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Nestled amidst the vibrant landscape of Guatemala, Antigua stands as a historic symbol of resilience with undeniable allure. This UNESCO World Heritage Site beckons travellers with its colorful cobbled streets. Add in a towering volcano, artisan stores and boutique accommodations and you are in a captivating city. As you meander uneven streets, plagued with holes, you’ll stumble upon modern craft breweries and quaint coffee shops. Turn a corner and crumbling monuments transport you to a bygone era, reminiscent of ancient Rome. Despite its vulnerability to earthquakes and its proximity to a smoldering active volcano, tourists flock to Antigua. Like bees to honey, they are drawn to its magnetic charm. Tourists are spoiled for choice with adventurous options, but here are just three complementary activities in Antigua, Guatemala not to miss.
3 fantastic activities in Antigua, Guatemala
There are so many activities in Antigua to tempt you. You can scale a volcano, zipline through forest canopies or camp on a lava field. If you have limited time, it might be difficult to plan your itinerary. Here are three unmissable activities however that do not break the bank and give you a real flavour for all this city has to offer!
Climb a volcano
Antigua has a remarkable history of resilience. It has been rebuilt several times, following multiple fires, volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. In 1773, a 7.5 magnitude earthquake devastated the city, leading to the capital’s relocation to Guatemala City. Antigua meanwhile lay mostly abandoned until the mid-1800s when increased agricultural production brought renewed investment to the region. Since then, the allure of smouldering volcanoes have attracted hordes more tourists intent on experiencing nature at its most explosive.
Located firmly in the Ring of Fire, Antigua boasts three nearby volcanoes: Fuego (fire), Agua (water), and Acatenango. Fuego has been erupting vigorously since 2018 which lures thrillseekers ng but hiking this volcano is a risky option. Who knows when it will next spew giant volcanic rocks onto its slopes. You can however opt to hike neighboring Acatenango or more distant Pacaya Volcano.
Pacaya is a medium-difficulty hike with breathtaking views. The trek to its summit is a mesmerizing journey through verdant forest and volcanic lava fields. You can even feast on roasted marshmallows from a natural underground oven. From Antigua, you can book The Pacaya Volcano Trek tour for just £18 per person (plus park entry fee of Q100 each, roughly £10 at the time of writing).
If you prefer an overnight climb with sunset views of Fuego, you should opt for the Acatenango overnight trip. You will camp at base camp and rise early for a hike to the summit of Acatenango. Choose from a variety of options here.
La Finca De Azotea – coffee farm
For an educational activity in Antigua, a visit to La Azotea Coffee Farm is a treat for coffee enthusiasts. You can easily plan a DIY trip that’s more budget-friendly than organized tours. The plantation, located just a mile from Antigua, offers guided tours that outline the coffee-making process, from bean to cup. The farm also offers additional multiple attractions including a beer garden, a recreation of a Mayan village, cafe, restaurant, museum, and chocolate tasting center. It is a an immersive experience that’s both educational and enjoyable.
Just check out this magnificent beer garden!
Who wouldn’t want to laze in that hammock while a band plays in the background?
La Finca De Azotea costs
Organised tours cost around £40 each but if you decide to go it alone, here are the costs;
- Entry fee to La Azotea – Q10 (about a £1) on weekdays and Q20 on weekends
- Private guided tour – 50Q each
Total cost Q120 or about £12 for the two of us (£6 each). Providing you have an adventurous spirit this is one outing that is easy to DIY.
Getting to La Finca De Azotea
If you feel lazy, you can take a tuk tuk or taxi directly to the farm. Alternatively, jump on a chicken bus to Jocatenango and jump off at the main square. You then have a short walk to the Finca. We actually walked the entire way as it is really not far. The map below highlights two route options which make for a pleasant stroll through local neighbourhoods brimming with activity.
Organised tours
If you really prefer to go with a group, check out your options for tours on Get Your Guide.
Wander the city
Wandering the colorful streets of Antigua is a journey through time. It’s not uncommon to stumble upon crumbling ruins adorned with intricate decorations on the remaining pillars and walls. Equally enchanting are the scenes of daily life in the city: parents picking up chattering children from kindergarten in their brightly colored bibs. Women in traditional dress ply the streets, selling blankets and trinkets, adding to the city’s vibrant tapestry as they cajole you into buying their wares.
Antigua invites you to immerse yourself in history in the heart of the city and connect with serene beauty in the surrounding countryside. Stroll along trails where rustling leaves and the gentle chirping of birds in the canopy create a symphony of tranquility. Breathe in the natural scents of the forest and let the city’s charm captivate your senses. This is a city where every step you take is an exploration of history, culture, and nature.
Antigua is a city that bewitches and beguiles, weaving history and modernity into a captivating tapestry that draws travellers from all corners of the globe. Whether you’re scaling a volcano, sipping coffee a or a beer, or simply wandering its enchanting streets, Antigua is a destination that promises to leave an imprint on your heart.
Where to stay in Antigua, Guatemala
We stayed at the beautiful Cacoa Boutique Hotel on the outskirts of town. Set on a quiet cobbled street, huge wooden doors lead into a courtyard overflowing with tropical foliage and the calming trickle of a fountain. Large doors lead from the courtyard into spacious rooms in traditional decor. There are three reasons you should consider this hotel for your visit.
- The warm welcome on arrival
- The sumptuous breakfast served with a smile and bottomless coffee
- The gorgeous scent of their toiletries. I am still drooling over that scent two months on!!
How gorgeous is this place? Book your stay here now.
Have your say
Have you visited Antigua? If so, please feel free to share your experience in the comments and add any of your must do activities.
very information artical.