The nation of Guatemala prides itself on being one of the best-kept secrets in Central America. It is here that you can find the ruins of ancient Mayan cities, charming modern villages, and a stunning natural environment full of wildlife and adventure. In Guatemala, you can experience the past, present, and future all in a single day.
But at the end of every path less traveled, there is a place to relax, unwind, and hang your hat at the end of the day. Fortunately, Guatemala has the types of unique boutique hotels that are perfect to do exactly that. These are some of the most beautiful, relaxing, and inspirational boutique hotels in Guatemala.
Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel, Flores
Situated between five lagoons, the Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel is in an amazing Mayan jungle location and top wellness retreat. There are luxury bungalow suites inside this boutique hotel that overlook the lagoons. Nearby attractions include Mayan sites Tikal, Uaxactún and Yaxhá. This area is home to over 250 species of birds, as well as endangered wildlife species like ocelots and the margay tigers. Take advantage of the lagoon-viewing restaurant, poolside snack bar and on-site spa during your stay as well.
La Laguna Lodge, Santa Crus La Laguna
Explore the lakeside town of Santa Cruz La Laguna and stay at La Laguna Lodge to have a secluded resort experience. Set on a 100-acre nature reserve, this lodge is only accessible by boat. Here you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the lake and volcanoes in the distance while dining on gourmet and sustainable meals. There’s a spa onsite to indulge in a relaxing treatment and lots of nearby excursions offered, including guided hikes and cultural tours.
Casa Palopó, Lake Atitlan
Casa Palopó lies in the lush hills of Guatemala and features rustic architecture that takes travelers away to another time and place. It’s a little off the beaten bath, but that certainly doesn’t mean that it skimps on amenities. This hotel offers in-room massage, international cuisine, and an amazing infinity pool that overlooks the lake. Inside the rooms, you’ll find private terraces, and even the bathrooms have lovely views.
Kawilal Hotel, Amatitlán
Situated in the Amatitlán area, Kawilal Hotel was the first LEED-NC Gold Certified property in Central America. You can reach this eco-friendly hotel in just 30 minutes from the capital. Located in the upper part of the Santa Teresita complex, from here you can access thermal pools, water slides, a thermal circuit and hot saunas. This is a great place to stay for nature lovers because you can participate in sustainability and educational programs and guided tours to learn about natural habitats and conservation efforts around the Pacaya Volcano and surrounding areas. There’s also an exclusive spa, restaurant, pool and Jacuzzi. There are lots of sustainability efforts going on right inside the hotel too, including a recycling water system and rooftop gardens.
Mil Flores Luxury Design Hotel, Antigua
Located in historic Antigua, Mil Flores Luxury Design Hotel is romantic, chic, and contemporary. This hotel was established by a Louisiana oil heiress, Matilda Geddings Gray, who loved the arts and culture of Guatemala. Here you’ll find a trendy vibe and funky furnishings in the colorful suites and public common areas. Enjoy a Mediterranean dinner at the on-site restaurant after spending the day cycling, shopping, and sightseeing. This is a great spot for travelers seeking pure luxury, thanks to fireplaces, mini bars, private terraces, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
La Lancha, Northern Petén Region
La Lancha is one of the most amazing places to stay while traveling in the Northern Petén Region. This hotel is situated in the rainforest and overlooks the Itza Petén Lake, with stunning views in all directions. It features locally-made décor and lots of outdoor spaces to enjoy the warm weather and scenery. There’s a gift shop, restaurant, library, and bar onsite as well to explore during your stay. Some of the most popular activities in the area include horseback riding, water sports, and Mayan excursions to Tikal, Yaxha, and Topoxte.
G Boutique Hotel at Mariscos, Izabal
Another excellent destination for sustainable tourism is G Boutique Hotel, located on Guatemala’s east coast. Mariscos is a remote village a little off the beaten tourist track. You can arrive by yacht or sailboat to start your exploration of this wild area that’s surrounded by tropical flora and fauna. There’s an onsite spa and family-friendly restaurant here as well. Nearby attractions include the Quirigua archeological Mayan site, the Polochich River, the Finca El Paraiso, and water sports.
Casa Madeleine, Antigua
Another great boutique hotel in Antigua is Casa Madeleine, which has just cozy rooms in an intimate and relaxing setting. Start your day with a traditional Guatemalan breakfast and then explore the area with a hotel-arranged tour of a local coffee farm or by soaking in the architecture and culture on your own. There is plenty of history in this Spanish colonial town and a relaxing hotel spa to unwind in when you return from your adventure.
Earth Lodge, El Hato
Some of Guatemala’s finest hotels and resorts are eco-lodges, and one of the best is the budget-friendly Earth Lodge. This lodge is located on an avocado farm and offers peaceful views of the nearby city of Antigua and the volcanoes in the distance. This is a great place to disconnect with routine life and reconnect with nature. At Earth Lodge, you can stay in a treehouse, a cabana, a dorm room, or in the deluxe campground. During your stay, make sure to explore the hiking trails, take a tip in the sauna, and join a yoga class.
