Central Valley
Colonial Antigua, smoking volcanoes, and the sprawling capital in Guatemala's heartland
Quick Stats
location_city Cities in this Region
Antigua Guatemala
Cobblestone colonial gem cradled between three volcanoes and frozen in time
Guatemala City
Chaotic capital hiding world-class museums and a vibrant food scene behind its grit
emoji_events Bounties in Central Valley
Wander the Ruins of La Merced Church
Stand beneath the ornate yellow baroque facade of Antigua's most photographed church.
Hike Volcán Pacaya at Sunset
Ascend an active volcano and roast marshmallows over glowing lava vents.
Savor a Traditional Pepián Stew
Taste Guatemala's national dish — a rich, smoky Maya-Spanish fusion stew.
Watch an Alfombra Being Laid on Semana Santa
Witness families spending all night creating intricate sawdust carpets for Easter processions.
Sip Single-Origin Guatemalan Coffee on a Finca Tour
Walk a highland coffee plantation and cup freshly roasted beans from volcanic soil.
Explore the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology
Stand face-to-face with monumental Maya stelae and jade death masks in a world-class museum.
Browse Textiles at the Nim Po't Artisan Market
Hunt for hand-woven huipiles and jade jewelry in Central America's largest artisan cooperative.
Feast on Street Food at Mercado Central
Dive into the city's bustling central market for tamales, chuchitos, and fresh fruit juices.
Discover Street Art in Zona 4
Wander the revitalized creative district where murals cover every surface.
Peer into the Kaminaljuyú Archaeological Site
Walk among the buried pyramids of a Maya city that once rivaled Tikal, hidden within the capital.