Exploring Guatemala: Our Amazing Adventure

Our trip to Guatemala was simply awesome! We visited during the month of January, which turned out to be a great time to travel. While there are no nonstop flights from our home airport, the journey was worth it — after two flights, we landed in Guatemala City ready for adventure.

Arrival in Guatemala City

Upon arrival, I exchanged U.S. dollars for Guatemalan Quetzals at the airport currency booth. (💡 Tip: Many travelers recommend using the ATM for a better exchange rate, but the booth was quick and convenient this time.)

Getting through customs was a breeze. Outside the airport, our driver was waiting with a sign with our name on it — a welcome relief after a long day of travel.

One thing to note: the airport area can feel a little overwhelming. Many vendors approach travelers selling items. At one point, a woman gave my son a balloon and then expected payment, while another followed us all the way to the car. I ended up buying something small for $1 just to keep things moving — not a big deal, but good to be prepared.

Our Stay: Hyatt Centric Guatemala City

Our hotel was about 20–25 minutes from the airport. We stayed at the Hyatt Centric Guatemala City, and I can honestly say the reviews didn’t lie!

Highlights of our stay:

• Spacious junior suite on the 9th floor with robes, slippers, bottled water, and a jacuzzi tub.

• Room service (my favorite on any trip!).

• A rooftop pool with gorgeous views.

• An on-site restaurant plus other restaurants within walking distance.

Most travelers opt to stay in Antigua or Lake Atitlán, but I wanted to be close to the airport since we had limited time. This hotel gave us the comfort we needed with easy access to the city.

Day Trip to Antigua

We started our first full day with an early morning pickup at 6:00 AM for a trip to Antigua. Our first stop was the famous Santa Catalina Arch.

Travel tip: Arrive early. We got there around 7:00 AM on a Saturday, and it was nearly empty — perfect for photos!

My son loved chasing birds in the plaza, and we captured a stunning shot of one of Guatemala’s volcanoes in the background. Our driver even asked a local if my son could sit in his Tuk Tuk, and he happily agreed — another memorable photo op.

Hobbitenango: A Magical Mountain Escape

From Antigua, we headed about 20 minutes away to Hobbitenango, a whimsical eco-park inspired by The Hobbit.

We arrived before it opened at 8:00 AM and lined up for tickets (160 Quetzals). There’s a small market area near the ticket booth with vendors selling local goods. While waiting, my son played with another little boy. They didn’t speak the same language, but it was so heartwarming to see how kids communicate and play without words.

The adventure began with a ride in the back of a pickup truck that takes you up a steep road to the main entrance. It was bumpy and a little nerve-wracking, but also unforgettable!

Most visitors head straight to the breakfast buffet, but we went directly to the park’s most famous attraction — “The Hand” viewpoint. Getting there early meant we avoided long lines and had time to enjoy the breathtaking views in peace.

Final Thoughts

Our short trip to Guatemala was packed with adventure, culture, and special memories. From the luxury of the Hyatt Centric to the colorful streets of Antigua and the magic of Hobbitenango, Guatemala surprised and delighted us at every turn.

Tip: If you’re planning a visit, prepare for early mornings, bring some small bills for vendors, and don’t miss the chance to see the volcano views. Guatemala is full of charm and should definitely be on your travel list.