Guatemala

Guatemala is Central America's most populous nation and widely recognized as a very diverse cultural tourist destination full of rich history and exuberant nature that create enjoyable enriching experiences. Ancient and modern traditions and archaeological heritage (that includes being the cradle of Mayan civilization) are outstanding features of this ancient land. It is also the capital of sail fishing for sports enthusiasts and there is much to do for kids with their version of Disneyland-like amusement and waterparks. 

Guatemala is a country formed by a society made up of an intermingling of different cultures over the last 500 years between the descendants of the Spanish conquistadors, African slaves and indigenous societies of Mayas, Xincas and Garifunas with their distinctive inherited cultural expressions. Guatemala is home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the Spanish colonial city of Antigua, the Mayan ruins of Tikal National Park, and the ruins of Quirigua.
Guatemala City, its capital is a metropolis with over four million inhabitants, presents a picture of contrasts between the Colonial and the neo-Classic architecture and combines modern buildings with museums and historic monuments. The historical center boats an amazing cluster of 18th century buildings that take you back in time; among them the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, the Commercial Gateway, the Centennial Park and Central Market.
Antigua, about 45 km from Guatemala City, was the capital of Guatemala’s Kingdom for 233 years but was almost destroyed by an earthquake in 1773 and abandoned as the capital. It was since then that the city was referred to as la Antigua Guatemala (the old Guatemala). It is a popular tourist destination with brightly colored houses, cobblestone streets and with churches and monasteries of all shapes and sizes, many of which are ruins. Many of the ruins have beautiful gardens and are open to the public. Antigua attracts many artists and writers and has some of the best restaurants, shopping, and art galleries in Central America.
Lake Atitlan takes its name from the Mayan word, “Atitlan”, which translates to, “the place where the rainbow gets its colors”. Lake Atitlan location is quite uniquely stunning because it is surrounded by three dormant volcanoes and steep cliffs and dotted with Mayan villages around its shores. The lake is a result of volcanic activity that occurred nearly 85,000 years ago and it is commonly recognized as the deepest lake in all of Central America. Lake Atitlán with its colorful surrounding towns and villages is one of the most beautiful places in Guatemala.
For those wanting to know more about Mayan culture, you should not miss the Mayan Ruins at Tikal National Park in Guatemala’s northernmost area of Petén, a short flight away from Guatemala city. Many consider Petén as the cradle of Mayan civilization because it has some of the oldest Mayan ruins, including Tikal, set in beautiful tropical jungle, protected as national parks.