 WELCOME |
Welcome to Guatemala, the land of imposing volcanoes, misty cloud forests and rich Maya heritage. Here unexpected adventures await all visitors. The country will bewitch you with its stunning landscapes, mysterious archaeological sites and dense forests.
Welcome to Guatemala, the land of volcanoes, cloud forests and the resplendent quetzal. From coast to coast, Guatemala is a country full of unexpected adventures and the vital experience of visiting a natural paradise. Visitors will find an abundance of ecosystems, mystical Maya cities and a country rich in heritage, folklore and culture.
Many travelers will arrive with a list of sites to see and the only dilemma they will face is picking and choosing from it. Hikers and naturalists may marvel at the tropical forests at the tropical forests growing in a variety of climates spanning 42,000 square miles of mountains, plains and coastline. Others may head to the rushing white-water rivers or the exploration of an indigenous town. The experience of traveling through Guatemala is one you won't soon forget.
One of the larger countries of the Central American isthmus, Guatemala is unique among its neighbors. Our large indigenous population, rich in culture and deeply rooted in Maya heritage, gives such texture and depth that it is virtually unsurpassed in the world.
Volcanic and seismic activity have made this country into an intensely mountainous region reigned over by 37 volcanoes. Nestled here and there are plains and plateaus. The volcanic fertile soil gives life to the lush vegetation. Here you will find spiky birds of paradise growing wild in the region of Petén and towering ceibas stretching high into the canopy. You will gaze at one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, Lake Atitlán as it shines out from the shadows of three volcanoes.
The traveler intent on seeing as much of the country as possible, will be well pleased with the possibilities available. For naturalists, the country is rich in the biodiversity of both flora and fauna. Elusive animals such as the jaguarundi and quetzal and as exotic as toucans and manatee. Avian enthusiasts will be put to the test when out for an early morning sojourn in the forest.
In essence, Guatemala is a haven for naturalists intent on keeping contact with nature. Every region in the country has its unique landscape and ecosystem worth careful exploration. But the country isn't just for those interested in one on one with Mother Earth. There are incredible towns and cities just waiting to be explored by curious travelers. |
Visit the cobblestone streets of the town founded by Spanish conquistadors, Antigua Guatemala. Wander through its colonial buildings or visit one of its many museums. Whip out the camera and photograph gorgeous hand carved stone fountains that date back to the early 17th century.
Some of the most interesting towns in Guatemala are a pleasant drive to get to and a must on everyone's list. The Rio Dulce area on the Caribbean coast is incredibly beautiful and offers activities such as sailing, horseback riding and balmy, tropical weather. Take the river out to the bay and spend a few days dancing to the reggae beat in Livingston under swaying palm trees.
Travelers can wander along the small, winding streets of quaint villages and try their hand at bartering for hand-woven textiles or carved handicrafts. Enter the confines of a church in Chichicastenango and witness the religious fervor of the indigenous as they practice their unique blend of Catholic faith and Maya beliefs.
When visiting the country's capital, Guatemala City, be sure to take a tour through the historical center. The capital is a moving metropolis full of the hustle and bustle typical of any large city. But alongside its modern buildings, you will find hundred-year-old churches and homes dating back to the 19th century.
Several museums in the city offer fabulous collection of both ancient artworks such as stales and statues, and contemporary paintings and sculptures. You can even see a collection of all the different textiles and colors used by the different indigenous groups in the Museo Ixchel.
The activities are as varied as the travelers who practice them are. Whether you wish to rediscover nature by rafting or trekking, or simply enjoy a sunbath on a volcanic black sand beach, the opportunities abound.
Don't consider leaving until you've experienced the awe of visiting one of the country's most astounding sites - Tikal. The thrill of standing where Maya priests once stood, high above the canopy, is not easily matched. Aside from Tikal, there are several smaller settlements to see. Uaxactún, Yaxjá, Dos Pilas and Piedras Negras are just a few of them.
The dense tropical jungle has begun to claim these architectural treasures but they are still as imposing as they once were. The sounds of the forest around you only add to the experience. The raucous call of the macaws and the howler monkeys serve to transport you back to a time of kings and many gods.
We welcome you to our country. Take the time to get to know our rich culture and diverse heritage as you travel through the "Land of Eternal Spring". Discover the natural beauty of our mountains clad in misty cloudforest and our rushing rivers. Lazily kayak through winding mangroves and estuaries in search of exotic birds and recharge your solar batteries on one of our many black sand beaches.
All these informations are provided by courtesy of Destination Guatemala and Sol y Luna |
