Are you looking for a family vacation destination that's full of adventure, culture, and natural beauty? Look no further than Guatemala! Being one of Central America’s most diverse countries, Guatemala is the perfect place to explore with your loved ones and offers plenty of family tours and activities for kids.

Best Family Activities in Guatemala

From ancient Mayan ruins to colorful markets and breathtaking landscapes, Guatemala has something for every member of your family. Here are just a few of the family-friendly highlights you can expect when you travel to Guatemala for the vacation of a lifetime.

Explore the Fascinating Mayan Ruins of Guatemala

One of the most iconic aspects of Guatemala is its rich Mayan heritage. There are several ancient Maya ruins scattered throughout the country, each with its own unique history and majestic architecture. Some of the most famous ruins include Tikal, Yaxha, and El Mirador for the most adventurous. 

These sites are not only impressive to look at, but they also offer a glimpse into the fascinating Mayan culture and history. Kids will love learning about the rituals and traditions of this ancient civilization, and exploring the striking pyramids and temples. Most Mayan sites are located within national parks in the Maya Biosphere Reserve, making them ideal places for admiring wildlife and coming up close to nature. 

Experience the Beauty of Nature in Guatemala

Guatemala is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. From the lush rainforests to the towering volcanoes, there's no shortage of natural wonders to explore.

For your family adventure, taking a boat tour of Lake Atitlan is a must. Surrounded by grand mountains and dotted with charming lakeside villages, this magical place offers panoramic hikes, zip-lining, kayaking, and hidden spots for swimming or cliff-jumping. 

Another family favorite Guatemala activity for kids is hiking Pacaya Volcano for an unforgettable view of the surrounding countryside and coffee fields. Pacaya is also an active volcano, making its exploration adventurous and one of the most memorable family adventures in Guatemala. Your kids will love roasting marshmallows in the volcanic rock formations or eating freshly made pizza from a lava oven. 

If your kids are older and more active, an overnight trip to Acatenango volcano will be the most memorable challenge for them. 

Learn more about these family volcano hikes in Guatemala and start preparing for an unforgettable expedition. 

If your family is looking for an off-the beaten path destination, making your way to the natural pools of Semuc Champey and exploring the surrounding caves will be one of your favorite family activities in Guatemala.  Heading to the Caribbean side of Rio Dulce will also allow you and your kids to explore mangroves and come close to wildlife and nature. 

Immerse Yourself in Local Markets

Guatemala is also known for its bustling markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The markets are a great place to experience local culture and interact with the friendly Guatemalan people.

Head to Chichicastenango, the largest and most famous market in the country, and browse the colorful stalls selling textiles, ceramics, and more. The kids will love trying new foods, discovering cultural fun facts, and mostly picking out souvenirs to take home.

Book a visit to Chichicastenango where you’ll enjoy a mouthwatering traditional market day lunch made by a local family. 

Stay in Exceptional Hotels With Top Facilities

When it comes to planning a family vacation in Guatemala, choosing the right accommodations is crucial for a stress-free and enjoyable trip. Luckily, there are plenty of hotels and resorts that cater to families, offering everything from spacious rooms to kid-friendly amenities. 

Here are some of the top hotels for families in Guatemala:

1. Bolontiku Boutique Hotel

For a luxurious and comfortable stay in the heart of the jungle, Bolontiku Boutique Hotel is the perfect choice for families. With spacious rooms that overlook the serene Petén Itzá lake and are equipped with modern amenities, your family will enjoy a relaxing stay. The area also offers various outdoor activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and swimming in the lake. Families can enjoy a swim in the lake's refreshing waters. 

2. Hotel Atitlan 

Set on the shores of Lake Atitlan, this elegant hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Hotel Atitlan  also has a beautiful garden and outdoor pool, as well as a restaurant that serves delicious local and international cuisine. It’s also conveniently located next to Lake Atitlan’s Nature Reserve, the ultimate park for ziplining, exploring trails and a butterfly dome your kids will love. 

3. Casa Santo Domingo

If you prefer a more traditional Guatemalan experience, Casa Santo Domingo is an excellent option. This hotel is a restored 17th-century monastery located in the heart of Antigua, surrounded by lush gardens and stunning architecture. The hotel features luxurious rooms with antique furnishings, outdoor swimming pools, and a spa for ultimate relaxation. Families can also visit the hotel’s museums for a deep immersion in Guatemalan culture and crafts. Santo Domingo del Cerro, the hotel’s outdoor cultural park with art exhibitions is also close by and worth your while. 

4. Porta Hotel Antigua

Located in the heart of Antigua, this family-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites with colonial-style décor. Porta Hotel Antigua also has a beautiful outdoor pool, a spa, and a restaurant that serves traditional Guatemalan dishes.

5. Guayaha

Situated in the forests of Alta Verapaz, Guayaha offers eco-friendly rooms and glamping tents with jungle views. The lodge has a pool, gardens, zip-line circuit and a restaurant. Families can participate in guided hikes and cultural tours of the Q'eqchi' Maya community and visit magnificent Semuc Champey.

When planning a family trip to Guatemala, it's important to research and choose from the variety of available hotels and accommodations that suit your budget and preferences. Reading reviews from other travelers can also be helpful in making an informed decision. Therefore, we recommend taking the time to carefully consider your options and choose the best fit for your family.

Educational Tours for Families

If you’re a family that travels often, you already know that the world is a classroom and Guatemala will be no different. From a cooking class with a local family, to learning how to prepare chocolate bars, or how to extract natural dyes from Maya weavers; Guatemala has loads of educational tours for families that are hands-on and will prove to be a unique learning and cultural exchange experience. 

Joining community tours for families, will also teach your kids appreciation for traditions, diversity and will even put them in touch with a new language.

These activities are a strong component of responsible travel in Guatemala, allowing you and your family to also support local communities and their development. 

Plan your Guatemala Family Adventure

Ready to start planning your family vacation to Guatemala? Let us help you create the perfect itinerary. Our  team of experienced travel planners will help you choose the best destinations, activities, and accommodations to suit your family's needs, budget and interests.

Whether you want to hike through the jungle, explore ancient ruins, or relax on a quiet beach, we can make it happen. With our personalized service and attention to detail, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the adventure of a lifetime with your family. On top of our planning services, you can trust we will follow every step of the way and will be available for any information or concerns that you may have. 

So what are you waiting for? Book your family trip to Guatemala with us and discover all the wonders this astonishing country has to offer. 

Send us a message so we can design a custom tour for you or explore the many Guatemala family trips and experiences we have to offer.