Antigua Guatemala is a perfect combination of unique beauty, heritage, and culture. The cobbled streets and boutique shops are creating a buzz in the travel community. But what about those who want to travel greener? Here are the best things to do in Antigua Guatemala from an eco travel perspective.
There’s really no shortage of things to do in Antigua Guatemala. The beautiful town is lined with bespoke craft stores, cafes and galleries. While the outskirts are surrounded by volcanoes (live ones) that create an enchanting feeling amongst the UNESCO world heritage town.
While Antigua Guatemala is not overly touristy (yet), there are some early signs of mass tourism brewing. If you want to avoid the tourist traps and be a more responsible traveller there are a few things to look out for.
Table of Contents
Getting around Antigua Guatemala
Firstly, let’s look at the best ways to get around the town.
Walking
The best (and most eco) way to get around town, is simply to walk. The main (historically preserved) area of town is relatively small (approximately a 7 by 7 block square).
It’s very easy to navigate around the town as it is on a grid system with numbered Calles (streets) running East-West and numbered Avenidas (Avenues) running North-South.
While many streets do look similar, each corner/intersection has the street & avenue numbers marked (normally on the walls in a ceramic tile). To walk from one end of town to the other takes roughly 15 minutes. And the best way to explore is to simply work the grid (up and down).
Bicycle
If you really want to you can explore the town by bicycle. There is a bike shop in town that you can rent from or do organised bicycle tours.
The Monkey Bike Shop focuses more on the mountain bike type rides and can take you into the areas just outside of the main town (through some local villages).
You might think that a mountain bike might be an overkill for the small, grid town, but the cobbled stone streets make for a bumpy ride, so having that extra suspension will really save your behind.
Tuk Tuk
Yes, Antigua Guatemala has Tuk-Tuks. The small tricycle style ride can bump you around the blocks if you’re getting worn out from walking, for relatively cheap (around USD$2 to get from one side of town to the other).
This could be good if you’re uncomfortable walking around at night. However, the streets are very well lit up, and as long as you are careful, the streets were safe at night.
Uber/Taxi
If you do really need to you can get around the town using a more traditional method (car).
The town has a few (they seem to be fairly sparse) taxis. Uber is very easy to use and you don’t normally have to wait too long.
These are handy if you are wanting to explore somewhere outside of the main town square, or if you want to travel to other parts of Guatemala.
Free Things to Do in Antigua Guatemala
It doesn’t cost anything to look. And one of the best things to do in Antigua Guatemala is simply walking around (and observe). The town itself is a piece of living history. It’s a mix of Spanish Colonist architecture and indigenous patterns and colours.
Explore the Streets and Coloured Walls
There are some absolutely amazing walls around the town. If you’re into photography you can find just about every coloured wall you can imagine to shoot.
Photography Note: there are lots of local women wearing their beautifully coloured clothing walking and selling products on the streets. If you are going to take photos of them, you should ask them first. Many of them actually do not appreciate having their photos taken. It’s always best to ask to avoid offending.
Arco de Santa Catalina
Brief History:
The arch is not just a pretty clock tower. Well, that wasn’t its intention anyway. It was actually built in 1694 to run nuns from one building to another without being seen by the public. The nuns had sworn to a life of seclusion.
The clock was added much later in the 1800’s.
Photo Opportunity:
As ‘the’ iconic spot of the town. One of those things to do in Antigua Guatemala is getting a photo under the arch. The best angle is facing south so you can get the volcano in the background.
If you get to the arch by 7:30am there are very few (if any) people around. There always seems to be a puddle of water in the cobbled street center which adds a nice reflection to the arch photo if you feel like crouching.
Cerro de la Cruz viewpoint
A large cross sits atop the town’s Northern hill. You can walk up a steep series of steps to get to the lookout.
There are small vendors selling packets of all sorts and similar knickknacks as per the rest of the town. It’s a great place to get a real perspective of the town and watch the sunset (if you don’t mind a crowd).
Alternatively, if you get up to the point before 8 am you can get the viewpoint to yourself. You can actually take a Tuk Tuk to the top from town (approx USD$5).
Explore the grounds of Casa Santo Domingo
One of the free things to do in Antigua Guatemala is to wander through the Casa Santo Domingo.
While it is a 5-star hotel, it is a kind of living museum. Much of the grounds are accessible and free to walk around. The property itself is stunning. There are beautifully restored walls and architecture from the baroque period of ancestral America amongst lush, jungle gardens.
An underground area has a series of ancient rooms filled with relics and an official museum (that you can pay to go into), however, just walking around is enough to get a feel for the place (and time).
Ethically Sourced Things to do in Antigua Guatemala
There are a lot of vendors in Antigua Guatemala selling (a lot of the same) products. In many cases, products are not necessarily made locally (or ethically sourced). There are a couple of spots in town know for their ethical trade practices.
Make your own ethical jade jewelry
The creation of Jade jewelry is a sacred, traditional pastime in the region around Antigua (and Central America).
Like many things that are high in demand, ways to produce the product are tainted by the drive for cheaper and cheaper prices.
What is ethically sourced jade?
Jade comes from a rock in or on the ground, often near river beds (or dried river beds).
For large scale collection of jade, drilling or explosive excavation can be used. This may or may not be done with the environment, communities water sources or access in mind.
Ethically sourced jade is hand collected from dry river beds in amounts big enough to move by hand (the dried river beds are a long hike from the road). This small size and un-invasive collection approach has very little impact on the environment or local communities.
How you make your own jewelry
The family-owned business at Xibalba have developed a workshop specifically for visitors to experience the full jade jewelry experience from picking the stone, designing the shape, cutting and carving it.
All is done with the assistance of their (very) experienced professional staff.
The workshop lasts for about an hour and costs around USD$50 (it can be more depending on how big or elaborate you make your jewelry).
Visit the Stella 9 Store
Stella 9 is a great destination to add to your things to do in Antigua Guatemala list. It has a cafe (with amazing food), a shop full of beautiful (and ethically sourced) clothing as well as some amazing wall art.
You can also stay here, too (on Airbnb).
More ethical Guatemala Brands to look out for
Hiptipico is based in Lake Atitlan and is producing some amazing and unique pieces in the most ethical way. Their signature pieces are:
- Straps made from upcycled woven (or embroidered) belts made by local women. The straps can be used for cameras, bags, or whatever has a clip.
- Bags lined and covered in handwoven material
Unique things to do in Antigua Guatemala
Enjoy a Rooftop bar in Antigua
Wandering the beautiful streets is one of the best things to do in Antigua Guatemala, but every now and again you need to rest your feet. There are some amazing restaurant options in town, however, with the incredible volcano backdrops, one of the most unique experiences is sitting on a rooftop.
There are a few incredible rooftop bars in Antigua (all unique) with amazing views of erupting volcanoes, They’re the perfect place to watch the sunset or just get away from the bustling streets.
Best Rooftop Bars In Antigua Guatemala:
- Bella Vista Coffee:
- Upstairs from a wine store, a great place for a coffee
- BYO wine (from the downstair shop)
- Best uninterrupted rooftop views of the volcanos
- Hours: 7am-7pm
- Cafe Sky:
- Popular rooftop bar near some other great bars (and many hostels)
- Attracts a lot of backpackers
- Great drink specials for happy hour
- Food is OK
- Antigua Brewing Company:
- Great atmosphere at this rooftop (have live dj) even though its quite small (around 8 tables)
- Good volcano views
- Amazing selection of craft beers
- Try the guacamole and chips
- Las Vibras de la Casbah:
- Classy rooftop bar turned nightclub at night
- Cocktails are quite expensive here but worth the money (they also use edible straws)
- No volcano views from the top but nice garden
- Tartines:
- If you want a semi rooftop view overlooking the beautiful Templo de San José Catedral ruins, this is the spot for you.
- Although pricy, it is a nice spot for an afternoon wine.
Practice Your Spanish
If you’re interested in learning or practicing the Spanish language, it’s been said that those in Guatemala have the easiest accent to understand.
Some highly recommend Spanish schools in town include:
Things to do near Antigua Guatemala
There are a few great activities that you can do while staying in Antigua Guatemala that are nearby.
Visit the Hobbitenango Village
Nestled high up in the mountains above Antigua Guatemala is the Hobbitenango Village. This sustainably run venue is a great place to spend an afternoon or even a night.
Based on the famous Lord of the Rings “Hobbit Holes”, the architecture here is made using local and upcycled materials. The property is run completely off-grid and sources its produce from local farmers.
If one of the things to do in Antigua Guatemala that catches your eye is the Hobbit village, check out more information here.
Climb a Volcano
There are a few volcanoes close by to Antigua Guatemala. Not all of them are accessible (due to their lively nature).
There are two kinds of volcano tours that you can do:
- A day trip
- An overnight trip
What’s the difference. Apart from the obvious overnight part, the two options go to two very different volcanoes.
Volcano Day Trip
The day trip offers a relatively easy (if you have a relatively decent level of fitness) hike to Pacaya Volcano (Volcan de Pacaya).
The base of the volcano is only a half an hour trip from the town center and you can get to the site by yourself, pay the entrance (USD$17) and guide USD$20).
Alternatively, you can take a day package with pickup from your accommodation etc. These packages can be significantly more expensive (up to USD$60) depending on who you ask.
Things to keep in mind:
- It is high altitude so be aware of your breathing
- The volcano is rocky (loose rock) with a few hot spots (that guides will take you to roast marshmallows)
- It’s not an explosive flow of Lava that you might think of when you think volcanoes
- Make sure you have a good pair of closed-in shoes
Volcano Overnight Trip
The Fuego Volcano is where you will see the fiery bursts of lava. And the benefit of the overnight trip is viewing the lava at night (when it really lights up the sky).
The difficulty level (hiking) is significantly greater than the Pacaya Volcano, however, if it’s the explosive volcano you came for, this is the one for you.
The OX Expeditions has a great range of hiking options (day/night) with prices online.
Volunteering with Children
The NGO Niños de Guatemala has a volunteering program for various time frames from 1 day up to one year. Your volunteering placement will depend on your preferences and also your level of Spanish.
Or, stay at The Good Hotel Antigua, a not-for-profit hotel that supports the NGO.
Where To Eat In Antigua Guatemala
There are a lot of food options in Antigua Guatemala. If you’re a vegan or vegetarian, the quality of food is amazing! Here are the best Antigua Guatemala restaurants for vegetarians and vegans:
Samsara
- Serving delicious vegetarian food
- Vegan-friendly
- Organic beer
- Superfoods
- You can also buy some bamboo toothbrushes, plastic-free toothpaste, and natural products here
Cafe Stela
- Serving up some of the most delicious smoothies and colourful breakfasts
- This cute cafe has options for vegans and vegetarians.
Caoba Farms
- Farm to table food
- Organic practices
- Health food shop on site
- Live music
Amanacer Juice bar
- Fresh juices, fruit bowls wraps and more.
- The best ginger shots in Antigua.
Beat
- Located in a dance and fitness studio
- Vegan restaurant offering paninis, wraps, toasts, and desserts.
Wachuma
- Bowls, salads, smoothies, and desserts,
La Bruja
- The best place to get a vegan burger
- Can build your own burgers with delicious vegan bases
Rainbow Cafe
- A classic vegan favourite with great food and its own library
Where To Stay In Antigua Guatemala
Looking for eco accommodation and sustainable hotels in Antigua? Here is a couple to keep in mind.
Good Hotel
The Good Hotel Antigua is a non-for-profit hotel. That means that profits made after expenses (staff wages, etc.) goes directly to the NGO Niños de Guatemala. The minimalist style is chic and clean.
Located in a great part of the historic town, everything is walkable from here.
Hobbitenango
This sustainably run, off-grid property is high above the town and provides a unique “eco Hobbit” experience. At the moment there are only a couple of rooms for staying in, so it is advised to book ahead.
Click here for more information and photos of the Hobbitenango accommodation.
Earth Lodge
A mountain eco-retreat offering a variety of accommodation from cute clamping style cabins, treehouse, dorms, and camping tents.
The property offers yoga, meditation and eco-friendly restaurant that provides a family-style dinner for all the guests staying to get to know one another.
Airbnb Antigua Stays
Antigua is home to some unique Airbnb options. Here are some top picks.
Where to Shop In Antigua Guatemala
As mentioned earlier, it’s always best to support real, local made products. Luckily in Antigua Guatemala, there are lots of unique shops to get great souvenirs.
Here is a list of the best ethically/sustainably made products and where to find them.
Xibalaba
- Ethically sourced jade jewelry
- Create your own jewelry pieces too
Los Gigantes
- An artisan cooperative, ethical and sustainable,
- The artisans create handcrafts using earth-friendly materials
Stela 9
- Ethical sourced material and hand made fashion
- Specialises in women’s clothing
Nim’Pot
- Handicrafts from local artisans
- Woven and embroidered material
Organica
- Selling organic and natural products.
- Can stock up on some bamboo toothbrushes and organic products.
Caoba Farm Eco Store
- Has a selection of reusable products like water bottles, cutlery, straws, wax paper wraps, toothpaste, etc.
Other brands to keep an eye out for
Tierra & Lava products
- Organic/natural skincare products (Guatemala made)
- Available in a few cafes around town
Koruveda
- Locally made toothpaste (in glass jars)
- Bamboo toothbrushes (in cardboard packaging)
What Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Antigua Guatemala?
There are two main seasons in Guatemala; a dry season and a wet season.
- The dry season is November to April
- Wet season is April to November
The rainy season is really only wet for a few hours a day (which helps to cool the place down). So, you could really visit all year round quite comfortably.
Can You Visit Antigua Guatemala In A Sustainable Way?
Travelling inherently has its environmental impact. The idea behind eco travel/responsible travel is to minimise your carbon footprint, reduce waste while travelling and in some way make a positive impact.
Can you do all of these in Antigua Guatemala? Yes, you can.
Antigua Guatemala Eco Travel Quick Tip Summary
- Walk around the town (instead of taking taxis) – it’s only small
- Support ethical/local business – a few listed in this article
- Eat vegan or vegetarian – there are some great options around the town
- Have your own reusable travel items – no need for plastic bags or straws when you’re buying out
