Guatemala Travel and Tourism

A strong culture influenced by Spanish and Maya traditions mixed with beautiful scenery makes Guatemala a popular choice for all kinds of travelers.

Guatemala is bordered by Mexico to the north, Honduras and El Salvador to the southeast, and Belize to the east, with the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea both hugging the country. It is mostly mountainous with numerous volcanic peaks, one reason hikers are attracted to the lush landscape.

Guatemala has been named a biological hotspot for its rich ecosystems and diverse wildlife. For those seeking a sustainable travel experience or adventure, there are numerous activities such as hiking, canopy exploration, horseback riding, biking, bird watching, or fishing. For hikers, maybe it’s the Sierra Los Cuchumatanes, the highest, non-volcanic mountain range in Central America.

Interested in ancient cultures? Numerous Maya sites beg for exploration too. Human civilization in Guatemala dates back to 12,000 B.C. and there’s plenty of evidence of those early cultures. Head to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage site Tikal National Park in the Petén region to visit iconic, ancient Mayan ruins.

Looking for a fresh cup of coffee, close to the source? Head to Cobán in Las Verapaces. Other than great coffee, this rural location is known for its tranquility and verdant forests. The beautiful town of Antigua was once the Spanish capital of Central America - now it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and the city, tucked between three active volcanoes, attracts aspiring Spanish-speakers because of an abundance of Spanish language schools. Lake Aititlan, a breathtaking volcano-rimmed lake, is also popular destination for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Sustainable Lodging in Guatemala

Guatemala offers a wide range of sustainable accommodations. Here you’ll be able to find the old with Spanish architecture, rural farms, beach-side resorts and rustic lodges.

SustainableTrip.org features businesses certified by the GREAT Green Deal program and verified by the Rainforest Alliance.

Find your Sustainable Trip to Guatemala.

Learn more about ecotourism and sustainable tourism in Guatemala on the Rainforest Alliance’s Eco-Index Web site.