Guatemala

Photo of Guatemala
Credit: flickr user DaveWilsonPhotogra
Photo of Guatemala
Credit: flickr user archer10 (Dennis)
Photo of Guatemala
Credit: flickr user DaveWilsonPhotogra
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About Guatemala

“Ancient, diverse and dramatic” would be our three word description of Guatemala. Peru may have Machu Picchu, but Guatemala has its fair share of impressive Mayan monuments too: Tikal being the headliner. And it’s not just Mayan monuments you’ll find; here the Mayan culture still rolls on, in highland villages where locals dress and worship and live in the way they did hundreds of years ago. “Diverse” reflects the Spanish colonial influence, and the other post-colonial international influences too, and “dramatic” is for the scenic landscape: Guatemala’s urban pockets are small and nature puts on a seriously grand show around them, take volcano-ringed Lago de Atitlán, the tall peaks of the Cuchumatanes mountains or the incredible canyons of the Río Dulce. The best places to stay in Guatemala are a diverse collection too. There are some wonderfully romantic choices in the historic, Heritage Listed old city of Antigua Guatemala, and some incredible hotel views around Lago de Atitlán, as well as some fantastic bases for adventurers around Panajachel.

Where to Stay - which city/region?

  • Once capital city, but capital no more, Antigua Guatemala is an ageing beauty with a Heritage Listed old city, rows and rows of carefully restored and pastel painted colonial buildings and a surrounding guard of three volcanoes. This is one of the most popular Guatemalan destinations; people come here for the plazas and the markets, the churches, the Spanish language schools, the volcanic threat and the gardens.
  • The actual capital city is Guatemala City, which is big and busy, with a confronting mix of wealth and poverty that makes it fascinating, but less popular as a tourist destination than Antigua Guatemala.
  • You can’t stay at Tikal, but if this incredible, ancient temple complex is one of the things drawing you to Guatemala then the best places to stay in Guatemala for you are probably Flores or El Remate, where you can take a day trip or several.
  • Lago de Atitlán is marvel-worthily large and scenic, backed by fertile hills and watched over by volcanoes. Santa Cruz la Laguna and Panajachel are great bases in this historic spot. San Marco La Laguna is extremely pretty too, with a Mayan village on the higher ground and a jungly patch closer to the lake where you’ll find some of the best places to stay in Guatemala. All around San Marco La Laguna are banana, avocado and coffee plantations, and in the centre of town there’s a picturesque square with a huge strangler fig. Reiki and other spiritual practices are popular here too, so it’s pretty laid back, and there’s a super clear patch of lake to enjoy.
  • Chichicastenango is an historic town known for its often magical appearance of cobbled streets and red-tiled roofs, for its Thursday and Sunday markets and its pre-Christian beliefs and customs.
  • The spectacular canyons and white water rafting opportunities on the Río Dulce are best accessed from the river’s namesake, Río Dulce.
  • If one of the reasons you’ve come to Guatemala is to confirm that Semuc Champey, the incredible, crystal blue pool that runs like steps, is as beautiful as the postcards of it propose, then you’ll probably need to stay 11 kms away in the town of Lanquin.
  • Quetzaltenago is the second largest city in Guatemala, which means it’s not too big and not too small. It’’s a fantastic place to polish your Spanish, or start learning, because it’s friendly and used to foreigners, but it’s also a great starting point for a trek or hike. This is the starting point for many ascents of Volcán Tajumulco, Central America’s highest point, or to Lago de Atitlán.
  • Lívingston is colourful and friendly, a Caribbean town with a strong local culture, great beaches, lush jungles and a really relaxed vibe. It’s especially picturesque and memorable if you arrive along the Río Dulce, which is often shrouded in mists that roll down off the cliffs, and underneath you are the river’s most famous residents, the elegant manatees.

Our pick of the best places to stay in Guatemala offer a great range, from top end luxury and eco lodges to chic little boutiques that will not break the bank!

The Best Places to Stay in Guatemala

For adventurers

  • Laguna Lodge on the Lago de Atitlán is an incredible treehouse style structure with six luxurious bedrooms and stunning lake views. This is a seriously eco-friendly hotel. With an exemplary restaurant specialising in organic cuisine.
  • Also on the Lago de Atitlán, the Hotel Case Palopo also benefits from some spectacular lake views, and its ten traditionally dressed, but boutique-feeling rooms are beautiful inside as well as out. The infinity pool is impressive, and so is the fine dining restaurant. This is a romantic spot, as well as a remote one.

For a luxury city break

  • Antigua Guatemala’s Hotel Dona Leonor has been beautifully converted from a palace, so its 13 rooms are large and palatial, with chandeliers, tiled floors and intricately carved ceilings. Many of the rooms face a leafy, elegant central courtyard.

Some of the most romantic hotels in guatemala

  • The Pensativo House Hotel, in Antigua Guatemala, is an atmospheric, 26 room property with style, space and luxurious touches. The restaurant is on the terrace with views of the mountains, and a traditional Guatemalan menu. You’re centrally located but it definitely feels secluded and intimate.
  • Also in Antigua Guatemala, within the part of town that’s Heritage Listed, El Convento Boutique Hotel is a boutique hotel converted from an historic building with a tranquil walled garden. Each of its 26 rooms has terracotta floors and walls, beamed ceilings, antique furnishings and large windows opening out onto the garden.

For great value

  • The Good Hotel Antigua does what it says it’s going to do, but it’s probably underselling itself a bit, it could also say it was the ‘good, centrally-located, eco-and-community-minded hotel Antigua”. Expect Scandi-style minimalism but with everything locally made. There’s a hip tapas bar too.
  • Meson Panza Verde is a boutique-style restaurant with 12 rooms. The restaurant is arguably one of the best in Antigua Guatemala, and the rooms are warm and atmospheric with lots of local touches and some impressive Cuban antiques and porcelain tiles. You’re a short walk from the main sights too.
  • In Panajachel, overlooking gorgeous Lago de Atitlán, Tzam Pic Resort is a tranquil, but affordable hideaway. Its rooms are classically simple, with whitewashed walls and beamed ceilings, and unfussy decor. Its spa is indulgent and its infinity pool fantastically positioned to make the most of the lake’s beauty.

Some of the hotels in antigua guatemala

  • The Casa Encantada is a charming, ten room guesthouse with traditional decor of whitewashed walls and beamed ceilings. You’re in a great spot and it’s well priced.
  • Another great option if you prefer a smaller property, the seven room San Rafael Hotel has plenty of atmosphere, a great location and a traditional, but boutique-y feel. It also has a tranquil garden.
  • For something with a Spanish colonial flavour try the Posada del Angel, another seven room property with charm and atmosphere, but this time colonial chic and a rooftop terrace as well.

Prefer an apartment or villa?

  • If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, booking.com.

Travel information

  • Most international flights arrive into La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City and there are regular shuttle services from there to Antigua Guatemala and Panajachel. The other international airport is called Mundo Maya International Airport, and is just outside Santa Elena and Flores.
  • If you’re thinking about hiring a car we recommend checking what our online partners, Rentalcars have to offer.
  • Guatemala is big and its different hubs are very varied in elevation, and in exposure to the ocean, and mountain ranges and other factors that influence weather conditions beyond just the seasons. There’s a wet season and a dry season, but some places are wet all year and some dry. Generally speaking it’s hot around the coast and cool in the mountains. But the most popular time to visit is between December and March which is the dry season. Easter and Holy Week are huge celebrations here and the best places to stay in Guatemala are booked up well in advance over these periods. December and January are very green months here, and particularly beautiful.

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The best hotels in Antigua Guatemala

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Good Hotel Antigua
Good Hotel Antigua

Antigua Guatemala (Antigua Guatemala)

A traditional building, a central location, contemporary design and a very good ethos; this is an undeniably attractive stay. With all profits going to local charities and everything from the staff to the furniture kept entirely local. There's also a hip tapas bar. Nothing's been missed here.

  • Eco break - The hotel donates all its profits to local charities and only uses local labour to help boost the economy
  • City Style - With sleek Scandi style this hotel gives a contemporary offering in this historic city
  • Great walks - Hike up Cerro de la Cruz and enjoy stunning vistas over the town's signature Baroque Architecture
  • Local markets - Visit the city's local markets and pick-up some of the region's unique and colourful handicrafts
from £75 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Meson Panza Verde
Meson Panza Verde

Antigua Guatemala

A chic boutique hotel boasting the finest restaurant in town. Atmospheric throughout find warm terracotta hues, plush chandeliers, Cuban antiques and porcelain tiles. Feast on gourmet cuisine and gently sway to live music. Walking distance from many of the city's main sights. A real gem.

  • Foodies - Longstanding Antigua's premier restaurant. A lively concoction of music and superb cooking.
  • City Style - Languish amongst sumptuously designed rooms and soak up the chic atmosphere.
  • Sights nearby - Antigua is packed full of cultural gems. Be sure to visit the Cathedral of San José and the Palacio de los Capitanes.
  • Great walks - Unwind over an in-house yoga class after all that sightseeing.
from £79 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Peten

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Bolontiku Boutique Hotel
Bolontiku Boutique Hotel

Peten (San Andres San José )

A chic lakeside property set within tranquil surrounds. Smart rooms are minimalist in style; think dark furniture, white washed walls, floor to ceiling windows and secluded terraces. A large pool is the ideal spot to while away lazy hours and for the active there's numerous activities in the area.

  • Total relaxation - A tranquil lakeside property with a luxurious yet laid backed vibe.
  • Birdwatching - Take a guided tour and discover the exciting array of species.
  • Romantic
  • Remote
from £112 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
La Lancha
La Lancha

Peten (Lake Peten Itza)

A luxury hotel boasting an enviable location overlooking the pristine Lake Peten Itzá. Chic rooms are traditional in style with beamed ceilings, white washed walls, antique furniture and colourful local artefacts. Feast on superb cuisine and sample wines from the excellent list. A rural haven.

  • Hideaway - A luxurious hotel set amidst the forest and overlooking Lake Peten Itzá.
  • Local exploring - A fantastic base for exploring the famed Maya ruins at Tikal.
  • Birdwatching - Search for parrots, toucans, motmots, kingfishers, hummingbirds, falcons and vultures.
  • Fishing - Try your hand at fishing with the help of a local fisherman.
from £128 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Panajachel

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Tzam Poc Resort
Tzam Poc Resort

Panajachel (Catarina Palopo)

A tranquil hideaway overlooking Lake Atitalan and set in lush surrounds. Classically styled rooms feature white washed walls, beamed ceilings and simple wooden furniture. An indulgent spa and stunning infinity pool bring complete relaxation. The perfect base to explore the region from.

  • Back to Nature - Boasting spectacular views of Lake Atitalan and the surrounding volcanoes.
  • Local markets - Scour the market for local artefacts in Antigua.
  • Sights nearby - Climb a Mayan pyramid in Tikal.
  • Restrictions on children - Adult only.
from £121 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hotel Casa Palopo
Hotel Casa Palopo

Panajachel

A small boutique property boasting epic lake views and some serious style. Traditionally dressed rooms feature lively colours set against wooden furniture, parquet floors and beamed ceilings. An oblong infinity pool is utterly stunning and a fine dining restaurant is extremely romantic. Rural bliss.

  • Back to Nature - Boasting an epic location overlooking the stunning Lake Atitilan and surrounded by volcanoes.
  • Kayaking - Take a kayak out onto the lake and explore the beautiful landscape.
  • Restrictions on children - Children over 12 are welcomed.
  • Local markets
from £145 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The best hotels in Santa Cruz La Laguna

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La Casa Del Mundo
La Casa Del Mundo

Santa Cruz La Laguna (Lake Atitlán)

A charming lakeside hotel offering a range of apartments, suites, and cosy rooms. While they vary in size, each boasts fabulous views, terracotta tiled floors, beamed ceilings, and local fabrics. A gorgeous hot tub seems to spill into the lake's waters and there are sun terraces to unwind on.

  • Families - Some of the rooms comfortable accommodat 3 - 4 people making them a comfortable choice for those travelling with kids
  • Active Holiday - The perfect base as a jump off point for exploring Mayan ruins, kayaking, hiking, and mountain biking
  • Self catering - There's the option of two apartments complete with kitchenettes, lounge areas, and terraces
  • Value chic - With rooms starting around the $60 mark, this is a very reasonably priced stay
from £48 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Laguna Lodge
Laguna Lodge

Santa Cruz La Laguna (Lake Atitlan)

Find a place where nature and luxury have merged. Sat on the shores of Lake Atitilan and boasting stunning vistas; stay in rustic chic rooms, dine on exemplary cuisine and unwind in the spoiling spa. With sustainability at the heart of this property's philosophy this is a truly unique stay.

  • Eco break - Sustainability is taken seriously here; think solar power, naturally fallen wood for fires and organic produce to name a few.
  • Back to Nature - Boasting an envious lakeside position and with numerous activities on site to explore the surrounding flora and fauna.
  • Restrictions on children - Children 13+
  • Remote
from £242 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees