Guatemala Activities

While the country doesn’t offer an abundance of theme parks or man-made children’s attractions, Guatemala does offer some stunning natural attractions and big expanses of green area where the children can run around and release some pent-up energy. The country’s national zoo is one of the best in the region and has lots of information and fun facts about native animals. The large water park is a huge hit with children of all ages. It is ideal for a family day trip and will also teach the kids a little bit about indigenous cultures.

La Aurora National Zoo
This zoo is home to an impressive selection of animals including over 100 species of animals which are native to Guatemala and Central America as well as rainforest animals such as spider monkeys, parrots, macaws, crocodiles and coatimundi. There is a jaguar enclosure which is very popular as is the herpetarium which is home to a number of exotic snakes. African and Asian animals are also on view in specially designed enclosures and once you have finished looking at the animals, you’ll find a café and a children’s playground. Website: laurorazoo.centroamerica.com

Xocomil Aquatic Park
This impressive theme park is a surreal experience as it houses pools and waterslides which are built around replica Mayan temples, palaces and sanctuaries. Children love the park and actually learn something as they’re enjoying a fun-filled day in the water. It is a great place for the entire family as there are shallow pools for younger children and refreshments and seating areas for lunch.

Lakes
Children will appreciate the outdoors and Guatemala offers a number of opportunities where they can run around and enjoy enormous expanses of greenery. The country is home to a number of lakes where boats can be hired, football can be played and woods can be explored. Lake Atitlan is home to a dozen traditional Indian villages where life and customs have changed little over the centuries. Children find this fascinating as the villages are so far removed from their culture and life experience. Lake Izabal is the largest of Guatemala's lakes and offers water full of fish and native sea cows which are sure to impress. Lake Amatitlan is home to archaeological remains that date back to 2000 BC. It is a great place for a picnic as well as hiring a boat and enjoying the calming experience. All of these lakes are home to an abundance of wildlife which will have the children entertained for hours.

Because of its geographical location, Guatemala is home to an enormous variety of vegetation, birds and animals as well as 19 ecosystems. If you are a keen birdwatcher, you’ll be in your element here and if you are into photography, you will be equally impressed as the variety of wildlife and plants will keep you snapping away for hours.

Fishing fanatics will be overwhelmed by the opportunities available throughout the country. Fresh water fish can be found in abundance in the many lakes across the country and for those who do not arrived prepared, there are a number of fishing companies who will rent you any equipment that you may not have.

Caving is a popular sport countrywide. There are countless caves and underground tunnels to explore, or if you prefer to stay above ground, trekking and mountain climbing is a popular pursuit as is the unique sport of volcano climbing.

For those who would prefer something a little less extreme, tennis, golf and squash can be found in abundance throughout the country. There are tennis clubs offering temporary membership for guests as well as some public golf courses offering equipment at a small fee.

To get a bird’s-eye view of the country, take advantage of the numerous opportunities to hand glide, or if you would prefer to go to the other extreme, enjoy some scuba diving. It does not matter what level you are, as there are professional dive masters available to teach novice divers.

Horse riding is popular in the countryside as it is a great way to enable you to see some of the prettiest scenery. Regardless of your experience, there will be a horse to suit. There are even small ponies available to ride for the younger children.

Guatemala is home to a growing agricultural sector which produces excellent meat, vegetables and fruit. While the country offers a wide variety of cuisine, you should make an effort to try some of the local cuisine as you will find some excellent combinations of flavours and possibly some interesting recipes to take home with you. There are many restaurants and cafés located across the country serving up American, Argentinean, Chinese, French, Italian, Japanese, Mexican and Spanish cuisine; however for something special, head out to the suburban areas and those not targeted towards the tourist market and you will find the best of the local selection. The food at the local eateries is excellent and is always a much cheaper price.

Spanish and Mexican influences are abundant in local Guatemalan cuisine, although the country still has its own culinary identity. Popular local dishes include: Kac lc, soup made from turkey and seasoned with herbs from Alta Verapaz; Guacamole and for dessert, Flan de naranj, orange flavoured flan.

Locals like to eat late and much of an evening’s entertainment is centred on the dinner table. Locals will often sit in the same restaurant for hours, filling up on smaller dishes that are shared amongst everyone. Alcohol usually flows freely and the restaurants generally shut when the last customer leaves.

For international cuisine, head into the major towns and cities. As with most of the world, fast-food chains are securing their grip on the country. Every afternoon and especially at weekends, local children can be seen enjoying a burger and fries from one of the many branches of McDonalds.

Guatemala is not renowned for its shopping, but you’ll find a number of excellent bargains as well as some exquisitely detailed local art. The country offers most of what you need, with items ranging from toothbrushes to expensive crystal. If you are looking for souvenirs and handicraft products, you will find many markets and boutiques across the country offering a wide variety of native arts and crafts.

Special purchases in Guatemala include: stunning weavings, tapestries, intricately embroidered blouses (or güipiles as they are locally known), modern clothing which has been inspired by the traditional native costumes, ceramics, wood carvings, jade, silver and paintings.

Markets are the best venue for local products and bargaining is a must. The Central Market and the Craft Market, both in Guatemala City, provide a range of crafts combining ancient and modern styles. Ceramics can be bought for excellent prices in many places throughout the country including Villa de Chinautla, San Luis Jilotepeque and Rabinal. If you are after trendy fashion, head for Guatemala City where you will find many modern shopping malls. Gran Centro Comercial Los Proceres, Galerias La Pradera, Plaza Cemaco and Geminis International Mall are all located in Zone 10.

It may not be a shopping destination, but you are certain to find enough souvenirs and bargains to fill all of your suitcases as well as any extra bags you may have to buy.

Shopping hours are generally 09:30 to 19:30 Monday through until Saturday, but some malls are open on Sundays.