angie Angie: I had an incredible pasta dish! This place was a bit nicer so we went on our last evening. 
• La Pasta Nostra: I tried the carbonara and a pizza, both were delicious! 
• Kombu: For ramen 
• Rincon Tipico: If you go to one restaurant in Antigua, it has to be this one. Here, you’ll find the most delicious local Guatemalan food. I couldn’t read the menu so I ordered the “Menu del Dia” (menu of the day) and it was so good. The dish came with juice, fresh Guatemalan tortillas, soup, chicken, rice, and potatoes. All of this was around 3 USD! Probably my favorite meal of the trip! 
• Kabuki: For great sushi!
• Casa Escobar: Casa Escobar has great steaks! I was recommended this place by a friend. 
• Ta’cool: yummy tacos!
• Cafe Boheme: They have great coffee, sandwiches, salads, and smoothie bowls!

Read my post here all about the best restaurants in Antigua!

• Artista de Cafe 
• 12 Onzas: This was my favorite cafe. 
• Starbucks: I know basic, but it’s such a pretty Starbucks to go look at.
• Cafe Sol 

Looking for more wonderful cafes and coffee shops in Antigua? Read my guide here all about the best coffee in Antigua!

Where to Stay in Antigua

 I stayed at Adra hostel and loved it ! I was a bit hesitant because their dorms are large (18 or 24 beds), but the rooms were so spacious it didn’t feel like there were that many people staying in the room. The bathroom situation was great, there is a rooftop terrace, and Adra Hostel offers free breakfast every morning, and it was so delicious! They also offer private rooms.

When I left for my 4 am airport shuttle they even gave me a packed lunch to bring along. Adra doesn’t have a kitchen so if you are staying in Antigua long-term and plan on cooking your food, this might not be the place for you.

I have a friend who stayed at Tropicana and enjoyed it. This hostel is much more of a party hostel. I also have heard good things about Somos Hostel . 

Find a Place to Stay in Antigua

Boutique accommodation in Antigua:

• El Convento Boutique Hotel
• Hotel Boutique Los Pasos
• Las Cruces Boutique Hotel

Luxury accommodation in Antigua :  

• Hotel Casa Santo Domingo
• Camino Real Antigua
• Porta Hotel Antigua

Transportation in Antigua

How to get to antigua.

Getting to Antigua from Guatemala City’s airport is quite simple. On the way to Antigua, I booked a GuateGo shuttle , which was excellent and I couldn’t recommend it enough. I booked my shuttle ahead of time online and they gave detailed instructions on where to meet and what to look for at the airport.

The ride was great and I got dropped off right at my hostel. Although Guatemala City is only 25 miles from Antigua, account for at least an hour’s drive to your accommodation in Antigua. The traffic can be horrible and if it’s the rainy season, mudslides can cause a detour. When I left Guatemala, I booked an airport shuttle from my hostel that cost Q125.

Click here to book a bus from Guatemala City to Antigua!

How to Get Around Antigua

One of my favorite things about Antigua is that you can walk just about everywhere! I never once needed a car to drive anywhere. If you are doing day trips such as Hobbitenango or a volcano trek you will either have transportation included in your tour or you can Uber/taxi. But as far as getting around the town itself, you will only be walking! 

RELATED POST : 19 PHOTOS OF ANTIGUA GUATEMALA TO INSPIRE YOUR NEXT TRIP

Map of Antigua Guatemala

Safety in Antigua

When I mentioned to people that I was going to Guatemala alone, the first question they asked was is it safe? I feel like the country gets a bad rap on safety issues when in reality, most of the country is probably just as safe as your hometown. 

Guatemala City is known not to be very safe but Antigua was a city where I felt 100% comfortable the entire time. I will have a whole solo guide to Antigua article up on the blog soon, but just know I felt safer walking around Antigua than in my city of Dallas, Texas. Obviously, you want to be smart wherever you go – but Antigua is a very safe city to visit. 

Guatemala Packing Essentials

• Walking shoes
• Guatemala guide book
• Portable charger
• Film camera
• A light jacket

Travel Insurance

Travel medical insurance is essential for every trip. This can save you time, money, and a lot of stress on the road. I love using SafetyWing for travel insurance. SafetyWing offers affordable and flexible travel medical insurance coverage. You can enter your details below for a free quote.

I hope you enjoyed this Antigua, Guatemala travel guide. As always, If you have any questions, comment below, DM me on Instagram , or email [email protected]!

Recommended Tours in Antigua

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35+ Best Things to do in Antigua: The Colonial Gem of Guatemala

last Updated: June 5, 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.

Headed to Central America and looking for the best things to do in Antigua, Guatemala?! You’re in luck! I’m sharing all my favorite things to do in Antigua, as well as how to get there, where to eat, and tons of other helpful tips!

Antigua is full of Spanish colonial architecture (gorgeous red-tiled roofs and intricately carved wooden doors), a vibrant cultural heritage, stunningly beautiful churches, quirky Hobbitenango , and tons of gastronomic delights.

There’s also an amazing cafe culture here (many with volcano views!), the iconic yellow Santa Catalina arch, vibrant markets and street performers, and leafy green gardens and plazas.

There’s a reason it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site afterall!

I first visited Antigua about 10 years ago, and recently came back from a second trip (which was part of my epic 10 day Guatemala itinerary ). I just wish it hadn’t taken me all those years to get back there! I forgot how much I deeply loved this little colonial city, and would love to stay for much longer (perhaps a month or two to do a Spanish language immersion program someday). 

There’s just something so electrifying and unique about Antigua – maybe it’s the romantic atmosphere, lush gardens, or colorful artisanal crafts (I couldn’t get enough). Or just the fact that there’s volcano views everywhere around town.

Hard to say because I loved it all! We were in awe our entire time in Antigua, so safe to say I highly recommend you visit!

Before we get into all the fun and exciting things to do in Antigua (trust me, there’s loads to do here despite being a relatively small city), there’s a lot of logistics to get out of the way first! 

Antigua, Guatemala Trip Planning Logistics

Where is antigua, guatemala.

If you wanna partake in all the fun things to do in Antigua, you of course gotta get yourself there!

Antigua is located in Central America, in the central highlands of Guatemala surrounded by a series of hills located in the valley of the Panchoy River. It’s a city in the southern part of the country (located in the Sacatepéquez Department of Guatemala, which is one of the country’s 22 departments), about 25 miles southwest of the capital city, Guatemala City. 

Lake Atitlan isn’t very far (about 3 hours without traffic), however other popular spots in Guatemala are much further (over 10 hours from Tikal and 6 ½ hours from Semuc Champey).

One of the best parts about Antigua?! It’s situated in a valley surrounded by not one, not two, but three volcanoes (Volcán Agua, Volcán Fuego, and Volcan Acatenango)! Imagine walking the cobblestone streets and seeing a volcano erupt in the distance. Kinda amazing, aint it?

How to Get to Antigua

Getting to Antigua is thankfully pretty easy. First off, you’ll need to get yourself to Guatemala of course, where Antigua is located. 

The nearest international airport to Antigua is La Aurora International Airport (airport code GUA) in Guatemala City, which is about a 45-minute drive from Antigua. 

Psst — if your flight gets in late at night, stay in Guatemala City for the night to avoid traveling to Antigua in the dark. Safety first my friends!

As most people visit Antigua from Guatemala City, I’ll list your options below. 

How to Get to Antigua from Guatemala City

Option 1: Shuttle Service from Guatemala City

Wanna avoid the hassle of driving or navigating public transportation? Head to Antigua by shuttle service – it’s actually one of the most popular ways to get there, and the cheapest, safest, and easiest way to travel.

There’s many shuttle services between Guatemala City and Antigua, and I highly recommend looking on GuateGo to find schedules and tickets and such. The shuttles operate every few hours, leaving from the airport and hotels in Guatemala City. 

Public shuttles all cost around $20USD per person. If you’re traveling solo (without anyone to split a more expensive private transport), a shuttle is a great option.

Option 2: Public Chicken Buses

Chicken buses are a popular and affordable mode of transportation in Guatemala. They’re essentially retired American school buses that’ve been brightly painted and decorated with various designs and slogans. They’re called “chicken buses” because they’re often used to transport not only people, but also livestock, including chickens!

The fares are very cheap, often just a few quetzales (the local currency), and they’re used by both locals and tourists alike. However, it’s worth noting that chicken buses are usually pretty crowded, with people and luggage crammed in tightly, so they’re not the most comfortable option for everyone. 

In addition, safety can be a concern, as these buses are often driven at high speeds on winding mountain roads. It’s important to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings at all times. In my opinion, unless you’re financially unable to get to Antigua another way, skip the Chicken buses. 

Option 3: Taxi/Ride Share/Private Transfer from Guatemala City

Private transfers are also available for those who prefer a more personalized experience. Hi, that’s me! These transfers can be arranged through tour operators or private transportation companies , and usually offer door-to-door service. We opted to take a private transfer between Antigua and Guatemala City (at the end of our trip), and our ride cost a total of 350Q (~$45US) for 2 people. Not terrible if you ask me.

Book your private transfer from Guatemala City Airport to Antigua here . All flights are tracked to ensure you’re picked up in a timely manner. The driver will be waiting for you once your flight lands, holding a sign with your name on it. Your private air-conditioned minivan will then take you safely to Antigua. 

Taxis are readily available in Guatemala City, and can also be used to get to Antigua. However, always negotiate the fare beforehand, as some drivers try to overcharge tourists. You should be able to get a ride from the airport in Guatemala City to Antigua for about $40USD or so.

In addition, ride shares like Uber operate in Guatemala City, and you can typically find a ride to Antigua for about $25. This is definitely the fastest way to get to the city, meaning more time for all the things to do in Antigua.

Option 4: Rent a Car from the Airport and Drive

Do you need a car in Antigua? I really don’t think so, but if you want max flexibility, you can surely rent a car in Guatemala City and drive yourself to Antigua! Most major car rental companies, such as Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Thrifty, have offices at the airport in Guatemala City.

Driving from Guatemala City to Antigua is pretty easy, and only takes about 45 minutes to an hour or so (depending on traffic of course, and sometimes, there’s lots of it). The road between the two cities is well-paved and generally in good condition, but be on the lookout for potholes!

Note that driving in Guatemala can be a bit challenging for those who aren’t familiar with the area. The roads can be narrow, crowded, and chaotic, with lots of buses, trucks, and motorcycles. And there’s soooo many speed bumps, especially in the smaller towns along the way.

Stay safe by ALWAYS driving during the daytime and ALWAYS sticking to the main roads. And like in San Francisco , avoid leaving valuables in your car. That’s basically an invitation for thieves… 

Option 5: Day Trip from Guatemala City

Short on time but still wanna experience the beauty and charm of Antigua? Yup, a day trip from Guatemala City to Antigua is very possible! While I definitely recommend 3 days in Antigua or longer, if all you’ve got is a day, go for it – Antigua is super walkable and compact and you’ll be able to see a whole lot in just a few hours, promise. 

In order to maximize time, don’t mess around with potential shuttle delays and private transport mishaps. Book yourself on a guided tour – you’ll wander the city with local guides who can take you to all the best spots in the shortest amount of time. Here’s a few options:

• Antigua City Tour from Guatemala City
• Full Day Tour from Guatemala City to Antigua
• Combo Tour of Two Cities: Antigua and Guatemala City  

While you definitely can’t experience all the things to do in Antigua in just one day, you can stroll the cobblestone streets, take in the colorful surroundings, SEE THE VOLCANOES, and visit local artisan markets. Perfect if all you’ve got time for is a day or a few hours.

But really, I encourage you to spend at least a night or two in the city to fully appreciate its charm. I wish I could have stayed another week – I fell in love with the city, and hard!

How to Get to Antigua from Lake Atitlan

Many visitors also head to Antigua from Lake Atitlan , which is actually what we did! It should take about 2 to 3 hours to get from Lake Atitlan to Antigua, depending on traffic. 

Note that Uber DOES NOT operate in Lake Atitlan (like it does in Antigua and Guatemala City), so don’t rely on that to get to Antigua. 

Option 1: Shuttle from Panajachel, Lake Atitlan

There’s private and public shuttles from Panajachel (the main tourist village in Lake Atitlan), and which you decide to use solely depends on how many people you’re traveling with. Since we were a group of 5, we opted for a private shuttle (since it was actually less expensive than each of us paying for a seat on a public shuttle). 

For reference, we paid about $100USD to get from Pana in Lake Atitlan to our hotel in Antigua, Guatemala. Our hotel in Lake Atitlan was able to set up a private shuttle for us – ask your hotel; they’ve typically got reliable drivers they work with. A great option if you’re splitting the cost with a few friends like I was. Our shuttle only took about 2 hours, which meant we could start checking out all the things to do in Antigua earlier than expected.

You can also pre-book a private minivan from Lake Atitlan to Antigua ahead of time if you’re not comfortable waiting until you arrive in Guatemala like we did. 

Option 2: Public Transport

If you’re on a budget or traveling solo, you can take public transportation from Lake Atitlan to Antigua. 

First, you’ll need to take a boat from your hotel (the main way to get around Lake Atitlan) to Panajachel. 

From there, take a shuttle or a chicken bus to Antigua. The shuttle is a bit more expensive ($20 USD per person) than the chicken bus ($5USD) but it’s more comfortable and way faster (I’d pick the shuttle over chicken bus any day). 

How to Get Around Antigua, Guatemala

Walking : So many of the best things to do in Antigua are within walking distance of each other. Which is why walking is easily the best way to explore this little colonial city! We were able to walk practically everywhere during our 3 days in Antigua, besides a few spots further afield. 

The town is compact and easy to navigate, with most of the major attractions located within walking distance of each other. I loved wandering around town, soaking up the atmosphere of Antigua’s colorful streets and colonial architecture. Bring comfy shoes – we walked a ton!

Tuk-tuks: Tuk-tuks are small, three-wheeled vehicles that are a popular mode of transportation in Antigua. They’re easy to spot, with their bright colors and loud horns, and can be hailed from almost anywhere in town. 

I’ve taken tuk-tuks in other places around the world, including Guatape (Colombia), Sintra (Portugal), and Bangkok (Thailand). Always so much fun zipping around town!

They’re pretty cheap (especially when split between friends), costing about $2 to $4 USD per ride. We also used them a bit in Lake Atitlan! Like always, negotiate the ride with the driver before getting into the tuk-tuk.

Ride Shares and Taxis: I typically recommend using an Uber if at all possible over traditional taxis, since there’s no negotiating price and zero confusion about where you wanna go. 

In town, I’d say definitely call an Uber. If you’re trying to get to Hobbitenango , El Hato Verde, or anywhere else a tad further away, expect to have some difficulty with Ubers or just call a taxi instead.

We unfortunately found some Uber drivers a bit shady, messaging us asking for extra cash or they wouldn’t pick us up. We simply canceled these drivers and attempted to find new ones, however depending on where we were, it was pretty difficult. All that to say, don’t 100% depend on Uber drivers.

When to Visit Antigua (Weather and Crowds)

There’s a reason Antigua is called “The Land of Eternal Spring”! The city is situated at an altitude of 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) above sea level, giving it a pleasant climate throughout most of the year.

There’s honestly really no horrible time to visit, just stay away from the heavy rainy season (June through August) if you want the best weather for all these fun things to do in Antigua. More info below:

High Season: November to March – Dry Season 

High season is crowded for a reason – temps are perfect (between the high 60s and low 80s), and the weather is usually sunny and dry. This is the busiest time of year in Antigua (although it never felt crazy crowded), and there’s definitely higher prices for accommodations and tours (but nothing is crazy expensive in Guatemala so don’t worry).

The town is especially crowded over Christmas and Semana Santa (Easter), so you’ll definitely want to book accommodations and tours in advance. A few friends I met in Flores (another super cute spot in Guatemala) were headed to Antigua during Semana Santa and they had suuuuch a hard time finding rooms at the last minute. Book ahead of time (at least a month or so out) and you should be ok. 

For reference, we visited in mid February, and had almost perfect weather. We were able to see the volcanoes each and every day (they’re sometimes covered by low-hanging clouds/overcast skies), and temps were really comfy (never too hot nor too cold). Jacaranda trees were in full bloom (with those gorgeous purple flowers), and I couldn’t get enough. Absolutely perfect!

Low Season: May to October – Rainy Season

The weather is way more unpredictable during Antigua’s low season, with daily rain showers and occasional thunderstorms. The heaviest rainfall occurs in June, July, and August, so I’d plan to skip these months if you really wanna take advantage of all the fun things to do in Antigua (which you totally should!).

However, temps are still really nice, ranging from 18-25°C (64-77°F). This is a quieter time of year in Antigua, with fewer tourists and lower prices for accommodations and tours.

If you are visiting during the rainy season, I recommend doing your outdoor activities in the morning, as rain showers typically occur in the afternoon or evening. Thankfully it doesn’t usually rain all day, with mornings usually sunny and pleasant!

Shoulder Seasons: April – May & September – November

These are transitional periods between the high and low seasons, and the weather can be a mix of sunny and rainy days. Temperatures can range from 18-26°C (64-79°F). This is a good time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and still enjoy good weather.

If you don’t mind some potential rain and wanna save some cash, a visit during the shoulder season can be a great idea!

Additional FAQS and Info about Antigua, Guatemala

• Is English spoken?

Yes, English is spoken in Antigua, Guatemala, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and shops. Many younger locals in Antigua speak some level of English, and there’s also many English-speaking expats living in the town. 

But don’t expect everyone to speak English, as some taxi/Uber drivers, local residents, and market/street food vendors only spoke Spanish (or Mayan). Even most staff at the bank didn’t speak a word of English.

Spanish is the official language of Guatemala, and I always recommend knowing some basic Spanish phrases when visiting the country. Make an effort; the locals will totally appreciate it! 

A few helpful phrases to start you off:

• Hola = Hello
• Adios = Goodbye
• Buenos dias = Good morning
• Buenas tardes = Good afternoon 
• Buenas noches = Good night
• Cuanto cuesta? = How much does it cost?
• Cómo te llamas? = What is your name?
• Me llamo… = My name is…
• Soy de… = I am from…
• Cerveza = Beer
• Margarita = Margarita
• La cuenta, por favor? = The check, please?
• Muchas gracias = Thank you so much
• Para llevar = take away

Since many indigenous Maya people live in Antigua, you’ll hear some Mayan languages as well (although Spanish is the primary language spoken in town). A few times I attempted to use my Spanish, I later realized the person possibly spoke Mayan, whoops!

• What’s the plumbing and infrastructure like in Antigua?

Guatemala is a third-world country, so expect some differences in terms of infrastructure.

Bathrooms may ask you to dispose of toilet paper in the waste bin next to the toilet. It sure took some getting used to, but it’s common practice over there. This is because the plumbing system isn’t designed to handle paper. The plumbing did seem much better than in Lake Atitlan though (where hardly anything would go down the toilet….).

• Local Currency

Like the rest of Guatemala, the local currency in Antigua is the Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ). I highly advise you to take out some quetzal at an ATM in Antigua once you arrive (as you’ll get the best conversion rate using an ATM and never at a currency exchange kiosk). 

At the time of writing (April 2023), the quetzal is equivalent to 12 cents USD (or 1 USD = ~ 7.7Q). At first I found it kinda difficult to convert, but semi-figured it out within a few days. I thought of prices in 100Q’s and used that as my base, so for example: 

• 50Q ~ $6 USD
• 100Q ~ $12 USD
• 200Q ~ $25 USD

It takes a bit of practice but after a day or two you’ll be able to do the conversion quickly in your head. And if not, there’s always currency conversion apps (no shame).

• How long should I stay in Antigua?

As long as you’ve got! I spent three nights and three full days in Antigua, and felt it was the perfect amount of time. 

However, while I was satisfied with our 3 days in Antigua, I kinda wish we had at least another day or two to check off even more things to do in Antigua. The city is small and compact, so you can see a lot in a short period of time. To really soak in the local atmosphere, I’d say a week will suffice. 

If you want to do some day trips (to say, Tikal or Pacaya Volcano), or attempt to climb the famous Acatenango Volcano hike, I’d plan a few extra days. And if you wanna learn Spanish or do some volunteering, plan to stay for at least a month (my dream!).

• Are there beaches in Antigua? 

Nope, Antigua’s not near any large bodies of water, so there’s no beaches here! Head south to the Pacific and Caribbean coasts and you’ll find quite a few in Monterrico (with a black sand beach), and El Paredon (up-and-coming and quite trendy).

• Elevation of Antigua

Antigua sits at an elevation of approximately 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) above sea level. If you’re not familiar with elevation, this is high, ya’ll! For reference, Denver , known as the Mile High City, sits at 5,280 feet, San Francisco ’s at 45 feet, and New York ’s basically at sea level. 

If you come from an area near sea level (or close to it), you may experience Altitude Sickness. And yes, it’s a real thing, and affects everyone differently. We didn’t feel the effects (surprisingly, since I got a massive headache in both Mexico City and San Miguel – although a bit higher in elevation), but some do. 

You may feel super thirsty, have a nagging headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, and/or unreasonable fatigue. That, my friends, is altitude sickness. Drink a lot of water (this helps your body adjust to the higher altitude) and don’t plan anything strenuous for the first day.  Avoid alcohol and caffeine (if you can!), as these will dehydrate you and make your symptoms even worse! Allow your body to acclimate to the altitude.

• Do any of the volcanoes near Antigua erupt? 

Yup!!! From Antigua, you can see three volcanoes, but only one is active. 

To the east of Antigua, Guatemala lies the active Volcán de Fuego, which is known for its frequent eruptions. We even watched it spit out fiery lava one night – such a cool experience and one of our favorite things to do in Antigua. 

To the south of the city is the dormant Volcán de Agua, which is the highest volcano in the area at 3,766 meters (12,353 feet) above sea level. To the west of the city is the Acatenango volcano, which is also dormant and is popular among hikers.

Health and Safety in Antigua, Guatemala

• Is Antigua safe for a female solo traveler? I was a bit nervous to travel to Guatemala at first, which is why I went with friends. But after visiting Antigua (and Lake Atitlan), I’d totally go back solo to both. As always, use normal precautions like elsewhere in the world, like being aware of your surroundings, never walking around solo at night, limiting your alcohol, using reliable transportation, and keeping expensive electronics/jewelry at home/out of sight. A few weeks later I even went back to Guatemala solo and explored Flores and Tikal!
• Can you drink the water in Antigua? Nope! The tap water in Antigua is not safe for drinking, so you’ll need to drink bottled or filtered water over there. You shouldn’t have a problem finding safe drinking water since many hotels and restaurants have purified or filtered water, as well as purified ice (always ask if you’re unsure). 

Where to Stay in Antigua

Antigua’s got a wide range of accommodation options, from colonial-style luxury hotels to cute trendy boutiques to inexpensive yet design-forward hostels. If your aim is to check off a bunch of fun things to do in Antigua, stay in the center of town. Thankfully, there’s tons of choices!

We stayed in a private room at Ojala Hostel , which was honestly more like a boutique hotel, and loved our King size bed, steamy showers (with amazing water pressure I might add), and flower-filled gardens. The fact that we could see the fiery lava from volcano eruptions at night from the common space right outside our room made it all that much more special. Ojala also has dorm beds, which is perfect if you’re rocking solo and on a budget.

Other affordable luxury hotels on my list were Good Hotel Antigua , Porta Hotel , El Convento Boutique Hotel , and Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo – but we booked too late and those were all already sold out! If you’re coming between February and April, I’d make sure to book a few months in advance. I was honestly really surprised just how fast accommodations sold out.

On a budget? I’d also look at Selina Antigua , Maya Papaya (Ojala’s sister hostel), Casi Casa , and Barbara’s Boutique Hostel . So many amazing options!

Brief History of Antigua, Guatemala

So, the history of Antigua, Guatemala is actually pretty interesting. It just so happened to be the original capital of Guatemala , founded by the Spanish conquistadors in 1543 and named Santiago de los Caballeros.

The city quickly became an important hub for commerce, religion, and culture, attracting wealthy families and powerful leaders. The city’s architecture and gardens were some of the grandest in the region, making it a popular destination for visitors.

However, Antigua has a tumultuous history. It was hit by a series of devastating earthquakes in the 1700s, causing much of the city to crumble. As a result, the capital was moved to present-day Guatemala City in 1776.

Despite the relocation of the capital, Antigua remained an important cultural and religious center. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for tourists who come to explore its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and lush gardens.

Best Things to do in Antigua, Guatemala

Finally – what you’re probably here for! All my favorite things to do in Antigua, Guatemala, plus a few I wish I had time for! 

Looking for an easy DIY itinerary?! Here’s my recommended 3-day Antigua itinerary based on my personal experiences. I didn’t do the popular Acatenango Hike, so you’ll need to change things around a bit if that’s on your Guatemala bucket list!

• Day 1: Morning at Hobbitenango and/or El Hato Verde, wander around historic Antigua (markets and ruins), sunset at a rooftop terrace
• Day 2: Morning walk to Hill of the Cross, cafe hop and more ruins, Pacaya Volcano sunset hike
• Day 3: Breakfast at Caoba Farms, chocolate making class, more cafes and rooftops, drinks at Ulew

Walk and Photograph the Historic Center/Colonial Streets

One of my fondest memories of Antigua was simply wandering around the old colonial streets, camera in hand. I swear, around every bend there was something to photograph in this charming city.

As I was wandering the cobblestone streets, I felt like I was transported back in time to the colonial era, with beautiful architecture, vibrant colors, and stunning colonial-style buildings around every corner.

Exploring the historic center can be easily done in an afternoon since it’s relatively small. To gain deeper insights into the city’s distinctive history and geography, I suggest signing up for a walking tour on your first day in Antigua.

Many of the buildings date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, and their ornate facades and intricate details are a testament to the city’s rich history and culture. You’ll see everything from brightly colored colonial-style homes and shops to grand churches and public buildings, all with their own unique stories to tell.

A few special spots not to miss:

• Santa Catalina Arch (obviously!)
• Parque Central
• La Merced Church
• The Santa Clara Convent
• San Francisco Church
• Tanque la Union

As you walk, you’ll encounter street vendors selling all kinds of local goodies, from handicrafts to freshly cooked snacks. And you’ll see friendly locals going about their day-to-day lives — it’s like getting a glimpse into the real Antigua, Guatemala.

But let’s not forget about the parks and plazas! These green spaces are a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, and are often surrounded by historic landmarks and buildings. 

So put on comfy walking shoes, grab your camera, and get ready to explore this amazing city on foot! I walked almost 20k steps each and every day I was in Antigua. You can even sign up for a group photo walk if you wanna wander around with a local – they know all the best photo spots and have tips for capturing this stunning city.

Explore the Historic Ruins

Since Antigua is nestled in a valley surrounded by three majestic volcanoes, the area’s super prone to earthquakes. And boy, has it been through a lot over the years. Over time, the city has experienced numerous earthquakes, including a catastrophic one in 1773 that caused extensive damage to many structures in the area. 

While some of the buildings have been rebuilt, others haven’t. Thus, Antigua’s full of historic ruins, and they’re super interesting to check out. You’ll come across plenty during your walks around Antigua. There’s a whole bunch, scattered around the city; here’s the most popular ones:

• Convento Santa Clara: This convent and church, founded in 1699 by nuns from Puebla in Mexico, is known for its amazingly beautiful ornate facade and the amazing courtyard with its fountain in the middle. The gardens are wonderfully kept with beautiful plants and flowers. We had so much fun taking photos here.
• Catedral San Jose: If you make it to one ruin, make it this one. It was completed in the 1680s, and damaged by earthquakes in the 18th and 19th centuries. It’s now a popular tourist attraction known for its towering columns, picturesque giant pillars, intricate stonework, and collapsed ceiling. Note that it’s also called “Antigua Guatemala Cathedral” and “Catedral de Santiago” – this confused me a whole lot! I absolutely loved exploring these ruins and they were one of my favorite things to do in Antigua.

• El Carmen Church: Built in the 17th century and destroyed by earthquakes in the 18th and 19th centuries, this lavish church was once famous for its ornate stonework and majestic columns. While you can’t go inside anymore, there’s a local handicrafts market at the base of the church that’s great for people watching and photography.
• Convento de las Capuchinas: Built in the 18th century and abandoned in the early 19th century. It’s known for its intricate baroque architecture, beautiful courtyards, and well-preserved living quarters, cells, and gardens. Capuchinas was the last convent to be built in the city.
• Casa Santo Domingo Hotel : This hotel is located in a former convent and monastery, which was founded in the 16th century and partially destroyed by earthquakes in the 18th century. Casa Santo Domingo features a museum of colonial-era artifacts, and we loved wandering around the property.  

Spend the Morning at Hobbitenango

Hobbitenango is a really cool and unique attraction located just outside of Antigua, Guatemala! If you’re a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” or “The Lord of the Rings,” you’ll definitely want to add this spot to your 3-day Antigua itinerary.

What is it exactly?! A hobbit-themed eco-park (!!!) that’s nestled in the lush green hills overlooking Antigua. The park features a few hobbit-style houses built into the hillsides that you can explore – we loved going inside; it had such a magical and whimsical atmosphere!

Visitors to Hobbitenango can take a short hike through the park to explore the different hobbit houses and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. There’s also a number of fun activities to enjoy, including a giant tree swing, archery, and the famous Hobbitenango hand – don’t miss a photo on it!

I loved Hobbitenango so much I wrote an entire post on it – check that out over here (literally everything you need to know about visiting Hobbitenango).

Check out Iglesia de la Merced

There’s tons (and tons) of pretty churches in Antigua, Guatemala, but my #1 is easily Iglesia de la Merced. This church is seriously stunning, with a bright yellow facade that’s totally Instagram-worthy. 

But it’s not just a pretty face – the architects were smart and made sure it could withstand earthquakes with its sturdy wide columns and lower height. This baby has survived not one, but TWO major earthquakes! Talk about resilience, am I right?

If you’re lucky enough to check out the Iglesia de la Merced, make sure you take some time to explore the inside too. The cloister area is seriously beautiful and definitely worth a look. So go ahead, snap a pic outside, but don’t forget to give the interior some love too!

Wander around Parque Central

We ended up in Parque Central (Central Park) more than a few times, on our way to different activities in Antigua! This lush green square has been around since the 16th century, and it’s surrounded with historically significant buildings, yummy restaurants, cute cafes, fun shops, and tons of attractions. I stopped here with the photographer as well, and had so much fun attempting to take (failed) photos with all the pigeons, haha.

You’ll see all kinds of people here, from locals just chilling to tourists soaking up the sights and sounds. There’s plenty of trees and shrubs to keep you cool, and loads of benches where you can people watch to your heart’s content. Oh, and did I mention the super-cute fountain in the center of the park? It’s got mermaids spouting water — what more could you want?!

Take Photos with the Santa Catalina Arch

The Santa Catalina Arch is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, meaning you can’t miss it on any Antigua itinerary! Just look at those photos – the arch is just gorgeous, and a symbol of the city’s rich history and culture. 

And it’s got an interesting history too – the arch was built in the 17th century, and was originally used by nuns to move between buildings without being seen by the public. In addition, it survived multiple earthquakes and was eventually restored in the 20th century to preserve its beauty and cultural significance.

Nowadays, it’s one of the most popular things to do in Antigua! Walk under the arch, and admire the surrounding mountains and La Merced Church from one end, and the Agua Volcano from the other side. I passed the Santa Catalina Arch numerous times during my 3 days in Antigua, and was wowed by it each and every time. 

Psst – if you wanna get photos with the Santa Catalina Arch, come just after sunrise. It’s the most popular spot in Antigua for photos, so it’ll get busier as the day goes on. Come early and you can have the arch *almost* all to yourself. I joined a photo session with a local photographer in Antigua and we met her under the arch at 7am, and were the only ones taking photos!

Hike Pacaya Volcano and Roast Marshmallows 

One of the most popular day trips from Antigua is to Pacaya Volcano , and lemme tell you, it’s an absolute blast! I did this on my first trip to Antigua, and if I had more time, I would have totally done it again. It’s the perfect way to get out of the city and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Guatemala. 

Plus, how many of your friends can say they’ve been hiking on an active volcano?! Yup, you read that right – you’ll be hiking on an ACTIVE volcano. 

Pacaya Volcano is located about 19 miles (30 km) southwest of Antigua and is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America. Thankfully, the volcano hike isn’t too strenuous, but it can be steep and rocky in some parts, so definitely wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.

The hike usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours (with the hardest portion being a 15-20 minute steady incline). You’ll be rewarded with some incredible views of the surrounding landscape. As you get closer to the top, you’ll be able to see steam rising from the volcanic vents, and you might even be able to feel the heat coming from the ground. Whoa! Something you don’t see every day!

And the best part? Roasting marshmallows over the hot volcanic rocks! How cool is that? Trust me; they taste amazing with a smoky flavor from the volcanic heat.

Since you can’t hike Volcano Pacaya independently (you need a certified guide with you at all times, because, ya know, it’s an active volcano and all…), it’s best to book a tour in advance. Here’s a few popular options:

• Pacaya Volcano Trek from Antigua: Your standard, run-of-the-mill Pacaya Volcano hike, with transfers and a guide included. Everything you need for a fun hike up the volcano!
• Pacaya Volcano Tour and Hot Springs with Lunch : Hike up the volcano and then relax in some thermal hot springs afterwards – the perfect way to soothe those aching muscles! One of my favorite things to do in Antigua!
• Small-Group Sunset Pacaya Volcano Tour from Antigua: My friends climbed up the volcano just before sunset – and their photos were absolutely beautiful. Plus, you get to stop for a freshly prepared picnic to enjoy along with views of nearby volcanoes Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango!

Of course, it’s important to be cautious – Pacaya Volcano is an active volcano afterall, and eruptions can occur at any time! But as long as you follow your guide’s instructions and stay within the designated safe areas, you’ll be just fine. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast (it can get quite chilly at the top), and bring appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and lots and lots of water.

Relax at Charming Cafes and Sip Guatemalan Coffee

Before visiting, I had over a dozen cafes and coffee shops in Antigua pinned on my map, and discovered even more by simply wandering around the city. Each one more charming than the last! Choosing which ones to hang out at was super hard! I absolutely loved the cafe culture – one of the most relaxing things to do in Antigua, Guatemala after a day of exploring/hiking.

I loved all the outdoor patios, lush gardens, and stunning views of the city’s colonial architecture. It’s not uncommon to see both locals and tourists spending hours sipping coffee, reading a book, or chatting with friends. 

Guatemala has some of the best coffee in the world – why not try a few cups?! The climate and soil in Antigua are perfectly suited for growing coffee beans. Each cafe has their own special twist on how they brew and serve their coffee, so I highly urge you to visit a few coffee shops to compare!

A few popular spots:

• El Gran Cafe: Super aesthetically pleasing little shop, with baristas who are super passionate about their job. I picked up a bag of beans here!
• 12 Onzas: Another gorgeous spot, and they have a full brunch and lunch menu with super friendly staff. Really beautiful interior with turquoise tiles and a gorgeous back courtyard.
• Artista de Cafe : Great ambiance and great coffee! I unfortunately didn’t make it here, but it’s firmly planted on my list for next time!
• Cafe Cafe Guatemala: A trendy little spot with a full breakfast menu (I loved my rainbow smoothie bowl) and such great coffee drinks.
• Fat Cat Coffee House : One of the most popular coffee shops in all of Antigua, that’s always buzzing with energy. I loved this lively and vibrant space!

→ Read Next: My Favorite Coffee Shops and Cafes in Antigua!

Shop for Traditional Handicrafts

One of my favorite things to do in Antigua, Guatemala was to look around at all the artisan markets and shops – and there’s quite a few! With vendors selling BEAUTIFUL handmade textiles, ceramics, wood carvings, and other artisanal goods, I wanted to buy it all. Too bad my suitcase was already pretty stuffed. Thankfully I had room for a few special things! 

Purchasing from these shops is a great way to support the local artisans, and bring a little piece of Guatemala home with you. The markets showcase the vibrant colors and patterns of Guatemalan culture, and no two items will be exactly the same.

Here were my favorite markets and local shops:

Mercado de Artesanias (Artisan Market): This is a popular market filled with stalls selling a wide variety of products, from textiles to leather goods, and it’s a great spot to bargain with local artisans for the best prices. Don’t miss the beautiful fountain in the middle! 

As soon as we entered we were super overwhelmed, and we honestly didn’t even know where to start – we got lost in the maze of colorful stalls multiple times, whoops! Be prepared for the craziness! 

One exciting find we came across was a second-hand clothing store located in the very, very far back of the market. It was interesting to see that they have these kinds shops just like we do!

Mercado de Artesanias El Carmen (Carmen Market): El Carmen is a lesser-known artisan market in Antigua, but definitely worth checking out. We actually liked this one much better than the Mercado de Artesanias, as it seemed much cleaner and easier to navigate. Plus, it was smaller, although we still kept getting lost, haha. It’s located near the ruins of Iglesia El Carmen, hence the name. 

Once you step inside, you’ll find tons of items on sale, ranging from traditional Guatemalan textiles, pottery, jewelry, and other handcrafted souvenirs. The market is held indoors during the week, but takes place at the actual ruins on the weekends (something we unfortunately missed).

Nim Pot : I quickly browsed Nim Pot after heading to the arch around sunset one night, and loved all the beautiful handwoven scarves and colorful bags. Nim Pot is actually a retail store which specializes in textiles made by indigenous communities from all over Guatemala. 

Just remember, since it’s a store (and not an artisan market), you can’t haggle for a cheaper price. Because of that I don’t recommend buying anything from here.

Ixcaco : Ixcaco is a smaller boutique shop known for their super high-quality (homemade) products. What I love about this shop is that they work directly with the artisans themselves.

I bought a beautiful handmade overnight bag here, and I can tell the craftsmanship is unlike anything I’ve ever purchased before – the quality of the bag is topnotch, the leather is super supple, and the stitchings are perfect and secure. It felt so great supporting a local and my bag is oh so beautiful. 

They’ve got a much larger facility in Lake Atitlan (Casa Flor Ixcaco where you can see a weaving demonstration), but if you don’t have time to visit that location, the Ixcaco shop in Antigua works!

Take a Chocolate Making Class at ChocoMuseo

Guatemala is known for their chocolate, so what better way than to lean into this by making your own chocolate IN Guatemala itself?! 

The chocolate making class at ChocoMuseo is an incredible experience, and was one of my favorite things to do in Antigua! We learned all about the history of chocolate and how it’s made, from the cacao tree to the final product. Our class was led by an expert chocolatier who guided us through the process step-by-step.

During the class, we got to taste different varieties of chocolate and learn about the different flavors and textures. Then we made our own chocolate from scratch (!!!) using traditional Mayan techniques. We roasted the cacao beans, then ground and tempered them, then finally added the toppings of our choice! Trust me, it’s way harder than it looks – I had a hard time grinding the beans into paste!

The class took about two hours, and at the end, we got to take home our own handmade chocolate. Book a class in advance as they do in fact sell out – they’re popular for a reason. I took home the most delicious bag of chocolates, plus some cacao tea (which I now drink on the regular). Reason enough to visit Antigua in my opinion!

Admire the Views at El Hato Verde

Up for a unique experience right outside of Antigua? Head on over to El Hato Verde – you get to hang out and relax in cool nets and tree houses overlooking the volcanoes! And it was super spectacular to say the least – I’ve never done anything like it in my life. 

We had a perfect view of the lush, green countryside and it felt absolutely wild sitting/relaxing on the nets staring at the volcanoes in the distance. Wow! What an incredible view and place they have created. Such a special memory. 

I heard you technically only get 15 minutes at the mirador, but we had it all to ourselves for what felt like a much longer time, haha. I think we were the only ones on the entire property so far that day. The perks of going first thing in the morning. 🙂

Getting to El Hato Verde is a tad confusing. You first need to call an Uber or taxi which will take you up the mountain to their parking area (or drive yourself), and then you’ll be greeted by El Hato Verde staff who take you up in golf carts to the viewpoints and restaurant. We didn’t know this at first so we were kinda confused!

El Hato Verde gets super mixed reviews as it’s kinda pricey. You need to pay Q115 per person just for admission, and then you’re required to spend a minimum of Q150 on top of that at the restaurant. Pretty expensive in my opinion, especially for Guatemala.

My friends and I had a mixed experience – while we LOVED the views at the mirador, relaxing on the nets, and sipping our coffees in the real-life tree house, the menu had absolutely no options for plant-based eaters. And they were out of the one thing I actually wanted to order, haha. 

They thankfully waived our Q150 food fees once they realized they couldn’t accommodate us. At least they let us go without putting up a fight.

Try Antigua’s Foodie Scene

I was so surprised with just how much fantastic food we were able to find in Antigua. The city really is a food lover’s paradise, with a huge variety of dining options, from street food vendors to high-end restaurants, offering traditional and contemporary dishes. 

This city has got it all – from mouth-watering traditional Guatemalan dishes to scrumptious international cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for pepian (a hearty stew made with chicken or beef, vegetables, and a variety of spices), chiles rellenos (stuffed peppers usually filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables), or some cheesy pizza after a wild night out, Antigua’s got your back. 

• Once Once: This completely vegan restaurant totally changed my perspective on plant-based food – everything was absolutely delicious and we wanted more of everything, haha. Such a cute space as well.
• Por Que No Cafe: Some of the best (and well-priced) steaks in Antigua; make sure to reserve a table in advance or you’ll be waiting all night (the place is tiny!). Great vibes – kinda resembles a southern speakeasy!
• Frida’s: This colorful and vibrant Mexican restaurant (themed after Frida Khalo!) has a range of delicious dishes, from classic tacos and guacamole to more unique options such as cactus salad and hibiscus enchiladas. We thrived on the lively atmosphere and colorful decor, and loved the downstairs bar.
• Los Tres Tiempos : I popped in here one evening to check out the colorful interior and upstairs terrace, and all the food looked SO GOOD. I’m so bummed I didn’t make it here for food myself – next time! The Pepian (kinda like the national dish of Guatemala) is super popular here.

Learn Spanish

Antigua, Guatemala is a popular destination for travelers who want to learn Spanish. The city is known for its Spanish language schools, which offer a range of courses and programs for students of all levels.

One of the benefits of learning Spanish in Antigua is the immersive environment. Since Spanish is the primary language spoken in the city, students have plenty of opportunities to practice their skills outside of the classroom.

Most language schools in Antigua offer a variety of course options, including intensive programs, group classes, and one-on-one instruction. Students can choose the program that best fits their needs and goals, whether that’s to improve their conversational skills, prepare for a Spanish-language exam, or simply gain a deeper understanding of the language and culture.

I’m dreaming about taking a Spanish-immersion class in Antigua one day – just need to find the time!

Hike to Hill Of The Cross (Cerro de la Cruz)

Looking for some of the best panoramic views in all of Antigua? Head on over to Cerro de la Cruz (also known as Hill of the Cross in English). From up here, you get a stunning panoramic view of Antigua, the surrounding mountains and volcanoes, and even the Antigua Guatemala Cathedral. There’s also several vendors selling snacks and souvenirs, plus a small chapel where you can light candles and offer prayers.

The trailhead is located just a few blocks from the main park in Antigua, and you can either walk or take a taxi to reach the start of the trail. To reach the top of the hill, you’ll need to walk up a semi-steep trail (only ½ mile out-and-back), taking about 20-30 minutes roundtrip. Don’t worry – there’s plenty of lookout points along the way if you get tired! 

They’ve recently renovated and refurbished the entire viewpoint, making it much easier to access and way safer. Don’t miss the large white cross at the top of the hill, which serves as a popular photo spot and a symbol of the city’s religious heritage.

It’s especially popular at sunset when the sky is illuminated with hues of orange and pink, but any time of day is beautiful! I recommend hiking either early in the morning or late in the afternoon so you can avoid the heat of the day. Regardless, it’s best to go on a clear day so you can see both Agua and Fuego Volcanoes. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen!

Enjoy a Farm to Table Lunch at Caoba Farms

If you’re a foodie like me, you’ve got to get yourself over to Caoba Farms. This special spot is a sustainable organic farm known for its delicious farm-to-table dining and DIY farm tour. We came here for breakfast one morning and absolutely LOVED our visit – our dishes used the freshest ingredients and the beautiful surroundings of the farm just made our visit even more exceptional!

The menu at Caoba Farms changes seasonally and is made entirely from the farm’s produce – yes, everything is grown right here! Kinda wild if you ask me. The chocolate cake is even made with cacao grown on the farm. Doesn’t get fresher than that!

We loved wandering around the farm, admiring all the colorful flowers, leafy green plants, and plenty of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Plus, those tiny piglets were oh so cute!

Do note that Caoba Farms is located just outside of the city center of Antigua. We walked there (only about a 20 minute walk or so), but you can also take a tuk-tuk or quick taxi/Uber ride.

Sip on Cocktails at Ulew

Mmm… Ulew. A spot I don’t think I ever could forget. I absolutely loved this place – the vibe, the atmosphere, the wacky decor, the bartenders, and of course the drinks. It’s by far the best speakeasy in all of Antigua, and I could have come here every single night of my trip. 

Even entering the bar is super fun – it’s kinda hidden, in the basement of Antigua Brewing Company, and you’ll need to enter through a secret phone booth. It honestly feels like you’re in a cave instead of a fancy cocktail lounge with its exposed brick walls and dark wooden interiors. And totally belongs in a hip major city like New York or Mexico City .

Since there’s no official menu, the mixologists will ask you what kinda drink you’re in the mood for (spirit, flavor, taste, etc) and prepare a drink special just for you. The cocktails are some of the most creative and innovative I’ve ever seen, all made using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Mixology masters! 

And the presentation was second to none – with snow globe coasters, edible flowers, giant goblets, and silly shaped glasses. Understandably the drinks are kinda pricey (about 75-150Q each), but well worth it in my opinion. Easily one of the coolest cocktail bars I’ve ever been to.

Come on the earlier side (they’re open from 4-11pm) because this place gets busy!

If you’re down to experience Antigua’s nightlife, sign up for an Antigua bar crawl . You’ll meet loads of fun people and get to try a whole bunch of bars in the city!

Go Rooftop Terrace Hopping

Oh boy, if you’re looking to witness some breathtaking views of Antigua, then you absolutely need to check out one of the city’s many rooftops! Trust me, there’s no better way to soak up the beauty of this charming colonial city than by grabbing a drink or a bite to eat while taking in the stunning views from above.

And let’s talk about those views for a minute. You’ll be able to gaze out at the city’s fascinating ruins, and on a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of the volcanoes that tower over Antigua. And here’s the real kicker – if you’re lucky, you might just see Fuego, one of those magnificent volcanoes, erupting right before your eyes! It’s seriously powerful stuff.

Here’s a few fantastic rooftops to check out:

• Antigua Brewing Company: Looking for a craft brewery with a volcano view?! Look no further than Antigua Brewing Company. We came up here one night before sunset and had such a great time hanging out and sipping on our drinks. Get a flight to sample a few beers – brewed in house!
• Cafe Sky: Easily the most popular rooftop in the city, and a busy spot for breakfast and brunch. From here you can see Volcan Fuego go off – absolutely mesmerizing (!!!), plus the other two volcanoes near the city. 
• Rooftop Antigua: Such a lovely space with views of the ruins and volcanoes. Service can be a bit slow, and there’s not a ton on the menu, but the views are great and the coffee is good.

Admire the Courtyards at Starbucks, Taco Bell, and McDonalds

Haha, what?! Sounds kinda random, right? Now, I know what you’re thinking — why would I ever recommend visiting a Taco Bell, McDonald’s, or Starbucks as one of the best things to do in Antigua? 

But hear me out — I promise these aren’t just any old fast-food chains with your typical boring interiors and such. They’ve got some of the most beautiful courtyards you’ll ever lay your eyes on. Easily the most beautiful Starbucks, Taco Bell, and McDonalds in the world

My favorite was the courtyard at Starbucks – it’s surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture, and has a gorgeous fountain in the center. The seating area looked so cozy and welcoming, decorated with traditional Guatemalan textiles and colorful artwork. I couldn’t stop taking photos!

The courtyards are hella impressive, and the most beautiful I’ve seen – ever. Wander in yourself and you’ll see what I mean! It’s a great spot to relax and recharge after a day of exploring the city’s historic landmarks and charming streets.

Shop at Mercado Central

Have you heard about Antigua’s Central Market, aka Mercado Central? It’s seriously the ultimate spot for experiencing local life and getting a taste of the vibrant culture. This large open air market is jam-packed with all sorts of vendors selling EVERYTHING under the sun — fresh produce and meats, flowers, spices, electronics, clothes, and tons more!

I won’t lie, it was a bit overwhelming to navigate since it’s so huge, but trust me, it’s worth it! If you’re looking for an authentic Antiguan experience and want to catch a glimpse into daily life, this market should be at the top of your list of things to do. I was absolutely fascinated by it all!

While the market is open everyday from 8am to 5pm, it gets much busier on Market Days – Monday, Thursday, and Saturday.

Take an ATV Tour

Looking for something extra adventurous and wanna explore the countryside and mountain towns around Antigua? Book yourself on a thrilling ATV ride! I wanted to take an ATV tour of Antigua and its surroundings so badly, but just couldn’t find the time! My friend Matt signed up and loved it – next time for me.

There’s a few to choose from, but these three sound the most epic:

ATV Sunset Tour : If you wanna journey up into the mountains to get the best view for sunset, this is your best option. This guided ATV tour starts at El Cerro de la Cruz, heads to a local eco-lodge and avocado plantation in a little village in the mountains, and finally to Hobbitenango for sunset! Such a wonderful way to spend a few hours up in the mountains!

Antigua ATV Mountain Tour : Tour around the outskirts of Antigua on an ATV, motorcycle, or scooter – you pick your ride! You’ll visit the mountains around Antigua, a local Mayan village, the famous El Cerro de la Cruz viewpoint, an organic farm, and of course the Hobbitenango eco-park. 

You’ll also get to visit a popular chocolate factory called Chocolateria Antigua, and get to watch part of their chocolate making process (and of course taste some chocolate).

Antigua ATV Villages Tour : Experience Antigua’s surrounding areas by motorcycle, scooter, or ATV. This half-day tour takes you to several villages on the outskirts of Antigua, including Ciudad Vieja, Guatemala’s first capital. 

Visit a textile market and an indigenous village at the foot of the Agua Volcano. Enjoy a short hike, hammock time, and panoramic views from a lookout point over Antigua.

Acatenango Volcano Hike

The Acatenango volcano hike is one of the best hikes in all of Central America – I mean, you get to SEE LAVA SPEWING FROM A NEARBY VOLCANO – up close from the summit of another volcano. Absolutely wild!

There’s no other place on earth quite like Acatenango. It sits at 3,976m next to a super active volcano, and overlooks another 8 stratovolcanoes, lakes, and ocean on the horizon. Pretty epic if you ask me.

Climbing Acatenango is by far the most strenuous thing to do in Antigua, but one of the most rewarding. I swear, this hike is no joke – there’s a reason I didn’t do it, haha. The hike involves trekking up the Acatenango volcano, which takes about 6-8 hours to complete and is considered a moderate to strenuous climb. But trust me, the views along the way are totally worth it! You start the journey from the base of the volcano and ascend through various terrains, including forests and volcanic ash.

Once at the summit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the nearby volcanoes and valleys, as well as the opportunity to witness Fuego’s eruptions from a safe distance. Camping overnight on the volcano is a unique experience, with stunning sunset and sunrise views, and an opportunity to stargaze in the clear night sky.

The hike requires a reasonable level of fitness, and it’s advisable to come prepared with sturdy hiking boots, warm clothing, a flashlight, and enough food and water. The hike is typically organized by local tour operators and includes a guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

While I chose to skip the famous Acatenango Overnight Hike (I simply didn’t have enough time and I was a bit worried about my lack of fitness… I’m definitely not a hiker), so many of my friends have climbed and said it was one of the best experiences in their lives. Perhaps I’ll do it in the future… maybe.

Easily one of the best things to do in Antigua, Guatemala if you’re looking for phenomenal volcano views and don’t mind working up a sweat! Most of my friends climbed up Acatenango with the company Wicho and Charlies , but check out other companies like Tours & Activities SA (great reviews) and OX Expeditions (more great reviews) if Wicho and Charlies is already sold out (which it does, and fast!). 

Secure your spot early – a few friends I met in Flores almost completely missed out because they waited so long to book.

Stuff Yourself Silly on a Food Tour

Antigua is a beautiful city that’s famous for its rich history and colonial architecture, but also its delicious cuisine! If you consider yourself a foodie, I highly recommend signing up for a food tour in Antigua – you’ll get to taste everything from tamales and pupusas to fresh fruit juices and local coffee! Plus, in a small town with over 300 restaurants, it’s hard to know which ones to try! 

Antigua Foodie Tour: Dine your way through the town of Antigua, known for its local take on baroque architecture, complete with cobblestoned streets, with this small-group food tour. You’ll visit a variety of restaurants, tasting around 10 different items (including dessert!) as your guide introduces you to Antigua’s culinary scene and the chefs and restaurant owners behind it. 

Expect hidden rooftop bars, amazing courtyard spots, hole in the wall gems, and a whole lotta food! Make sure you book early because this tour does sell out quickly.

Antigua Evening Street Food Tour: Did someone say authentic Guatemalan street food?! Whenever I try street food, I’m always a little wary of cleanliness and safety. That’s why I prefer to go with a local who knows exactly where all the best (and safe) spots are! 

On this street food tour, you’ll taste chalupas, chocolates, búfalos, shucos, and more from favorite stands and tiny ‘comedores’ in the towns surrounding Antigua. 10/10 a great way to spend an evening!

Take a Guatemalan Cooking Class

Antigua’s an amazing place to explore and learn about Guatemalan culture and cuisine. And one of the best ways to do that is by taking a cooking class! There’s several great options for cooking classes in Antigua that specialize in Guatemalan cuisine.

During these classes, you’ll get hands-on experience preparing traditional Guatemalan dishes like chiles rellenos (stuffed chiles), pepián (meat stew), and tamales. You’ll learn about the unique ingredients and cooking techniques used in Guatemalan cuisine, and get to taste your creations at the end of the class.

Most cooking classes take place in small groups, giving you plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get personalized guidance from the instructor. And many classes even include a visit to the local market to learn about the different ingredients used in Guatemalan cooking.

This tour visits a market to buy local ingredients which you’ll use to prepare the dishes, while this cooking class takes place on a rooftop overlooking the volcanoes. Both got great reviews and allows you to learn how to cook traditional Guatemalan dishes from a local chef. 

Carve a beautiful piece of Jade 

Ever thought about carving some jade?! Jade is the national gemstone in Guatemala, so it’s only fitting to include this activity on this long list of fun things to do in Antigua! 

Jade has been highly prized in Guatemala for centuries, and it holds a special significance in Mayan culture. The Mayans believed that jade had spiritual powers and that it symbolized life, fertility, and power. It was often used in religious ceremonies and was reserved for the elite and royalty. Beyond its cultural significance, jade is also valued for its durability and beauty.

So why not take a little piece of Guatemala home with you? Take a 2-hour jade workshop to learn all about the ancestral art of designing jade, and then carve your own piece! It’s one of the most creative things to do in Antigua, Guatemala. I wish I had bought a small jade necklace or bracelet like my friend did at Hobbitenango .

Antigua Coffee Tour 

Taking a coffee tour in Antigua, Guatemala is a must-do activity for coffee lovers and those interested in learning more about the coffee industry. Antigua is known for producing some of the finest coffee in the world, and the region’s unique climate and fertile soil make it an ideal place for growing coffee beans.

On a coffee tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit coffee farms and learn about the different stages of coffee production, from the planting and harvesting of the beans to the roasting and brewing process. You’ll get to see how the beans are processed and learn about the various factors that can affect the taste of the coffee.

In addition to learning about the production process, you’ll also have the opportunity to taste some of the delicious coffee that is produced in the region. You’ll be able to sample different varieties of coffee and learn about the unique flavors and characteristics of each one.

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

• 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.

Day Trip to Chichicastenango Market

Chichicastenango Market (or commonly known as Chichi) is the largest and most colorful outdoor market in all of Latin America. If you’re looking for some culture, this is the place to be! While Chichicastenango is quite far from Antigua (about 2 ½ hours away), a day trip is totally possible. 

I highly recommend booking yourself on a guided tour to Chichicastenango with a local guide – they’ll be able to get you there easily and you’ll probably even have time for a quick visit to Lake Atitlan (another of my favorite areas in Guatemala!).

Make sure to visit on famous market days – Thursdays and Sundays. Vendors sell everything under the sun (figuratively and literally), including (but not limited to) candles, handicrafts, food, spices, masks, pottery, medicinal plants, machetes, pigs, chickens, and baby kittens. Yes, you read that right. Nothing will surprise you after walking through the market a few times.

It honestly doesn’t get more authentic than this! Visiting Chichicastenango was one of the craziest days of my life — so, so, so hectic! Visit the indoor produce market too and watch the interactions from above.

Tip: Protect your belongings here, as pickpocketing can occur if you aren’t careful. Another reason why I suggest going with a local guide.

Day Trip to Lake Atitlan 

Lake Atitlan is full of natural beauty, surrounded by lush green hills and VOLCANOES – makes sense that it’s considered one of the most scenic destinations in the entire country. I visited for 3 days and wished I had at least a week!

While I honestly don’t think one day is enough to really experience all the cultural richness and downright beauty of Lake Atitlan, if that’s all you’ve got time for, I highly recommend going. You can always plan for longer next time!

From Antigua, you can take a shuttle, private car, or organized day trip to the lake, which is about a two-hour drive away. Once you arrive, there’s a whole slew of activities you can do, such as kayaking, swimming, or simply relaxing on the lakeshore and taking in the stunning views.

Do yourself a favor and book a guided tour to Lake Atitlan – leave the stress behind. A one day tour allows you to see the highlights of Lake Atitlan without the hassle of planning your own transportation, accommodation, or activities. Plus, you can benefit from the expertise and knowledge of a local guide, and really make the most of your day. 

With only a day (including the drive from Antigua), you definitely won’t be able to visit all the different towns in Lake Atitlan . In reality, you’ll really only have time to visit one village along the lake, at most two. Most tours visit Panajachel, or Pana for short. Some tours even make a quick visit to Chichicastenango , one of the largest markets in Central America.

Day Trip to Tikal, Guatemala 

Dying to see the impressive ruins of Tikal National Park right outside Flores , Guatemala, but don’t have much time?! You’ll be glad to know you can actually see them as a day trip from Antigua . Yes, it’ll be a long and very tiring day, but hey, if that’s all the time you’ve got – better make the most of it!

I recently visited Tikal when I was in Flores, and found it absolutely breathtaking. Makes sense, since Tikal is one of the largest and most impressive Mayan archaeological sites in the world, located right in the heart of the Guatemalan jungle.

Although it’s a long and exhausting 12 hour drive north to Tikal from Antigua, thankfully, there’s flights available! It’s only about a 1.5-hour flight from Antigua, and once you arrive, you’ll be transported back in time to this ancient Mayan civilization.

Tikal is absolutely enormous, and you can spend hours exploring the temples, plazas, and other ruins that date back to over a thousand years ago. One of the most iconic structures is the Temple of the Giant Jaguar, which towers over the jungle and offers stunning views from the top. I also checked out the Major Plaza, surrounded by impressive buildings such as Temples I and II.

But Tikal isn’t just about the history – it’s also a nature lover’s paradise! The surrounding jungle is home to a variety of wildlife, including howler monkeys, toucans, and colorful parrots (I saw a whole bunch!). You might even catch a glimpse of a jaguar or a puma if you’re lucky.

You’ll 100% want to sign up for an organized tour ; it’s just too tricky trying to DIY it (there’s a lot of moving parts and you don’t wanna miss your flight). 

While the tour is expensive (at over $400) and starts super early (around 4am), it includes all transfers, roundtrip flights from La Aurora International Airport to Mundo Maya Airport by TAG Airlines, entrance and a guide in Tikal, and even a traditional Guatemalan lunch. Read (raving) reviews) and sign up for a day trip from Antigua to Tikal here.

Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and insect repellent, as the jungle can get hot and buggy.

Hope this gives you plenty of ideas and fun things to do in Antigua, Guatemala! Go now before this place gets overly discovered…!

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Travelling solo to Antigua, Guatemala

As far as I am concerned, travelling alone is a great way to immerse yourself in a new culture and to experience each destination in a totally unique way.

Solo travel to Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua, Guatemala is a popular tourist destination and many travellers go there solo –  including myself. Aside from following the obvious precautions like watching out for your wallet and not walking the streets at 3am, you have nothing more to worry about in Antigua than in any other destination.  If you go there as a student, as many students do to study Spanish, you will not be without friends for long.  And if you go on a tour, as long as you stick with a tour group and follow your map, you will remain safe and have a great time.

Three things about Antigua characterize it from the outsider’s point of view. 

First, as earlier mentioned, is the draw of learning Spanish in an environment that is naturally Spanish speaking. After all, what better way to learn a language than to immerse yourself in it? Antigua is the cheapest South American option for studying Spanish and that is why it is one of this city’s leading attractions.

Second, there is a large foreign senior citizens community, full of older expatriates who have made Antigua their home.  A lot of foreigners fall in love with the place and their retirement money has a much greater spending power here.  They can live a comfortable life as opposed to living hand to mouth in their own countries.

Finally, there are the tourists who are drawn to Antigua for its sheer uniqueness: its history, relics, and lovely natural attractions.  Antigua was once colonized by the Spanish in 1543 and you will see ruins and renovations of Cathedrals, nunneries, and government edifices surrounded by three volcanoes: Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango.  The streets are cobbled and there is a charming selection of hotels, some with rooms with their own fireplaces. These features just add to the quaintness that invites tourist to Antigua.

Among the interesting sights is St. Catherine’s Arch , which in 1693 was used by the nuns to go to neighboring convents in the privacy, without being seen by people outside.

Many find the Convento de las Capuchinas quite memorable.  One recalls St. Clare’s Capuchin monks, known as the brown hoods, who followed the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, the Catholic saint who loved animals.  Here you find in its Del Retiro tower, 18 tiny brick cells.  This is where nuns stayed when they wanted to be alone to contemplate.  Others were forced to stay here for behaving badly.  It served as both a place of solace and imprisonment.

There are a number of other interesting things to do in Antigua, like climbing a volcano . This is an activity that adventurous tourists seem to really enjoy but be sure to do so with a tour group for safety.  Also, be prepared; wear a good pair of trekking shoes and carry a backpack with snacks, water, extra clothes, and sunscreen.

Other options are to canvas the shops for their crafts and textiles or try one of a selection of trendy cafes which foreigners of every type, from students to senior citizens and tourist, go to for food, drinks, and just to relax.  You may be in Antigua, but there will still be Irish pubs, Mediterranean restaurants, and other international choices aside from the local food.

If you want to mingle with the locals there is always Central Park of Antigua .  You will also see a lot of foreign students here.  The park hosts a flurry of vendors who sell handicrafts, or you can have your shoes shined by one of their shoeshine boys.  At night there are concerts and the sight of the fully lit-up Cathedral nearby is breathtaking.

So go to Antigua.  Go solo if you wish – just go!

Neal writes for Briefcases Direct, a website that offers luxury briefcases  direct from the manufacturer. Neal lives in NYC with his family. He is a seasoned traveller yet feels there is always a new adventure to be had. He enjoys travel writing in his free time from family and work.

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Solo female travel: traveling alone in guatemala as a woman.

The following interview on solo female travel in Guatemala comes from Val Bromann.

I’m Val. When I turned 30 I quit my job and bought a one-way ticket to Europe. Over the next three years I traveled around Europe , Southeast Asia , Central America, and South America. Now I’m back home in Chicago, working full time in digital marketing, and having fun decorating my apartment with all my travel souvenirs .

Why did you decide to travel to Guatemala by yourself?

I had recently returned home from 15 months of solo traveling around Europe and Asia and was ready to see another part of the world. A friend I’d met on the road loved traveling in Central America and convinced me that the region wasn’t as scary as I had in my head . I decided to start my Central America trip in Guatemala because I had heard it was a great place to study Spanish. Since I didn’t speak any, I spent a month in a Spanish school in Antigua to get the basics down before traveling around the rest of the country and the region.

Did you have any trouble traveling solo there?

I had a couple of problems traveling in Guatemala. First, my bank card was cancelled…twice. My card wasn’t actually compromised (to my knowledge) but my bank was being overly cautious from suspicious ATMs. So be prepared with a backup card just in case. Luckily all I had to do was fax them authorization and they FedExed me new ones both times.

The second problem was a little more troubling. I was on a cave tour near Semuc Champey and, due to my fear of heights and falling, kept falling behind the rest of the group. The tour guide seemed great at helping me through, at first. But then he started subtly touching me. And then his touches became less subtle. And then he tried to kiss me. I learned that I really need to speak up sooner if I’m uncomfortable , even if I don’t know any of my fellow travelers that well, they are always there to help.

Editor’s note: Incidents like this are unfortunate, but they can happen anywhere and it is not necessarily a reflection of the country itself.

Did you ever feel unsafe?

Besides the incident above, I always felt fine in Guatemala . Sure, there’s always those moments where you end up on a sketchy street, are a little unsure of the bus you’re on, or are out a little later than you should be. Just exercise normal caution though by finding other travelers to go out with at night and not staying out too late by yourself.

>> You may want to consider checking out this post on paying for your safety .

Tell us about one of your favorite experiences from traveling solo in Guatemala.

I was in Guatemala for Semana Santa : holy week. But they don’t celebrate for just a week there. For the entire month of lent we’d see holy processions (think large religious parades) of all sizes, at all times of the day and night.

One of the best activities was creating alfombras: beautiful, intricate “carpets” made of dyed sawdust. In the days before Easter everyone came out to create these masterpieces, some were blocks long. They take so much time and effort and in the end ruined to nothing when a procession comes through. We got to make one at our Spanish school and went through the whole process of dying the sawdust, creating the design, and then watching it get trampled.

Were there any special precautions you took to feel safer while traveling solo?

Nothing specific to Guatemala, just the normal precautions everyone should practice when traveling solo , like not walking home alone at night and going out in groups. Just be aware of your surroundings.

Did you meet any other solo female travelers while you were there?

One of my best friends in my Spanish school was a solo female traveler from London. We bonded over the fact that we were both terrible at learning languages. We still keep in touch and I even met up with her when I was visiting England later that year.

What luggage did you bring with you to Guatemala?

I brought a 50 liter Eagle Creek Explorer LT backpack that packed all my clothes , shoes , toiletries , etc. It got cool in Guatemala, especially in the mornings, so it was good having some room for a sweatshirt or two in my backpack . I also brought a daypack that I carried my laptop, camera , and guidebook in.

Were there any items you were glad you brought with you or that you wished you had brought?

I’m so glad I brought hiking boots . I bought a pair to bring especially for this trip and they came in handy many times, including hiking Volcan Pacaya, an active volcano about an hour and a half outside of Antigua and walking through Tikal.

What’s your number 1 tip for females traveling solo to Guatemala?

Learn some Spanish! While I had no trouble speaking English (and a few essential words like Hello and thank you in the local language) in Europe or Asia , in Guatemala (and the rest of Central America ) having at least a basic grasp on the local language was extremely helpful, especially being on my own. Even limited Spanish is helpful for asking prices, finding a bus, or booking a hostel . Starting the journey with a stop at a Spanish language school was a great decision. I was able to get down the basics and made friends I met up with through the rest of my trip.

About the author: Val didn’t have a passport until she turned 25. Five years later, at 30, she quit her job to travel around the world “for around 9 months” and ended up traveling for three years. She’s now back in Chicago, working full time in digital marketing, and decorating her apartment in teal and travel memories. Val blogs about travel, decorating, and her life at Choosing Figs . Find her online on Twitter , Facebook , and Instagram .

Written by Ali

Ali Garland is a freelance writer, blogger, and travel addict who made it to all 7 continents before her 30th birthday. She enjoys travel planning, encouraging others to see the world, and packing carry-on only. She and her husband are expats living in Berlin. You can find Ali at Ali's Adventures and Travel Made Simple .

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Reader Interactions

January 29, 2016 at 6:43 am

So inspiring!! I just traveled Thailand alone, but I feel like you can’t compare this to any country in South America at all. I actually booked my flight to Peru alone – and I was supposed to go on my own, but my dad actually decided to join me! And I’m actually happy about this, will be a nice way to explore South America for the first time and who knows maybe the second time I’ll do it on my own… 🙂

Kind regards, Sarah from a passport can get you everywhere

January 8, 2017 at 3:09 pm

I might be travelling to Guatemala in May/June to volunteer at a College. May I ask you what Spanish school you attended in Antigua and how much it cost?

Thank you very much! -Isabella

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Central America , Solo travel

Solo travel in guatemala: is it safe for female travellers.

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I just returned from a memorable month travelling solo in Guatemala and I can’t wait to tell you all about it and also answer the question, is Guatemala safe for solo female travellers? for anyone who may be wondering. I started my solo travel trip by entering from Belize and ended by flying from Guatemala City back to my current home base, Mexico City . Along the way, I met wonderful people (both locals and fellow travellers) and saw fantastic wildlife, scenery, UNESCO sites and more. Guatemala is one of the seven countries that comprise Central America (along with Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama). It’s one of the safer countries and, compared to Costa Rica and Belize, very affordable! This combo makes solo female travel in Guatemala a great idea!

GUATEMALA ESSENTIALS Accommodation : Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting there : flight / bus Activities : GetYourGuide / Viator

Read next: the ultimate Guatemala itinerary

Is Guatemala good for solo travellers?

YES! I had a great time travelling alone in Guatemala in 2023. I met lots of other like-minded travellers including other women in their thirties like me (along with those in their twenties and 40s+… all ages, to summarise!). There are tons of women backpacking Guatemala solo as we speak so, if you’re still debating taking the plunge, consider that they’re all fine and loving it… So you probably will, too!

Read next: my ultimate guide to solo female travel after 10 years on the road!

Is Guatemala suitable for first time solo travellers?

I’m an experienced traveller who has solo travelled in India , South Africa , Cuba and more. But I try not to forget how it feels starting out. Guatemala is perhaps not the ultimate first-time solo travel destination because there is some crime and it’s not as easy to get around with English compared to travelling solo in Asia and travelling solo in Europe . However, I’d say solo female in Guatemala is relatively easy. Shuttles take you from door to door, there are fantastic hostels and you’ll meet many people doing the same thing as you. If you’ve never travelled alone before, geek up on a bit of basic Spanish and follow my tips for women travelling alone and you’ll be fine!

Read next: where to travel alone for women

Best things about solo travel in Guatemala

• Guatemala has great tourist infrastructure and is very accessible – almost everywhere you’ll want to go is connected by tourist shuttle, often picking you up at the door of your accommodation.
• Hostels galore – you don’t need to pay extra when getting a room for one because there are hostels everywhere from Antigua to Flores, Semuc Champey and the various towns around Lake Atitlan. Also, they’re good! I stayed in hostels with swimming pools, bars and terraces with lake views.
• The country is affordable – I stayed in hostels from £7 ($9) a night and took tours for the same price.
• English is widely spoken – obviously Spanish is the main language so it’s useful and respectful to learn at least the basics (and a famous thing to do is take classes where you live with a local family) but generally, I found a lot of English was spoken in the popular regions and by most people working in tourism.

Challenging things about solo travel in Guatemala

• Stray dogs around Lake Atitlan – as someone who is already scared of dogs following a previous attack while travelling, I was unnerved by the stray dogs around Lake Atitlan. I told myself I was being paranoid… Until I got bitten when I’d barely been there 12 hours! When walking solo, you feel more vulnerable than if you were with others, so this does add some fear factor to a solo Guatemala trip.
• It’s a dengue zone – during my trip in September 2023, there was a bad outbreak of dengue fever and several travellers I met got it. I know first-hand how sucky being sick alone is. Although you can reduce the risk by wearing long clothing and bug spray, it’s still a possibility.
• Some crime – undeniably, there’s some crime in Guatemala that can affect tourists. However, this is restricted to certain areas that you can avoid. I’ll cover this later.

Is Guatemala safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, Guatemala is safe for women travelling alone. I had a brilliant time and felt very safe! The majority of locals are friendly and will want to help you. Saying that, Guatemala City is not very safe. A couple of my friends decided to walk home 8 minutes from a brewery to their Airbnb and got robbed. From what I hear, it’s a safe enough city in the daytime in the right areas but you shouldn’t attempt walking at night, even as a group. Due to its lack of tourist attractions, you’ll probably want to skip it all together as a woman travelling alone. Also, I heard some reports of crime along the roads around Lake Atitlan, however this is avoidable as I’ll discuss next.

Safety tips for solo travel in Guatemala

Take the boat rather than the road around Lake Atitlan – some of the roads around the lake are apparently in need of repair and there are reports of robberies so they’re best avoided. Luckily, riding the ‘lanchas’ across the lake is cheap, easy and offers fantastic views! The exception is short journeys including the one from San Pedro to San Juan; getting a tuk-tuk for 10 Quetzales (£1) is safe during the day. Also, the road between Panajachel and nearby villages, Santa Catarina and San Antonio is safe enough to take an even cheaper ride with the locals: a pick-up truck for 5 Quetzales! Hike in a group – there are some great hiking trails around Lake Atitlan such as the Indian’s Nose hike and the 3-hour walk between Santa Cruz and San Marcos. For the latter, go as a group and leave your valuables behind. For the Indian’s Nose, the issue is that you have to cross local land (and organise a tuk-tuk ride at 4am to see sunrise) so it’s best to take a group tour. Don’t go too far off-piste – there’s a well-trodden tourist trail with popular places including Antigua, Flores, Semuc Champey, El Paredon, Xela and Lake Atitlan. This is more than enough to keep you busy for weeks, if not months, so there’s no need to stray into areas where you might stand out as a tourist. Learn how to shake off dogs – I was told to pretend to throw a rock at them because they’re used to locals doing this to fend them off. Avoiding walking alone at night in the lake towns is advisable. Specific solo female travel safety tip regarding San Marcos, Atitlan – the square in the middle of the town has some problems with men drinking and a house with aggressive dogs. Do avoid it in the evenings.

Do you need to know Spanish?

Well, it won’t hurt and it WILL help! But, to be honest, it’s not necessary to travel solo in Guatemala. In tourist areas, you can get around with English because staff in tour agencies, cafes and hostels etc will speak some. However, it’s polite and respectful to learn a bit of the local lingo so I would highly recommend doing so. The apps I use for learning Spanish are Duolingo and Babbel, and I also have the Google Translate app which includes a camera feature that translates text. I’d definitely recommend learning the numbers because this will be useful for haggling while shopping and comparing prices in tour agencies. In San Pedro, I asked all the agencies how much the Indian’s Nose hike was and got answers varying from setenta (70) to noventa (90) and cien (100). Ultimately, the more Spanish you know the better… for you and the locals! But don’t beat yourself up if you find learning a new language hard. Guatemalans are friendly and happy to help.

Getting to Guatemala

By flight: The first option is flying into Guatemala City. You can get direct flights from many cities in Latin America and US cities like New York, Atlanta, LA, Washington and Houston. If you’re coming from Europe, you’ll likely need to change in the US (so don’t forget to apply for an ESTA). I use Skyscanner to find cheap flights, using the ‘search by month’ feature to see the cheapest dates. If you’re arriving/departing Guatemala City, I would not recommend staying for long. The capital is not very safe for solo female travellers in Guatemala. Your best option is a shuttle to Antigua or wherever your first destination is. Overland from Mexico: local agencies in both destinations organise transport between the two. If you’re headed to Mexico next, you can book transport to San Cristobal (which, by the way, is a lovely city) from most tourist hubs.

Read next: solo female travel in Mexico

Overland from Belize: this is what I did during my recent trip. Although you can arrive all the way from Caye Caulker by shuttle, the closest popular location in Belize is San Ignacio, a destination I encourage solo travellers in Belize to visit.

Read next: travelling solo in Belize

A shuttle from San Ignacio to Flores will cost $20 USD or you can take the local option of a taxi ($7 BZD) to the border then a local bus for 50 Quetzales ($7 USD total). I did this with two other travellers and can confirm it was easy and safe. I’d feel comfortable doing it solo. Tip – you get a better rate on exchanging money over the border on the Guatemalan side. Change your leftover Belize Dollars into Quetzales so you can pay for the bus to Flores.

Getting around Guatemala

Getting around is so simple, even easier than getting around in Mexico where I usually have to pay for a taxi (not having anyone to split taxis with is one of the downsides of solo travel !) to the bus station. In Guatemala, I got accustomed to getting taken door-to-door!

Tourist shuttles

These small, aircon minibuses can be booked between tourist destinations. They either pick you up from the door of your accommodation or a designated meeting spot. They can be booked in any tourism agency or your accommodation although hostels often charge more. If you’re wondering whether Guatemala is safe for solo female travel, feel reassured that this mode of transport couldn’t be safer! In my experience, here’s where you need to meet based on the destinations I visited:

• Antigua – pick up from door
• Panajachel – pick up from door
• San Pedro – meeting spot
• Flores – meeting spot
• Semuc Champey – meeting spot (but hostels organise a transfer there).

Rough idea of prices:

• Flores to Lanquin (Semuc Champey) – 100 Q
• Lanquin to Antigua – 220 Q
• Antigua to San Pedro – 150 Q
• Panajachel to Guatemala City airport – 200 Q.

Chicken buses

These old US school buses have been given a lurid makeover, often complete with vibrant paintwork, gaudy details and flashing lights. Riding them is certainly an experience! However, they don’t service that many destinations directly so you often need to change. They’re much cheaper than the tourist shuttles but also less convenient.

Where to travel solo in Guatemala

There are lots of amazing places to visit in Guatemala and I’ll provide a (tried and tested) sample itinerary later so you know how to fit them all in. But my number one tip is to schedule enough time in Guatemala so you get to visit as many places as possible! I spent a full month. My personal highlights were Tikal, Antigua and Lake Atitlan. Visit all three to experience a cultural and historic site, a charming city, and beautiful lake towns with spectacular scenery. Guatemala really has it all! I can vouch for all these places as being safe for solo female travel in Guatemala…

Antigua (my favourite place!)

The quaint UNESCO Heritage City of Antigua is my personal heaven: countless coffee shops, beautiful buildings and volcano views. It’s a slow city where you can relax during a busy Guatemala itinerary OR do some memorable and difficult hiking! Things to do in Antigua:

• Do the short walk up to the Hill of the Cross viewpoint
• Hike Acatenango Volcano (more about this coming up)
• Hike Pacaya Volcano
• Take a trip to El Azote Beer Garden out of town (reached by taxi or colectivo) or simply visit Antigua Brewing Company in town.

Some of the best coffee shops to visit are 12 Onzas , Fat Cat Coffee House , Basil & Coffee (great cakes), Cafe Estudio (rooftop views) and the River Coffee House . There are lots of great places to eat Guatemalan food or you can try healthy/vegan food at Wachuma or international eats. I had an amazing banh mi at Mì Vietnamese Kitchen , and the pizzas and calzones next door look to die for!

How long to spend in Antigua? Around 1 week if you want to hike both Pacaya and Acatenango volcanos with some rest time in between. Otherwise, 1-2 days is enough. Where to stay in Antigua: Flore Hostel / Barbara’s Boutique Hostel .

About the Acatenango Volcano hike

I didn’t do the hike on this trip as I had a foot injury but I’ll be back to Guatemala in 6 months to do it and update this section with more personal details! At a lofty 3,976m (13,041 ft), a trip up Acatenango offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area as well as Fuego Volcano which is highly active and regularly spitting fire. The hike is gruelling but bound to be one of the best experiences of your solo Guatemala travels.. and possibly, life! The hike takes two days, departing on the morning of the first day and returning around midday on day two. You sleep overnight on the volcano either in tents or huts depending on the company you choose. Very early on day 2, you have the option to do an extra hike to Volcan de Fuego, something that’s recommended just for pro hikers because it’s difficult and views aren’t guaranteed based on the visibility and weather. For budget travellers, Soy Tours is easily the best. The whole thing will cost 500 Quetzales (£50/$60) including guides, accommodation, three meals, beer and hire of warm clothes. I also hear good things about Ox Expeditions who charge around 700 Quetzales but provide accommodation in huts rather than tents.

Flores Island (and Tikal)

The most famous reason to visit Flores is as a launching point for the majestic Tikal ruins dating back to the 4th century BC. Once a powerful kingdom home to 60,000 ancient Mayan people, this enormous jungle site comprising more than 3,000 structures was built in alignment with the constellations. It’s recommended to take the 4am tour (booked in any agency or your accommodation) to beat the heat and see Tikal before it gets crowded. You can even take a 3am tour to see sunrise but, since I was travelling in rainy season, I was advised not to bother because you’re not guaranteed a clear sunrise. I paid 100 Quetzales ($12 / £10) for the tour, and entry to Tikal is a further 150 Q. Not bad to see one of Guatemala’s three UNESCO sites !

Many travellers just spend 1-2 nights in Flores to see Tikal but I actually spent 4 nights, 3 days on this charming island. During one day, I caught a public boat (10 Quetzales) to visit Mirador de Canek , Chechenal lake beach and the Mayan World Museum (be sure to eat lunch at Cool Beans 2 !). Then, on the final day, I hung out at the famous Jorge’s Rope Swing only accessible by boat. This is a family-run venue on the other side of the water where you can use the rope swings and chill in the hammocks with a beer. The highlight was the huge iguana chilling in the tree above me! A fun way to arrive is by hiring a kayak for the day.

If you’re going alone to Jorge’s Rope Swing, it’s cheaper to get the family to send their boat rather than take a local boat (my hostel organised this ). It’s still a bit spenny at 100 Quetzales for a return ride and entry but a fun way to spend an afternoon. Where to stay in Flores: Hostal Don Cenobio / Los Amigos .

Semuc Champey

The bad thing about Semuc Champey? How far it is from everywhere else! It’s 8-12 hours from Antigua (the journey goes through the capital and the traffic is variable) and around 8 hours from Flores. So you need to factor in two full travel days. The good thing about Semuc Champey ? Everything else! This region is absolutely stunning and packed with treasures like caves and scenic viewpoints. There’s also some fantastic accommodation including hostels that will make you feel like you’re in a 5-star resort! Swimming in the nearby sublime pools is easily the highlight, along with hiking up to the viewpoint. A trip through K’an Ba Caves is a lot of fun although slightly scary when the guides post you through a drop-off hole and you land underwater! Most accommodations can organise a day tour of the region for around 250 Quetzales. Getting there: ride the bus to Lanquin. Most of the hostels are within the countryside so send a free daily shuttle to collect their guests from the bus. Strangely, I got my ticket from Flores-Lanquin for 100 Quetzales (£10/$12) but the one to Antigua, a similar road distance, costs more than double at 220 Quetzales. How long to spend? You just need a day to see the region during a tour. If you have a second day, you can go tubing or simply relax and enjoy your accommodation. I had a pool day mine.

Where to stay in Semuc Champey

For solo travel in Guatemala, a good option is Zephyr Lodge , a gorgeous hostel with a swim-up bar and sublime views. They organise tours into the park, tubing trips and onward shuttles to your next destination. However, I had mixed feelings because it felt slightly cliquey as many travellers arrived in groups (but maybe that was just bad luck when I stayed). Also, there’s no kitchen so you have to eat in their restaurant… and they even charge you for hot water! Tip: If you do stay at Zephyr, splash out the extra few bucks for the brand-new deluxe 11-bed dorm with aircon, curtains and huge lockers. I moved here from the 6-bed which felt dated and cramped. If you can bag bed number 32 in the 11-bed with a pano view of the valley, you’ll be waking up in paradise! Other accom options: I heard good things about Greengo’s which is actually inside the park and just a 10-minute walk to the famous pools, so no need to pay for a tour. It has great reviews and I met a few people who had stayed there and liked it.

Lake Atitlan

The vast Lake Atitlan is several destinations all bundled up in one. The villages on its shores range from backpacker party hubs to spiritual stomping grounds and authentic, local villages where you can learn about traditions and crafts practised for centuries. Better yet, Lake Atitlan is safe for solo female travellers provided you travel by boat. So it’s worth doing your research based on what you like! Luckily, I’ve done the work for you…

San Pedro (backpacker hub with nightlife and cafes)

San Pedro is the backpackers hub of Atitlan with several hostels and pubs known for live music and nightlife. I didn’t love San Pedro because there was no Guatemalan culture to be found: in fact, the businesses are 90% Israeli-owned since the town is a hub for Israeli travellers. However, reasons to visit San Pedro during solo travel in Guatemala include the Indian’s Nose sunrise hike . Every agency in town offers a tour with competitive prices starting from 70 Q. Tours depart the town at 4am but it’s worth it for the wonderful sunrise over the lake!

Also, San Pedro has many cafes with stunning lake views. Have coffee and cake at Sababa , smoothie bowls at Forbidden Fru it and authentic Israeli food at Pita Sabij . The namesake dish of pita with aubergine (eggplant), boiled egg, tahini and salad was mind-blowing! Where to stay in San Pedro: Mandala’s Hostel .

San Juan (my favourite lake town!)

I’m so glad I took a day trip from San Pedro to San Juan. Despite being just a 15-minute drive apart, they couldn’t be more different. In San Juan, I was the only foreign tourist and I loved the opportunity to observe the locals wearing traditional dress, enjoying a Sunday in their beautiful country. You can see the town in a day so it’s not necessary to stay overnight. If you’re the kind of solo traveller who likes to meet others, it may not be the best place to stay as it doesn’t have a big backpacking scene (although Eco-Hostel Mayachik looks like a decent base). But, it’s a safe place for solo female travel in Guatemala and, for local life, a must-visit!

When you’re not wandering the colourful streets and taking photos, you should hike up to Mirador Kaqasiiwaan which takes about 30 minutes and costs 30 Quetzales. The lake views are incredible! Back in town, visit some of the women’s co-operatives selling traditional woven items from clothes to bags and accessories. Kemo was my favourite. Don’t miss the roasteries serving delicious Guatemalan coffee! Sadly, Cafe Las Marias with rooftop views was closed as I visited on a Sunday but I had a great cup down at Cafe San Juan beside the pier.

San Marcos (hippie hub)

When I say San Marcos is spiritual , I don’t just mean a bit of yoga and meditation. Yes, there’s plenty of this, but there’s also every soul-searching activity you could ever dream up… and then some! From sound healing to cacao ceremonies, San Marcos caters to enlightened types. I even saw a poster inviting me to ‘court my divine masculine’. Say what? While some of it was lost on me, I did enjoy a bit of yoga and even tried a sound bath (a kind of meditation experience where the practitioner plays various instruments designed to awaken energy in different parts of the body). I enjoyed it! But, like San Pedro, this isn’t a place to experience Guatemalan culture. Most of the people running and benefitting from the workshops are Western travellers who live there semi-permanently. For that reason, it wasn’t my favourite place. I’d say skip it if you don’t plan to take any classes. But I did love all the cute cafes . No prizes for guessing it’s vegan heaven! Tip – for the best yoga class, head to Yoga Forest with fantastic views. Eagle’s Nest is a famous hotel and holistic centre but I heard mixed reviews. It’s certainly an aesthetic dream but the classes aren’t that good , according to locals and travellers experienced in holistic practices.

Where to stay: I recommend Casa Ahau with great breakfasts and dorm & private rooms. The social area is a great place to meet other solo travellers in Guatemala. Where to eat: Dragon Moon for healthy bowls, Circles for AMAZING baked goods, Zen for tasty vegan tacos. For coffee, I give another mention to Circles as well as Nectar ArtCafe and Ararti Cafe . The latter is a good place to work on a laptop.

Panajachel (the biggest lake town)

The hub of Lake Atitlan isn’t anything special but it has good tourist infrastructure and acts as a launching point to explore nearby points of interest, for example Chichicastenango Market (Central America’s biggest market) on Thursdays and Sundays. From Pana, I took half-day trips to…

Santiago (local life)

Aside from San Juan, this was the best Lake Atitlan town I visited for skipping the tourist trail and seeing local life. There’s a large, bustling market where you can enjoy local street food for pennies. There’s also a couple of miradors where you can snap pano views.

Santa Catarina & San Antonio (colourful murals and traditional crafts)

These two towns close to Pana can easily be visited during a half day. Santa Catarina Palopo is a captivating mural village painted with traditional Guatemalan details. It’s also known for its woven goods; learn about the trade at the cultural centre. After an hour in Santa Catarina, I continued to San Antonio Palopo , a village known for pottery-making. There are several venues where you can witness potters at work and see the items coming to life. I didn’t see any other tourists around and gladly purchased a few beautiful items to support the artisans. From this point in Pana, you can jump on a local pick-up truck to the two villages.

Quetzaltenango , nicknamed Xela, is an off-the-beaten-track destination for solo travellers in Guatemala. It might be the perfect pick for those who want to escape tourist towns like San Pedro. Nestled in a valley at 2,400m above sea level, it’s a fantastic city to experience authentic local culture, yet it still feels modern enough with all the amenities you need. It’s a great place to learn Spanish and an even better place to hike! There are plenty of trails and hikes from Xela .

Personally, I didn’t make it to El Paradon but, for beach chills and surfing, I hear it’s your best option. This sleepy coastal town is known for its sunsets and swell. Although it’s one of Central America’s best surf destinations, it’s more of an advanced spot so not best for beginners. It’s certainly not a fancy beach resort destination: accommodations are mostly modest, the roads are badly paved and you’ll find lots of those pesky Guatemalan stray dogs (so don’t walk alone on the beach at night). And you can cast the idea of white sand beaches from your mind: this volcanic region is known for its black sand beaches. But, personally, I find these more interesting! Where to stay in El Paradon : Driftwood Hostel is the best accommodation for backpackers, and they can even help you organise an ethical turtle release.

Rough Guatemala itineraries

2 week Guatemala itinerary:

• 1-2 days in Flores
• 1 day in Semuc Champey (factor 2 travel days either side)
• 3-4 days in Antigua (add extra days for volcano hikes)
• 5 days in Lake Atitlan.

3 week Guatemala itinerary:

• 2-3 days in Flores
• 2 days in Semuc Champey (factor 2 travel days either side)
• 7-10 days around the lake
• 2-3 days El Paradon.

For a 1 month itinerary, add a week at a Spanish school!

Best hostels for solo travel in Guatemala

Here are some places I can vouch for. They’re all safe for solo female travel in Guatemala and great places to meet others.

I’ve only done Airbnbs in Antigua but the hostels I hear the best things about are Flore Hostel (9.8 stars on Hostelworld) and Barbara’s Boutique Hostel (9.7 stars on Hostelworld). Flores is about a dollar cheaper per night, but I don’t think you can go wrong with either!

The party option is Los Amigos . I heard mixed things about this place because it’s all set around a bar/restaurant so doesn’t feel like a regular hostel. I went for the more chilled option of Hostal Don Cenobio (70 Quetzales (£7/$9) with a gorgeous terrace offering lake views. It was clean and very pleasant but solo social butterflies might prefer Los Amigos.

San Pedro de Laguna: everyone’s heard a horror story about the crazy party hostel that is Mr Mullet’s! Personally, I don’t think I could hack this kind of hostel even aged 20 so it certainly wasn’t for me 13 years on, but it might work for some. I stayed at Mandala’s Hostel instead in the 3-bed dorm (100 Quetzales (£10/$12) where you get a comfy double bed each! Panajachel – I stayed at Selina which is great for chilled travellers (especially those older than 25 or who work online) with a restaurant, bar, pool, cinema room and co-working areas. Just don’t book any tours or activities here as they’re a robbery compared to the local agencies who I bet they sub-contact to anyway! Considering this, accommodation is surprisingly cheap with beds starting from $12. I hear Dreamboat mentioned as a more lively option for backpackers in Pana. Santa Cruz – La Iguana Perdida ! In fact, this is the main reason to visit Santa Cruz as there’s not much going on there. This cosy hostel runs ‘family’ dinners each night costing 70 Q for 3 courses: ideal for solo travel in Guatemala! They also have affordable cocktails (£2.80 margs!), regular evening entertainment and amazing views to accompany your morning coffee and breakfast. The rooms are basic but fine, my main complaint was the lack of hot water!

San Marcos – a good option is Casa Ahau with reasonably-priced dorms and privates. My private room was just 120 Quetzales in off-season including breakfast, and I believe the dorms start from 90 Q. The brekkies are good: either fruit, yoghurt and granola, or eggs, beans, bread and plantain. The owners are super friendly and the communal area is spacious with swings, hammocks, tables and beds. The only slight downside to Casa Ahua for solo female travellers in Guatemala is the walk up an alleyway that feels eerie at night. But saying that, it’s halfway between the town and the holistic centres up the hill like Yoga Forest, which is a plus.

How to meet people solo travelling in Guatemala

Hostels: around the world, this is generally the main way to do it! In Guatemala, there’s a good mix of party hostels attracting a younger crowd along with boutique or family-style hostels if you want to avoid all that. At 33, I didn’t feel old at all (which can happen when solo travelling in Thailand for example) while staying in hostels and met plenty of travellers the same age or older than me. Tours and organised activities: you’ll meet people on organised hikes, walking and cycling tours of Antigua , cooking classes or chocolate workshops… the list goes on! Shuttles: everyone on your shuttle is going to your next destination so it’s the perfect place to get chatting to your seatmate!

Best season for Guatemala travel

Most people will tell you that the dry season of October to April is the best time to visit. However, I visited in September (rainy season) and actually loved how quiet it felt. Hostels were at about 50% capacity so the dorms never felt too crowded. However, in rainy season, it can rain A LOT. Luckily, it’s usually just in the afternoons so I got in the habit of sightseeing in the morning then either working on my laptop or reading in a coffee shop in the afternoon. If you’re travelling as part of a bigger backpacking Central America itinerary, this is a great way to preserve your energy by having half a day of downtime!

How to dress for solo Guatemala travel

However you like! Guatemala is not particularly conservative but, of course (sadly) you will get more attention if you show more skin, like anywhere. In rainy season when mosquitos are prevalent, I’d recommend bringing some long pants and long sleeves to avoid bites. Warm clothes are required for the Acatenango Volcano hike but these can easily be rented from your hiking company so you don’t need to worry about bringing them.

Useful items for Guatemala travel

Don’t forget the following:

• Microfibre quick-drying towel
• Combination padlock (ideal for hostel lockers)
• A power bank to keep your devices alive
• Sustainability: stainless steel reusable water bottle to reduce the use of plastic bottles
• Alternatively, a filtering water bottle that allows you to safely drink tap water
• Travel luggage: Osprey Farpoint backpack ( women’s ).
• Hiking boots for the volcano hikes
• Water shoes (such as Tevas) – these will be super useful when going through caves or any activity where you need to swim and hike.

Food and health

I wasn’t crazy about Guatemalan food but perhaps that’s because I’m so used to Mexican food and some of the things are similar. However, I did enjoy eating the national dish of pepian, a rich sauce served with chicken and rice. You can even get vegan versions in tourist places. I ate this at Cafe Sabor in Santa Cruz, Atitlan, an amazing social enterprise with amazing lake views. Eating street food is perfectly safe, just follow the golden rules:

• Eat where it’s busy to ensure a fast turnover of food
• Santisise your hand before eating.

Can’t miss experiences in Guatemala

Some of my highlights from a month of solo female travel in Guatemala included…

Indian Nose hike, Lake Atitlan

Despite being a little steep, the Indian’s Nose hike isn’t too difficult because it’s so short. I’d read it was 40 minutes but the route our guide took us was even shorter. We were the only group at our lookout so I believe there are different viewpoints; perhaps the hike varies in length depending which you go to. The best place to do the hike from is San Pedro de Laguna because it’s close to the starting point and agencies sell cheap tours (shop around to get the best price – my hostel were selling it for 150 Quetzales but I found it for 75 just two minutes away at Guadalupe travel agency ). San Juan town is actually closer to the start point so you may be able to get good prices from here although I personally didn’t check. The hike departs at 4am and returns around 7.30am . You’re owed a big brekkie and lazy day in the San Pedro cafes after that! Tip for safety for solo female travellers in Guatemala – it was when leaving my hostel (Mandala’s) at 3.50am that a dog bit me, so be aware. Maybe you can find some other travellers to join you for safety in numbers.

Tikal ruins

2,000-year-old ruins built in alignment with the stars? Yeah, you can’t leave Tikal off your Guatemala bucket list! It’s easy to book a tour from your accommodation or any agency in Flores.

Chocolate-making workshop / coffee tour

Since coffee and chocolate both have links with this part of the world, it would be rude not to try them! I did a fun chocolate workshop at Ek Chuah in Antigua where I learned about the history of chocolate (first drunk as a bitter, water-based beverage by ancient Mayans here and in Mexico) and got to make my own bar to take home. Coffee tours are also popular. You’ll get taken to the plantation to see the different steps in production, and try some of course!

Chichicastenango Market

The biggest market in Central America is well worth a visit whether you want to shop for textiles or simply browse. Chichicastenango Market sprawls through the streets on Thursdays and Sundays selling everything from cheap tourist tat to antique items such as embroidered clothing over 100 years old. It’s easy to visit as a day tour from Panajachel. Shuttles leave at 8am and give you several hours to explore, beginning the return journey at 2pm. Expect to pay around 150 Quetzales for the return ride.

Currency and money tips

For fellow Brits, the conversion couldn’t be easier: just knock off a zero, for example 100 Quetzales = £10! For those dealing with Euros or USD, knock off the zero and add about 20%, for example at the time of writing (October 2023), 100 Quetzales = $13 or €12. But rates are always fluctuating so I recommend downloading the Xe app where you can add and compare currencies. Sometimes it bugs for me but it should work offline when you’re out and about. Average prices:

• Hostel bed – around 100 Q
• Meal in a local restaurant – 30 Q
• Meal and drink in a touristy restaurant – 60-100 Q.

SIM cards in Guatemala

Solo female travellers in Guatemala will be relieved to know that it’s easy to stay online and connected. SIM cards with Claro are your best bet: buy a SIM card for 15 Quetzales then top up from a number of packages depending on how long you’re staying. I got the 30-day package including 10gb of data for 100 Q (£10/$12). If you’re coming from Belize like I did, your first stop is probably Flores and there’s a big Claro store at the base of the island by Maya Mall ( tip – you can get your laundry done near here for a fraction of the price of the laundrettes on the island). Remember to bring your passport when getting a SIM card as they will ask.

Update – although it’s slightly more expensive than a local SIM card, Airalo are a fantastic new e-SIM platform offering online SIM cards for 200+ destinations. They have several options for Guatemala you can purchase in advance and connect upon landing. So convenient!

Final thoughts on solo travel in Guatemala

I had such a blast travelling alone as a woman in Guatemala. I had so many memorable experiences from sunset hikes to gazing over ancient Mayan ruins, swimming in picturesque blue pools, exploring quaint lake towns and much, MUCH more. If you’re still wondering is Guatemala safe for solo female travel? , know I never once felt unsafe or uncomfortable (well, aside from by the street dogs!). In fact, I liked it so much I’ll be back in 6 months! If that’s not high praise, I don’t know what is…

Do ATMs charge fees? Annoyingly, yes. I didn’t find any charging less than 40 Quetzales (£4/$5). So it’s best to withdraw larger amounts of cash at a time. But remember to store these safely – in a hostel locker, for example – rather than carry it around with you. Can you haggle? Absolutely! It’s expected and all part of the game. I learned at Chichicastenango Market to start at around half of what the vendors originally suggested. I found they came down pretty quickly without me having to move much! But just remember that locals rely on this money for their livelihood so maybe don’t fight too hard over that extra dollar… Is tipping required? It’s certainly not on the level of the US or even Mexico but it’s still appreciated. I noticed a few places, particularly in Antigua, add an automatic 10% to the bill.

Thanks for reading!

Read more solo travel guides:

• How to take photos while travelling solo
• 10 benefits to solo travel
• Pros and cons of travelling alone
• Solo travel vs group tours

Solo travel in the Americas:

• A solo female travellers guide to New York City
• Is Cuba safe for solo travel?
• Mexico solo travel guide
• Solo travel in Mexico City – safety tips & more
• Solo female travel in Belize

Guides to solo female travel in Asia :

• Solo female travel in Bali
• Where to travel alone in Vietnam
• What to know about solo Malaysia travel
• Thailand solo female travel guide
• How to stay safe as a solo traveller in India
• Solo travel in Taiwan
• Solo female travel in South Korea

Guides to solo travel in Europe :

• The best cities for solo female travel in Europe
• The perfect solo trip to Lisbon
• Solo female travel in Portugal
• Is solo female travel in Albania safe?
• Complete guide to solo female travel in Croatia
• Solo Italy travel
• Is it safe to travel to Romania solo?

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VISITING GUATEMALA? These are my trusted resources: Getting there by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Driving in Guatemala – since its so easy to get around with shuttles, you don’t NEED a car. But if you want to rent one, use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in Guatemala (and all around the world) For hotels in Guatemala, use Booking.com – they also have self-catering apartments. You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . I always check Viator too in case they have a better price. To stay connected, download an e-SIM with Airalo and connect immediately. Browse their packages for Guatemala . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

8 thoughts on “ Solo Travel In Guatemala: Is It Safe For Female Travellers? ”

Excellent round-up Rose! I’ve been so overwhelmed with all the incredible things to do in Guatemala and your guide has helped sort out the options. Can’t wait to see what you do next, and to visit myself of course!

Hi Michele! So glad you enjoy it!

Hi Rose, Thanks for sharing detailed travel info in Guatemala. Any tips of finding good local Spanish classes while travel in Guatemala? Thanks.

Regards, Joanne

Hi Joanne, there’s one called Antiguena Spanish School that’s very good!

I only going for 3 days, first day in Antigua, what you recommended me for the other 2 days?

Hi Graciela, have you looked into the volcano hikes? A lot of people do those, Acatenango takes 2 days! Otherwise, breweries, cafes, chocolate making classes are fun!

Hi there, great blog post! What time of year did you go? I’m thinking of going in July which I think is rainy season which is putting me off slightly!

Hey, I went in September and it was pretty rainy but because I had plenty of time, I did half a day of sightseeing each day and it worked out ok! Note that Central America is having increased dengue at the moment so this is worse in rainy season.

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Guatemala

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Coffee GatG, Cultural GatG, Historical GatG, Nature GatG, Volcano GatG

If you are planning to solo travel Guatemala, below is our guide Guatemala solo female travel including where to travel in Guatemala, where to stay in Guatemala, which tour company to use and how to travel in Guatemala alone.

Find out how to get from the airports and examples of a Guatemala trip itinerary to help you to navigate your way around the country. All companies included have been recommended by our solo community and come with our Solo Female Friendly endorsement. Just choose the relevant section or read the full article to solo female travel Guatemala.

N.b. For every booking made through this article for your Guatemala solo travel,  I donate money to projects helping vulnerable girls about the globe. Thank you for helping to make a difference to their lives. 

• Places to Visit in Guatemala

Guatemala Tours

Accommodation in guatemala.

• Travelling In Guatemala

Guatemala Itinerary

Best time to visit guatemala, from guatemala airports.

• Guatemala Border Crossings

Frequently Asked Questions About Guatemala

• Map of Guatemala
• Plan Your Trip to Guatemala

Turquoise waters of Lake Atitlan Guatemala

Is Guatemala safe for solo female travellers? Guatemala in  Central America repeatedly appears high in the worldwide rankings of countries with the highest crime rates and consequently has a reputation of being one of Central America’s most dangerous countries to visit, with Guatemala City as the most dangerous city in Guatemala. 

Factually the ranking may be justified, however, the statistics fail to mention that hardly any tourists are affected by the large homicide rates and drug-related crimes by Guatemala gangs. For those of us who choose to solo travel in Guatemala, crime does exist but it generally happens hidden away from where the tourists are. 

In fact, Guatemala is Central America’s hidden gem. The community of other travellers, especially backpackers, is tight, making solo travel in Guatemala relatively easy.

While Guatemalans are friendly and helpful when approached, they most of the time tend to their own business and leave travellers alone. Begging and hawking is a relatively rare sight, especially in comparison to most South-East Asian countries.

Female travellers are treated no differently than male travellers, and the country is overall safe and fun for women to travel to. I haven’t experienced any form of catcalling or situations that I felt unsafe in as a traveller, however, other women have – especially those that have spent a long time in the country.

As with most countries, female travellers are at a higher risk, so it is advised to stick to your gut feelings and common sense when moving around or backpacking in Guatemala. Robberies have taken place along the Agua Volcano route so check with locals or choose a walking tour for this area.

Guatemala is a fascinating country to explore but if you are unsure of the places to go in Guatemala alone or what to do in Guatemala, you may feel more comfortable on a group tour such as professionally guided Guatemalan tour packages , that offer immersive experiences for any interests. They are a great way of unveiling the beauty of this Central American hidden gem in a safe way,

* Before you travel, check what paperwork or visas are required for Guatemala .

Best Places To Visit in Guatemala

Guatemala is a land of breathtaking beauty with idyllic coastlines and the Mayan jungle temples of Tikal. But if trekking highlands and ancient civilisations aren’t your thing, then enjoy the tranquillity of Lake Atitlan. Pick up some Mayan arts and crafts at the open-air Chichicastenango Market.

Guatemala has over 30 volcanos with Pacaya being one of its most active. If you’re feeling adventurous, trek to the top of Agua volcano, with its amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and the tropics. You won’t find many crowds in Guatemala so head to the Guatemala beaches and enjoy the surf at Marina del Sur.

The Rio Dulce National Park with its tall cliffs is a great place for birdwatching and spotting Guatemalan wildlife. You’ll also be able to mingle with the Garifuna in the nearby town of Livingstone who has their own style of dancing.

Guatemala can roughly be divided into three regions, which in stark contrast co-exist: The highlands, the lowlands and the coastal regions.

The Guatemalan highlands are marked by stunning mountain ranges that are home to a number of Guatemala’s tourist highlights such as the still-active volcano Fuego, the former colonial town and Central America’s hipster capital Antigua, as well as the incredible Lake Atitlán. It is a region where you will see the most beautiful sunrises.

At an average of 1500m altitude, you can feel the smallness of your lungs whilst you wish you had brought another fleece. To move about off the beaten track visit Guatemala’s second-largest city Quetzaltenango (Xela) and climb Central America’s highest peak Tajamulco for sunrise near the Mexican border.

* Click here to discover all activities and things to do in Guatemala

The Guatemalan lowlands are home to Semuc Champey , one of the beautiful Guatemala landmarks and exotic places in Guatemala. Tiered terraces and limestone bridges along the Cahabòn River form beautiful green pools in its extensive cave system.

Semuc Champey isn’t that easy to get to (the closest village is Lanquín) but this beautiful area is definitely worth the journey if you're travelling between Flores and Antigua. Either book through your hostel or join one of the Guatemala escorted tours from Antigua or Guatemala City on a 3-day tour.

The lowlands are also home to Tikal National Park , one of the most important sites in Guatemala. These ancient Mayan ruins are hidden away in lush jungle flora and fauna and the island of Flores Guatemala, which serves as a gateway to the Mayan settlements Tikal and Mirador (you can take a day trip from here).

If you're worried about Guatemala safety for tourists, Flores is one of the safe places to visit in Guatemala, and one of the prettiest cities in Guatemala.

Tikal was discovered in 1848 and became a national park in 1955. Its name means ‘the place of spirits’ and inside its 575 square kilometres of jungle are ancient ruins of temples and palaces.

The tallest structure in this large archaeological site is 57 metres tall and climbing to the top for a view of the forest canopy below is just breathtaking and one of the most beautiful places. As one of the top Guatemala tourist attractions, Tikal should definitely be on your Guatemala bucket list. 

Semuc Champey (photo by Rike Radunz @rike_rad)

The weather in the lowlands is much warmer and more tropical than elsewhere in Guatemala and mosquitos all of a sudden call for your attention.

Both the Atlantic and Pacific coastlines are somewhat off the beaten track and a lot less busy with tourists. The Atlantic coastline near Livingston is marked by the Rio Dulce delta and the Pacific coastline of Monterrico is a top tip for surfing. Give both a visit if you have time to spare and would like to see regions that are more authentic and less travelled.

Wildlife lovers would love Cerro Cahuí Nature Reserve which has howler monkeys that you can hear up to a mile away! Get up close and personal with giant sea turtles and iguanas in Tortugario Monterrico Monterrico Wildlife Reserve (you may not want to get too close to the alligators though). Or head to Chocón-Machacas for manatees.

Antigua is one of the Guatemala cities that has preserved its Spanish architecture so well that it is a UNESCO heritage site. It’s one of the most popular places in Guatemala because of its historical importance. With pastel-coloured buildings, and ruins of colonial churches within this centuries-old city which is cradled by volcanoes.

Things to do in Antigua Guatemala include cafe hopping in some of the town’s cute cafes sampling Guatemalan coffee, taking yourself on a self-guided tour of the town seeing the convent, monastery and churches. Go handicraft shopping at Mercado de Artesanias, or if you’re in Antigua on a weekend, at the weekend market held at El Carmen Ruins. Or visit Volcan Pacaya , the easiest volcano to reach from Antigua. 

Near Antigua, is the Volcano Acatenango , one of the adventurous places to go in Guatemala for hikes. As one of the continent's highest volcanoes (at nearly 4000 metres), it is one of the most physically challenging so join an overnight guided tour Guatemala hike to conquer the volcano and be rewarded with a panoramic view of the whole region from the top.

If you have at least 2 days in Antigua, Guatemala, you can hike to the base camp where you can see Volcan Fuego and watch one of its frequent eruptions.

The town of Flores is just as pretty as Antigua. Located in El Petén on an island connected by a causeway, Flores is the perfect place to chill for a few days whilst enjoying some lake views. 

Lake Atitlan's elevation is 1,562 metres and you really can’t beat Lake Atitlán in the highlands for stunning lake views, t he best place to visit in Guatemala for lakes. Panajachel Guatemala is one of the most developed towns around the lake and a good place to mingle with others. It’s also an area for outdoor activities in Guatemala with paragliding, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking.

Or visit the indigenous Kaqchiquel village at Santa Cruz La Laguna, a small town on the northern shore of Lake Atitlan. There are so many other places here including the spiritual and yoga haven of San Marcos, or San Pedro La Laguna where you can climb Volcano San Pedro and embrace a cheap backpacker budget. 

Antigua (photo by Rike Radunz @rike_rad)

Guatemala City is the capital city of Guatemala. This city is not the best for solo travellers so avoid the capital if you can and head straight for Antigua which is only one hour away.

But if you do go here, there are free things to do in Guatemala City to pass the time.   See the Metropolitan Cathedral and the names on the pillars outside of the people who died during the Guatemalan Civil War. Discover how a Guatemalan family would have lived back in the 17th century at Casa Mima, a cultural centre in the city which offers cultural activities.

Or partake in a brewery tour to sample some of the country’s best cervezas (one of the fun things to do in Guatemala for beer lovers!) Other best places to visit in Guatemala City are the Museo Popol Vuh, which is home to one of the world’s major Maya art collections or see the Iglesia La Merced, a colourful church and convent in a neoclassical style.

Whether you prefer Mayan ruins, volcanoes, or colourful towns, there’s no doubt that Guatemala solo female travel will be a culturally enriching experience that won’t break the bank.

G Adventures

If you feel more comfortable in a group for either part of your trip or the whole duration, G Adventures is a responsible tour company that mainly caters for budget travellers. They don’t offer specific tours to Guatemala, instead, you can take a Guatemalan adventure and one or more of its neighbouring countries. 

Most tours have an average of 10 people and there is no upper age limit. Once you book your trip you pay extra for any excursions you want to do when you’re there.

Adventures range from 9 days seeing Tikal ruins Guatemala and Flores and Belize for £729, up to a 33 days adventure travelling from Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. There are plenty of shorter journeys in-between. I have personally used G Adventures and recommend them as a solo female-friendly company. * Check prices and availability for G Adventures Guatemala tours

Intrepid Travel 

Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on each tour. Over 50% of people who book their trips are solo travellers. They tend to use hotels instead of hostels and have a more comfortable style of accommodation hence the trips can appear a bit more than G Adventures.

Their tours of Guatemala range from 8 days including Tikal and Belize, a 9-day Guatemala and Beyond which starts in Guatemala and ends in Nicaragua (both for £695), up to an epic 65-day Complete Central America tour. With both tour companies, you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room. Read our  Intrepid Travel Reviews

Click here for the full itineraries, prices and start dates

Quetzaltrekkers – Quetzaltrekkers are a Xela-based NGO that offers (multi)-day hikes in and around the Western Highlands of Guatemala and off the beaten path Guatemala. All treks are led by an experienced tour guide and equipment to borrow is included in the price. I did the Tajumulco hike with them and could not recommend it more – in fact, I wish I had had more time to do other hikes with them.

Most hostels offer a tour of Guatemala attractions in their vicinity and it’s worth joining their tours to get the most out of the region’s hotspots. Tours vary in price but on average cost between USD 15-25. I personally found not much of a difference in the tours offered by the various hostels, so save yourself some valuable time looking for the best Guatemala deal.

Get Your Guide   – If you plan to tour Guatemala independently, Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated Guatemala excursions and activities to do in Guatemala. Choose from a full-day walking tour in Antigua, a Pacaya volcano trek or a Tikal day tour from Flores (with lunch). There are several day trips to choose from including Guatemala tours from Antigua, and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. * Check rates and availability for all Guatemala day tours

Photo by Rike Radunz @rike_rad

Given the Guatemala transportation system and overall development of the country, Guatemala is predominantly travelled by backpackers making solo travel in Guatemala easy to meet others. While beautiful hotels can be found in the main tourist spots, most places cater to the large backpacker population and plenty of upscale hostels are about.

There’s also Airbnb which connects you to unique travel experiences and isn’t just limited to staying in a local’s spare room. All of the accommodations below have been recommended by solo female travellers from our Girls about the Globe community and come with a Solo Female Friendly endorsement. For all other accommodations check rates and availability for all Guatemala accommodation

Antigua – El Hostal BnB – $

El Hostal is a small but very sociable hostel in a great location with hammocks that you can chill out in on the patio. The staff are really attentive and friendly and the breakfast is included. The bathrooms although shared are really clean and play ambient music.

Cafe No Se is just across the street and you are guaranteed to make friends when joining one of the tours offered by the hostel. Rooms are either a 6-bed female dorm, 7 or 10-bed mixed dorm or you can choose a private double room for more privacy. * Check rates and availability: El Hostal BnB

Antigua – Somos – $

Somos is a very modern and clean hostel. Not only do they offer a TV with Netflix so you can catch up on your favourite series but they also offer a free perk card which gives discounts at their favourite places in the town.

If you need a break from all the socialising, this hostel is the perfect place for you as the bed cabins provide you with just the privacy you were looking for. Choose from a 3, 4, 6 or 8-bed mixed dorm room with a mix of single-bed cabins or even a double-bed tent. *   Check rates and availability: Somos

Antigua – Hotel Casa Antigua by AHS – $$

This beautiful historic building is situated in Antigua, close to the central park. It has everything you need for your stay including shops, beautiful gardens, terraces and a fountain, and you can use the nearby sauna and swimming pool for an extra charge. The staff speak English and also offer Spanish lessons. Choose from a double or triple room with a private bathroom *  Check rates and availability: Hotel Casa Antigua by AHS

Flores – Los Amigos Hostel  – $

This place is the perfect mixture of opportunities to meet and party with people while also providing spaces to take it slow and chill all day long. It was the best hostel I stayed at whilst in Guatemala and I wish I’d stayed a bit longer to not only see Tikal Guatemala but Flores as well. They also have a spa onsite and offer massages. Just be prepared to socialise whilst you are here.  Choose from a 6 or 10-bed mixed dorm or a private basic or deluxe. *   Check rates and availability: Los Amigos Hostel

Guatemala City – Hotel Casa Veranda   – $$

If you’re searching for hotels in Guatemala City, this 4-star hotel is a good choice. The rooms are spacious and each suite has a living area, a balcony and a TV. Reception is open 24 hours, there’s a currency exchange and it’s just a short walk to the metro station and nearby restaurants. Choose from a master suite, a junior suite, or a master king suite. *  Check rates and availability for: Hotel Casa Veranda  

Lake Atitlan – Circles Cafe and Hostel – $

Doubling up as a cafe, this tiny, cute hostel in San Marcos has one of the most relaxing vibes. There are plenty of places to sit within the cafe which serves a fabulous breakfast (it’s included). The bunk beds have curtains so you can have more privacy. Each bed has its own locker and there are plenty of plug sockets to charge your phone. Choose from a 6-bed dorm room or a private room. * Check rates and availability: Circles Cafe and Hostel

Semuc Champey – El Retiro Lanquin – $

An absolute oasis of a place; this hostel has direct access to the water, dorms are quiet, and family-style dinners ensure you fall never short of opportunities to socialise. The tours offered are well organised and if you fancy a bit more of a party atmosphere the “Zephyr” Hostel is just a short walk away. Choose from a bed in a 6-bed dorm room, a cottage with a garden view (it’s still cheap honest) or a double room with a shared bathroom. *  Check rates and availability: El Retiro Lanquin

Tikal – Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal – $$

If you’re planning on seeing Tikal, this gorgeous jungle lodge is in a great location near the entrance. There’s a restaurant on-site and a pool to get a break from the midday heat. You can buy your Tikal tickets from the front desk including the sunrise and sunset tours.

Enjoy a drink in the swanky bar, watch the sunset over the jungle from the restaurant and   listen to the sound of the howler monkeys at night. Choose from a standard or premium room, a junior suite or a suite with a jungle view. *  Check rates and availability for Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal  

Traveling in Guatemala

Getting around in Guatemala is easiest and safest by means of shuttle buses. Distances can be quite long and shuttle buses are air-conditioned and reasonably comfortable. The bus from Flores to Guatemala City, for example, takes 8 hours, and you can travel overnight or during the day.

For example, private shuttles from Guatemala City to Antigua cost approx $22 and take 2.5 hours. This Guatemala bus schedule makes planning your routes easier.

You are normally picked up directly from the hostel or hotel you are staying at and will be dropped off either at your next hostel if already known, or a public space, from where further transportation in Guatemala can be easily arranged. Shuttle buses in Guatemala are the most expensive mode of transport and can cost up to $10-20 one way.

The best way to travel in Guatemala and a cheaper option for shorter distances are to take a chicken bus Guatemala (old school buses), part of the culture when travelling Guatemala. Especially in and around Antigua they are a lot safer than travel guides will make you believe.

Knowledge of basic level Spanish is recommended to let the driver know where you need to get off, but people are quick to help even when there is a language barrier.

For bus travel in Guatemala, tickets with the Guatemala bus companies are normally no more than $3, depending on the distance travelled. Notable is that no difference between local and tourist tickets is made.

Car rental isn’t really recommended it isn’t the safest transport in Guatemala if you’re solo. Use one of the other ways of getting around to feel more comfortable.

* Rome2Rio is a good resource to plan travelling around. 

The lack of an extensive transport system causes travellers to move in unison – from the Belizean border to Antigua and the Lake towards Honduras or the other way around. All of the top tourist attractions in Guatemala are en route and a straightforward transportation system is in place that makes getting from one place to the next easy.

The ease of travel and straightforwardness of the shuttle system means that Guatemala can be travelled in as little as 2 weeks – with all the main tourist destinations ticked off. Add another week, and you’ll be able to get off the beaten track, too.

Whether you are looking to spend a week in Guatemala or 2 weeks in Guatemala, below are examples of a Guatemala travel itinerary. 

Guatemala Itinerary 7 Days:

a) If it’s your first time here and you’re unsure where to go in Guatemala you can see the main Guatemala tourist attractions on this Guatemala backpacking route. Guatemala City (1 night), Antigua (2 nights), Coban for Semuc Champey (2 nights), Flores & Tikal (2 nights) then onto Belize.

b) Antigua – 3 nights, shuttle bus to Guatemala City then fly to Flores – 3 nights, Tikal – 1 night.

Guatemala Itinerary 2 Weeks:

A realistic 2-week itinerary is to start off in Antigua and spend a couple of days near Lake Atitlan before moving towards Semuc Champey, Tikal, and then onto Belize and Mexico. If you fancy a roundtrip, add another week and instead of crossing the border, move towards the Atlantic coast before returning to Antigua.

The Guatemala climate does have a wet season so the best times to visit are between December and April when it is the dry season. Even when it rains in Guatemala it only rains for a few hours so don’t worry too much if the only time that you can go is outside of the dry season.

This chart shows the average temperature in Guatemala from January to December and the maximum day temperatures. 

When you are travelling to Guatemala, most international flights get in at Guatemala City airport, which is about an hour's drive away from Antigua.

From and To Antigua 

Getting to and from Antigua is easiest by arranging for a shuttle bus to pick you up. Although normally fairly safe, I would not recommend taking a chicken bus to Antigua or elsewhere from the airport. When organising a shuttle pick-up, you can either book a space on an already scheduled shuttle or if none of the offered times are suitable, book a private shuttle.

For private shuttles, it is easiest to get in touch directly with the hostel or hotel you are staying at. Prices are normally $40 per car, so you could easily try to find other travellers to carpool with at the airport as that will split the cost.

Pre-booking a space on a scheduled shuttle is best done through the operators below. Prices vary but are normally around $15. *  Adrenalina Tours

As a frame of reference, if you are coming from the US, immigration, customs and baggage reclaim can be done in under an hour of the scheduled arrival time.

Border Crossings

When you solo travel in Guatemala, remember that no exit fee is payable. There have been incidents where tourists were made to pay the equivalent of $3-4, however, this is not legal and from my experience efforts are made to avoid situations where tourists end up paying such fees. For example, most shuttle drivers will remind you of the lack of an exit fee.

Guatemala to Belize

How to get to Belize –  The best way to get to Belize and the most popular border crossing is via Flores at Melchor de Mencos. You simply book a shuttle to Belize or Mexico from Flores and all else is taken care of for you. As with any other border crossing, you need to physically walk through immigration and customs with all your belongings, however, the same shuttle you came in will be waiting for you on the other side of the border.

It is advised to exchange Guatemalan monies before exiting the country, especially if going straight from Guatemala to Mexico via Belize. There were no opportunities to exchange Guatemalan Quetzales once in Mexico.

Guatemala to Mexico

From Flores to the Mexico border, it’s only 1.5 hours. You can reach Palenque in Mexico within 6 hours from Tikal. There are a few bus companies that run from Guatemala to Mexico.

From Guatemala City, you can take the Trans Galgos Inter bus to Tapachula. Or take the Linea Dorada from Guatemala City to La Mesilla/Ciuada Cuauhtemoc.

Guatemala to Honduras

From Guatemala City, you can travel to various destinations in Honduras such as Copan, and La Ceiba (the gateway to the islands). Be careful with your belongings in some areas of Honduras such as Tegucigalpa and San Pedro Sula – other destinations that the buses go to. Toritos and Copanecos operate several buses a day to Santa Rosa de Copan.

Guatemala to El Salvador

There are a few buses that operate from Guatemala to El Salvador. Be careful in El Salvador as it’s not that safe for solos. The Tica Bus and Pullmantur, and Transporte Del Sol are some of the bus companies which go to El Salvador.

Where can I go from here?

• Mexico – 2 hours 10 mins
• Costa Rica – 1 hour 30 mins
• Nicaragua – 1 hour 30 mins

To save you time searching, here are the most asked questions about Guatemala.

• Can I drink the water? It isn't advised to drink tap water so consider taking your own water filter with you.
• Is tipping expected? Not as stringent as in the US, rounding up is a good compromise.
• Fixed price or barter? Barter.
• What is Guatemala famous for? The ruins of Tikal, as well as Guatemala chocolate and its fantastic Guatemala coffee.
• Any ATMS? Yes, there are banks in Guatemala and ATMs in the main tourist areas.
• Which side of the road do they drive? Right.
• Good for vegetarians? Yes.
• Any Seven Wonders of the World? No, but make sure you visit Tikal, as it has been classed as one of the alternative wonders of the world. 

Guatemala Map

Plan a Trip to Guatemala

If you are planning a trip to Guatemala, here are some useful links to help you plan your trip including airlines that fly there, currency and events and festivals in the country. 

Budget – £25 a day

Guatemala facts.

Capital – Guatemala City

Population – 16.58 million

Languages in Guatemala – Spanish. There are also many Mayan languages in Guatemala. 

Guatemala Currency – Guatemalan quetzal 

Do I need a visa? Not on a British passport 

Vaccinations For Guatemala  

Useful Info

Airlines to Guatemala

The Best Month to Visit Guatemala – December – April

Which Plug Do I Need?

UNESCO Sites in Guatemala

Events and Festivals in Guatemala

Guatemala Cost of Living   

Guatemala Traditions and Guatemala Culture Facts  

Guatemala’s Sacred Sites  

Did you know? Lake Atitlán is the deepest lake in Central America, at approximately 340 meters.

Situated in Semuc Champey, Utopia Eco Hotel looks over the Rio Cahabon. Made from Guatemalan materials 100% of all revenue goes into environmental and community programs. Choose camping on the riverfront, dormitory-style rooms or coffee cabanas. They offer Spanish lessons too. 

Earth Lodge is an avocado farm just outside of Antigua Guatemala. This natural retreat is famous for its volcano views and friendly vibe. Stay in the dorm room, camp in a tent or in one of the magical treehouses with amazing views. The lodge in involved with the local community and fundraises for the local school. 

Volunteering 

When you are traveling to Guatemala you may want to volunteer with Casa Guatemala,  a children’s village on the Rio Dulce. Help volunteer by teaching or looking after the children, playing sports or just helping with their homework.  Find other volunteering experiences for solo travel in Guatemala through Go Overseas

Cultural experiences

Discover local artisans' work and Guatemalan culture, or take a Quetzaltenango craft tour and make a traditional purse or jewellery. 

Local Projects

Guatemala has an absence of dental health within their culture. The introduction of the Western diet such as soft drinks and sugary sweets has created a number of health issues. Watch this video on the  Guatemala Dental Awareness Project to find out more…

Hotel Backpackers and Restaurant on the Rio Dulce helps support the Casa Guatemala Orphanage and School. Each cent spent here helps care for and educate more than 250 children.

Issues in the country

Guatemala has a history of cheap migrant labour, one of the most unequal societies and malnutrition rates in the world.  Four in ten children (43.4%) under five are chronically malnourished and nearly  half of the population cannot afford the cost of basic food. Read more…

Mind Body & Soul

Villa Sumaya is located on Lake Atitlan in a beautiful, tranquil spot. They offer all types of retreats such as a transformational cacao retreat, awareness and soul-nourishing retreats and yoga and meditation retreats.

The Yoga Forest is situated in San Marcos and has such a stunning view. If you love yoga and vegetarian food this retreat is perfect. Choose from a Release and Manifest Retreat, or The Alchemy of Living, amongst others.

Related Posts

• Central America
• Solo Travel in Belize
• Solo Travel in Honduras
• Solo Travel in Mexico
• Visiting Tikal

About The Author

This article was written by Rike Radunz. Born and bred in Berlin, Germany, Rike is now loving life in Scotland. She loves road trips with her favourite being through Morocco, as well as travelling to places with stunning and extreme scenery. Follow her Instagram at rike_rad.

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3 Best Hostels in Antigua Guatemala – Boutique Design that deserves 5 Stars and a big Thumbs Up

Considering a trip to Central America? Perhaps you’re looking to experience volcanoes, rainforests and Mayan sites. In that case; let us show you the absolute best hostels in Antigua Guatemala.

Quite honestly, the thing that most stands out in Antigua is the hostels and the stunning surrounding scenery. It’s possible to bask in colonial charm, climb volcanoes and enjoy a good old fashioned party hostel in this city.

Not too far from here you can also discover the best hostels in Lake Atitlan .

Your shortcut:

• Maya Papaya – perfect for solo travelers
• Barbara’s Boutique Hostel – top pick for female solo travelers
• The Purpose Hostel – great for backpackers

We’re so excited to show off this hostel collection. Solo travellers, couples & backpackers, this guide is for you.

Money-saving tip : Compare hostel prices with Hostelz.com . They compare prices from Hostelworld, Booking.com and others with 1 click.

This guide is perfect for YOU, when you…

• are tired of crappy hostels!
• want a social Hostel to actually meet people
• are happy to spend $1 to $2 more for a much better experience

NEW : best hostels in Semuc Champey & nearby Lanquin.

In neighbouring Mexico you can also find the best hostels in Puerto Escondido , Oaxaca and more. Here is our guide to all top hostels Mexico has to offer

• Introduction
• #1 Maya Papaya
• #2 Barbara’s Boutique Hostel
• #3 The Purpose Hostel
• cheapest hostels in Antigua Guatemala
• best hostels in Antigua Guatemala for solo travellers
• fun party hostels in Antigua Guatemala
• more hostels worth a mention
• discounts and promo codes

How to book?

• all hostel and sights on a map

You can find all 5 Star Hostels here with Hostelgeeks and all guides to “ Best Hostels In ” here.

Quick Introduction to Antigua Guatemala

Average price for a bed : Hostels in Antigua Guatemala cost 5€ – 10€ per night for a bed in a dorm. A private room starts from 39€ up to 79€ per night. This is a rough average just to give you an idea.

Prices always depend on season and holidays. Please always check exact rates on Hostelworld.com or Booking.com .

Check-In and Check Out : The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3pm), while the Check Out time is before 11:00 (11am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.

🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:

• How to book hostels? (and websites to save $)
• 23 clever items: the hostel packing list to download
• How does the Hostelworld App work exactly? Our Advanced Guide

The 3 Best Hostels in Antigua Guatemala

Let’s jump right into the boutique hostels in Antigua Guatemala.

• Maya Papaya
• Barbara’s Boutique Hostel
• The Purpose Hostel

We put all three accommodation on the map , you will find the map at the end of the article.

Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type

1. Maya Papaya

Ok let’s dive in and kick-start with our #1 hostel in this part of the world. For a more luxury experience (with a hostel price), we can’t recommend Maya Papaya enough.

This collection of hotel professionals really know what the words comfort , design and luxury stand for, seriously.

They understand that details are important, which is why they provide…

• FREE traditional Guatemalan breakfast
• fluffy duvet covers
• indoor and outdoor hangout areas
• Netflix (sometimes it’s needed , right?)

But that’s not all!

There is also an onsite bar with daily drinks specials, including their famous mojitos for just Q20.

The bar is actually located out in the courtyard which is also a beautiful space to hang out in. There’s shade, sun and plenty of seating.

Make sure you also join in on the family dinners and free market tours that are offered during the week. This is why we rate this a top hostel for solo travellers – it’s so easy to meet people here.

As for the rooms? Well, you’re in for a treat as there are plenty of options to choose from.

Good to know : This hostel is child friendly (under 13s allowed in private rooms only).

From luxurious private rooms for couples, cosy 4-bed mixed dorms and a sociable 14-bed dorm. Not to mentinon that all important female only dorm!

Location : Situated 500 m from Santa Catalina Arch and 8 km from Hobbitenango.

This is one of the best hostels in Antigua Guatemala for

• Solo travellers of every kind

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

2. Barbara’s Boutique Hostel

Coming in close at second place is Barbara’s Boutique Hostel .

And yes, it’s yet again another boutique hostel full to the brim with gorgeous design and homely vibes!

Read : 28 Handpicked Boutique Hostels

The building is a small old colonial style house located in the centre of Antigua Guatemala. It too is full of history and details that you’ll find yourself taking pictures of.

Let’s see; what kinds of things make a hostel feel like home? How about…

• A complimentary and filling breakfast
• Cake at 5pm
• Privacy curtains for some ‘you time’
• Hot, powerful showers
• A kitchen with working oven

It’s all to be enjoyed at Barbara’s place!

There’s also a lovely range of rooms on offer for different traveler types.

Good to know : there is a maximum stay of 14 nights and only people aged 18+ can stay.

Perhaps you prefer a mixed dorm. Great, there are 4, 6, and 10-bed options, with a 6-bed female only dorm thrown in.

Otherwise why not treat yourself to a private room. For budget travellers there is a budget double, and those with a bit more cash can book a double with private bathroom.

Drop your bags and head to the common areas.

Meet people in the courtyard, or strike up a conversation in the comfy lounge area over cake and tea. There’s also a rooftop, don’t forget.

Location : Stay here and you’ll be around three and a half blocks from Central Park. As you’ll be situated in the centre of Antigua, most of the sites are within comfortable walking distance.

• Female solo travellers
• Older travellers

3. The Purpose Hostel

The Purpose Hostel is aptly named in that they have a clear purpose for opening up this space for travellers:

“We connect likeminded people locally and globally to create and nurture a culture of enthusiasm, support, respect, inclusiveness and kindness that allows us all to learn, grow and play together.”

How great does that sound?

Certainly something you may consider being a part of during your time in Antigua Guatemala. Stay here and you’re doing good to support the local community just by sleeping!

Alongside mixed and female-only dorms , there is also a deluxe family suite perfect for up to 4 people.

Without doubt the best part of this hostel is the rooftop area which is also a mini garden. From up there you can see all three volcanoes and there is plenty of space for yoga, chilling and simply enjoying a cup of coffee.

Speaking of coffee: it’s on offer for free each morning!

Want to know something else super cool? The staff are learning sign language to include the deaf community and guests. It’s not just about selling beds to travellers.

This hostel does in fact also serve as a training facility and community skill centre.

Short and long-term volunteering opportunities can be found here . Just speak with the awesome staff to find out more.

You pay it forward to the community, and they pay it forward to the backpacker community. It’s a win-win!

Location : In a quiet neighbourhood of town, yet just short stroll from great restaurants, sights and nightlife. Central Park is 5 block away, and Tanque la Union is 2 blocks away.

• Backpackers

What about the cheapest hostels in Antigua?

Of course, there are always cheap hostels. But how do you actually find them? When you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you want to save every dollar, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Antigua.

• Open Hostelz.com with a full list of all hostels in Antigua
• add your dates
• Order the listings by price

Simple as that.

Hostelz.com is a price comparison site for hostels . They list every single one in the world and tells you exactly which website is cheaper to use.

Another smart Tip : Check what is actually included, and what is excluded. Take a closer look at the location, too. A further location might mean more costs in transport.

Best Hostels in Antigua Guatemala for Solo Travellers?

What is seriously the best hostel in Antigua Guatemala for solo-travellers? Of course we are going to mention our #1 hostel in Antigua here!

Maya Papaya really is the best hostel for solo travellers.

Not only do they offer a great range of rooms – female only, small & large mixed dorms and affordable privates – but there are also plenty of ways to meet new people here.

Join a family dinner and free market tours that happen during the week. The courtyard-bar area is also a great place to get chatting.

See you there!

Party Hostels in Antigua Guatemala

Update : Sorry dear readers, our recommendation for a party hostel in Antigua has now closed. Right now we do not have an alternative party hostel to recommend.

The places above are super social and it is easy to meet people.

Any Discounts?

You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive the freshest hostel discounts directly in your inbox. We even have special discount codes we only share in the newsletter.

It is completely free to join!

The most popular booking platforms are Booking.com and Hostelworld.com. On both platforms, your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.

We included some handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.

Read : Step-by-Step guide on how to book with Hostelworld

We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible! All of Antigua best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish and good hostels, secure your room/bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.

The coolest Hostel App you need comes as well from Hostelworld. It gives you super cool features like you can contact your hostel mates beforehand, ask questions, and make plans together. Find more details in our review of the app .

Download the Hostelworld App here

Need an eSIM Card for Antigua?

Get your eSIM Card with Airalo.com instantly online. It is easy to set up and cheap! Read our review of Airalo here .

No more searching for mobile stores. Get your eSIM Card for now and enjoy it instantly after landing in your new destination.

Our Favorite Hostels in Antigua put on a map + sights

Let us have a look on the map. Below we list all three best Antigua Guatemala hostels on a map.

Personally, we love to plan our trips with a map having all sights and potential hostels on it. We thought this map will help you with planning your trip too.

We also included the main tourist attractions you’ve to know in this list:

• Santa Catalina Arch
• Cerro de La Cruz
• Central Park
• Tanque La Unión
• Convento Capuchinas
• Iglesia de la Merced

Any questions about hostels in Antigua? 🤔

Join our Facebook Group !

Ask all your questions and connect with like-minded wanderers 🔥

Flights to Antigua?

We use Skyscanner and Omio.com to find cheap flights and good connections all over the globe.

Skyscanner has a bunch of cool features like Multi-City Trip. Instead of doing this research step-by-step, Skyscanner offers this flight planning tool.

More guides

Alright, this is your answer to where to stay in Antigua Guatemala. Don’t forget to consider taking a trip to discover the best hostels in Semuc Champey and best hostels in Flores , Guatemala.

We did the leg work for you and bring you more hostel guides to destinations:

• best hostels in Guatemala
• best hostels in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala
• 13 best hostels in Nicaragua
• best surf hostels in Nicaragua
• 44 best hostels in Costa Rica + 5 star hostels
• best hostels in San Juan , Puerto Rico
• best hostels in Mexico City part of the 40 best hostels in Mexico
• best hostels in Puerto Escondido , Mexico
• best hostels in Panama City , Panama
• best hostels in Rio Dulce
• best hostels in Caye Caulker, Belize
• best hostels in San Pedro, Belize
• best hostels in Belize

You can find all our new and updates articles for Best Hostels in here .

We also created a huge guide to hostels . Here we cover how to build lifetime friendships in hostels , the perfect packing list and more.

Over to you

Do you have any questions left, maybe doubts? Then please leave it in the comment below. We are very keen to help you - and actually you would even do us a favor!

Your question will help us to improve this Antigua guide.

Last note: Our commitment

This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter, and find the best place on a budget! We will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. We are constantly updating all our guides to keep them as fresh and accurate as possible.

Safe travels, The Hostelgeeks

– – – pin it for later

CLOSED: Cucuruchos Boutique Hostel

Update : Ah what a shame! Our 5 star hostel closed its doors permanently in 2020, sorry.

Our #1 hostel is a 5 star hostel . It’s an awesome design-led hostel and an accommodation that will be the highlight of your trip to Antigua Guatemala.

Kick off your shoes and step inside Cucuruchos Boutique Hostel. It’s without doubt the best hostel in Guatemala. This used to be an ‘after party’ venue, so you can expect a perfect location, uber cool design and comfy, clean digs.

We love how this old colonial building holds tons of history and small details inside its four walls.

The consistently high reviews say it all.

“Great place to stay, but don’t tell too many people!”

Our favourite spot is surely the rooftop. There are some great views from up there, and you’ll find weights and yoga mats to use.

To be honest, there is lots to get excited about:

• 24/7 reception & no curfew
• Intimate, cosy common areas
• Shared kitchen + long dining table
• Privacy curtain, plug + light in dorms

Each room is beautifully designed with privacy and boutique vibes in mind.

There are mixed dorms, a female-only option and a double room for the couples out there.

To help settle you in, a free breakfast is offered each morning. And everyone raves about it!

Note : groups are considered as long as they all share the same room. A minimum booking of 3-nights is required.

Location : All of the main sights of Antigua are within walking distance. This hostel is located in the centre of the city, just a block and a half from the Central Park. Tanque La Union is just around the corner.

• Solo travellers

CLOSED: Bigfoot Hostel Antigua

Update : Bigfoot has permanently closed its doors.

How about jumping into a jacuzzi after a big day hiking one of the volcanoes?

You better stay with Bigfoot Hostel in that case.

We fell in love with the design of this place – it’s super impressive, especially the onsite Antiguan courtyards!

What else is there?

• Vibrant bar & restaurant
• Oversized single beds
• Pet friendly private rooms
• 24-hour reception
• Super fast Wifi

To top it off there is a handy tour agency running at the hostel. They offer great advice, booking and very reasonable prices.

Stay here and you’ll be in the heart of Antigua surrounded by restaurants, cafes and great nightlife.

CLOSED: Matiox Hostel Antigua

Update : Matiox has permanently closed.

Yet another seriously cool and hip hostel worth checking out is Matiox.

Once again there is an onsite bar and hot tub for everyone to enjoy. Woohoo!

“Without doubt the best hostel I’ve stayed in so far during my 13 month trip around the world.”

But don’t take her word for it. Just look at these inclusions:

• Fully-fitted kitchen
• Chill area with TV & Netflix
• Hammocks & sofas
• Privacy pod beds

See you there.

CLOSED: Three Monkeys Hostel

Are you in search of a hostel that supports fun, giggles and cheap drinks?

Look no further and book your stay with Three Monkeys Hostel.

We have to admit, this is not technically a party hostel. Instead it encourages a social and fun atmosphere whilst still maintaining a level of privacy.

This is supported by:

• Beautiful garden & patio area
• Intimate bar
• Comfy lounge w/ books, TV & sofas

Have a few drinks with new friends at the hostel, and once it closes at 10pm head to the nearby nightlife. Sorted!

We are 100% Independent: Some links on Hostelgeeks are so-called affiliate links. If you decide to book through these links, we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you . Your support allows us to keep producing high-quality, independent content free of influence from hostels or external advertisers. Learn more here . 🙏

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The Hidden Gem For Black Travelers: Antigua, Guatemala

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Antigua, Guatemala is a hidden gem for Black solo travelers, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. When I made my first trip to the most populous country in Central America, I had no idea what to expect. I had just left Mexico with plans to visit Costa Rica a few weeks later and Guatemala was the perfect destination in between the two. To sum my trip up, I was pleasantly surprised throughout my trip. My travel experience as  solo as a Black woman le ft me with nothing but good vibes and things to say about the country, culture, and its people.

While there, I had the opportunity to visit other places, like the beautiful Lake Atitlán, but in this article, we'll focus on the country's capital city, Antigua and why you should add it to your solo travel bucket list.

Antigua is a truly enchanting colonial city situated in the heart of Guatemala's central highlands. The city is renowned for its mesmerizing vistas, with three towering volcanoes providing a truly awe-inspiring backdrop to the city's picturesque cobblestone streets, strikingly colorful buildings, and exquisite architecture. Everywhere you look in Antigua, you are treated to a feast for the eyes, with vibrant markets brimming with exotic fruits, local handicrafts, and textiles, and stunning colonial-era churches, monasteries, and ruins dotting the landscape.

The city's rich history and cultural heritage are evident in every corner, with charming plazas and grand plazas showcasing a blend of indigenous and European influences. Whether you're strolling through the city's winding streets, sampling delicious Guatemalan cuisine, or simply taking in the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds you, Antigua is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a truly unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Here are a few reasons why Antigua is a great destination to add to your travel bucket list:

Solo travel safety.

One of the main reasons that Antigua is an ideal destination for solo travelers is its friendly and welcoming atmosphere.  The locals, known as Antigueños, are renowned for their warmth and hospitality, which creates a sense of safety and security for solo travelers. The locals also embrace diversity and are warm towards all visitors, regardless of their background so solo travelers can explore freely  without fear of judgment or discrimination .

Moreover, Guatemala is a country that values and respects women's rights. The country has made significant progress in addressing gender-based violence and promoting gender equality. The government has implemented several initiatives aimed at protecting women, including laws that criminalize femicide and domestic violence. This means, a solo female traveler, you can have peace of mind in knowing that you're in a country that cares about the safety of other humans.

Additionally, Antigua is well-policed, with a visible presence of police officers and security guards in the tourist areas. The city is also known for its low crime rate, with most incidents being petty theft. As long as travelers take basic precautions such as not leaving their belongings unattended and being aware of their surroundings, they should feel safe and secure in Antigua.

History and Culture

Another reason Antigua is a great destination for solo travelers is its history and culture. The city was founded in 1543 and was once the capital of Guatemala, until it was destroyed by a series of earthquakes in the late 18th century. Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, historic churches, and ruins of old convents and monasteries. It is home to numerous historic landmarks, including the Cathedral of Saint James, the Palace of the Captain Generals, and the ruins of the Church of Santo Domingo. These sites offer a glimpse into the city's rich history, and provide visitors with a better understanding of Guatemala's culture and heritage.

Antigua's rich history and culture make it an ideal destination for solo travelers who are interested in immersing themselves in the local culture and learning about the country's fascinating past. The city's colonial architecture and historic landmarks offer a glimpse into the region's past, and solo travelers can explore these sites at their own pace, without having to worry about the constraints of group tours.

The city is also famous for its colorful markets, traditional handicrafts, and vibrant festivals. The markets are also a great place to try local cuisine and interact with the friendly Antigueños. Antigua is home to numerous cultural events throughout the year, including the Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations, which are considered some of the most spectacular in the world. Solo travelers can witness these celebrations and experience the vibrant energy of the city's locals. You can also immerse yourself and gain a deeper understanding of the culture by taking Spanish classes, a popular activity for lots of tourists.

Delicious Cuisine

Guatemala offers a diverse and flavorful cuisine, making it an ideal destination for Black solo travelers who are food enthusiasts. Antigua is a city that offers a wide range of culinary options that cater to all tastes, budgets, and preferences. Local Guatemalan cuisine is a unique blend of indigenous Mayan and Spanish influences, resulting in a diverse and delicious culinary experience.

One must-try dish is the pepián, a traditional Guatemalan stew made with chicken, beef or pork, and a rich and flavorful sauce made from roasted pumpkin seeds, spices, and vegetables. The dish is typically served with rice and tortillas and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Solo travelers can also enjoy a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including traditional dishes like chiles rellenos and plantain fritters.

Guatemala is also famous for its coffee, with Antigua being one of the top coffee-producing regions in the country. The city boasts numerous cafes and shops where solo travelers can enjoy a cup of some of the best coffee in the world while soaking up the city's charming atmosphere. 

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Culture Immersion

In addition to its historic landmarks, Antigua is also known for its vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries and museums showcasing the works of local artists.

Antigua also offers unique opportunities for Black solo travelers to learn about and engage with indigenous communities and their cultures. Guatemala is home to over 20 indigenous Mayan groups, and many of them have a significant presence in Antigua and the surrounding areas. Solo travelers can visit indigenous villages, attend traditional ceremonies and festivals, and learn about Mayan culture and history through guided tours and cultural experiences. These experiences allow solo travelers to deepen their understanding of the diverse cultures and traditions that make up Guatemala's rich heritage.

Additionally, Antigua has a strong Afro-Caribbean influence, which is reflected in its music, dance, and cuisine. Solo travelers can explore this aspect of the city's culture by attending a Garifuna dance performance, trying traditional Afro-Caribbean dishes such as tapado, or visiting the Casa del Ron, a museum dedicated to the history of rum production in the region.

Easy To Navigate

Antigua is a compact city, making it for solo travelers to navigate  and explore confidently. The city is laid out in a grid pattern, with many of its streets being named after saints, making it easy to find your way around. You can wander the cobblestone streets alone, taking in the city's stunning architecture, colorful buildings, and historic landmarks, while resting assured that  you're never too far from where you started and can easily find your way back to your accommodations. For those who prefer to explore the city by public transportation, Antigua's reliable bus system is a great option. Buses run regularly throughout the city and are a convenient way to travel to the city's surrounding areas. The city's taxi services are also affordable and easy to use, making it easy to explore the city and its nearby attractions.

Adventure Travel

With such a diverse range of outdoor activities and adventures make it an ideal destination for solo travelers looking to explore and experience the natural beauty of Guatemala. The city's surrounding volcanoes offer a unique opportunity for hiking and trekking, with trails suitable for all levels of experience. Solo travelers can hike to the summit of any of these volcanoes and enjoy panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. For those looking for a more challenging adventure, the Acatenango volcano is a popular destination, providing a strenuous hike that takes you to an altitude of over 13,000 feet.

Beyond hiking and trekking, Antigua also offers other outdoor activities, such as kayaking on the nearby rivers or exploring the local flora and fauna on a guided nature walk. Visitors can also take part in adventure tours, such as horseback riding or ATV rides through the surrounding countryside. The nearby Lake Atitlan is a popular destination for water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, and provides stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes.  Additionally, the city is home to numerous parks and nature reserves, including the Hobbitenango Ecological Park, where visitors can enjoy ziplining, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

Overall, Antigua, Guatemala is a hidden gem for Black solo travelers, offering a perfect blend of safety, culture, cuisine, and adventure. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the local culture or simply relax and enjoy the city's laid-back atmosphere, Antigua has something for everyone.

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Solo female travel in Guatemala

Travel rating.

Based on 35 experiences

Based on our research

Based on safety reports

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Is Guatemala good for solo travel?

Safety: Moderate

Transport: Moderate

Things to do: Interesting

Food: Above average

Budget: Affordable

Is guatemala worth visiting, overall rating.

based on 35 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do, budget-friendly.

United States

Solo travel experience

Guatemala was great! I visited Lake Atitlan, Antigua and Acatenango. I felt very safe as a solo female traveler even though I was there during local protests. Lake Atitlan has many towns to visit, Antigua is rich in culture and a beautiful city, and Acatenango is an unforgettable experience seeing a live volcano erupt. Lots of fun adventure to be had.

I had a short trip to Guatemala. I spent 2 nights at Lake Atitlan (staying in San Pedro and visited San Juan, Santiago and Panajachel) and 1 night in Antigua. I felt very safe and I had a great time.

Group travel experience

I felt very safe in Antigua and Lake Atitlan. It seemed incredibly easy to join tours and meet people. Personally, I wouldn't choose to explore Guatemala City alone, but I was only there for one night.

I felt very safe in Antigua and Flores. I did not use public buses, only small buses with other tourists. I did not leave my hotel in Guatemala City on my own because I heard that it is not the safest place.

I stopped in El Remate, Antigua, Xela and San Pedro la Laguna. I didn't have any problems all the time and everywhere I stopped, I really liked it. I heard from a few people that it's not a good idea to travel between towns around the lake late at night - many roads are not safe.

I stayed in Guatemala for 4 weeks in Flores, Semuc Champey/Lanquin, Xela, Antigua, Lake Atitlan and El Paredon. I felt very safe. For extra peace of mind, I avoided chicken buses, especially at night.

I have traveled alone as a woman to Guatemala many times and I have never had any problems. I used common sense and guides, stuck to tourist areas, safe modes of transportation etc. I loved being there.

I went to Lake Atitlán, to Antigua and Guatemala. I felt safe there and didn't experience any strange vibes. From my experience, people there were incredibly friendly and helpful.

I traveled alone to Guatemala. I mostly felt safe there, the tourist areas were fine, such as Flores, Semuc Champey, and Antigua. I avoided Guatemala City, I heard very often that it's not safe there, and by Lake Atitlan there are also trails that are not safe.

I have traveled alone through Guatemala twice. It's an incredible country. Very unique and so beautiful. I did not feel dangerous there at all, except for Guatemala City.

Meet locals in Guatemala

Hello! I am Nasrin, I am 26 years old, I’m traveling by myself for the first time, it has a been a cool and enriching experience. Would love to chat about tips and stories in your traveling. I’m a Clinical psychologist, I’m a curious being, love learning and getting to know cultures and different mindsets.

Soy introvertida, me gusta la buena conversación y visitar museos y restaurantes.

As a local Guatemalan and someone who travels extensively around the country, I can say that tourist areas are very safe, as long as you don't do generally dangerous things, such as walking alone at night where there are few people, or entering dangerous zones in Guatemala City. You can travel by chicken buses during the day without any problems, I've done it all my life, just watch out for your belongings. You can use transfers or private buses at night. Of course, there is violence and many other bad things, just like in any other country, just try to be careful and everything will be fine.

Avoid public transport, avoid local taxis (you are more vulnerable to assault being a woman and a foreigner), use only Uber. Do not talk to strangers on the street, if they approach you, say "hello" and move on. Dress modestly, Guatemala has a very high rate of femicides. If you plan to walk around, try to stay in places with lots of people (avoid isolated areas). I am now in Guatemala and I walk a lot, but I only move in certain zones. Safety is an illusion. If something feels off to you, trust your instincts.

Stay with locals in Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala

Can host for:.

Soy Mariana, me gusta hacer arte, estar en paz y comer rico

Passionated about traveling and animals. Enjoying simple things in life and looking to meet some New friends in this path called life.

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San Pedro la Laguna

Quetzaltenango

Guatemala City

San Juan del Obispo

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Is Guatemala Safe? Solo Female Travellers Advice (2023)

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One of the most common questions I get asked on Instagram is ‘is Guatemala safe?’ especially if you want to visit as a solo female traveller. Sadly, Guatemala gets a bad rep – and it really shouldn’t. It’s one of the safest countries in Central America!

In this post, I hope to dispel any thoughts that Guatemala isn’t ‘safe’, especially for those wanting to backpack the country solo.

Throughout our time  backpacking Guatemala we felt safe.  Safe enough for me to walk around solo. Safe enough to walk around at night. Just as safe as I feel at home! But of course, there are some precautions you can take to just add that extra layer of security.

Most trips to Guatemala are safe, fun and trouble-free. Below are a few tips that we followed to make sure our trip to Guatemala was as successful as possible. So, let’s get started!

🇬🇹 Other Guatemala posts:

• 2 Weeks In Guatemala: Perfect Itinerary
• 15 BEST Day Trips From Antigua, Guatemala
• 3 Days in Antigua Guatemala: The Perfect Itinerary
• BEST Hostels In Flores Guatemala For Backpackers

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

Is Guatemala Safe? Solo Female Travellers Advice: A Summary

There’s a lot of controversy on the Internet about whether or not Guatemala is safe. For example; I read the other day that you have to have an armed guard to escort you around Tikal. What rubbish this is!

Yes, Guatemala may not have been safe years ago! But in 2023, it’s one of the safest countries in Central America for tourists and backpackers. The people are friendly, there’s plenty of backpacker hostels, tourist shuttles and you’ll meet hundreds of other travellers doing the exact same route as you.

Of course, as anywhere in the world; as a solo female traveller in Guatemala, you will have to use common sense and be vigilant. There are going to be ‘bad people ‘ in every single country you visit – including your own! This is a sad fact of life, and that’s why I have some tips in this post to help you stay as safe as possible.

It’s a shame because Guatemala gets a bad rep . And it really is a beautiful country that deserves a lot more recognition. If you take anything from this post, I hope it is the courage to travel to Guatemala, whether you’re a solo traveller or not. It’s a special country – don’t let incorrect, outdated safety concerns stop you.

I highly recommend getting  travel insurance  if you are backpacking Guatemala or Central America.  SafetyWing is the best company to cover your trip, covering both medical and travel delays, lost checked luggage, emergency response, natural disasters and personal liability.  ➡️ You can sign up for  SafetyWing here.

14 tips for staying safe as a solo traveller in Guatemala

1. know basic spanish.

This really is the most important piece of advice when  backpacking Guatemala , mainly as so many of the locals will not speak English.  There will be many times when you will need to interact with others; from restaurants to public buses, buying a drink in a bar and ordering street food. It’s  really  important to know at least a few phrases.

If you know some basic Spanish,  it will also help you out if you’re stuck with something, or need help and advice. It really is key to staying safe in Guatemala as a solo female traveller.

The app we use on a daily basis is SpanishDict.  It translates more conversationally than Google Translate and gives examples of how you might need to ask or say something. It’s better than a word-for-word translation that may not actually make sense when spoken.

We did actually find that many locals in Guatemala wanted to practise their English with us. This was great – but it was helpful that we knew some basic phrases to be able to respond to them in their own language!

If you’re a solo female traveller in Guatemala, here are some helpful phrases in Spanish  that you may want to screenshot!

• Please:  por favor
• Thank you:  gracias
• My name is… : Me llamo…
• Nice to meet you:  Mucho gusto
• Yes:  Si
• No:  No
• What:  que
• Where:  donde
• Toilet:  banos/bano
• Girls/ladies:  mujeres or damas (look for an M or D on the toilet doors)
• Help:  ayuda
• Algo mas : anything else?

Simple phrases such as ‘ you’re welcome ‘ will change between different Central American countries.

For example, in Guatemala, we found the locals to say ‘ de nada ‘ when saying you’re welcome. Then in Colombia, it was more common to say ‘ con mucho gusto ‘ for the same phrase! There are slight differences, but it’s easy enough to get used to.

2. Still to well-known routes and places

Like in most countries, there are areas in Guatemala that you will want to avoid for safety reasons. This is not uncommon, and even if you think of your own country, I bet there are areas that you don’t particularly like visiting as a solo female traveller.

This is one of the main reasons why I’ve written so many detailed Guatemalan route blog posts. Stick to a well-known route, and stick to areas that tourists visit!

Yes, you can go off the beaten track, but I highly, highly recommend going in a group or at least telling someone where you are going.

So, where are the safest areas in Guatemala for solo female travellers? Stick to:

• Flores and Tikal
• Semuc Champey
• Lake Atitlan
• Quetzaltenango (aka Xela)

Not sure how to get around Guatemala safely? Check out either my 2-week itinerary or backpacking Guatemala post for more information.

3. Only use Uber or licensed taxis

Unlike El Salvador, we didn’t find the local taxi drivers to be too overwhelming or overbearing in Guatemala. There are many unlicensed taxis in El Salvador, but this was a little different in Guatemala.

Still – never get in a taxi in Guatemala that simply has the word ‘TAXI’ written on the front  (usually in white marker pen or even chalk). We found these to be pretty common in El Salvador, but rarer in Guatemala. But of course, it still happens.

Taxis in Guatemala must be licensed, and are similar looking to other taxis in the world. For example, there are small, blue and white tuk-tuks in Antigua , or blue taxis.

Ubers are available in the major cities in Guatemala, such as Antigua and Lake Atitlan (although they seemed to take a while to arrive at the lake). Other areas such as Semuc Champey and Flores are so small that you will be able to walk around safely (although I recommend not walking around alone at night).

4. Use tourist shuttles to get from place to place

If you are backpacking Guatemala , use the tourist shuttles to get around. The shuttles are full of other backpackers going to the same destinations and hostels that you are! This gives total peace of mind when you’re travelling around solo.

Shuttles are easy to book. You can either book via your hostel, travel agents or online here . Regardless of who or where you book, you will more than likely be on the same shuttle. They’re just different routes to book, but all use the same shuttle companies.

5. Only use the public buses on well-known routes during the day

Public buses in Guatemala are called ‘chicken buses’, or la camioneta in Spanish. They are known for their colourful decorations, loud music and total chaos onboard. But, they’re a cheap way to travel around the country!

But they’re not the easiest! They are hectic, with two seats usually seating four people. You’ll need to be able to speak simple Spanish to communicate that your backpack is on the roof (that’s where it is stored during the journey) and you will need to tell the driver where you want to go. Be prepared!

They also get busy – really busy. Be mindful of pickpockets – just like you would on any other busy public transport. Keep all of your valuables within eyesight – never, ever put your valuables somewhere that you can’t see them!

Most of the time, public buses in Guatemala are safe . But to be even safer, make sure you are taking a well-known route, keep your belongings close to you and use common sense.

6. Stay in hostels

Hostels are one of the best ways to stay safe as a solo female traveller in Guatemala.  The reception desk is there to listen to you if you have any worries or fears, and they put your safety first. Plus, the  recommended hostels  in Guatemala are in safe areas and have good security measures.

As a backpacker myself, I’m a big advocate for  hostels .  Staying in hostels means you can make friends from day one, and there are people around you immediately.

During your stay at a hostel, you might become friends with a group of people and end up travelling around with them . Or, you might book tours and activities with the  hostel , which again are always done in big, safe groups.

7. Book tours for bucket-list experiences

Whilst you can visit most of the big attractions in Guatemala alone,  visiting these locations in a group is safer.

Most tours will organise transport to and from the locations, and you will be with other like-minded travellers. This gives an extra level of safety and security, especially if something goes wrong.

Our tour to Tikal was one of our favourite days of our trip, and I am so glad we didn’t visit independently!

Some of the best tours in Guatemala include: 

• Antigua ATV Sunset Tour 🌅 ➡ check prices here!
• Tikal Day trip from Flores, Antigua or Guatemala City 🌳 ➡ check prices here!
• Hiking Pacaya Volcano 🌋 ➡ check prices here!
• Hiking Acatenango 🌋 ➡ check prices here!
• Authentic Guatemalan cooking class 🌽 ➡ check prices here!
• Chocolate workshop in Antigua 🍫 ➡ check prices here!

Related post: Best things to do in Antigua in 3 days

8. Keep your valuables close to you at all times

There are a number of pickpockets in Guatemala, just like  any  other country.  Personally, I didn’t see this in Guatemala, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen!

There are accounts of phones being snatched out of people’s hands as they’re walking along the street, similar to what happens in Bali, Thailand and even London. It’s a common trick thieves use, as they can drive off quickly on their motorbikes without being caught.

Always have your iPhone in your pocket or bag, safely hidden.  Don’t follow a GPS as you’re walking, as you make yourself a target. Look at your route beforehand.

iPhones and Apple products are prone to be stolen in   Guatemala.  This is because there aren’t any ways to buy Apple products in Guatemala (well, very few ways!) so they are worth a lot of money. This also means if you get your iPhone stolen in Guatemala,  it’s going to be hard to replace.

Just be vigilant.  As I said,  this is no different to anywhere else in the world.  Keep your belongings safe, zipped away and hidden when walking around Guatemala.

9. Know your emergency numbers

Hopefully, you will never need to use Guatemala’s emergency numbers, but just in case you do, these are the numbers you will need to dial.

🚑 Medical emergencies:  122 / 123

🚓 Police:  110 / 120

For safety reasons, always let someone know where you are when travelling to Guatemala.  Check in with a family member or friend often, and let them know where you are staying.

10. Trust your gut!

If you’re  backpacking Guatemala  as a solo female traveller, you’ll find a lot of times you’ll need to rely on the kindness of strangers.  

Luckily, the majority of Guatemalans you meet are kind, welcoming and friendly.  We loved meeting some of the locals – they were so sweet and we felt totally safe with them.

However, we all know that sometimes people do not have the best intentions – again, something that’s true all over the world.

Don’t be afraid to lie.  It’s way easier to get yourself out of a situation sooner rather than later. 

Be rude if you have to be.  Trust your gut if something doesn’t feel right.

If you’ve experienced something that makes you feel uneasy,  go back to your hostel and tell someone. Phone a friend or family member. It’s ok, it happens, and prioritise getting yourself somewhere safe.

11. Always let someone know where you are, or where you’re going

Another way of staying safe in Guatemala is to always let someone know where you are. Similar to location tracking,  smartphones are great at allowing anyone to track your taxi or journey.  This is so important when you’re travelling alone!

But I know this can be hard when you’re backpacking in a country with a time zone completely different to your family and friends back home.  And do you really want to keep bothering them with your location?

You have two choices.

A) You don’t care about ‘bothering’ them, as they love you and want to keep you safe! You ask them to keep an eye on you when you’re doing uncomfortable or long journeys. This is great!

B) If the time zone is too difficult,  let someone in your  hostel  know where you’re going.  You don’t need to tell them your life story, or what you’re doing, but if you’re visiting somewhere new (or meeting someone new!) someone should know where you are. 

If you can, exchange numbers with someone at your hostel.  It’s likely you won’t need to use it, but it’s an extra layer of security.

Normally, the reception staff in hostels are friendly and are there to make you feel comfortable and safe.  I’ve often told hostel staff that I’m heading off to a waterfall or on a long hike,  just as an extra sense of security.

12. Install an eSIM on your phone (or get a local SIM)

Whether you choose to get a local sim or an eSIM,  always  make sure you have data when  backpacking Guatemala .  This gives an extra layer of security and means you can reach out to someone if necessary.

ESIMs  are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchase . They’re great if you’re landing or crossing into a country solo, and would like to use your phone immediately.  If you’re visiting Guatemala solo, I recommend checking out the  eSIM packages here.

13. Always carry a portable charger

I strongly advise carrying a  portable charger  so you can use your mobile phone whenever needed.

Not only is this needed for directions and communication,  but it’s vital that you have a phone battery in emergencies.  Can you imagine that uncomfortable gut feeling whilst having a dead phone?

Portable chargers  aren’t that expensive, and you can buy a tiny one that fits into your purse or pocket. It may seem annoying, but trust me, it could save your life!  You can buy my favourite and most reliable  portable charger here .  It lasts up to 4-5 charges!

14. Be kind, friendly and SMILE!

As I previously mentioned, Guatemalans were some of the friendliest locals we met on our Central America trip.  Everyone greeted us with a smile, welcomed us to the country and made us feel safe! We were regularly welcomed, asked how we were and even invited round for tea or coffee by local shopkeepers. Yes, seriously!

But this kindness works in both ways!  We always went out of our way to smile, greet and even wave to locals. At the end of the day, we are in their country, and we want to respect them!

This also directly impacts how safe you will be when in Guatemala. Kindness always wins!

Useful apps for staying safe in Guatemala

• Always have a local or eSIM installed whilst travelling through Guatemala.  Avoid being on buses, in taxis or walking around without any phone signal.  ESIMs  are easy to download and ready to use within a few minutes of purchasing,  so there’s no longer a need to hunt down free Wifi! ➡  You can check out the prices and packages for  eSIMs here .
• Google Maps  allows you to follow area maps even when you’re offline. Download some of your local areas before heading out to ensure you can travel safely on the right route at any time. 
• SpanishDict:  This is similar to Google Translate – but it gives more conversational terms when translating rather than direct word-for-word translations. We used it daily when travelling Central and South America.
• Shake2Safety  allows users to input emergency contacts to which a message, location, audio or photo can be sent in an emergency situation. Simply shake your phone or click the unlock button 4 times to send the alert. This can also be used without wifi and when your phone is locked. 
• The Circle Of Six app  allows you to save 6 contacts of your choice which can be notified in just two taps if you’re in an emergency situation.
• As horrible as it sounds,  One Scream  works by being able to detect the scream of a panicked female. A loud siren will go off, and after 20 seconds an automated voice call and message will be sent to your emergency contacts. 

Where to stay if you are a solo female backpacker in Guatemala

Staying in the best hostels, hotels or apartments in Guatemala is a great additional layer to staying safe.

I recommend staying in hostels if you are a solo female traveller (even if you get a private room), as there will be like-minded travellers and other women in the same position as you.

The best hostels to stay in when travelling around Guatemala as a solo female traveller include:

• Flores: Los Amigos
• Semuc Champey : Greengo’s
• Antigua: Somos
• El Paredon: Mellow or Swell
• Lake Atitlan: Free Cerveza

Getting around if you are a solo female backpacker in Guatemala

You can travel around Guatemala in multiple ways, depending on how much time you have, your budget and where you want to visit . The most common way for backpackers to travel around Guatemala is via tourist shuttle , but some travellers do hire a  rental car or  private driver .

There are public buses in Guatemala, which are cheap and inexpensive. I personally don’t recommend public buses if you are a solo female traveller in Guatemala, but this is down to you.

Is Guatemala safe for solo female travellers? FAQs

1) is it safe to travel to guatemala alone.

Yes! Guatemala is a safe country for solo female travellers . In bigger cities like Antigua or the small towns around Lake Atitlan, I felt totally safe walking around by myself. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and there are plenty of backpacker hostels for you to stay in and meet like-minded travellers.

2) Is Guatemala tourist friendly?

Yes, Guatemala is so tourist friendly! We found Guatemalans to be friendly, welcoming and kind. They went out of their way to ask us where we were from, who we were and what our home country is like. Guatemala is definitely tourist friendly if you stick to the right areas.

3) Is Guatemala safe for US tourists?

Yes, Guatemala is as safe for US tourists as for UK tourists. Obviously, stay vigilant, and remember you are in a country different to your own. Be sensible and use common sense. But yes, Guatemala is a safe country for US tourists to visit.

4) Is Antigua Guatemala safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, in fact, Antigua is where I felt the safest on our entire Guatemalan trip. I walked around solo both in the daytime and evening. It is an incredibly safe city for solo female travellers. Use common sense, be vigilant and stick to the busy streets, and you’ll be fine!

Best backpacker travel insurance for Central America

If you’re visiting Central America as a backpacker, or even for a short vacation, it is  so  important to have  travel insurance .   And  if you ended up on a post that’s called ‘epic party tips’, you know (just as well as I do) that you  definitely  need travel insurance.

Personally, I recommend  SafetyWing .  As a digital nomad and world traveller myself, I can confirm it is the best travel insurance out there. And one of the cheapest – they have deals that start at  just $42 USD per month.

I know, I know, you’re thinking  ‘but I can’t afford that!’ . I was the same! It’s tough to fork out $42 a month on something ‘you might not need’. But what if something DOES happen? That extra Mezcal shot results in you falling down the stairs, or you eat something dodgy from a street food van.

If you need medical help at  any point  whilst in Central America,  you need  travel insurance.

With  SafetyWing , you’re covered on travel emergencies, basic medical costs and medical expenses throughout your trip, so you can travel without worry (at a backpacker’s price!)

Don’t even think twice about getting travel insurance for Central America . Trust me, I have heard enough horror stories about backpackers who haven’t had insurance and have ended up in a  lot  of debt. Don’t be that person!

If you’ve been putting the job off because it takes a lot of time and effort to research the  best travel insurance companies , I understand. That’s why I’ve done the hard work for you. Sign up for  SafetyWing , and the job is done!

Is Guatemala safe for solo female travellers ? In a Nutshell

So, there you have it!  Everything you need to know about staying safe as a solo female traveller in Guatemala.  When you’re planning a trip to Guatemala, make sure you let me know over on  Instagram  or in the comments below!

If you haven’t seen my blog before, I write posts aimed at  first-time backpackers on a budget.   I’m currently travelling around the world with my boyfriend  (read more  here !), creating guides and itineraries for you to follow in our footsteps!

Keep an eye out for more Guatemala content,  all written from a personal and realistic point of view. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates  here!

As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!

Happy travelling 🙂

🇬🇹 Where to next?

• Best Time to Visit Guatemala: Complete Guide

MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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Find Solo Travelers in Antigua Guatemala, Share Costs, & Travel Together

How A Trip Works On GAFFL

Find solo travelers in antigua guatemala, get connected, trip together, solo trips in guatemala.

• Solo Trips in Antigua Guatemala

FAQ About Solo Trips in Antigua Guatemala

Is antigua guatemala a good place to solo travel, is antigua guatemala safe for solo travelers, is antigua guatemala expensive for solo travel.

You can save money by staying in a low-cost hotel or hostel and splitting your expenses with other travelers. A hostel can be a great place to meet new people if you are traveling alone, but you can also use GAFFL to connect with other travelers in Antigua Guatemala, share costs, and travel together to save money on your solo trip to Antigua Guatemala.

Essential Solo Travel Tips For A Trip To Antigua Guatemala

How are gaffl solo trips in antigua guatemala different than tour companies, are gaffl solo trips in antigua guatemala free, are gaffl solo trips in antigua guatemala safe.

Travelers on GAFFL go through a multi-step verification process that includes phone, social, and government ID verification, so you can be confident in your potential travel companion. You also have the option of connecting or not connecting with anyone you want. On GAFFL, you have complete control over who you travel with.

Can you give me an example of how solo tours in Antigua Guatemala are different from Tour Companies?

How much money can gaffl save me on my next solo trip to antigua guatemala.

A two-week trip to Antigua Guatemala with a traditional tour company can cost thousands of dollars. When you connect with a solo traveler on GAFFL and split costs for things like rental cars and lodging, you are not paying any additional fees that are typically associated with tour companies, and by splitting costs, the overall cost per person is significantly reduced.

Are GAFFL solo trips in Antigua Guatemala run by Tour Companies?

Have a good itinerary but no friends or family members to join you, start your trip in minutes and connect with like-minded travelers in antigua guatemala..

What GAFFL Users Are Saying

"It’s really nice to have a platform like GAFFL with lots of travelers wanting to do the same as you, a real beautiful cultural exchange. You can meet people so easily and in a trustful way. We were four girls, from French, German and American backgrounds, without knowing each other from before. We spent an amazing week together, 2000km driving, camping on the way. We saw kangaroos, koalas, penguins and pelicans"

“I have found GAFFL to be an amazing tool for finding similar minded travel partners to embark on an adventure. Through GAFFL, I had organized a trip to Mexico City last month and Quazi joined the trip from Victoria, BC. We spent 14 days of straight exploring, hiking, eating and drinking. Quite an amazing experience - all thanks to GAFFL!”

"I accidentally scrolled across GAFFL and I'm so pleased I did. I met Amaia and immediately decided to road-trip together. We're spending 10 days together and it's great because we have so much in common. Couldn't have done it without GAFFL helping us find one another! It has honestly made NZ so much cheaper to explore as I get to split the costs with someone too​"

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