Weekend Getaways near San Francisco Gotera

Antigua, once a colonial capital is rich in history, cultural and natural disasters. After a large earthquaked hit the capital the King of Spain moved the capital to Guatemala City. The town is surrounded by three active volcanoes. The last larger eruption came out of Volcano Fuego in September 2012. Most days you can see smoke coming out of this volcano. For those brave enough to go in for a closer look, tourist offices can arrange day hikes up the volcanoes. A walk through the city displays historical colonial monuments, vibrant markets and street vendors, a diverse mix of Catholic churches (both modern and from the Spanish colonial era), and a an array of restaurants catering to locals and foreigners. Of course with this boom in tourism here, prices are more expensive in Antigua than the rest of Guatemala. For those wanting to stay longer there are many options including volunteering, working at chocolate or coffee farms, dance classes, Spanish language centers, and cooking courses.

Didn't like so much, too touristy and not the backpacker style tourism. It's expensive. You can climb the Water Volcano and the Pacaya Volcano, the best option is to camp there so you can take your time ;) You have a cool Craft Market close to the bus station. In your way to Guatemala City visit the Rehab Center for Alcohol and Drug addicters called "La luz de Jesus" We left some clothes there but they were happier for the fact of being there and see different people.

Start at the old colonial Capital - "Antigua" means "old" in Spanish.

As pretty as a picture, this gorgeous colonial town with its tumbledown churches ringed by towering volcanoes makes an ideal first stop in the country. Studying Spanish here is of dubious value, since the town is full of tourists and nearly everyone speaks English, but it's still a place with more than its fair share of magic.