Lots of countries claim to be a ‘melting pot’. But Guatemala is the real deal. In this sense, it is impossible to talk about a single, Guatemalan culture. The country has many cultural influences, with Mayan, Spanish, African and Mexican all shaping modern Guatemala in different ways. With so much intrigue on offer, it can be hard to narrow down your itinerary when visiting. What you definitely should include are these; our 5 IDEAL things to do in Guatemala.
VISIT A CHURCH
Guatemala is a predominantly Catholic country with churches that are often filled with Mayan decorations (and sometimes even animal offerings). It’s a unique experience to say the least. Some of the essential places of worship to visit include Santo Tomas Church in Chichicastenango and La Iglesia de San Andres de Xecul in Quetzaltenago.
TRY CHOCOLATE FRUIT
Guatemala is often credited as being the birthplace of the world’s favourite food. But the country is also home to a chocolate of a different kind; the ‘chocolate pudding fruit’. Carve one open and you’re met with a gooey, brown substance which at first glance could be mistaken for the inside of a chocolate fondant. Sadly, it doesn’t take like the beloved brown stuff, but it’s an interesting experience nonetheless.
TAKE A SALSA LESSON
Music is a huge part of Guatemalan culture. You’ll find African-influenced Garifuna music on the Caribbean coast, and classical music in world-class concert halls. And then there’s salsa, everywhere.
Salsa is often thought of as a Cuban obsession – and it’s true, the island is its spiritual home, along with the clubs of New York. But Guatemalans love to dance too, and in fact it’s one of the best places to learn to salsa. Antigua, in particular, is packed with salsa clubs and schools. Salsa Stylo-Antigua is one of the most popular schools, and they even do free Saturday classes. Along with learning Spanish, picking up a few salsa moves is one of the biggest draws for many visitors.
SHOP FOR TEXTILES
One of the most striking examples of traditional Mayan culture is in the visual arts and crafts on display in Guatemala. And the most beautiful – and accessible – example of this is the wealth of textiles you’ll see as you’re travelling around the country. Indigenous areas such as Lake Atitlán are full of some of the most talented weavers you’ll ever encounter.
Look out for traditional huipiles (a kind of colourful shirt) in particular. The patterns on these colourful garments are unique to different regions and a source of great local pride. Cintas are another specialty – a colourful woven hair band. You’ll also be able to pick up unique bags and purses too, in many local markets.
WATCH A FIREWORKS DISPLAY
Guatemalans are obsessed with fireworks. They are the soundtrack to many different kinds of public events ranging from a traditional Mayan religious ceremony, a soccer match, a wedding or even a funeral, the sound of firecrackers is a constant and you’ll hear plenty of ‘bombas’ in Antigua.
And don’t expect to get much sleep around Christmas (particularly 11 December, Virgin of Guadalupe Day) and Independence Day in September. There will be plenty of music and fireworks – adding plenty of excitement to the festivities.