Most Scenic Road Trips in Guatemala City, Guatemala
1. Volcán Pacaya
A scenic road trip to an active volcano where you can roast marshmallows in its lava!
- Active Volcano: One of the most active volcanoes in Guatemala.
- Marshmallow Roasting: Unique opportunity to roast marshmallows using lava from the volcano.
- Nighttime Hikes: Offers guided night hikes to watch the lava flows.
2. Lago de Atitlán
Stunningly beautiful lake surrounded by three volcanoes.
- Three Volcanoes: Offers a unique view of San Pedro, Tolimán, and Atitlán volcanoes.
- Indigenous Villages: Four indigenous Tz'utujil and Kaqchikel Maya villages along its shores.
- Yoga Retreats: Popular for yoga retreats and meditation centers.
3. Semuc Champey
A natural bridge over an azure pool fed by underground rivers.
- Clear Water Pools: Crystal clear water pools perfect for swimming.
- Underground River System: Featuring an extensive underground river system.
- Hiking Trails: Numerous hiking trails for various skill levels.
4. Fuentes Georginas
Hot springs nestled in the lush greenery of Guatemala's highlands.
- Georgina Springs: Natural hot springs with mineral-rich water.
- Lush Greenery: Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.
- Spa Services: Offers various spa services for relaxation.
5. Parque Nacional Tikal
Explore ancient Mayan ruins hidden deep within the rainforest.
- Ancient Ruins: Home to six massive pyramids and numerous smaller structures.
- Rainforest Setting: Set within the heart of the tropical rainforest.
- Nighttime Tours: Offers guided tours at night to witness the Mayan ruins under the stars.
6. Cerro de la Cruz
A scenic road trip to the iconic cross overlooking Antigua Guatemala.
- Iconic Cross: Famous landmark of Antigua Guatemala.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanoes.
- Hiking Trails: Easy hike with well-maintained trails to reach the cross.
7. Parque Nacional Acatenango
A scenic road trip to the base of Volcán Acatenango for a sunrise hike.
- Active Volcano: An active stratovolcano offering stunning views.
- Sunrise Hike: Known for its breathtaking sunrise hikes.
- Volcán de Fuego Views: Offers unparalleled views of nearby Volcán de Fuego.
8. Lago Petén Itzá
A large lake with Mayan ruins on its shores.
- Mayan Ruins: Home to the Mayan ruins of San Juan del Obispo.
- Lake Activities: Offers activities like fishing, boating, and swimming.
- Indigenous Culture: Preserves the rich indigenous Mayan culture.
9. Parque Nacional Quetzal
A scenic road trip to a national park known for its colorful quetzal birds.
- Colorful Quetzal Birds: Known as the home of the resplendent quetzal bird.
- Tropical Rainforest: Set within a lush tropical rainforest.
- Hiking Trails: Offers hiking trails for bird watching and nature exploration.
10. Parque Natural El Chayal
A scenic road trip to a park with three beautiful lakes.
- Three Lakes: Features three interconnected lakes.
- Nature Reserves: Protects various species like the jaguar and puma.
- Eco-Lodges: Offers eco-lodges for a sustainable stay.
11. Cerro El Ostional
A scenic road trip to a hilltop offering panoramic views of Lake Amatitlán.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Amatitlán.
- Historic Site: Site of a historic battle between the K'iche' Maya and Spanish invaders.
- Hiking Trails: Features easy hiking trails with stunning views.
12. Parque Nacional Irazú
A scenic road trip to an extinct volcano with a crater lake.
- Extinct Volcano: An extinct volcano with a crater lake at its peak.
- Crater Lake: Features a deep, emerald-green crater lake.
- Hiking Trails: Offers hiking trails around the crater for exploration.
13. Lago Güija
A secluded lake surrounded by cloud forests and indigenous villages.
- Secluded Lake: A lesser-known yet stunningly beautiful lake.
- Cloud Forests: Surrounded by lush cloud forests.
- Indigenous Villages: Home to various indigenous Mam and Ixil communities.
14. Parque Nacional Pacaya Samayá
A scenic road trip to a park with two active volcanoes.
- Active Volcanoes: Features two active volcanoes: Pacaya and Samayá.
- Lava Flows: Occasionally features lava flows from Pacaya.
- Hiking Trails: Offers hiking trails for exploring the volcanoes and surrounding landscapes.
15. Cerro del Naranjo
A scenic road trip to a hilltop with panoramic views of Lake Amatitlán.
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Amatitlán.
- Historic Site: Site of the Battle of La Verbena between the K'iche' Maya and Spanish invaders.
- Hiking Trails: Features easy hiking trails with stunning views.