An active volcano that you can hike or ride a horse up for an unforgettable experience.

Pacaya Volcano, located near Antigua, Guatemala, is an active volcano that offers adventurous hiking tours. It's one of the few places in the world where you can get up close and personal with an active volcano. /n The hike up the volcano is a thrilling experience. The trail is challenging, but the views from the top are worth the effort. You'll get to see the volcano's active lava flows and the stunning landscape of the surrounding area. It's a popular attraction for thrill-seekers and nature lovers, and a must-visit for anyone looking for an adventure in Antigua.

Pacaya Volcano is an active volcano that offers adventurous hiking tours.

A church and monastery showcasing Spanish Baroque architecture, and the resting place of the first saint in Central America.

San Francisco Church in Antigua, Guatemala, is a stunning example of Spanish Baroque architecture. It was originally built in the 16th century, but has been rebuilt several times due to earthquakes. Today, it stands as a testament to the city's resilience and dedication to preserving its cultural heritage. /n The church is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. It's not just a place of worship, but also a place of community. The church hosts various events throughout the year, including religious ceremonies, cultural events, and more. The beautiful design of the church, coupled with its rich history, makes it a must-visit destination in Antigua.

A beautiful church with a rich history, San Francisco Church is a must-visit in Antigua.

A beautiful convent known for its stunning courtyard and peaceful atmosphere.

The Santa Clara Convent is a historic religious site located in the heart of Antigua, Guatemala. Founded in the 18th century, the convent is known for its beautiful baroque architecture, featuring intricate carvings and a stunning courtyard. Visitors can explore the convent's various rooms, including the chapel, cloister, and dormitory, each offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the nuns who once lived here. /n The convent is also home to a small museum, where visitors can learn more about its history and the role it played in the city's religious life. The tranquil atmosphere of the convent makes it a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, and the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes make it a popular spot for photography. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or religion, the Santa Clara Convent is a must-visit when in Antigua.

The Santa Clara Convent is a historic religious site in Antigua, Guatemala, known for its beautiful architecture.

A bustling market where you can buy everything from fresh produce to traditional Guatemalan textiles.

Antigua Market is a vibrant and bustling hub of activity located in the heart of Antigua, Guatemala. The market is a maze of stalls selling a wide range of goods, from fresh fruits and vegetables to local delicacies like tamales and pupusas. The market is also a great place to find handmade crafts and textiles, with many stalls selling beautiful woven goods, pottery, and jewelry. /n The market is not just a place to shop, but also a place to experience local culture. The sounds of vendors hawking their goods, the smell of fresh produce and cooked food, and the sight of locals going about their daily shopping make it a sensory feast. Whether you're looking to buy souvenirs, try local food, or simply soak up the atmosphere, Antigua Market is a must-visit.

Antigua Market is a bustling hub of activity, offering a wide range of goods from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

A tour of a local coffee plantation where you can learn about the coffee-making process and taste some of the freshest coffee in the world.

Antigua's Coffee Plantation is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a unique cultural experience. The plantation is set in the lush greenery of Antigua, providing a serene backdrop for a day of exploration. /n Visitors are taken on a guided tour of the plantation, where they learn about the process of coffee production, from the planting of the beans to the harvesting and roasting. The tour also includes a coffee tasting session, where visitors can sample the plantation's freshly brewed coffee. The plantation also has a shop where visitors can purchase coffee and other souvenirs to take back home. The Coffee Plantation is not just an attraction, but a cultural experience that offers insight into the importance of coffee in Guatemala's economy and culture.

Antigua's Coffee Plantation offers a unique cultural experience, where visitors can learn about coffee production.

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Antigua, Guatemala, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled in a valley surrounded by volcanoes, this city offers a unique blend of Spanish colonial architecture and indigenous heritage. Explore the cobblestone streets, visit the stunning Baroque-style churches, and marvel at the ruins of centuries-old monasteries. Enjoy local cuisine at charming cafes, shop for traditional handicrafts, and immerse yourself in the lively local markets. Don't miss the chance to hike the nearby Pacaya Volcano for breathtaking views. With its perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, Antigua, Guatemala promises an unforgettable travel experience.

Pacaya Volcano

San Francisco Church

Santa Clara Convent

Start your day with a hike up the Pacaya Volcano. This active volcano offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Don't forget to pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at the top.

After your morning adventure, head back to Antigua for a traditional Guatemalan lunch. Try local dishes like pepian, a rich meat stew, or tamales, a type of corn dough filled with meat or cheese.

Spend your afternoon exploring the ruins of the old city. Visit the San Francisco Church and the Santa Clara Convent, both of which offer a glimpse into Guatemala's colonial past.

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local eatery. Try dishes like chiles rellenos, stuffed peppers, or pupusas, thick corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, or meat.

End your day with a visit to a local salsa club. Dance the night away with locals and fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere and music.

Adventure and History in Antigua

Antigua Market

Coffee Plantation

Begin your second day with a visit to the vibrant Antigua Market. Here, you can buy everything from fresh produce and local crafts to traditional textiles and pottery.

For lunch, try a traditional Guatemalan barbecue. Enjoy grilled meats, fresh tortillas, and a variety of salsas and sides.

In the afternoon, take a Coffee Plantation tour. Learn about the process of coffee production, from bean to cup, and sample some of the finest Guatemalan coffee.

For your final dinner in Antigua, enjoy a meal at a rooftop restaurant. Savor the flavors of Guatemalan cuisine as you take in the stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.

End your trip with a visit to a local bar. Enjoy a nightcap as you reflect on your adventures in this beautiful city.

Market Exploration and Coffee Plantation Tour

UTC-6

Antigua is a small city and most of the attractions are within walking distance. The city is laid out in a grid, making it easy to navigate. The streets are cobblestone, so wear comfortable shoes.

Taxis are readily available in Antigua. They do not have meters, so it's best to negotiate the fare before getting in. Taxis are a good option for longer distances or if you're carrying a lot of luggage.

These are brightly colored, modified school buses that serve as public transportation in Guatemala. They are a cheap and authentic way to get around, but they can be crowded and the driving can be fast and erratic.

These are small, three-wheeled vehicles that are a common sight in Antigua. They are a quick and inexpensive way to get around the city. Like taxis, it's best to negotiate the fare before getting in.

Many hotels and tour operators offer shuttle bus services to and from the airport, as well as to other popular destinations in Guatemala. This can be a convenient and stress-free way to travel.

Uber is available in Antigua and can be a convenient and affordable way to get around. You can order a ride using the app on your smartphone. Note that not all drivers may speak English.

Bicycles are available for rent in Antigua. This can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city. Just be aware that the cobblestone streets can make for a bumpy ride.

For a more comfortable and personalized experience, you can hire a private driver. This can be arranged through your hotel or a tour operator. This is a good option if you plan to visit multiple destinations in one day.

For a romantic or nostalgic experience, consider a horse-drawn carriage ride. These are available in the central park and can take you on a tour of the city's historic sites.

A traditional Guatemalan stew made from meat, vegetables, and spices. It's a staple in Antigua and is often served with rice.

Pepian

A traditional turkey soup from Antigua, Guatemala. It's richly spiced with coriander, achiote, and chili peppers.

Kak'ik

A sweet dessert made from ripe plantains and a chocolate sauce known as mole. It's a popular treat in Antigua.

Platanos en Mole

A popular Guatemalan snack made from mashed plantains filled with sweetened black beans. It's a common street food in Antigua.

Rellenitos

A traditional Mesoamerican dish made of masa (a dough made from corn) filled with meats, cheeses, fruits, or other fillings, wrapped in a corn husk and steamed. Tamales are a staple food in Antigua.

Tamales

A dish made from large chili peppers stuffed with meat and vegetables, then battered and fried. It's a popular dish in Antigua.

Chiles Rellenos

A traditional Mexican dish that has been adopted by Guatemalan cuisine. It's made from ripe avocados, lime juice, and various seasonings. It's often served as a starter in Antigua.

Guacamole

A traditional dish from El Salvador that is also popular in Antigua. It's made from thick corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, or meat.

Pupusas

A popular street food in Antigua, elote is a grilled corn on the cob, typically served with cheese, chili powder, and lime.

Elote

A traditional Guatemalan dish made from chicken cooked in a fermented corn drink. It's a unique and popular dish in Antigua.

Gallo en Chicha

A popular beer in Guatemala, Gallo is a light, crisp lager that is often enjoyed in Antigua.

Gallo

A traditional Guatemalan drink made from sweet corn, milk, and sugar. It's a popular non-alcoholic beverage in Antigua.

Atol de Elote

New Year's Day

Maundy Thursday

Good Friday

Easter Saturday

Labor Day

Mothers’ Day (Working Mothers Only)

Army Day Holiday

Independence Day

Dia de la raza

Revolution of 1944

All Saints' Day

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

New Year's Eve

One of the largest and most vibrant open-air markets in Central America, offering a wide variety of goods from handicrafts to food.

Chichicastenango Market

A beautiful lake surrounded by volcanoes and villages, known for its natural beauty and vibrant indigenous culture.

Lake Atitlan

An active volcano that offers guided hikes to the summit for a close-up view of the lava flow.

The second largest city in Guatemala, known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant cultural scene.

Quetzaltenango

A Pacific coast beach known for its black volcanic sand and sea turtle conservation projects.

Monterrico Beach

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to one of the largest and most important Mayan sites in the world.

Tikal National Park

A natural monument in the department of Alta Verapaz, Guatemala, consisting of a natural 300 m limestone bridge, under which passes the Cahabón River.

Semuc Champey

A river in eastern Guatemala, known for its beautiful scenery and abundance of wildlife.

Rio Dulce

The famous Yellow Arch and the Agua volcano in the background

Dome of the Cathedral of Antigua Guatemala

Ruins of La Recoleccion, Church of Antigua Guatemala

Antigua, Guatemala is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque-influenced architecture.

The official language is Spanish, so it would be beneficial to learn some basic phrases.

The local currency is the Guatemalan Quetzal. It's recommended to have some local currency on hand for small purchases.

Credit cards are widely accepted in Antigua, but it's always good to ask beforehand.

The climate in Antigua is mild, with temperatures ranging from 55°F (13°C) to 75°F (24°C).

The rainy season is from May to October, so pack accordingly if you plan to visit during these months.

Antigua is generally safe for tourists, but like any other city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Public transportation is available, but it can be crowded. Taxis and tuk-tuks are also common.

Antigua is at a high altitude, so it's possible to experience altitude sickness. Stay hydrated and take it easy for the first few days.

The tap water in Antigua is not safe to drink. Always opt for bottled water.

Antigua is known for its coffee. Don't miss the opportunity to try some locally grown coffee.

The local cuisine is a mix of Mayan and Spanish influences. Be sure to try some traditional dishes like pepian or tamales.

Tipping is customary in Antigua. A tip of 10% is usually expected in restaurants.

Antigua is a small city and it's easy to get around on foot. However, the cobblestone streets can be uneven, so wear comfortable shoes.

Antigua has a vibrant nightlife with many bars and clubs. However, it's recommended to stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night.

There are many markets in Antigua where you can buy local handicrafts. Remember to bargain, as it's a common practice.

If you're planning to visit during Easter week, book well in advance. This is a popular time for tourists and accommodations can fill up quickly.

Antigua has a slower pace of life. Embrace the laid-back lifestyle and take the time to relax and enjoy the city.

There are many language schools in Antigua if you're interested in learning Spanish.

Always carry a copy of your passport and keep the original in a safe place.

January is the coolest month in Antigua, Guatemala, but it's still quite warm with an average high of 24°C. It's also the driest month, making it a great time to visit for outdoor activities.

February sees a slight increase in temperature, with highs reaching 25°C. It's still dry, so it's a good time to explore the city and its surroundings.

March is a bit warmer, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 26°C. It's the start of the dry season's end, but rainfall is still quite low.

April is the warmest month in Antigua, with highs reaching 27°C. It's also the start of the rainy season, but showers are usually short and in the afternoon.

May is the start of the rainy season, but temperatures remain high, averaging around 27°C. Rain usually falls in the afternoon, leaving the mornings clear for sightseeing.

June is in the middle of the rainy season, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 26°C. Despite the rain, the city remains vibrant and lush.

July is similar to June, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 26°C. Rainfall is still high, but usually falls in the afternoon or evening.

August is a bit cooler, but temperatures still range from 16°C to 26°C. It's still the rainy season, so pack a raincoat if you plan to visit.

September is the wettest month in Antigua, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 25°C. Despite the rain, the city's beauty shines through, making it a unique time to visit.

October sees a decrease in temperature, with highs reaching 25°C. It's the end of the rainy season, so the weather starts to improve towards the end of the month.

November is the start of the dry season, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 24°C. It's a great time to visit as the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded.

December is a cool and dry month, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 24°C. It's a great time to visit for Christmas celebrations and to escape the winter chill.

Antigua, Guatemala, is known for its pleasant climate, often referred to as the "Land of Eternal Spring." However, it's important to note that the weather can vary throughout the year, so it's essential to plan your trip accordingly.

The year in Antigua is divided into two main seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the rainy season (May to October). If you're planning to explore the city's beautiful outdoor attractions, the dry season might be the best time for you. The temperatures during this time range from 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C) during the day, dropping to cooler temperatures at night.

The rainy season, on the other hand, is characterized by afternoon showers, which can sometimes be heavy. However, these showers are usually short-lived and can actually be quite refreshing, bringing the temperature down a bit. The temperatures during the rainy season range from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C).

Regardless of the season, it's recommended to pack layers as the temperature can drop in the evenings. A light jacket or sweater would be ideal for the cooler nights. Also, don't forget your sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong throughout the year.

If you're visiting during the rainy season, it's a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket or an umbrella. Despite the rain, this season has its own charm with lush, green landscapes and fewer tourists.

Remember, weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip. Enjoy your visit to Antigua, Guatemala!

Cookie consent

2-Day Adventurous Off-Path Expedition in Antigua, Guatemala with Friends

About Antigua, Guatemala