Guatemala was the perfect place for a special trip with my daughter, and this journey meant even more because it was her graduation gift. She had just finished college and was about to start a new chapter in her life, making this the perfect time to celebrate. From exploring breathtaking sights to experiencing the rich culture, every moment felt unforgettable. This trip wasn’t just about travel—it was about marking a milestone and creating lasting memories together. Here’s a look at our amazing journey through Guatemala.
Why We Chose Antigua, Guatemala
Earlier this year, I took a trip to Antigua, Guatemala with my older daughter, Hannah, and we completely fell in love with it. The cobblestone roads, the charming small-town feel, and the warmth of the local people made it such a special place. Everywhere we went, we felt welcomed, and it didn’t take long for us to feel at home.
One of the things we loved most about Antigua was the amazing food. From cozy cafés to local markets, there was always something delicious to try. Every meal felt like a new discovery, and we couldn’t get enough of the fresh flavors.
Because of this unforgettable experience, I knew I wanted to come back—and this time, with my younger daughter, Ally. Her graduation trip was the perfect opportunity to share this beautiful place with her. I wanted her to experience the same charm that made Guatemala so special to me and Hannah.
I wanted her to walk through the historic streets, take in the beautiful surroundings, and feel the warmth of the local people.
Our Special Trip to Antigua, Guatemala
Our special trip to Antigua, Guatemala was filled with adventure, great food, and unforgettable moments. We stayed in two charming hostels, Maya Papaya and Barbara’s Boutique Hotel. Both were very nice and clean, with budget-friendly dorms and private room options. We also revisited familiar spots like Frieda’s and discovered new favorites like Ta’Cool Taco Shop, which quickly became Ally’s top choice.
A surprise visit from our friends, who drove from El Salvador, made the trip even more exciting. Together, we explored local markets, tried different cuisines, and soaked in the lively atmosphere of Antigua. There were many hidden markets near the plaza, and a large market within walking distance where we could shop and eat for even less.
After our friends left, my daughter and I set off on our own adventures. We took an ATV sunset tour and visited the magical Hobbitenango, which was a must-do and one of the highlights of our trip. This time of year, the rain came and went, but it never lasted all day. It would pour for a few hours and then clear up, giving us plenty of time to explore.
On rainy afternoons, we still found ways to entertain ourselves. We played billiards, relaxed in cozy cafés, and enjoyed the beauty of Antigua from the comfort of our hostel. No matter the weather, we made every moment of this special trip to Guatemala count.
Our Stay in the Jungle and Exploring the Mayan Ruins
Our special trip to Guatemala continued with an affordable flight to Flores. From there, we took a bus for about an hour and a half to reach our jungle stay. Unfortunately, Ally experienced severe motion sickness during the flight, and the long bus ride made it even worse. She spent the first day resting and recovering, but after plenty of rest, she started feeling better.
We stayed at Jungle Lodge, a unique and beautiful place surrounded by nature. The setting was peaceful, and it felt like a true escape into the jungle. However, food options were very limited, and the few restaurants available weren’t great, which made meals a bit challenging. Despite this, the experience of staying in the jungle was something special.
Thankfully, Ally felt better during our last few days, just in time to visit the magnificent Mayan ruins of Tikal. Walking through the ancient ruins, surrounded by towering temples and lush jungle, was truly breathtaking. It was the perfect way to end our trip before heading home. Despite the challenges, I highly recommend visiting Tikal—its history and beauty make it one of the most unforgettable places in Guatemala.
Cherishing Our Special Trip to Guatemala
Our special trip to Guatemala was an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, culture, and meaningful moments. From exploring historic streets to immersing ourselves in nature, every part of the journey brought something unique. More than just a vacation, this trip was a celebration—of new beginnings, shared experiences, and the joy of travel.
Despite a few challenges, we made wonderful memories that will stay with us forever. Guatemala’s beauty, warm people, and rich history made it the perfect destination for this special trip. It was a journey of discovery, bonding, and appreciation for everything this incredible country has to offer.
If you enjoyed reading about this special trip to Guatemala, check out my experience traveling to Central America with my other daughter. I also share more travel tips for anyone planning a visit to Antigua, Guatemala!
