(The king of 3 day trips) – 3 days in Antigua
Guatemala has always had a special place in my heart. I’ve dreamt of Antigua. I’ve frequently listened to my mother’s stories about Antigua, long before it became a sensation on social media. The enchanting beauty of Antigua Guatemala was honored with its official designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, a testament to its historical and cultural significance
Finally, I made the decision to turn this dream into reality and embarked on a 3-day trip. My journey began in El Salvador, where I set out to explore the beauty of Guatemala. I took an Avianca flight from San Salvador airport (SAL) to Guatemala City airport (GUA) at 7:30 AM, marking the beginning of my adventure.
Quick information:
Language: Spanish Currency: Guatemalan Quetzales (GTQ) Seasons: Rainy season (May to October) | Dry season (November to April)
Guatemala City:
During my trip, I didn’t stay in Guatemala City; my experience of the city was limited to observing it while stuck in traffic on my way to Antigua. In comparison to cities like San Jose, Costa Rica, or San Salvador, El Salvador, I was genuinely impressed with the size and modernity of Guatemala City. The city seemed to offer a wealth of amenities and attractions, making me wish I had more time to stay and explore its various offerings.
Antigua:
Antigua truly left a lasting impression on me in every way. It seamlessly blended sophistication, modernity, colonial charm, and an array of comforts to cater to both locals and foreigners. I was delighted to discover a diverse culinary scene, offering food from all around the world, including sushi, steakhouses, wine bars, craft cocktail bars, breweries, boutique hotels, American fast food restaurants, coffee shops, and, of course, an abundance of history and opportunities to immerse oneself in the beauty of nature. It’s a place that seems to have something for everyone, making it a captivating destination.
Mobile Data: Sim Card
I tend to have a decent international data plan with T-Mobile, but for whatever reason it was not working. I ended up going to a local shop buy local faster data at 4G speeds or my sim says 4.5G LTE.
The price for the sim and fees was about $5 USD or 40 GTQ for Claro service. I only needed data for 3 days. Plus using social media data did not count towards my usage. This option was perfect for using maps, social media, finding restaurants and bars, and of course research. You can view the different packages they offer online.
*Tip of the day – download offline maps through Google Maps or Maps.me
Day 1:
Arriving at GUA: La Aurora International Airport
My arrival experience at La Aurora International Airport was quite pleasant. The landing was smooth, and getting through customs was a breeze. The airport has a modern feel, offering a range of amenities. It’s easy to shop for duty-free items, and there are also various food options available, making it convenient for travelers to stock up on essentials and grab a meal.
My Avianca flight from San Salvador to GUA was incredibly quick, lasting less than one hour. What’s even more remarkable is the affordability of the journey, as I paid only $60 USD for the flight. It’s a testament to the convenience and accessibility of regional travel options.
Transportation:
I read about many options on how to reach your final destination. This was my first time in Guatemala. I decide that my two options were UBER and GUATEGO.
If you are looking for the fastest way to reach your destination, then UBER should be your best option. UBER is actually expensive, it is almost 4 times the price I paid for GUATEGO. What stopped me from taking UBER was that I read a story where the drivers car broke down and the passenger was stuck waiting for over 2hrs.
GUATEGO – Shuttle Service
GUATEGO, an economical transportation option to reach Antigua, offers air-conditioned minivans or buses for the journey. I also had the opportunity to meet fellow travelers who were potentially headed to Antigua. However, it’s important to note that most passengers on these shuttles were bound for Lake Atitlán, a destination approximately 2.5 hours away from Antigua. For this one-hour ride, I paid $20 USD, and GUATEGO accepts payment in various forms, including cash in both USD and Guatemalan Quetzales (GTQ), as well as credit cards. Drivers do speak English!
When you exit customs at the airport, you can find the meeting point by heading to the cafe situated at the far end of the terminal on the right. Although I don’t recall the cafe’s name, this is where you should wait for the GUATEGO drivers. They’ll be holding a sign to identify themselves.
It’s worth mentioning that I didn’t have a reservation, but if the shuttle isn’t full, the driver may check with their office and allow you to board. Upon arrival in Antigua, you’ll be taken to the GUATEGO office to settle the payment. Afterward, the driver will provide transportation to your hotel or Airbnb. To ensure a guaranteed seat, it’s advisable to book in advance.
If you’re at the airport, as I was, please exercise patience. The drivers typically arrive a few minutes before departure, carrying a sign for easy identification. In some instances, people may refer to this service as GUATEGO or ATITRANS.
If you have early AM flight like I did GUATEGO might not be an option. The earliest the shuttles leave Antigua is at 4:00 AM and I not sure if they have to pick up other people. I did not want to take the risk since it takes 1 hour to each the airport. I opted for private transportion to pick me up at my hotel at 3:30 AM to ensure that I arrive on time.
Please note that if you have an early morning flight, GUATEGO might not be a suitable option. The earliest the shuttles leave Antigua is at 4:00 AM, and it’s unclear if they need to pick up other passengers. To ensure punctuality, I opted for private transportation, which picked me up at my hotel at 3:30 AM for $20 USD, allowing me to arrive at the airport on time. No in the capital since it was a Sunday morning.
Tourist areas:
Arco de Santa Catalina or Santa Catalina Arch
At the right angle and time of day, and depending on the weather conditions, you can catch a glimpse of the Agua volcano in the background of the arch, known as the Santa Catalina Arch. The arch is located on 5th Avenue or 5a Avenida Norte 28.
The Santa Catalina Arch, a historical landmark, was constructed in the 17th century. It served a unique and practical purpose: allowing the nuns of the convent to cross the street without being seen. This architectural gem not only has historical significance but also adds a touch of intrigue to the cityscape of Antigua, Guatemala.
It’s worth noting that the area around the arch tends to be bustling with tourists and vendors eager to sell their wares, which might make some visitors prefer to avoid the area or be mindful of when they choose to visit.
FOOD:
During my time in the city, I enjoyed exploring its streets and attractions. However, one memorable experience occurred while I was waiting at my hotel. I had the pleasure of meeting a local Guatemalan woman who happened to be married to a German man. She kindly recommended that I try “Gallo en chicha,” which is a quintessential Guatemalan dish.
As I learned from talking to locals, Gallo en chicha is a traditional dish common throughout Central America, but in Guatemala, it holds a special place as the national dish. It’s typically prepared for special occasions and celebrations, such as holidays or the birth of a child. This culinary delight reflects the rich cultural traditions and flavors of the region, making it a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Guatemala and its festive culinary heritage.
Gallo en chicha consists of rooster cooked in a fermented corn drink, creating a unique and flavorful culinary experience that embodies the essence of Guatemalan culture.
To savor this delectable dish, I visited La Fonda de la Calle Real, situated in the touristy part of the city. This restaurant is conveniently located down the street from the famous Santa Catalina Arch, making it a perfect spot to indulge in the flavors of Guatemala while also enjoying the local landmarks.
Typical breakfast:
I stumbled upon a delightful combination of two of my favorite things during my stay: coffee and breakfast. My discovery led me to a charming coffee shop known as Fernando’s Kaffee. Not only did they serve exceptional coffee, but they also had their very own chocolate factory. The café was conveniently located about a 20-minute walk from my hotel.
What is typical breakfast in Guatemala? a typico is (Spanish for typical) consist of the following:
two eggs, beans, fried
plantain, and tortilla
with onion and tomato
Total cost for breaksfast Q60 or about $7.65 USD
This type of breakfast is not only a culinary delight in Guatemala but also true in El Salvador. Growing up, I had the pleasure of enjoying this “typico” breakfast with my parents, and I was truly due for a taste of nostalgia and homecooked flavors. It’s amazing how certain dishes can evoke fond memories and a sense of connection to one’s roots.
Their coffee, in particular, was truly exceptional. I opted for a pourover (V60) brew, a testament to their coffee craftsmanship. The ordering process was straightforward – you place your coffee order at the front of the coffee shop, and then you proceed to the dining area to order your breakfast. It was a perfect start to the day, combining the rich flavors of their coffee with a hearty breakfast, creating a memorable and satisfying experience.
Dinner:
After a full day of travel, I was feeling somewhat exhausted, especially since my day had commenced at 3:30 AM to catch my flight to Guatemala. Fortunately, there was a charming eatery just down the street from my hotel. As I strolled down the street and perused the various dining options, I ultimately decided on Toko Baru. The ambiance was delightful, the aroma in the air was enticing, and it had even received the prestigious Traveler’s Choice award in 2020.
For my meal, I opted for an Indonesian specialty known as “Rendang” curry, which featured tender beef served with rice and a side salad. But what exactly is Rendang? Rendang is a sumptuous dish that employs coconut milk and a fragrant paste made from a medley of ground spices, including ginger, galangal, turmeric leaves, lemongrass, garlic, shallots, chilies, and various other aromatic ingredients.
Toko Baru also impressed me with its diverse beer selection, which went beyond the usual mainstream options. Moreover, the prices were reasonable, and the convenience of being just a 30-second walk from my hotel was a definite bonus. It’s worth noting that Toko Baru also caters to vegetarians and vegans with a dedicated menu.
Exploring: Walking (Get lost in the town)
Without a specific plan in mind, my day of exploration led me to a remarkable discovery: the ruins of a convent named La Merced. What makes these ruins particularly fascinating is their historical significance. The construction of La Merced began way back in 1548, showcasing the rich architectural heritage of the region. However, in 1773, the devastating earthquake of that year brought about the destruction of the convent.
In the picture below, you’ll find me standing on the second floor of the convent, gazing out at the distant volcanoes repping my favorite MLS team LAFC. As I captured this moment, I couldn’t help but notice that the volcano in the background, known as Fuego, was in the midst of an eruption, adding an unexpected and dramatic element to the scene.
Church and Convent of the Society of Jesus
The image below captures the remains of the Jesuit monastery and college, also known as the Church and Convent of the Society of Jesus. This institution played a crucial role in the life of Antigua until the Jesuit order was expelled in 1767. Tragically, just six years later, a powerful earthquake struck, leaving this once-vital establishment in ruins, a poignant testament to the city’s history and the forces that shaped it.
Tanque de la Union is a picturesque square or small park that seemed to be frequented mostly by locals during my visit. It was a vibrant hub with numerous small vendors offering their wares. One notable feature you’ll find there is the Pilas de Santa Clara, which served as a communal laundry facility in Antigua during colonial times.
Interestingly, despite walking past this plaza several times a day, I never had the chance to witness anyone actively engaged in laundry activities at the Pilas de Santa Clara, highlighting the evolving dynamics of this historic site in modern times.
Plaza Central:
The Central Plaza is the heart of the city, serving as the main square where you can discover the cathedral, as well as various shops and restaurants. In the center of the plaza, a fountain stands as a prominent landmark and a convenient meeting point if you’re arranging to meet with friends.
The Mermaid Fountain, known as “Fuente de las Sirenas” in Spanish, was designed by the architect Diego de Porres in 1738. Diego drew inspiration from the Neptune Fountain created by Giovanni Bologna in 1564, which is situated in the Piazza del Nettuno in Bologna, Italy. This fountain in Antigua is a beautiful testament to the influence of Italian art and architecture in the region.
Roof Tops Views:
Day 2:
Hobbitenango: Fun Activity
If you wake up with no specific plans for the day and a desire to unwind, here’s an excellent addition to your leisurely agenda. I began my day with a relaxed stroll through the city and eventually found my way to the main office of Hobbitenango, conveniently located at 3a Avenida Nte. 20a.
Now, you might be curious about what Hobbitenango is. This one-of-a-kind park draws its inspiration from The Lord of the Rings movies and is designed to resemble the charming hobbit homes found in Middle-earth. While it’s not an official movie set, it offers a delightful eco-park experience filled with various activities and delectable food options. Whether or not you’re a fan of the movies, this place offers a fun and magical way to soak in the views of Antigua and the surrounding natural beauty.
I was fortunate to arrive just in time to secure a spot on the 2 PM shuttle to this enchanting location. The cost for the roundtrip shuttle was surprisingly reasonable at Q95 or $12 USD. What made this adventure even more memorable was the mode of transportation; we rode on the back of a pickup truck that had been customized with metal bars and seats. This unconventional means of travel was undeniably out of the ordinary and led to some unforgettable reactions, especially from the two British nationals on our tour, who injected an unexpected element of excitement into our journey. At the entrance you will pay an additional Q50 or $6.37 USD to enter the park. Credit cards are accepted Visa or Mastercard.
The journey to Hobbitenango took about 20 minutes, as it’s nestled in the scenic mountains of an area known as Vuelta Grande, providing a stunning backdrop for this unique and magical experience.
To book a stay at the Hobbitenango property, simply visit their website. If you prefer to contact them directly, you can reach out via email at casitas@hobbitenango.com.
Looking for food at Hobbitenango:
I must confess that the pizza I tried was truly delicious. My choice was an individual-sized Hawaiian pizza, and I wholeheartedly believe that pineapple belongs on pizza! I went with the small size, which came to a reasonable Q74. The menu at this establishment was impressively diverse, and I couldn’t help but be intrigued by their selection of cocktails and beers.
During my visit, I had the pleasure of meeting a few fellow international travelers, and we decided to venture into the world of stout beers, a choice highly recommended by the attentive staff.
Hobbitenango Cocktails
Time to hit the streets: (Night life)
While exploring the area, I unexpectedly stumbled upon a vibrant multi-level space that, at first glance, seemed like a collection of bars under one operator. However, discreetly tucked away inside, I discovered a charming little bar adorned with the word “MAHALO,” making it clear that it was a tiki bar. What added to its allure was the fact that it appeared to be entirely staffed by a team of women. As I ventured inside, I found the staff in the midst of preparing for the upcoming evening.
Delicious cosmopolitan (bartender’s choice)
Intrigued by the bar’s offerings, I sought their recommendations, and after considering a few options, I decided to entrust the bartender with the choice, resulting in a delightful cosmopolitan. Notably, this unique tiki bar is located within a larger establishment known as El Barrio, which accommodates multiple independently operated bars, each offering its own distinctive and diverse experience.
El Barrio address: Address: 4 Avenida Norte 3, Antigua Guatemala 03001, Guatemala
Fancy Starbucks –
I have a fascination with visiting local Starbucks in different countries to observe how they blend with local culture and distinguish themselves from the Starbucks in the USA. During my travels, I stumbled upon a Starbucks located near the iconic Arch of Santa Catalina, cleverly situated within a colonial building. The interior space was truly intriguing, making it tempting to pause and relax.
Unfortunately, due to time constraints, I could only conduct a brief walk-through. Nevertheless, I couldn’t resist documenting the experience by recording the surroundings on my phone. It’s always fascinating to observe how Starbucks adjusts to the distinctive environment and cultural subtleties of every location it becomes a part of.
Shipping:
I found a UPS authorized shipping outlet. It’s always nice to stumble across the companies I used to work for. Having also worked for DHL, I know DHL has a huge presence outside of the USA. I did not expect to find a UPS store. So if you are ever in a pinch and need to ship items back to the USA, then you have UPS as one of your options. Address: Antigua, 3a Ave. Norte 11-D Antigua Guatemala, 03001, Guatemala
Day 3:
Pacaya Volcano (day trip)
If you’re searching for a relatively easy outdoor activity and not quite ready for the demanding Acatenango volcano hike, then Pacaya Volcano is an excellent choice. During my exploration of the city, I booked a tour with a local company for this adventure. The cost was approximately $19 USD or Q150. However, at the entrance to the volcano, you’ll need to pay an additional fee of Q100 to gain access. It’s worth noting that a guide is mandatory for the hike, and these guides largely rely on tips for their income. So, please consider being generous in tipping your guide.
The day typically begins early, with a hotel pickup at around 6:00 AM, although the exact time might vary depending on the number of people in the tour group. As part of the journey, you’ll make a stop at a small coffee shop located on the outskirts of the city. It’s a popular spot, as you’ll notice that all the tour drivers make a pit stop here. It’s a convenient way to fuel up for the adventure ahead while also enjoying a taste of local coffee culture.
For those who may find the hike too demanding, there’s a helpful option available. Horses can be provided, allowing visitors to enjoy the experience while alleviating some of the physical demands of the journey. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who might have difficulty with the hike but still want to appreciate the stunning volcanic landscape.
It’s important to note that Pacaya Volcano is an active volcano, and you can see the hardened lava rocks at its base. While the hike provides a unique opportunity to witness the volcanic landscape, climbing or hiking to the summit is strictly prohibited for safety reasons. The summit stands at an elevation of 8,200 feet above sea level. This volcano is situated approximately 15 miles south of Guatemala City. Its most recent eruption occurred on April 2, 2021. If you’re interested in seeing footage of this event, you can follow this link below.
Marshmallow roasting:
As part of your guided tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the hardened lava fields around Pacaya Volcano. One intriguing and unique activity your guide may lead you to is the chance to roast marshmallows over an open vent. This engaging experience not only provides a delightful culinary treat but also serves as an excellent opportunity to discuss the impact and destruction caused by the volcano’s recent eruptions. It’s a hands-on and memorable way to learn about the geological forces at work and their consequences in this volcanic region.
Cobble Stones Streets
The charming cobblestone streets that define Antigua contribute significantly to its colonial ambiance. Within the city limits, these cobblestone roads are a distinctive feature, guided by a local ordinance that upholds the tradition of this paving style. While the cobblestones undeniably enhance the city’s historic charm, instances such as the one captured in the photo highlight the need for ongoing maintenance to preserve both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of these historic streets.
Departure from GUA:
Immigration forms to fill out before leaving. Please make sure to look up the requirements before leaving. The commute to the airport from Antigua can take as long as an hour. As always I only do carry-ons, and I do the online check-in, but I was unaware of this form that took a while to load on my mobile phone. You have to produce a QR code that gets scanned. This could delay you a bit since you have still have to clear security and customs.
Traveling with Dimas 