Guatemala

Magical and mysterious: Guatemala may only be three-quarters the size of England, but with two coastlines and a spine full of volcanoes, it does not lack in variety of landscapes and cultures.

Stroll through Antigua’s UNESCO-protected cobblestone streets and vibrant markets, set beneath the active Fuego volcano, known for its nightly lava displays. Recenter at the mystical Lake Atitlan in the Western Highlands, taking boat taxis to explore remote hillside villages, each with unique traditions. Alternatively, immerse yourself in Garifuna culture on Guatemala’s Caribbean coast in Livingstone, or uncover jungle vistas atop limestone pyramids in El Petén, once home to the mighty Maya civilisation.

Guatemala’s explosion of colour comes from a blend of indigenous Maya culture…

Antigua showcases a blend of Spanish colonial history, with cobbled streets, pastel-colored houses, and crumbling churches alongside women in vibrant, traditional textiles. The city’s charming Spanish architecture is evident in its plazas, churches, and grand baroque buildings. In contrast, Guatemala’s Mayan culture is more subtle, found in hidden passages and vine-covered jungles.