Mexico and Guatemala Trip

The many facets of a trip of Mexico and Guatemala

Guatemala and Mexico are two countries that are perfect to combine in a single trip. Mayan culture is very much alive in both southern Mexico and Guatemala. Not only will you find the ruins of important Mayan cities such as Tikal, Uaxactún and Yaxhá in Guatemala, or Palenque, Chichén Itzá and Calakmul in Mexico, This culture is also still very much present in the streetscapes of historic towns such as Antigua in Guatemala, or San Cristóbal de las Casas and Mérida in Mexico. By combining a visit to Guatemala with, for example, the Mexican Yucatán Peninsula, you’ll find yourself travelling through completely different landscapes. Whilst Guatemala is a mountainous country with volcanoes, lakes and dense jungle, the Yucatán is flat, with beautiful, endless beaches and a kind of dry forest as its vegetation. You’ll also find so-called cenotes here – underground springs with crystal-clear water that invite you to take a refreshing dip and which cannot be found anywhere else in the world.

There are direct flights between Guatemala City and Cancún, as well as to Mérida, the beautiful historic capital of the state of Yucatán. Mérida is the perfect place to start and/or end your journey through Yucatán. The historic centre is a delight to stroll through, and you’ll find many excellent restaurants housed in beautiful buildings that have preserved the stunning architecture of bygone eras. The same applies to a selection of attractive boutique hotels, where historic architecture and modern design are tastefully combined.

At Sapa Pana Travel, we have visited Mexico and Guatemala on numerous occasions. We know the most beautiful routes, unique places and ‘must-see’ destinations. We round off a unique trip of Mexico and Guatemala with special and comfortable accommodation in exceptional locations.

Mérida – Mexico

In Mérida, a visit to the Paseo Montejo is an absolute must. In the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, Yucatán was considered one of the richest regions in the world. Various large landowners made a fortune from the production of henequen, the natural fibre also known in Europe as sisal. To display their wealth, they built the most beautiful palaces along the Paseo Montejo, many of which are still in excellent condition today. Some are still inhabited, whilst others have been repurposed and now serve as restaurants, museums or event venues.

Restaurant recommendations

Picheta comes highly recommended; it’s important to secure a table on the roof terrace, overlooking the main square and the cathedral. You’ll be served the most delicious dishes, based on Yucatecan cuisine. There’s a really relaxed atmosphere and the cocktails are brilliant.

Vana restaurant, situated next to the Parque de la Mejorada, is a hidden gem. The interior is very stylish, with the old features of the historic building beautifully showcased by the perfect lighting. Here you can order traditional Yucatecan dishes as well as delicious pizzas or a superb cheese platter. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a good glass of wine, as the restaurant boasts a wine cellar stocked with excellent wines. It’s also the ideal spot for an original cocktail.

Antigua – Guatemala

One of Latin America’s best-kept secrets – that’s how you could describe this picturesque little town. This colonial town is surrounded by the Agua, Fuego and Acatenango volcanoes, which give Antigua a unique atmosphere and stunning views. The town is easy to explore on foot; all the sights are within walking distance. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll past the brightly coloured houses lining the cobbled streets. As well as the churches, museums, monasteries and ruins, a visit to the colourful market – a veritable explosion of scents and colours – is an absolute must. This market takes place daily just beyond the Alameda de Santa Lucía, on the edge of the historic town centre.

Tips

The banana bread from Doña Luisa Xicotencatl Bakery (4a calle oriente #12) is a real favourite with both locals and tourists. Every day at around 2.00 pm, the freshly baked loaves – which are more like cake – go on sale. If you get there in time, you can pick up a warm loaf and enjoy it in the central park.