Guatemala

Guatemala is where the Maya civilisation burns most brightly. This small but spectacular country is packed with more history, colour, and natural drama than almost anywhere on Earth — and it is still largely the Maya people who define its soul.

The ancient city of Tikal rises from the Petén rainforest like a dream. Towering limestone temples push above the jungle canopy and the roar of howler monkeys echoes through the trees at dawn. Tikal was one of the most powerful cities in the Maya world between 200 and 900 CE, and today it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that leaves every visitor speechless.

Antigua Guatemala is one of the best-preserved Spanish colonial cities in all of Latin America. Its cobblestone streets, colourful facades, and dramatic ruined churches lie in the shadow of three active volcanoes — including Volcán de Agua, Volcán de Fuego (which still erupts regularly!), and Acatenango. Climbing one of these is a bucket-list adventure.

Lake Atitlán is one of the most beautiful lakes in the world — ringed by volcanoes and dotted with indigenous Maya villages. Local women weave spectacular traditional huipil blouses in patterns that identify their village — each community has its own unique design, passed down through generations.

And at the centre of Guatemalan culture is the marimba — a large wooden xylophone played by groups of musicians at every festival, ceremony, and celebration. Guatemala treats the marimba as its national instrument with deep pride, and UNESCO has recognised it as an important piece of the country's living cultural heritage.