Have passports for the family, it’s time to travel.  Have you considered Guatemala as a travel destination, it’s popping up on the radars of parents traveling with children and has multiple fun and educational features. This small but mighty country offers numerous adventures ranging from wildlife interaction, discovery of the Mayan world, adventurous excursions, and more. With direct flights from most major U.S. cities (Los Angeles, Houston, New York, Atlanta and Miami) it is easy for families to arrive to Guatemala then navigate short distances within the country.

Discover the Mayan World and Culture: Known as “The Heart of the Mayan World,” Guatemala has the most ancient ruins of the Mayan civilization of every era, and continues to be the home of living Mayans to this day. This presents a fascinating way for families to experience history together, and even interact with the indigenous communities to witness an interesting culture. Experiences include:

• Visit Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site where families are transported to ancient times and see temples, palaces and remains of dwellings. The area protects 22,100 hectares of rainforest and 54 species of mammals, amongst them spider monkeys, jaguars, anteaters and deer.
• Visit to Yaxha, made famous during the hit TV show, “Survivor,” which is a lakeside archaeological site home to more than 500 structures that live in perfect harmony with its natural surroundings.

  

• Eat and drink like the Mayans.  Among the traditional Mayan cuisine prevalent in almost every household in Guatemala are tamales and tortillas, which can also be found at many local restaurants and street vendor stands. When visiting, consider stopping at aTortilleria to try a freshly made tortilla and see the handmade process.  For tamales, visitors should keep a look out for vendors that place a red light outside the door once they are ready. Typically, on Thursdayspaches are made, tamales made with potatoes with a plant wrapping, while on Saturdays tamales are commonly made of cornmeal. For a traditional drink, try havingatol deelote, arroz con leche, arroz en chocolate and coffee – all served hot.

  

Antigua

• One of the country’s three UNESCO sites, this beautiful colonial city melds Guatemala’s Spanish history with Mayan traditions. Visit museums, churches, convents and interesting hotels that blend art and history such as the Casa Santo Domingo.
• For more hands-on foodie experience, consider a tour or course from El Frijol Feliz (The Happy Bean) in Antigua. The experience takes students scouting for local ingredients at nearby markets to later make some of the most typical tamales such as colorados, paches, and chuchitos. There is even a Mayan chocolate course.
• Taste Mayan chocolate at Antigua’s Choco Museo to taste and learn where the sweet-treat originated and how it’s made.

  

• Hike up Pacaya Volcano, a 1 hour hike and 45 minute drive from Antigua, to roast marshmallows on real lava.
• Visit nearby Finca Filadelfia’s Coffee Plantation to learn about the coffee making process first hand. Other activities include a canopy tour, horseback riding, bird watching. There is even the option to do mountain paintball designed for all levels. Afternoons can be spent unwinding by the pool with the beautiful natural surroundings.

More Ideas to Consider:

• Biking, small in size, yet sprawling in terrain, Guatemala has many off-the-beaten paths for mountain biking. Old Town Outfitters tailors to all levels and can help find the right path for families.
• White water rafting is superb in Guatemala, in one of its many rivers that offers varied levels of experiences.
• Explore remote, stunning natural settings like Semuc Champey where swimmers can enjoy the turquoise pools and natural 1000-foot limestone bridge.

  

• Lake Atitlan is one of the most beautiful in the world where families can explore the many surrounding towns and enjoy activities like horseback riding, kayaking, zip lining, culture immersion and more.

We’re working on getting passports for the kids this year.  If yours are in hand, visit Guatemala with the family, check out www.visitguatemala.com for more information.