Guatemala is home to an astonishing variety of attractions, one of which is its rich archaeological history. The ancient Mayans were one of the great pre-Columbian civilizations, and they ruled this territory for hundreds of years, leaving evidence of their existence dotted around the country.
© Milosk50 | Dreamstime
Tikal
It is impossible to talk about the Mayans in Guatemala without mentioning Tikal, which provides the most complete set of ruins. Visitors will be able to see soaring temples, altars, ceremonial buildings and even a ball court inside the vast national park.
El Mirador
Those with a bigger appetite for adventure should make the five-day trek to visit El Mirador, home to the biggest known pyramid in the world by volume. The ruins are mostly unexcavated, and while it takes a more vivid imagination to picture the Mayans at this site, the experience is not to be missed.
© Stefano Ember | Dreamstime
Quirigua
Quirigua is one of the smallest Mayan cities, but is important due to its stone monuments, known as stelae. The site is home to the largest stela the Maya ever carved, which stands 35 feet tall, 5 feet wide and 4 feet thick.
Iximche
Iximche is close to Lake Atitlan in the west of the country, and is known as the last capital city of the Maya. The Kaqchikel inhabitants at first welcomed the Spanish conquistadors as allies against long-term foes the Kiche, but relations soon deteriorated and the Maya were forced out.
© Buggslife | Dreamstime
Yaxha
Yaxha is the third largest Mayan site in Guatemala, and reality TV fans may recognize it from the reality TV show Survivor. More interestingly, the temples offer an amazing view over nearby Lake Yaxha in the Peten region of Guatemala.
Read This Next
Get a Glimpse of Kukulkan at Chichen Itza
History
Mar 21, 2015#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedCruises
Jan 28, 2025What Are the Mental Health Benefits of Cruising?
If you’ve ever cruised before, you’ve probably come back feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and, while sad the cruise is over, prepped to take on the demands of daily life anew. However, this was probably just a feeling, a vibe. You didn’t have a study to back it up — until now.
Sponsored Content
Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History
Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.
Hotel
Jan 28, 2025Spend Valentine’s Day in Mexico at These Luxury Resorts
Solmar Hotels & Resorts in Mexico invite travelers to celebrate Valentine’s Day at its properties in Cabo San Lucas. With a variety of romantic offerings available at each property, there is something for every sweetheart.
Slideshow
Jan 28, 20256 Must-See Sites in Phuket, Thailand
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here are six must-see sites in Phuket, Thailand.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Hotel
Jan 28, 2025Love in the City of Love: 4 Parisian Hotels with Valentine’s Day Experiences
Paris doesn’t hold back when it comes to Valentine’s Day celebrations, especially at these four upscale hotels. Up your Valentine’s Day this year with a special experience at these hotels:
ShareThis