Guatemala
Ancient Beauty and Mysticism

Perhaps no other place in the world offers so much beauty and mysticism than Guatemala. Visiting what is called “Alma de la Tierra,” (Soul of the Earth) for the first time can be an unforgettable and thrilling experience. Its authentic and magnificent limestone plateaus, pristine lakes, rainforests, jungles and people have seduced travelers from all over the world to this exuberant place.

Although it is a relatively small country, covering 42,355 square miles, it has one of the most diverse landscapes in Central America. It shares the northwestern border with Mexico and its northeastern border with Belize. To the south, it touches El Salvador and Honduras.

To truly appreciate the beauty of Guatemala, you must appreciate its people. Over 55 percent of the population is Maya Indian, 35 percent is Ladino (Maya and European descent) and the remaining 10 percent is of mixed heritage. The Maya Indians still embrace their traditions and celebrate their heritage through religious rituals, music, dance, and their traditional traje (dress). Tribes are recognized throughout the entire country, they speak their own language, comprising of 24 Maya dialects. On the other hand, the Ladinos, embrace the modern way of life and largely run the government.

La Antigua
At only 45 km west of Guatemala City, Antigua is the best starting point for your trip. This city of churches is considered to be one of the most captivating and beautiful colonial cities in the world. As you walk along the narrow cobblestone streets, enjoy the architectural uniqueness of the buildings, each of them conserve details of the original construction, many of which are Baroque style. Take a walk to La Plaza Central, and the church of La Merced. The monastery attached to La Merced was destroyed by the earthquakes, and never rebuilt. Within the ruined cloister is the “Fuente de Pescados” (Fountain of the Fish), named for the fish-breeding experiments done by the Mercedarian brothers. It has a diameter of over 80 feet and is the largest of Antigua’s many fountains.

While in Antigua, take an on-foot adventure to the Hotel Casa Santo Domingo, and el Mercado Central. Be prepared to encounter labyrinths filled with vendors. If you get hungry, a great spot to eat is at the restaurant “La Fonda de la Calle Real.” Former U.S. President Bill Clinton ate here when he was in Guatemala. Enjoy the colonial building and the famous Guatemalan mouth-watering dish Antigueño (grilled sausage) and Pollo Pepián.

Before departing Antigua, don’t miss the Jade Factory and Showroom, where jade is carved and is of the best quality.

Lake Atitlán

Both locals and visitors come together at one of the most enchanted lakes. Author Aidous Huxley once referred to Lake Atitlán as “the most beautiful place in the world.” This deep blue wide lake is only three hours northwest of Guatemala City. Visitors are drawn by its panoramic blend of the sky, volcanoes and lake. It sits 5,128 feet above sea level, covering 49.3 square miles and reaching down 1,049 feet. A spectacular view can be seen from the Hotel Atitlán. The lake is surrounded by many towns and tiny villages, so be prepared to hop on a ferry or boat to arrive there, for it is the main source of transportation. Each village has something to offer so don’t miss them!

Panajachel is one of the largest towns at the northeastern shore of the lake. It has one of the largest outdoor handcrafts in Guatemala. Women wear their traditional dresses, a hand-embroidered huipil (tunic), stacks of wood on their heads and carry babies on their back. Many speak Spanish, but their main language is Cachikel. Also meet Maximón, a famous Maya saint. Bring diez quetzales (Q10) if you want to take a picture of this figure.

Explore other villages around the lake like Santiago Atitlán, Santa Catarina Palopó and San Antonio Palopó.

If you truly want to immerse yourself in their rich culture you should visit El Cerro de Pascual Abaj, (Shrine of Pascual Abaj), a shrine dedicated to the Maya earth god. If you’re lucky, you will see a Chamán (shaman). A shaman is a member of a tribe who acts as a medium between the visible world and an invisible spirit world. They practice magic or sorcery for purposes of healing, divination, and control over natural events. Usually they gather here and use flowers, incense and alcohol to worship. As you hike up the mountain, you may encounter several alters with candles, figures and much more things. I was fortunate to witness several Chamánes performing what is called a limpia (cleansing of the inner soul) to another person when I arrived to the location. During the ritual do not interrupt or make noise, they will consider it disrespectful to their gods.

If you decide to stay the night, try the Mayan Inn. Each room is unique in its own, each is different, there are no keys or locks from outside, only from the inside. There is no television or air conditioning (not needed), but you will be amazed by the courtship of those who work there. They make sure you don’t leave anything behind.

Tikal
Head to the famous ruins know as “Where Spirit Voices are Heard,” located in the middle of the Tikal National Park by bus or plane. For the purpose of saving time it is recommended to arrive by plane. Arrive to the Mundo Maya International Airport from the Aurora International Airport. Enjoy the exploration!

According to historians, Tikal was founded in 700 B.C., although construction started as early as 500 B.C. and the pyramids were completed by 100 B.C.

Make sure you wear comfortable shoes or sneakers to climb the pyramids. As you enter the National Park, meet the famous twin pyramids: Temple I and Temple II at the Great Plaza. As you continue your walk, enjoy the beauty of the rest of the temples, Temple III to Temple VI. Also enjoy the Bat Palace, and one of the oldest pyramids in Tikal, El Mundo Perdido (The Lost World), where ceramic pottery and indigenous artifacts were uncovered while excavating. It was also considered an astronomical pyramid. Experience what it was like being a Mayan warrior by climbing the decaying stairway leading to the top of the temples. While on the top, enjoy the scenery. Remember, Tikal is considered the premier city of the ancient Mayan civilizations. It remains one of the most famous Maya sites discovered in the world.

Before your trip ends, make sure you stop for the famous micheladas at one of the many docks on the Lake Petén Itza. Relax and enjoy the sunset as you cool down from the all-day walk and climbing.