Solo Female Travel in Guatemala: A Guide to Antigua & Lake Atitlán
- Jess.ca.pades
- Feb 12
- 6 min read
Guatemala is a stunning destination, with no lack of things to do, from hiking volcanoes, paragliding over Lake Atitlan, and exploring the UNESCO town of Antigua. Nearly a year later, Guatemala still stands out to me as one of my favorite travel destinations. If you're considering Guatemala as your next destination, I promise you won't be disappointed. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about traveling solo to Antigua and Lake Atitlán, from Safety, Things to See, How to Get Around, and Things to Know Before You Go.
Is Guatemala Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
As a solo female traveler, you may be wondering: Is Guatemala safe? I'm happy to report that I felt very safe during my time in Guatemala. Antigua and Lake Atitlán are some of the safest and most visited areas in the country, making them great spots for solo travelers. Now I did take normal precautions - Don't walk around alone at night, carry a cross body bag, don't flash your valuables.
Things to Know Before Visiting Guatemala
Best Time to Visit – Dry season (Nov–Apr) is ideal, but the rainy season (May–Oct) is still manageable.
Money – Use Guatemalan Quetzals (GTQ), carry cash, and expect limited card acceptance in rural areas.
Transportation – Chicken buses, shuttles, uber, and tuk tuks
Water – Drink bottled water to avoid illness.
Cultural Etiquette – Dress modestly in rural areas, greet people politely, and ask before taking photos of locals.
Top Places to Visit – Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Tikal, Semuc Champey, and Rio Dulce.
Antigua
Antigua, Guatemala, is a charming colonial city nestled in the central highlands, known for its cobblestone streets, well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture, and breathtaking volcano views. It was once the capital of Guatemala and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How to Get Around Antigua
The town is relatively small, making it easily walkable, but there are also options like taxis, uber and tuk-tuks for getting around.
Things to do in Antigua
Take an overnight trek up Volcan Acatenango
One of the most popular activities to do when in Antigua is to take an overnight trek up Volcan Acatenango. This is one of the most challenging but worthwhile hikes I have ever done. The Hike took 4-5 hours, was mostly uphill, sandy and the first hour is the hardest, as you're adjusting to the altitude. But once you make it to the top BOY OH BOY! The volcano erupts around every five minutes so you can sit back and enjoy the views. At night you get to see the orange lava explode. Its truly a bucket list experience.
There are things to make the trek easier such altitude meds, which I bought at the grocery store in Atingua (la Bodegona), and took the day before and morning before the hike. There are also porters available to carry your pack up and down the mountain for a fee.
There are several tours directly from Antigua. I went with CA Travelers and felt very well taken care of throughout the tour.
Visit Hobbitenango
Hobbitenango is a magical eco-lodge and theme park in the hills above Antigua, inspired by The Lord of the Rings. Visitors can explore Hobbit-style homes, swing over the valley on El Grito, play outdoor games like archery and ax throwing, dine with stunning volcano views, and even stay overnight in cozy Hobbit-themed cabins.
You can get to Hobbitenango from a shut take departs from Antiguas Central Park. The road there is not always paved so I 4x4 is recommended for the final road up to Hobbitenango. You can also take ATV tours that include a visit to Hobbitenango.
Santa Catalina Arch
The most iconic landmark in the city, perfect for photos with the Agua Volcano in the background.
Historical Churches & Ruins
Visit places like La Merced Church, San Francisco Church, and the ruins of Santa Clara and San José Cathedral.
Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross)
The Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross) is a famous viewpoint overlooking Antigua, Guatemala. It features a large stone cross and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, with Volcán de Agua as a stunning backdrop. This spot is popular for sunrise or sunset views. You can take a taxi, tuk tuk, or a 15-20 minute hike up from Antigua.
Hike up one of the nearby volcanoes like Pacaya
Volcán Pacaya is one of Guatemala’s most popular and accessible active volcanoes, offering a relatively easy hike with stunning views and the unique experience of roasting marshmallows over hot lava rocks.
Visit the Mercado de Artesanias and the Mercado Central
Mercado de Artesanías and Mercado Central in Antigua are great spots for authentic Guatemalan shopping. The **Mercado de Artesanías** offers handcrafted textiles, jewelry, ceramics, and wood carvings, while **Mercado Central** provides fresh produce, street food, and affordable artisan goods. Bargaining is common, so bring cash and shop early for the best experience.
Visit One of the Most Beautiful McDonalds in the World.
The McDonald's in Antigua, Guatemala, is considered one of the most beautiful because it is located in a stunning colonial-era building that preserves the town's rich history and charm. The restaurant is housed in a 16th-century building that was originally a convent. The architectural design incorporates the traditional Spanish colonial style, with arched doorways, intricate woodwork, and beautifully preserved stone walls.
Take Spanish lessons at one of the several Spanish schools.
Antigua has an abundace of Spanish schools. While it's possible to get by without Spanish, but I found knowing some basic Spanish has been very helpful.
Lake Atitlán
Surrounded by volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages, Lake Atitlán is one of Guatemala's most magical destinations.
Getting To and Around Lake Atitlan:
It's very easy to find a shuttle to Atitlan from Antigua.
Once at the lake you can easily take a lancha (water taxi) between villages by simply showing up at the dock.
Tuk Tuks are also easily accessible but stick to their designated village. So if you're trying to take a tuk tuk from San Pedro to San Juan, they're going to drop you off at the edge of San Pedro next to the tuk tuk stop in San Juan and you can continue your journey from there.
Cash is required for both the boats and Tuk Tuks.
Best Villages to Visit:
1. Panajachel: The biggest town and gateway to Lake Atitlan
Panajachel is the main entry point to Lake Atitlán and the most developed village. Calle Santander, the bustling main street, is lined with artisan shops, restaurants, and vibrant markets selling handcrafted textiles and souvenirs. The Atitlán Nature Reserve offers scenic trails, waterfalls, and even a butterfly garden. For a relaxing afternoon, visitors can enjoy lakeside views at Playa Pública or watch the sunset from a waterfront café. Pana is also a great base for booking tours and boat trips to the other villages around the lake.
2. San Pedro La Laguna: Popular among backpackers, is known for its nightlife and laid-back vibe
San Pedro is known for its lively backpacker scene, affordable accommodations, and energetic nightlife. Adventurers can hike Indian Nose at sunrise for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes. During the day, visitors can kayak, paddleboard, or explore local markets. By night, bars like Sublime and Alegre Pub come alive with music and social gatherings, making San Pedro the go-to village for those looking to go out and mingle with fellow travelers.
San Marcos La Laguna: Referred to as the "hippie town", San Marcos is a haven for spiritual seekers, and my personal favorite.
San Marcos is the village of choice for spiritual seekers and wellness enthusiasts. Known for its meditation centers, yoga retreats, and alternative healing practices, it attracts visitors looking for peace and self-discovery. The Yoga Forest offers immersive retreats, while Eagle’s Nest hosts ecstatic dance sessions with breathtaking sunset views. The village also has a small but beautiful nature reserve where visitors can swim or cliff jump into the clear waters of the lake. Many travelers also participate in cacao ceremonies or holistic workshops, making San Marcos a unique and transformative destination.
San Juan: Very close to San Pedro, offers colorful and artistic streets such as the Calle de las Artes and Calle de los Sombreros
San Juan La Laguna is a peaceful village known for its strong commitment to indigenous traditions and sustainable tourism. Walking through its streets, visitors can admire vibrant murals depicting local history and Mayan legends. The town is famous for its women’s cooperatives, where artisans demonstrate traditional weaving techniques using natural dyes. Coffee lovers can tour small family-run farms to learn about the organic coffee-making process. For breathtaking views of the lake, a short but rewarding hike to the Mirador Kaqasiiwaan is a must.
Conclusion
Guatemala is an incredible destination for solo female travelers, offering a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. The warmth of the people and the beauty of the landscapes make it a trip worth taking. By planning ahead and following normal precautions, you can have an unforgettable experience in Antigua and Lake Atitlán.
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