Ten Essential Things To Do When Visiting Guatemala

Guatemala is famous for its numerous eco-regions5.) Antigua
and is a favorite destination of tourists. Found inPerhaps due to the numerous earthquakes and natural
Central America, this country is home to thousands ofcalamities that this city has withstood, these natural
plant species, numerous bodies of water and a veryevents only ended up adding to the quaintness and
interesting mix of fauna that is uniquely Guatemalan.beauty of Antigua. Don't miss out its beautiful ruins, old
Whether you're visiting it for the first time or you're justchurches, cobble-stoned streets, horse-drawn
coming back because you can't get enough, don't misscarriages, and a whole list of beautiful architectural
out on a few of its most fascinating sites to visit asstructures. Pictures taken here are postcard perfect.
well as activities you will surely enjoy more only in6.) Mayan regions
Guatemala.Seeing the imposing pyramids, you will not help but
1.) Water sportsstare in amazement at the perfect structure of these
Being surrounded by bodies of water, you naturallytriangular temples. There are also ruins that show off
wouldn't want to miss out on your favorite watertheir once great architecture. This is a great way to
sports when in Guatemala. You can go rapid shootingknow of the history and culture of the country.
in the swift flowing waters of the river El Chiquibil or La7.) Shopping
Pasion. Of course, you have your usual scuba divingGuatemalan ingenuity in arts and crafts is evident in
and snorkeling.their colorful cloths. Each craft is carefully woven by
2.) Boat rideshand. There are also silver crafts and the famous
The best way to experience all of Guatemala'sponchos that you can take home as souvenirs.
lagoons, mangroves and the beauty of its waters is to8.) Museums
take a boat ride down Rio Dulce. Here, you might beThe best part about museums here in Guatemala is
lucky enough to see the manatees as this is theirthat they have a showcase of some of the world's
home. People say these manatees look like mermaidsgreatest and oldest archeological finds in the region.
from afar.They also have on display Guatemalan art pieces that
3.) Semana Santa Processionsdepict the country's culture and history. These
To truly get the feel of how much religion is importantmuseums are a must-visit for any visitor.
in the lives of the people of Guatemala, you should visit9.) Lake Atitlan
Guatemala in time for the culmination of the HolyPeople who have sailed its waters all agree that this is
Week. There will be a procession of religious icons,one of most amazing and breathtaking lakes they
and people dressed in purple frocks walk the streetshave ever sailed on. Here, you will experience the
as a testament of their faith. This will surely give you aserenity of its neighboring Mayan settlements. So, you
taste of Guatemalan culture.will definitely want to include this in your itinerary.
4.) Dead-ly festivities10.) Town of Santiago
If the rest of the world celebrates spookiness duringOne good reason to visit this small Mayan town is the
Halloween, Guatemalan's hold festivities for their deadlegend that precedes it. After hearing about the god
on the anniversary for the dead, November 1. TheyMaximon and how he came to be worshipped by the
flock to cemeteries with flowers and candles, donningvillagers, you will definitely want to see where the
skeleton costumes, presents and even skulls. As such,legend started. Also, this is the best place to see and
this has also become an event that a visitor must see.purchase paintings in oil by the locals.