10 Best Places for Guatemala Solo Travel

This article will bring you all the things that you should be about Guatemala Solo Travel.

If you’re like me and love traveling alone, Guatemala is a destination that should be on your radar. It’s a country filled with stunning landscapes, rich history, and friendly locals, making it perfect for solo travel.

Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or sipping coffee at a local café, there’s always something to discover. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know for Guatemala solo travel, including the best places to visit, tips for staying safe, and where to eat, drink, and stay.

Best Places for Guatemala Solo Travel

Guatemala is brimming with exciting spots, so here are my top 10 places you can’t miss:

Antigua

This charming colonial city is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of my favorite places in Guatemala. The cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and surrounding volcanoes make it a photographer’s paradise.

While here, you can explore Parque Central, visit the Santa Catalina Arch, and hike up Volcán de Pacaya, which offers a relatively easy trek and the chance to roast marshmallows over volcanic rocks!

Lake Atitlán

Lake Atitlán is breathtakingly beautiful, surrounded by volcanoes and small villages. Each village around the lake has its own vibe. I loved staying in San Pedro, where you can hike Indian Nose for sunrise views.

If you prefer a more relaxed experience, head to San Marcos, known for yoga retreats and quiet serenity. The lake is also great for kayaking and paddleboarding.

Tikal National Park

Tikal is one of the most impressive Mayan ruins in the world. Located deep in the jungle, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. I recommend doing an early morning or sunset tour to avoid crowds and witness wildlife like howler monkeys and toucan birds.

Climbing the temples (especially Temple IV) offers incredible views over the jungle canopy.

Semuc Champey

If you love nature, Semuc Champey is a must-visit. These stunning turquoise pools are a natural wonder nestled in the jungle. Besides swimming in the pools, you can hike to the viewpoint for breathtaking views from above.

I also enjoyed exploring the nearby K’an Ba Cave with just a candlelight to guide me through the water-filled tunnels – an adventurous experience!

Flores

Flores is a small, picturesque town located on an island in Lake Petén Itzá. It’s the perfect base for visiting Tikal but also worth exploring on its own.

Wander around the colorful streets, enjoy a boat ride on the lake, or take a trip to the nearby Petencito Zoo and Archaeological Park Tayasal.

You can also visit El Mirador, another ancient Mayan city, accessible by a multi-day jungle trek.

Chichicastenango

This town is famous for its vibrant market, one of the largest in Central America. The market is held on Thursdays and Sundays, and you’ll find everything from handwoven textiles to traditional masks and fresh produce.

If you’re looking for a cultural experience, don’t miss Santo Tomás Church, where locals blend Catholic and Mayan spiritual practices. I loved wandering through the market and picking up some unique souvenirs.

Quetzaltenango (Xela)

Known locally as Xela, this city is less touristy, giving you an authentic experience of Guatemalan culture.

It’s a great base for hiking, with options like the challenging Volcán Tajumulco, the highest peak in Central America, or the more moderate Santa María.

Xela is also famous for its hot springs, such as Fuentes Georginas, where you can relax after a day of exploring.

Livingston

If you’re craving something different, head to the Caribbean town of Livingston. This town has a unique Garifuna culture, with a mix of African, Caribbean, and indigenous influences.

While there, I recommend trying tapado, a traditional coconut seafood stew. You can also take a boat ride through the scenic Rio Dulce canyon or visit the stunning Seven Altars waterfalls.

Monterrico

Monterrico is the place to go if you’re looking for some beach time. The beaches here have unique black volcanic sand, and the laid-back vibe is perfect for relaxation.

Besides lounging on the beach, I recommend visiting the Turtle Hatchery to learn about conservation efforts and, if you’re lucky, witness baby turtles being released into the ocean.

For more adventure, you can take a mangrove tour in the nearby Monterrico Nature Reserve.

Rio Dulce

This area is a true hidden gem. Rio Dulce is a river that flows through dense, lush jungles, and the best way to explore it is by boat. The journey takes you past caves, hot springs, and local wildlife.

I loved stopping at Castillo de San Felipe, an old Spanish fort that once protected the region from pirates. You can also stay in eco-lodges along the river, surrounded by nature.

Is it Safe to Travel to Guatemala Alone?

Yes, it’s safe to travel to Guatemala solo, but like any destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. I found most places to be friendly, especially tourist-heavy spots like Antigua and Lake Atitlán. However, in larger cities like Guatemala City, I recommend sticking to well-traveled areas and avoiding night travel.

A few key safety tips I followed were:

• Always use registered taxis or rideshare apps like Uber, especially in cities.
• Avoid flashing valuables like expensive cameras or jewelry.
• Trust your instincts! If a situation doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to leave.

Solo Travel Tips for Guatemala

Every country has its quirks, and Guatemala solo travel is no exception. Here are some of my favorite tips that I picked up during my trip:

• Learn basic Spanish: While many people in tourist areas speak English, knowing a few key Spanish phrases goes a long way in making friends and navigating.
• Stay connected: I got a local SIM card for about $15. It kept me connected for directions and staying in touch with friends.
• Use shuttle services: Traveling between cities is easy with shared shuttle vans. They’re affordable and reliable. For example, a ride from Antigua to Lake Atitlán costs around $12-15.
• Pack light: If you plan to take local chicken buses (which I highly recommend for the adventure), packing light makes it much easier.
• Keep small bills: In smaller towns, I noticed most shops only accepted cash, and it’s hard to break large bills, so keep plenty of smaller ones on hand.

Where to Stay in Guatemala

There are plenty of accommodation options for solo travelers in Guatemala, from budget hostels to boutique hotels. Here are some top recommendations:

• Selina Antigua ($25-$80 per night) – A trendy spot with dorms and private rooms, great for meeting other solo travelers.
• Hotel Casa del Mundo, Lake Atitlán ($40-$80 per night) – A beautiful cliffside hotel with amazing views of the lake.
• Casa Amelia, Flores ($25-$50 per night) – A cozy, budget-friendly option with a great location near Tikal.
• Zephyr Lodge, Lanquín (Semuc Champey) ($30-$80 per night) – Known for its stunning views and social vibe, perfect if you’re looking for some fun!

Places to Eat & Drink in Guatemala

Guatemalan food is delicious, and there are some great places to try local dishes:

• Café Sky, Antigua – A rooftop café with views of the volcanoes. I had a delicious meal here for around $10.
• Los Tres Tiempos, Antigua – Traditional Guatemalan dishes with a modern twist. I loved the Pepián, which is a traditional stew, for about $12.
• Samsara, Lake Atitlán – A vegetarian-friendly café with incredible smoothie bowls, costing around $7.
• Tacos El Portal, Guatemala City – If you’re craving tacos, this local spot offers them for as little as $2 each.
• El Barrio, Flores – A lively spot for drinks with friends, where cocktails are around $6.

Best Time To Visit Guatemala

The best time for Guatemala solo travel is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. I visited in March and had fantastic weather. The rainy season, from May to October, isn’t terrible, but it can affect travel in more rural areas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Guatemala

Is Guatemala expensive?
Guatemala is very budget-friendly. You can get by on $30-50 a day, depending on your activities.

Do I need a visa for Guatemala?
Most countries, including the US and EU, can enter Guatemala without a visa for up to 90 days.

How to get around Guatemala?
I recommend shuttle buses for longer distances and chicken buses for short trips. They’re fun, colorful, and affordable!

Conclusion

In my experience, Guatemala solo travel was an unforgettable adventure. The country’s diversity, from ancient ruins to bustling markets, and the warmth of its people make it a perfect destination for solo travelers.

Whether you’re hiking volcanoes, exploring Mayan history, or just soaking in the stunning landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love in Guatemala. Safe travels, and enjoy every moment of your solo journey!