Best Places to Visit in Central Highlands | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Central Highlands Travel Guide
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- Central Highlands Travel Videos
- Plan Central Highlands Trip
- Best Places To Visit In Central Highlands
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- Tours And Activities In Central Highlands
- Food And Drinks To Try In Central Highlands
- Best Time To Visit Central Highlands
- Flight Calendar For Central Highlands
- Transportation To Central Highlands
Welcome to the Central Highlands of Guatemala, a region known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich indigenous culture, and vibrant colonial towns. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, this highland region is characterized by its towering volcanoes, lush green valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. One of the highlights of this area is Lake Atitlan, often referred to as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Surrounded by three majestic volcanoes, this serene lake is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Additionally, the Central Highlands is home to the ancient Mayan city of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and numerous churches, Antigua offers a glimpse into Guatemala's rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you're hiking up a volcano, exploring ancient ruins, or immersing yourself in the local culture, the Central Highlands of Guatemala promises an unforgettable travel experience.
Central Highlands Travel Videos
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Best Places To Visit in Central Highlands
1. Antigua: Located in the heart of the Central Highlands, Antigua is a charming colonial city that offers a glimpse into Guatemala's rich history. With its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and stunning architecture, Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts visitors from all over the world. Explore the city's numerous churches, visit the local markets, and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanoes.
2. Lake Atitlan: Nestled amidst the Central Highlands, Lake Atitlan is a true natural wonder. Surrounded by towering volcanoes and picturesque villages, the lake offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Take a boat ride across the crystal-clear waters, hike up the nearby hills for panoramic views, or simply relax on the shores and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.
3. Chichicastenango: Known for its vibrant indigenous culture, Chichicastenango is a must-visit town in the Central Highlands. Every Thursday and Sunday, the town comes alive with its famous market, where locals sell a variety of handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, witness traditional Mayan rituals at the Santo Tomas Church, and experience the authentic flavors of Guatemalan cuisine.
4. Quetzaltenango: Commonly referred to as Xela, Quetzaltenango is the second-largest city in Guatemala and a hub for cultural and educational activities. Explore the city's colonial architecture, visit the local museums, and take part in language immersion programs to learn Spanish. For adventure enthusiasts, nearby attractions such as hot springs, hiking trails, and the Santa Maria volcano offer thrilling experiences.
5. Coban: Situated in the lush green mountains of the Central Highlands, Coban is a paradise for nature lovers. The city serves as a gateway to the famous Semuc Champey, a natural monument consisting of turquoise pools and cascading waterfalls. Explore the nearby caves, go tubing down the Cahabon River, and immerse yourself in the region's unique flora and fauna.
6. Nebaj: Tucked away in the remote mountains of the Central Highlands, Nebaj is a hidden gem that offers an authentic glimpse into indigenous Mayan culture. Explore the traditional villages, hike through the stunning landscapes, and interact with the friendly locals who proudly preserve their ancient traditions. Nebaj is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby Cuchumatanes, the highest non-volcanic mountain range in Central America.
7. Huehuetenango: Located near the border with Mexico, Huehuetenango is a vibrant city known for its coffee production and indigenous communities. Visit the local coffee plantations, learn about the coffee-making process, and sample some of the finest brews in the region. The city also serves as a base for exploring the nearby Todos Santos Cuchumatan, a traditional Mayan town famous for its colorful festivals and traditional clothing.
8. San Pedro La Laguna: Situated on the shores of Lake Atitlan, San Pedro La Laguna is a popular destination for backpackers and adventure seekers. The town offers a laid-back atmosphere, with numerous hostels, restaurants, and bars catering to the international crowd. Explore the surrounding villages, hike up the San Pedro volcano, or simply relax on the lakefront and enjoy the stunning sunsets.
9. Solola: Located just a short distance from Lake Atitlan, Solola is a charming town that offers a glimpse into traditional Mayan culture. Visit the local market, where indigenous people from surrounding villages gather to sell their products, including textiles, pottery, and fresh produce. The town also hosts colorful festivals throughout the year, providing a unique opportunity to witness traditional dances and rituals.
10. Panajachel: Known as the gateway to Lake Atitlan, Panajachel is a bustling town that offers a wide range of activities and amenities for visitors. Explore the local markets, shop for traditional handicrafts, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. Take a boat tour to explore the nearby villages, or simply relax on the town's waterfront and soak in the breathtaking views of the lake and volcanoes.
Hotels Map Of Central Highlands
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Tours And Activities In Central Highlands
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Food & Drinks To Try In Central Highlands
1. Guatemalan Coffee: The Central Highlands region of Guatemala is known for its high-quality coffee production. Be sure to try a cup of freshly brewed Guatemalan coffee, which is known for its rich flavor and smooth taste.
2. Tamales: Tamales are a traditional Guatemalan dish made from masa (corn dough) filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, or vegetables. They are wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection. Tamales are a popular food in Guatemala and are often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack.
3. Atol de Elote: Atol de Elote is a traditional Guatemalan drink made from fresh corn, milk, sugar, and spices. It has a creamy and slightly sweet taste, making it a popular choice for breakfast or as a dessert.
4. Pepian: Pepian is a hearty and flavorful stew that is considered the national dish of Guatemala. It is made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices, including tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chili peppers. The stew is slow-cooked to allow the flavors to meld together, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal.
5. Chiles Rellenos: Chiles Rellenos are a popular dish in Guatemala, especially in the Central Highlands region. They are made by stuffing roasted poblano peppers with a mixture of meat, cheese, or vegetables, and then battering and frying them until golden and crispy. The dish is often served with a tomato-based sauce and rice.
6. Rellenitos: Rellenitos are a sweet treat that is popular in Guatemala. They are made by mashing cooked plantains and mixing them with refried black beans, sugar, and cinnamon. The mixture is then shaped into small balls, fried until golden, and dusted with powdered sugar. Rellenitos are a delicious and indulgent dessert that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
7. Horchata: Horchata is a refreshing and creamy drink that is popular in Guatemala. It is made from rice, milk, sugar, and cinnamon, and is often served over ice. Horchata is a perfect beverage to cool down on a hot day and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
8. Chapin: Chapin is a traditional Guatemalan dish that consists of a grilled steak served with rice, beans, and tortillas. It is a hearty and satisfying meal that showcases the flavors of Guatemala. The dish is often accompanied by a side of guacamole and salsa for added flavor.
9. Gallo Pinto: Gallo Pinto is a popular breakfast dish in Guatemala. It is made by frying rice and beans together with onions, garlic, and spices. The dish is often served with eggs, tortillas, and a side of fresh salsa. Gallo Pinto is a flavorful and filling way to start your day in the Central Highlands.
10. Champurradas: Champurradas are a type of cookie that is popular in Guatemala. They are made from a mixture of flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon, and are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. Champurradas have a crunchy texture and a sweet and buttery flavor, making them a delightful treat to try in the Central Highlands.
Best Time To Visit Central Highlands
The best time to visit the Central Highlands in Guatemala is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant and mild, with little to no rainfall. The main attractions in the Central Highlands, such as the Mayan ruins of Tikal and the colonial city of Antigua, can be enjoyed without the interruption of heavy rain. Additionally, the landscape in the Central Highlands is lush and green during the dry season, making it a scenic and picturesque destination. However, it is important to note that the peak tourist season in the Central Highlands is from December to February, so it may be more crowded during this time.
Flight Calendar For Central Highlands
Use our flight calendar to discover the Cheapest Days and Months to Book Flight to Central Highlands.
Transportation To Central Highlands
There are several transportation options to Central Highlands, Guatemala.
1. Flight: You can fly to La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, which is the closest major airport to the Central Highlands. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Quetzaltenango or Huehuetenango, which are both located in the Central Highlands region.
2. Bus: There are regular bus services from Guatemala City to various towns in the Central Highlands, such as Quetzaltenango, Chichicastenango, and Antigua. The bus journey can take several hours, depending on the destination.
3. Private Car: You can also hire a private car or taxi to drive you to the Central Highlands from Guatemala City. This option provides more flexibility and convenience, but it can be more expensive.
4. Shuttle Service: Some travel agencies and hotels offer shuttle services from Guatemala City to the Central Highlands. These shuttles are usually more comfortable and convenient than public buses, but they may have limited schedules.
Once you are in the Central Highlands, you can use local transportation options such as buses, taxis, or tuk-tuks to get around and explore the different towns and attractions in the region.