6 Exciting Things to Do in Guatemala with Teens

Traveling with teens can be tricky because, unlike little kids, teens already know what they like. It is even trickier if they are the adventurous kind. Luckily there are countries like Guatemala where you can find all sorts of nature adventures fit for them. Here is a list of our favorites.

I truly believe that Guatemala has tons of underrated destinations and offers tons of fun activities for travelers that most of us don’t know about. After living in the country for over ten years and raising my sons here, I can say that there is much more to see. Guatemala is much more than Antigua, Atitlan, and Tikal.

But even if you visit only those three main spots, you still get options near you for adventurous teens. Following are my family’s favorite things to do in Guatemala with teens and information on where to do it.

Guide to Things to Do in Guatemala with Teens

1. Rappelling

There are several places to rappel. But definitely, the best places for rappelling in Guatemala are waterfalls. Two of the favorites are Urlanta waterfall in Jalapa department. There is also Los Amates Waterfall in Santa Rosa Department.

There aren’t any companies out there offering these tours but they are available. Also if you plan to go rappelling with teens in Guatemala, it is best to do it as a private tour. That way you get all of the attention and don’t have to wait for everyone else to go down.

My family and I still haven’t gone on these tours, but we are looking forward to doing so.

2. Camping

There are many private nature parks and public reserves where you can go. You can even camp within Tikal National Park or go to Ixpanpajul Park in Peten. Near Antigua, you can go to Corazon de Agua or Senderos de Alux. There is also a park off of Guatemala City called Green Rush. This last one was where my sons and I have spent time. It was great, and even had special areas for bonfires.

There are also many other open spaces where people like to camp but those are not guarded and therefore not as safe. So be careful.

3. Surfing

Guatemala’s Pacific Coast is a gem for all of those who would like to learn how to surf. But it also offers areas where more experienced surfers can have a fun time.

This is one of my family’s favorite short weekend trips. Antigua, where we live, is only a couple of hours away from El Paredon, one of the best beaches for surfing in the country. It is packed with places where you can either rent a board or get a class.

4. Hiking

Now, this is one of the specialties in the country. Everywhere you look there is some trail, mountain or volcano.

The hike you choose should be one that your kids can physically endure without suffering too much. It should be to a place that they find fun. It’s so subjective, I can’t even recommend any. It also depends on the amount of experience your children have.

What I can do is mention my family’s favorite one. So far, it is Pacaya Volcano. It is a day hike that you can do in one morning or take more time to explore.

5. Rafting

I know this one might come as a surprise to you. Among the many things that Guatemala is known for, rafting isn’t one of them. But not only is it possible but it is a lot of fun. It is done at Cahabón River. Depending on your experience and the age of your kids, you get to decide on which portion of the river to go through.

This is actually really close to Semuc Champey natural pools and Lanquin caves. Actually, they were both formed by the same river. So you can make it a destination and spend the night.

6. Mountain biking

Mountain biking just recently got popular in Guatemala. This means there are a few trails already. For example, you can visit Florencia park, only 10 minutes away from Antigua. There is also San Agustin Bike Park near Guatemala city. Within Guatemala city, there is another cool track at Parque Eric Barrondo and a lot of people like to also go to Senderos de Alux too.

These are all amazing and a lot of fun.

So which of these activities would you like to enjoy with your teens? To me, they are all fantastic and offer a lot of educational opportunities as well as fun times.