Discover the ultimate Gay Guatemala itinerary

Though homosexuality is legal for persons over 18 years of age, the reality is that Guatemala is a mostly Catholic and socially conservative country not entirely accepting of the LGBTQ community. You’ll find Guatemala’s most lively gay scene in the capital city, where there’s a smattering of gay bars and an annual Pride festival. That said, public displays of affection are ill-advised anywhere in the country, and even in tourist hot-spots, expect the gay community to be discreet.

Arrestingly beautiful with its cobbled streets, restored colonial buildings, and striking volcano backdrop, Antigua is one of Guatemala’s most visited destinations for a reason. Hidden away in the rolling central highlands just an hour or so from the capital, Antigua, Guatemala was once the prominent seat of Spanish colonial government and served as Guatemala’s capital for some 300 years. Antigua’s Spanish Baroque architecture and cultural legacy have earned the entire city World Heritage status. Ambling the candy-colored town feels akin to traveling through time—albeit with a bevy of farm-to-table restaurants, contemporary art galleries, and chic boutique hotels to keep you comfortable.

It’s possible to spend two carefree days in Antigua and never leave its historic center. Las Capuchinas is a former convent and masterpiece by famed architect Diego de Porres that now serves as a colonial-era art museum—don’t miss it. A veritable playground awaits outside Antigua’s doorstep for those after a bit of adventure. Imposing Volcán de Agua has sweeping Antigua views, while Volcán Acatenango is the spot for avid trekkers keen on an overnight climbing experience. Then there’s Volcán Pacaya, an active volcano that offers climbers with crater views (when conditions allow.) Beyond its volcanoes, venture into the countryside to discover quaint villages, family-run coffee plantations, and enchanting textile markets.

Lake Atitlan is the stuff of storybooks. The deepest lake in Central America, the aquamarine waters are surrounded by lush green hills and traditional Maya villages, over which three majestic volcanos proudly loom. Here, misty mornings morph into sun-dappled afternoons on the water, and sunsets bring with them a kaleidoscope of colors sweeping across the sky, mirroring in the water below. The ever-changing scene is magical—of the sort it’s difficult to leave.

When you’re not kicking back and soaking up the view from any number of chic waterfront retreats, hop on a boat tour for a unique vantage point of the lake and to get to know the surrounding Maya communities. San Pedro, Panajachel, Jaibalito, and San Juan are the main ones, and each has its own discernible flair. For gobsmacking vistas, the hike to the top of Volcan San Pedro is well worth the effort.

Vying for the title of most awe-inspiring Maya Ruin is Tikal, a major civilization inhabited from the 6th – 10th century B.C. and thought to be the most powerful ancient Maya kingdom. This partially restored temple complex lies nestled within the dense rainforest canopy, providing visitors the opportunity to tread along broad limestone paths—with monkeys, agoutis, and other wildlife never far from reach. Arrive early when the heat is tolerable and the jungle awash in a warm morning glow. The drive from Flores is about an hour, and you’ll need approximately half a day to do the ruins justice. When you’ve fully appreciated the temple complex, hop back in the car and head to Rio Dulce. You’ll want ample time for exploring this idyllic town next up on our list of things to do in Guatemala.

Tucked under a towering bridge and surrounded by lush Guatemalan jungle, Rio Dulce is a charming village—and a gateway to the country’s Caribbean coast. Many arrive via yacht from the popular coastal town of Livingston, ready to seek refuge during hurricane season in what the U.S. coast guard has dubbed one of the safest places on the western Caribbean. As the name Rio Dulce suggests, one of the best things to do here is enjoying the scenic river. Rent a kayak to paddle down the emerald waters, or head to waterfall Finca el Paraiso and combine rejuvenating hot springs with a plunge into the cool, natural swimming hole beneath the cascading falls. Round out your Rio Dulce visit with a stop at Castillo de San Felipe, a late 17th-century Spanish fort built for keeping Caribbean pirates at bay. The impressive ruins are located within the Rio Dulce National Park.