Guatamala
Guatemala: A Cultural Treasure Trove for Families on the Road
Before arriving in Guatemala, I didn’t know exactly what to expect. It’s one of those countries that tends to fly under the radar—often overshadowed by more ‘popular’ neighbours. But after travelling all over the country, from the colourful island town of Flores, through the tranquil magic of Lake Atitlán, and ending in the colonial beauty of Antigua, I can honestly say: Guatemala stole our hearts.
This place is so much more than just a stop on the backpacker trail. It’s authentic, culturally rich, and incredibly welcoming—especially for families. Whether you’re travelling with little ones or world-schooling older children, Guatemala offers endless opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with the world around you.
Why Families Are Drawn to Guatemala
So, why do families love it here? Honestly, it's the perfect blend of adventure and learning. There’s a little bit of everything: ancient ruins, colourful markets, breathtaking landscapes, kind-hearted people, and an education in real life that you just can’t get from books.
Travelling with kids? You’ll be amazed at how much they absorb—from the Mayan stories in Tikal to weaving traditions by the lake, and even learning basic Spanish just from chatting with locals. Guatemala makes it easy to turn every day into a lesson in geography, history, language, and empathy.
And it’s not just the kids who come away changed—we learned just as much as they did.
Our Journey Through Guatemala
1. Flores & Tikal – Stepping Back in Time
Our trip began in Flores, a cute little island town surrounded by Lake Petén Itzá. It’s colourful, calm, and a perfect base for exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal. The site is massive and still partly swallowed by jungle—it feels wild, raw, and incredibly real. We climbed temples, listened to howler monkeys echo through the trees, and got a crash course in Mayan history that no classroom could ever deliver.
2. Lake Atitlán – Learning Through Living
Next, we headed to Lake Atitlán, and it’s hard to put into words how special this place is. Each lakeside village has its own personality—San Marcos is peaceful and spiritual, while San Juan is all about traditional art and local textiles. We stayed in different villages and experienced how the local communities live, work, and celebrate their heritage.
We also met people doing amazing work in education, sustainability, and cultural preservation. One of our favourite experiences was visiting a women’s weaving cooperative—watching them work, hearing their stories, and seeing the pride in their craft was unforgettable. For world-schooling families, this is where Guatemala really shines. The learning is hands-on and deeply human.
3. Antigua – Colour, Culture & Cobblestones
We wrapped up our adventure in Antigua, a charming colonial city surrounded by volcanoes. It’s the perfect mix of laid-back and lively. We wandered through colourful streets, explored ruins of old churches, and even took part in a chocolate-making workshop (which, let’s be honest, was a hit with all of us).
Antigua is also a hub for tours and experiences—coffee plantation visits, volcano hikes, and local cooking classes. Everything here has a story behind it, and locals are so generous in sharing their history and traditions. The city feels safe, walkable, and rich in opportunities for connection.
The True Gift of Guatemala: Authenticity
What sets Guatemala apart is how real it feels. It hasn’t been polished for tourists, and that’s exactly what makes it so valuable—especially if you're travelling with curious minds. You get to witness life as it truly is, in all its colour, contrast, and complexity.
Guatemala invites you in. It teaches you without trying. Whether it’s through a smile from a market vendor, a child weaving beside her mother, or a guide explaining the sacredness of a volcano, you’re constantly learning something new.
For the World-Schooling Families
If you're world-schooling or even just trying to make travel meaningful for your kids, Guatemala is a must-visit. The country is like a living classroom—history, culture, nature, language, economics, art—it’s all there. And the best part? It’s authentic. You're not reading about it in a textbook, you're living it alongside the people who call it home.
Final Thoughts
Guatemala surprised us. It challenged us. And most of all, it enriched us.
From the ruins of Tikal to the weaving villages of Lake Atitlán, to the charm and depth of Antigua—this country has so much to offer. It's affordable, diverse, full of learning opportunities, and perfect for families looking for more than just pretty beaches and resorts.
So if you’re considering where to go next on your family travels, put Guatemala high on your list. You’ll leave with more than just memories—you’ll leave with perspective, understanding, and a deeper connection to the world around you.
