Guatemala, officially known as the Republic of Guatemala, is surrounded by the countries of Belize,Mexico, El Salvador, Honduras and the Pacific Ocean. It is the third largest country by area in Central America. Its name comes from the indigenous word “Quhatezmalha” which means “mountain that pours water”. The country’s economy is based mainly on agriculture with coffee, sugar, bananas and corn. For the Vacations in Guatemala you can have the best choice.
Smart Options for You
It was the first planned city in the Americas and the capital of Spanish colonization in Central America. After its destruction by a major earthquake at the end of the 18th century, it was abandoned and the capital transferred to Guatemala City. The biggest attractions of Antigua are the colonial architecture, respected throughout the city, and the ruins of churches, which are of unique beauty.
In the city you can already get an idea of the pre-Columbian culture, a good part of the population is descended from Mayan peoples, many still wear their colorful huipiles, a traditional dress. Crafts, especially textiles, are very rich. Being in the tropics and with an altitude of over 1600m, the weather is spring all year round, that is, during the day you can walk around in your pants and shirt, and at night, at most, a light sweater. No extreme heat or cold.
Exploring in Antigua
Antigua has re-emerged in the last century as a well-developed and eclectic tourist destination. The region’s upper class uses Antigua as a summer and weekend destination, staying in their restored colonial mansions. European and American tourists move many good hostels, and more recently even young people and backpackers have been occupying hostels and Spanish schools.
Guatemala is a country with a great diversity of activities to visit, as there are lakes, rivers, caves, mountains, natural landscapes and volcanoes, many still active. It also has a huge number of archeological sites and ancient ruins of the Mayan culture, the main ones being Tikal, Yaxhá and Quiriguá, with many pyramids, temples and stories from the past.
About Guatemala City for You
The Guatemala City is the capital and largest city in the country, considered a major economic, political and cultural center. Since Antigua is the former capital of Guatemala and has many colonial old buildings, cobblestone streets, churches, museums, restaurants and bars, great to enjoy a delicious breakfast in the area. A city of great beauty, it is no wonder that it is considered a world heritage site by UNESCO.
The Atitlan Lake is the most popular and famous of the country. It is of volcanic origin and considered the deepest lake in Central America. It is surrounded by nature and by three volcanoes that make the landscape even more beautiful. It also has several towns and villages around it, the main ones being: Panajachel, San Pedro and San Marcos. You can take a boat and get to know a little about each village, in addition to enjoying nature from another angle.
Make a Visit to Chichicastenango
Chichicastenango is very popular for its market or fair that takes place on Thursdays and Sundays. Many typical foods, condiments, local crafts, incense, masks, skulls, clothes, bags, hats, among many other products spread throughout the stalls in narrow cobbled streets.