Described by some as a magical country, the mountains, jungles, villages and urban centres of Guatemala are undeniably other-worldly. The exquisite colonial architecture, volcano-ringed lakes, mountain lagoons and rich Mayan ancestry are absolutely unforgettable. From the massive capital city to the rustic fishing huts of the coast, Guatemala is astounding.
Travellers that come to discover the ‘real’ Guatemala will take away a different impression every time, but one thing is sure: the pure beauty and enthralling mystery that enshroud this incredible country are worth every effort.
Guatemala City
Guatemala City, locally known as Guate, is both the capital and the largest urban agglomeration within Central America. Spread across a flattened mountain range riddled with deep ravines, Guate is not the prettiest capital city in the world.
It is, however, the cultural epicentre of Guatemala with the country's most influential writers and artists in attendance, and every premier national artifact in residence as well. Guate enjoys a sophisticated restaurant scene as well as a healthy nightlife, though, if asked, most city dwellers would rather live in the nearby town of Antigua.
Antigua
Ringed by three volcanoes and covered with the brilliant sprays of bougainvillea, Antigua is as picturesque a town as can be imagined. Very much assembled in the Scandinavian style, the pastel facades and terracotta roofs are lovely to look at while enjoying the colonial-style boutique accommodations and premier restaurants, touted as some of the best in the country.
Quetzaltenango
Quetzaltenango is considered Guatemala’s second city and a wonderful place for students of the Spanish language, volcano naturalists, foodies and musicians. The Guatemalan architectural style of layering has left Xela, as the locals call it, with a fairly gloomy, almost Gothic feel as Spanish influences overlay German-built structures.
It is a great jumping-off point for forays to the active volcano of Santiaguito and the Tajumulco volcanoes which are the highest point in Central America. Travellers embarking on the three-day trek to Lake Atitlan, a volcano-ringed lake in the Highlands, also use Xela as a base.
Towns
Other points of interest include the town of Chichicastenango, home to one of Central America’s oldest and most immense market, Tilapita, a rustic beach village perfect for serious sun-soaking, and Laguna Lachua, a jungle-fringed lagoon that requires serious effort to reach but whose beauty merits the journey. Mayan enthusiasts will want to head to the towns of Quiriga and Copan in order to see some of the best preserved carvings and stonework in the region.
Guatemala
Featured marinas
featured marinas
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Herzliya Marina
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Hamble Point Marina
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Port de Plaisance de Bonifacio
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Marina Real Juan Carlos I
Marina Real Juan Carlos I is an exciting destination of choice for yachts, with quality facilities and services for every need.
Gouvia Marina
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Marina Port Mahón
10 minutes walk from the historical town of Mahón is Marina Mahón, offering high quality service to yachts up to 50m in length.
Mgarr Marina
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Zea Marina
Totally renovated in 2004 for the Olympic Games, Zea Marina is a high quality marina with approximately 670 berths for yachts up to 120m in
Port Pierre Canto
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Samos Marina - Pythagorio
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Manoel Island Marina
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The Barcadere Marina
Located in the sheltered North Sound, The Barcadere Marina is the oldest place of berth in Grand Cayman.
Haslar Marina
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Royal Phuket Marina
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