Heart of the Mayan World

Guatemala is a vibrant country with roots that go all the way back to the great Mayan civilizations that once thrived here. Two coasts, volcanic lakes, and ancient ruins are just the start of the incredible sights Guatemala has to offer.

The Mayan World

Guatemala was once the center of the Mayan world. In fact, most of the world’s Mayan ruins are found in this small Central American country. Mayans thrived here from their earliest days, but especially during the Classic Period, when the Mayans built sprawling cities in the region of Petén, now a region in the northern part of Guatemala. Though the Mayan cities began to decline around 900 C.E.—declining even further upon the arrival of the Spanish and their diseases—the Mayans aren’t a “lost civilization.” The Mayan people still thrive in Guatemala, making up a full 40% of their population. Though Mayan culture has long been influenced by the Spanish, many Mayans live a traditional lifestyle in rural Guatemala.

Today you can see an array of ancient Mayan artifacts and ruins all across Guatemala. Don’t miss Tikal National Park, Guatemala’s most famous cultural attraction. Tikal means “city of voices,” and you’re sure to hear the voice of the Mayan world when you stroll among the towering temples and sweeping plazas of this ancient city at sunrise If you want to see incredible Mayan ruins without the crowd, check out Yaxhá Nation Park, where an ancient city sits on an island situated at the center of an inland lagoon. Yaxhá is thought to be the “sister city” of a similar site in Tulum, Mexico, and its status as somewhat off-the-beaten-track makes it the perfect way to immerse yourself in the Mayan past.

Natural and Spiritual Sights

While ancient ruins and colonial cities have plenty of sights to offer, many travelers are drawn to Guatemala for the pristine jungles and mountains here. Smuc Champey is an incredible natural limestone bridge that spans 1,000 feet in length, creating a cascade of turquoise pools perfect for cooling off in the jungle heat. Take a candlelit tour through the limestone caves in this region, or go tubing down the Cabahòn River.  

Since volcanoes make such a startling impression on Guatemala’s landscape, you’ll doubtlessly want to see one up close. Volcán de Pacaya is the perfect place to see this natural wonder in action. Located near Antigua, this volcano still erupts clouds of ash from time to time. Another amazing volcano can be found in Eastern Guatemala, which is famous for its deep sense of spirituality and mysticism. Visit Ipala Volcano before stopping at the Basilica of Esquipulas, where you can see one of the most revered Christian sites in Guatemala, including the iconic Black Christ.