Guatemala
With its storied history and deep-rooted culture, a luxury vacation in Guatemala is about being at one with the past whilst enjoying the present.
Guatemala ranges through lush rainforest, volcanic lakes, sophisticated cities and mighty Mayan ruins. Its breathtaking scenery, lively markets and artisanal communities make it one of Central America’s most captivating countries.
Guatemala remains an offbeat destination and has developed more slowly (and perhaps more consciously) than some of its neighbours. Each region has a few small lodges or guest houses providing comfort to travellers exploring this enchanting country.
Journey through the country’s highlands to discover the colonial, pastel-painted city of Antigua, traditional market towns, volcano-encircled Lake Atitlán, delicious food, bona fide hospitality, and rich colours every way you turn. All of Central America’s enchanting assets can be enjoyed on a luxury vacation in Guatemala – a small, unassuming country that receives only a fraction of the numbers that flock to Mexico’s similarly impressive Mayan ruins and beaches.
What sets Guatemala apart is how travellers find themselves naturally immersed in local life. Refreshingly, the country is not over-adapted for tourists and from the moment you arrive you will enjoy a genuine sense of local rhythms.
Locals are immensely proud of their heritage and traditions, celebrating and preserving them in day-to-day life. Perhaps the most rewarding elements of a luxury holiday in Guatemala is a connection with the locals and people.
It is an easy hop over the border into Belize to add on a few days at the beach. We work with a host of boutique hotels and hand-picked private island hideaways, all fringed by warm Caribbean waters with close access to the second largest barrier reef in the world, as well as the famous Blue Hole for world-class scuba diving and snorkelling.
Select a Sense
Guatemalan cuisine is a blend of Mayan and Spanish cultures. Staples include pepian (spicy meat stew), kak’ik (turkey soup), and tamales. Their coffee is some of the best in the world. Tortillas are ubiquitous, and there is an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Guatemalan music and dance blends Mayan, African, and Spanish elements. Marimba, the national instrument, dominates the soundscape. Traditional dances like the Deer Dance and the Dance of the Conquest, in which performers wear vibrant costumes and masks, depict historical and cultural narratives.
LISTEN INFresh coffee, jade jewellery, wooden masks, coffee, Ron Zacapa rum, quetzal feather products and Guatemalan chocolates.
For textiles and the best of Guatemalan textile art, we thoroughly recommend Luna Zorro.
Some Recommended reading…
Guatemalan literature intertwines Indigenous and Spanish influences. Classic works include Miguel Ángel Asturias’ Men of Maize, a magical realism masterpiece reflecting Indigenous culture.
Contemporary literature shines with Rodrigo Rey Rosa’s The African Shore, blending modern themes with traditional storytelling. Poetry lovers might enjoy Luis Cardoza y Aragón’s The Conquest of the Air, offering profound insights into Guatemalan society and identity.
READ MOREDiscover more of our favourite locations in Guatemala…
“We loved Antigua and Lake Atitlán, they were a fabulous contrast. The whole team of guides were smiley and helpful and, after some hesitations about Guatemala, we felt safe and impeccably well looked-after. It was a very memorable trip.”
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