Things to do in
Guatemala

Get in: by plane

The La Aurora International Airport is situated in Guatemala City, the capital and largest city of Guatemala.

✈️ Flight deals to Guatemala.

You can get to the city by:

• Taxi 🚕:  You can book an airport transfer here.
• Uber: Uber is allowed to operate at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. The ride-hailing service Uber operates also in Guatemala City.
• Bus: There’s a bus route close to the airport that can take you to Zona 10, near La Reforma and 12 Calle. If you’re heading to the old city center (Zona 1), many buses travel that way from La Reforma or from 7 Avenida, which is just one block away. However, it’s worth noting that the red city buses are considered less safe due to a higher risk of crime against drivers and passengers. For safety, it’s recommended to use local taxis for transportation.

Get in: by bus

The city has four primary bus stations:

• Centra Norte: Located in the northeast part of Guatemala City, it offers services to Eastern Guatemala, the Caribbean Coast, the Northern Lowlands, and Alta Verapaz.
• Centra Sur: Situated in the south bordering Villa Nueva, serving destinations in the south, including San Miguel Petapa, Amatitlán, and more.
• Terminal Trebol: Along 1st Avenue, providing chicken bus services to Antigua, Monte Carmela, Patzun, and other places in Sacatepequez and Chimaltenango.
• Estacion de Occidente: On 41st Street, serving the Western Highlands, including Huehuetenango, Panajachel, and Quetzaltenango.
• Some Pullman and Chicken Bus companies have their own terminals near the old train station in Zona 1. Please note that this area can be unsafe, especially at night, so taking a taxi is advisable. Additional bus stations are located in Zona 10, 11, and various parts of the city, with varying levels of convenience and safety.

Get around

Guatemala City has 21 zones, each with its unique features:

• Zona 1: The historic center with key landmarks. Zona 4: Home to official buildings and institutions. Zona 10: Hosts high-end hotels, dining, and shopping. Zona 9: Adjacent to Zona 10, separated by Avenida La Reforma. Zona Viva: A lively nightlife area within Zona 10.

Places to visit by foot:

• National Palace of Culture
• La Aurora Zoo
• Parque Central (Plaza de la Constitucion)
• Jardines Botánico
• Catedral Metropolitana de Santiago de Guatemala (Metropolitan Cathedral)
• Cayalá City

Which are the must-visit attractions in Guatemala?

Guatemala has a lot of incredible attractions. For example, you can visit some Mayan ruins like Tikal, stunning volcanic landscapes like Lake Atitlán, colorful markets in Chichicastenango, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site: Antigua.

What adventurous activities can I do in Guatemala?

Indeed, there are a lot of things to do in Guatemala. You can explore the mysterious caves of Actun Tunichil Muknal, hike up Pacaya Volcano for magical views, go zip-lining in the rainforest, or take a boat tour to Livingston and experience the Caribbean vibes.

What to eat in Guatemala?

There are a lot of ways to discover the authentic flavors of Guatemala’s local cuisine. Try traditional dishes like “Pepián” (a hearty stew), “Tamales” (corn dough filled with meats and spices), and “Guatemalan Chiles Rellenos” (stuffed peppers).

Don’t miss out on delicious street foods like “Pupusas” and “Tostadas.” Exploring Guatemalan food is a must of the best things to do in Guatemala.

Are there any cultural experiences in Guatemala?

Yes, and there are a lot! Some of the best ways to dive into the fabulous culture of Guatemala are by joining traditional Maya ceremonies, learning about traditional weaving in villages like Chichicastenango, or experiencing the local festivals and celebrations that showcase the country’s diverse heritage.

Surely, there are a lot of things to do in Guatemala, and we bet that you will enjoy all of the things that involve local traditions and customs!

Is it safe to travel in Guatemala?

Like any destination, it’s essential to take precautions and stay informed about safety. Generally, tourist areas are safe, but it’s advisable to avoid certain isolated regions. Stay aware of your surroundings and follow local advice for a safe and enjoyable trip.