MAIN Travel Central America Guatemala

A microcosm of Central America, Guatemala is often mentioned as having the region's finest Mayan ruins, the densest rain forests, the most active volcanoes and the friendliest people.

Remembered for its civil strife and political instability of the 1990's, Guatemala is once again attracting tourists worldwide for its Caribbean climate, colorful mix of Spanish and Mayan culture, and breathtakingly beautiful mountains and lakes.

Although Guatemala City is a main point of entry, many tourists head right out of the modern, crime-ridden capital — to the old colonial capital of Antigua, a respected World Heritage site of cobblestone streets, ancient ruins, colorful cultural events, and fine restaurants.

Other must-see Guatemala attractions include the unforgettable Lake Atitlan, offering spectacular scenic wonders from such lakeside towns as Panajachel and Santiago Atitlan.
Also don't leave Guatemala without seeing Tikal, one of Central America's largest and most impressive Mayan pyramid networks easily accessible from Flores, a nearby tourist hub.

For fun in the sun, skip the commercial Atlantic coast and head for the Pacific, offering black sand beaches around Puerto San Jose including Balneario Chulamar and Balneario Likin.

More about Guatemala travel around the Web:

Guatemala Tourism Commission - The official site offering guides to Antigua, Tikal National Park and other top attractions, tips on visiting Mayan ruins, birdwatching and ecotourism adventures with photo gallery, maps.

Guatemala Travel Guide and Travel Information - Lonely Planet - Excellent guide to the country with practical travel tips, photo galleries, travel video, maps, advice on what to see and do, highlighted locations including Antigua, Chichicastenango, Flores & Takal, Guatemala City and other major tourists spots.

Guatemala | Frommers - Tips and advice from a "best of" list of recommended hotels, restaurants, outdoor adventures, ancient Mayan sites, beaches & lakes, with photos, maps & related resources.

Guatemala Travel Guide - Excellent overview of major attractions, ancient ruins, beaches, local customs, traditional foods, shopping tips, plus maps & photos.

Guatemala travel guide - Wikitravel - Descriptions of major attractions plus insider advice on getting around, practical safety tips.