Journey to Antigua, Guatemala for a taste of history, adventure, and fun that will have you wanting to come back to learn and see more of beautiful Guatemala. Antigua is the original capital of Guatemala, and while it is only 25 miles from Guatemala City, you'll want to get comfortable on the nearly hour-long ride from the airport. While you may be stuck in the car for while, at least you won't be bored on the ride, as you'll get to take in the beautiful view as you wind through the mountains.
Getting there
This is one of those trips that I highly recommend the added expense of a car service over a rental. The winding roads and different routes should be left to someone who travels these roads regularly. On our drive, our driver recounted stories of accidents being more often due to people being unfamiliar with the roads and how to navigate them safely. To each their own though, I'm just suggesting to account for that before committing to a rental. More importantly, though, it's important to consider if you'll even use the car during your stay. Antigua is valley-like between mountains and volcanos. It is a very walkable city, full of one-way cobblestone roads that may not be worth the added expense of having a car accessible just to realize you won't need it.
Volcanos Agua y Fuego and the Guardians of Antigua
The first thing you’re likely to notice as you enter Antigua is actually one of two…Volcanos Agua y Fuego. These towering beauties dominate the skyline, casting a spell over the landscape. Fun fact: Volcano Agua, named for its resemblance to a water jug, is dormant, while Volcano Fuego is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America. It’s most recent eruption was in 2018. If you’re an early bird like me and happen to have a rooftop view, don’t freak out and make a run for it when you see Fuego start it’s day with a morning ‘smoke break’.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history all around town. Whether you opt to explore ancient church ruins, attend service on your own or coordinate a guided tour in and around the city, one of my favorite aspects of Antigua is its ‘walkability’. As I mentioned before, you don’t NEED a car, it’s so easy to navigate the streets on foot, and remembering street numbers and landmarks makes it easy to find your way back to wherever you’re staying. I’d actually just avoid heels, the cobblestone roads are rough as it is, I can’t imagine getting very far fast in stilettos.
Value in Tours
On every trip you take, you’re likely to be presented the option of going it alone or joining a tour or tour guide to see the area. Across most cities visit you’re likely to find offers galore for private or group tours and activities. While I’m not usually aan of those because they can sometimes be overpriced and underwhelming, I’m so happy I didn’t think like that on this trip. I can’t explain it really, other than to say, 10/10 definitely recommend and can’t wait to do it all again with extras!
First a shoutout to our tour guide Adrian with Direct Adventure Tours and Rentals because OMG! When I tell you this team was awesome, it’s an understatement. From before we arrived in Antigua, we were able to coordinate our tour details, confirming pricing, dates, times and group size. This was so easy and comfortable it was crazy. Once there, they were sure to check in with us and make sure the schedule was still a good fir for us. The fact that they recognize things and plans sometimes change when traveling was ‘chef’s kiss’. (It’s the details for me.) The day of our tour, they coordinated and picked us up at our AirBnb, took us to brush up on safety and some practice maneuvers, and just like that, off we were for an afternoon of ATV-ing and adventure through the backroads of Antigua making our way up the mountain to El Cerro de La Cruz overlooking the city.
I’ve been coming around the mountain
The ride up the mountain as you make your way to El Cerro de La Cruz is cool, and a great way to get comfortable on the ATV. You’ll park and and then walk your way down to the end of the trail, learning about statues and trails before being awed by the view from the top. After a few pics, hop back on your ATV and begin the climb making your way to Altamira. Note to self: regardless of how warm it is within the city, you’ll definitely feel the cooler temp as you make your way up so take a sweater if you get cold easily.
Altamira is an eco-park with amazing views of the volcanos and town below. It’s the second of the three stops of the tour. There’s a lot of walking but the reward of photos and drinks at the restaurant towards the end gives the perfect break in the tour. I’d say the most interesting part of this tour is that for just under $10 (US) you can aerocycle. Umm, what?! Yeah, it’s riding a bike IN THE AIR- over the mountain edge!! Ahh-Mazing! Be sure to keep your eye out for the little details. The painted signs and tire animals or ‘Natural Gym’. So cool, is how it can be summed up.
Swinging Over the Mountain Canopy
After the trails and photo ops at off we went on a shuttle up the mountain making our way to Hobbitenango. This likely ‘village’ has got some incredible views, even just the ride up was impressionable. Fun fact, while this is a great day trip to marvel at the city from way up there, Hobbitenango is actually equipped with a bar, restrooms, activities and even cabins for overnight guests. I personally don’t think I’d stay for more than a night, but then again, the unique experience and seclusion from the rest of the world may be more enjoyable than I give credit for.
Aside from the walking tour and multiple photo spots, um excuse me, I forgot to mention Adrian the photographer. (He’s the tour guide, but seriously the man is a wizard with a camera or smartphone!) Wait, where was I? Oh yeah, there’s great photo spots, AND other small activities, like learning to shoot a bow and arrow, throw an axe, or the one that I still can’t believe I did for funsies…swing out from the trees over the village. See I get so excited reliving the adventure that I forgot to mention, as the name suggests, Hobbitenango embraces the Hobbit style and reference to the Lord of the Rings, so if you’re into that, be ready to grab a drink with Gandalf .
Hidden treasures and exciting nightlife
After a day of adventures, it was time to experience Antigua's nightlife. From cozy taverns to hidden bars that give a whole vibe with live music, great food and drinks, there a rre plenty of options for those looking to unwind and socialize. Whether sipping on craft cocktails or sampling local brews, each venue has a unique charm and atmosphere. Make your way down just about any angle from the city center park, and follow your ear to live great live music. Before you know it, you’ll find yourself immersed in the infectious energy of Antigua's nightlife scene, dancing to the rhythms of live music and mingling with fellow travelers and locals alike. It was the perfect end to an unforgettable day in this enchanting city.
Sad to go, but ready to return
Antigua, Guatemala, is a destination that truly has it all—adventure, culture, natural beauty, and nightlife. From thrilling outdoor activities to vibrant city streets, every moment spent here is filled with wonder and excitement. Go off and experience the magic of Antigua for yourself and create memories that will last a forever.
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