Page 29 - traveling73 eng

To speak of Guatemala is to speak of the soul of the
Maya world, of a land that still preserves the pulse of
its ancient civilisations among volcanoes, lakes and
tropical forests. Its history goes back more than three
thousand years, when cities such as Tikal, Yaxhá
and Quiriguá flourished — sacred centres of astro-
nomy, art and commerce. The arrival of the Spanish
conquistadors in the 16th century marked a profound
mestizaje that gave rise to a unique cultural identity: a
country where Mayan languages coexist with Spanish
and indigenous markets colour colonial squares.
Today Guatemala opens itself to the world with a
blend of tradition, nature and authenticity that is hard
to match. Its archaeological heritage, its living towns
and its lush landscapes place it among the most at-
tractive destinations in Central America. In recent
years, its tourism offer has grown, driven by visitors
seeking genuine and sustainable experiences, with
direct contact with the local community. Destinations
such as Antigua Guatemala, a World Heritage Site,
or Lake Atitlán, surrounded by volcanoes and artisan
villages, have become international icons, while its
Caribbean coast and the jungle routes of Petén gain
prominence among travellers in search of authenticity.
From the turquoise lakes of the highlands and the
rivers hidden in the jungle, to the thermal waterfalls
and the black-sand beaches of the Pacific, Guate-
mala offers aquatic experiences that combine nature,
adventure and living culture.
ADVENTURE TOURISM
Waterfalls that enchant the senses
Guatemala is a country of living water. In its volca-
nic geography, where mountain and jungle merge,
waterfalls are natural temples where the beauty and
strength of water are expressed without artifice.
In the cloud forests of Alta Verapaz, the Salto de Chi-
lascó plunges from almost four hundred and twen-
ty-seven feet, among ferns, mosses and orchids.
Considered one of the highest in Central America,
it attracts hikers and birdwatchers. The flight of the
quetzal —national symbol and emblem of free-
dom— rewards the patience of those who follow
the humid trails. The nearby communities, guar-
dians of the environment, offer guided routes and
local products that promote responsible tourism.
Further east, the Los Amates waterfalls, known
as the Guatemalan Niagaras, invite rest and con-
templation. Their emerald-coloured pools, hidden
among trees and moss-covered rocks, are an ideal
refuge for a peaceful swim or a picnic day in the
heart of nature.
In Izabal, Finca El Paraíso offers an unusual spec-
tacle: a thermal waterfall that falls onto a river of
cold water The contrast creates a cloud of steam that
envelops the visitor in a mystical atmosphere. Many
travellers slip into the caves behind the veil of water
or cover their skin with the mineral mud of the banks,
evoking ancient Mayan rituals
- 29