First of all, there are so many reasons to visit Guatemala. Let me start by praising Guatemala, just a little.

Guatemala is an extraordinary fusion of cultural and natural treasure. It’s a country where historical heritage and rich biodiversity come together to offer travelers an authentic and unique experience.

The varied colors of indigenous markets and the delicate embroidery of their regional costume are the perfect frames for the beautiful views of volcanoes, lakes, and unending mountain ranges. This place is literally the photographers and adventure-craving travelers paradise!

If you are reading this blog post, you are probably considering traveling to Guatemala, but perhaps you lack motivation, so you are looking for a good reason to pull the trigger. So we decided to put together a list of the ten reasons why you should visit Guatemala.

The Heart of the Mayan World

Guatemala is located at the center of the geographical region, where this civilization flourished many thousands of years ago. It has been proven that this civilization emerged in the exuberant jungles of the country’s Northern region. This is where the highest number and concentration of archaeological sites of this civilization are located and where the evolution of Mayan construction can be established.

In addition to this impressive historical heritage, there are still direct Mayan descendants living in the country. Over 50% of the population share this origin and use more than 20 different Mayan languages to communicate.

The greatness of the Mayan civilization is evident in this timeline, which details the occupation of some of the main Mayan cities throughout history, comparing it with other cultures around the world.

Adventure

Because of Guatemala’s diverse landscapes and territory, it is a true paradise for adventure seekers. The country has mighty rivers, beautiful lakes, extensive cave systems, astounding mountain ranges, and 33 volcanoes, three of them active that set a challenge for even the bravest visitors, being the highest peaks in all of Central America.

Guatemala is a volcanic wonderland. These extreme changes in altitude provide the perfect conditions for extreme sports such as mountain and downhill biking, river rafting with waters that can rapidly vary between I to V categories and unlimited trekking options due to the country’s rugged territory. These types of adventure allow visitors to have a close encounter with real culture and its unspoiled nature, allowing access to places that are not commonly visited by tourists.

Nature – Top Reason to Visit Guatemala

Guatemalan spectacular landscapes and unique species will amaze nature lovers. Due to is biological diversity and high levels of endemic species, Guatemala has been classified as a mega-diverse nation. Experiencing the natural wonders of Guatemala is one of the top reasons to visit this beautiful country.

It is home to some of the most amazing and breathtaking natural wonders that will absolutely blow you away. From crystal clear turquoise rivers and lakes to large cavern systems with natural rock formations.

Our favorite: Semuc Champey. Semuc Champey meaning “the river that hides under the rock,” is a natural monument that boasts six stunning tiered turquoise pools, an extensive cave network complete with underground waterfalls, and breathtaking views. The shockingly blue pools rest on top of a natural limestone bridge covering a portion of the Cahabón River; hence its name in the local Mayan dialect.

Textiles and Handcrafts

Gastronomy

Mesoamerica is known to the region where many species that now feed the world originated. Food such as beans, avocados, corn, and chili peppers was first produced here.

Among the many reasons to visit Guatemala is its amazing food. Guatemala’s cuisine blends Garifuna, Maya, and Spanish recipes, and the combinations give way to delicious and varied fare. Visitors can savor dishes prepared with local ingredients in each region of the country, such as the Jocon, Kaq’ik (turkey soup), Pepian, and Platanos con Mole, all of which are considered to be the country’s intangible heritage.

Birdwatching

Guatemala is the perfect destination for birdwatchers. It is home to more than 720 species (migratory and resident), out of which 33 are endemic to the region to some degree.

Because of the geographical location and the shape of its territory, the country is located on the route that thousands of migratory birds follow when traveling from the North to Central and South America every year, and it is one of their mandatory resting places along the way.

Sportfishing

Guatemala’s Pacific coast is considered the sailfish capital of the world and the best place to practice sport fishing, ensuring fisherman a unique and unforgettable experience.

Guatemala’s Pacific waters hold world records for conventional and fly fishing, as well as the highest number of sailfish released in a single day. The best breeding grounds for sailfish in the whole world are located in this area.

Learning Spanish

Guatemala’s a great place to learn Spanish. Some of the most picturesque locations in the country have the best Spanish schools. The specialized “one-on-one” method gives learners the opportunity to experience total immersion in the language and the Guatemalan culture.

The country’s Spanish is spoken with a mostly neutral accent, and the sentences are less blended, so learning is easier here. Schools offer various programs, from basic conversations courses to accelerated learning for those who have little time and need to increase their vocabulary to engage in high-level negotiations.

Volunteering

Guatemala allows tourists to do more than just travel. Volunteers can use their experience and energy to impact the country and help communities positively.

They can engage in activities that range from helping to build schools, bridges, and other types of basic infrastructure to participating in medical and veterinary working days and supporting environmental-conservationist projects.

Community Tourism – Top Reason to Visit Guatemala

Guatemala is a country with incredible cultural wealth, and many organized rural communities coordinate tourist activities to show visitors their cultural and natural heritage.

Tourists can experience outdoor activities, such as hikes through forests and jungles, birdwatching, tours to plantations visits to archaeology sites, and artisan activities. Community members provide visitors with an unforgettable experience, sharing their work, their lifestyles, and culture wit them first hand.

Find more reasons to visit Guatemala here.