7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Antigua

Antigua, is a haven for digital nomads seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and tranquility. Nestled among volcanoes, this colonial town offers a unique living experience. However, even the most picturesque workspace deserves a break, and Antigua's location is perfect for weekend getaways. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there's a plethora of destinations within reach for a refreshing escape.

Lake Atitlán

Just a short journey from Antigua, Lake Atitlán is a must-visit destination for anyone in Guatemala. Surrounded by volcanoes and dotted with quaint villages, the lake offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or taking a boat tour to explore the surrounding communities, each with its unique culture and traditions. Hiking opportunities abound, with trails leading up the volcanoes for those seeking a challenge and panoramic vistas.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Lake Atitlán is by shuttle bus, which takes about 2.5 to 3 hours from Antigua. Several companies offer daily services to Panajachel, the main entry point to the lake area.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the village of San Juan La Laguna, known for its vibrant textile industry and art galleries. It's a quieter alternative to the more touristy Panajachel.

Where to Stay: For a luxurious stay, consider Casa del Mundo, which boasts stunning lake views and offers boat access to other villages. For a more budget-friendly option, check out La Iguana Perdida in Santa Cruz la Laguna, known for its community vibe and family-style dinners.

Where to Eat: Café Loco in Panajachel is famed for its excellent coffee and quirky atmosphere. For a meal with a view, try Restaurante El Barrio in San Pedro La Laguna, which serves delicious local and international dishes.

Semuc Champey

For an adventurous weekend, Semuc Champey is a natural wonder not to be missed. This limestone bridge, with its series of turquoise pools and waterfalls, is set deep in the Guatemalan jungle. Visitors can swim in the refreshing pools, explore the nearby caves by candlelight, and hike to the Mirador for a stunning overview of the entire site. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, adding to the sense of adventure.

How to Get There: Reaching Semuc Champey involves a full day's journey from Antigua, usually by shuttle bus. The trip can take around 8 hours, so it's best to leave early in the morning.

Travel Tip: Make sure to bring water shoes for navigating the slippery rocks and a waterproof bag to protect your electronics during the cave exploration.

Where to Stay: Greengo's Hotel offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to Semuc Champey and features a natural swimming pool. Utopia Eco Hotel is another great option, with its eco-friendly practices and riverside location.

Where to Eat: Most accommodations offer meal services, but for a change of scenery, try Comedor Shalom in Lanquín, which serves hearty local dishes at affordable prices.

Monterrico

Monterrico's black volcanic sand beaches provide a stark contrast to Antigua's cobblestone streets. This coastal town is known for its laid-back atmosphere and is a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, and witnessing sea turtle releases during the right season. The local nature reserve, Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii, offers the chance to explore mangrove canals and observe a variety of bird species.

How to Get There: The easiest way to get to Monterrico is by shuttle bus, which takes approximately 2.5 hours from Antigua. Some shuttles offer direct services to the beach town.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting between June and December, don't miss the opportunity to participate in a turtle release program, where you can help newly hatched sea turtles reach the ocean.

Where to Stay: Hotel El Delfin has a beachfront location with a pool and is known for its relaxing environment. For something more upscale, check out Johnny's Place, which offers private bungalows and a lively bar scene.

Where to Eat: Pelicanos Restaurant, right on the beach, is famous for its fresh seafood dishes and tropical cocktails, perfect for enjoying the ocean view.

Chichicastenango

Chichicastenango, often referred to as Chichi, hosts one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Central America. Every Thursday and Sunday, the town comes alive with vendors selling everything from textiles and pottery to traditional foods. It's an excellent place for digital nomads to experience the local culture, shop for unique souvenirs, and photograph the colorful displays. The town also has the 400-year-old Church of Santo Tomás, where you can witness a blend of Mayan and Catholic rituals.

How to Get There: Chichicastenango is about a 2.5-hour drive from Antigua. Shuttles and buses are available, especially on market days, making it an accessible day trip or overnight stay.

Travel Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and have the best selection of goods. Don't forget to haggle respectfully, as it's part of the shopping experience.

Where to Stay: Hotel Santo Tomás offers comfortable accommodations with a colonial feel and a beautiful garden. For a more budget-conscious option, Posada El Arco provides a cozy and friendly atmosphere.

Where to Eat: Try the market food stalls for authentic Guatemalan dishes like tostadas and tamales. For a sit-down meal, Restaurante Chalet offers a variety of local and international cuisine.

Iximché

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Iximché is a pre-Columbian archaeological site that was once the capital of the Kaqchikel Maya kingdom. Today, it's a serene place to explore ancient ruins and learn about Mayan history. The site is still used for traditional Mayan ceremonies, and if you're lucky, you might witness one during your visit. The surrounding area is also great for hiking and bird watching.

How to Get There: Iximché is located about an hour's drive from Antigua. The best way to visit is by renting a car or taking a taxi, as public transportation options are limited.

Travel Tip: Consider hiring a local guide at the entrance to gain a deeper understanding of the site's historical significance and the current cultural practices.

Where to Stay: There are limited accommodations near Iximché, so most visitors choose to stay in nearby Tecpán, where you can find options like La Posada de Don Rodrigo with its cozy fireplace rooms.

Where to Eat: Restaurante Katok Tecpán is known for its traditional Guatemalan cuisine and charming rustic setting, complete with a fireplace and garden views.

Finca El Pilar

Finca El Pilar is a hidden gem located just outside of Antigua, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers. This coffee plantation turned nature reserve offers a tranquil escape with its hummingbird feeders, butterfly gardens, and hiking trails leading to natural pools and waterfalls. It's an ideal spot for a quiet day of wildlife observation or a refreshing swim in the mountain water.

How to Get There: Finca El Pilar is only a 10-minute drive from Antigua, making it an easy half-day or full-day trip. Taxis are readily available, and some visitors choose to hike or bike to the reserve.

Travel Tip: Bring your binoculars for birdwatching, and don't miss the chance to take a dip in the natural pools, especially after a hike.

Where to Stay: Since it's so close to Antigua, you can return to your accommodation in the city. However, for those wanting to stay closer to nature, Earth Lodge offers treehouse lodging with stunning views of the volcanoes.

Where to Eat: The reserve doesn't have many food options, so pack a picnic or head back to Antigua to enjoy the variety of restaurants there. Café No Sé is a popular spot with an eclectic vibe and live music on some evenings.

Almolonga

Almolonga is a small agricultural town known for its fertile soil and vibrant produce market. It's often overlooked by tourists, making it a peaceful retreat for those interested in rural Guatemalan life. The town is also famous for its thermal baths, where you can relax in the mineral-rich waters. Visiting Almolonga provides a glimpse into the traditional farming practices and the daily life of local residents.

How to Get There: Almolonga is about a 45-minute drive from Antigua. The best way to visit is by renting a car or taking a local bus, which offers a more authentic experience.

Travel Tip: Visit on market day to see the town at its most lively. The thermal baths are a must-visit, so bring a swimsuit and towel.

Where to Stay: Accommodations in Almolonga are limited, so many visitors choose to stay in nearby Quetzaltenango, where you can find a range of options like the historic Pension Bonifaz Hotel.

Where to Eat: For a local dining experience, try the small eateries around the market that serve traditional dishes like caldo de res (beef soup) and fresh juices made from local produce.

Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these weekend getaways from Antigua, Guatemala, offer something for every digital nomad. Each destination provides a unique experience that will enrich your stay in this beautiful country.