Antigua Attractions
Antigua, a small island located in the Caribbean Sea, is a destination that will captivate and inspire you with its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the turquoise waters and palm-fringed beaches to the charming colonial architecture and friendly locals, there is much to discover on this island paradise. One of the highlights of Antigua is its stunning beaches. With 365 beaches, one for each day of the year, you will be spoiled for choice. From the famous Dickenson Bay and Half Moon Bay to the secluded Darkwood Beach and Pigeon Point, there is a beach to suit every taste. Whether you want to sunbathe, swim, snorkel, or simply relax with a book, you can find your perfect spot on these pristine shores.Beyond the beaches, Antigua also offers a glimpse into its colonial past. The capital city of St. John’s is home to a number of historic landmarks, including the 17th-century St. John’s Cathedral and the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda, which houses artifacts from the island’s history. A visit to Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must for history enthusiasts. This restored Georgian-era naval base is filled with historic buildings, museums, and beautiful marinas.For nature lovers, Antigua’s lush landscapes and scenic trails offer ample opportunities for exploration. Explore the island’s rainforest on a zip-lining adventure or hike up the famous Mount Obama (formerly Boggy Peak) for breathtaking views of the island. The nearby sister island of Barbuda is home to the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, where you can observe these magnificent birds in their natural habitat.Antigua also has a vibrant cultural scene, with a blend of British, African, and West Indian influences. The island is known for its lively festivals, such as Carnival, which takes place in July and features colorful costumes, music, and dancing. You can also experience the local cuisine, which combines fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and spices. Don’t miss trying the national dish, \"fungi and pepperpot,\" a flavorful stew made with okra and seasoned with local herbs.Whether you are seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Antigua will inspire you with its natural beauty, fascinating history, and warm hospitality. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey to this Caribbean gem that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
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$17.50
This tour offers a leisure walk around Antigua a site listed as World Heritage. It's an excellent narrative focusing on its history and architecture. This narrated walk allows you to appreciate interesting facts about the most important monuments to obtain a good understanding of their Cultural Importance. You will explore the City Hall Palace with this enjoy panoramic views of The General's Captains Palace, full visit of the magnificent Jesuits Convent, today a well-known cultural center. Walk the main streets and have some panoramic views of the arch of Saint Catherine. We will visit the Catedral, Santo Domingo convent and last (optional) explore the famous jade factory and museum.
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$68.00
This is the best sightseeing adventure tour in Antigua! This tour is done on ATVs, were you choose to be a driver or a rider. Visit 4 Mountain attractions around Antigua which include a chocolate factory in San Juan del Obispo, ¨El Cerro¨ de La Cruz for a great aerial view of Antigua. Hobbitenango a unique ¨Hobbitt¨ Lord of the Rings theme eco-park, and ¨Earth Lodge¨ a relaxing place that has unique and wonderful views of the valley and volcanoes.
You will drive through cobblestone streets, paved roads, and some off road during this must do activity in Antigua.
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$22.40
Visit behind the walls of Antigua Guatemala with UNESCO trained expert guide Elizabeth Bell. Meet at the Antigua Tours Park Office (Cafe Condesa/Central Park). To experience the city´s highlights. We focus on history, architecture, cultural trends and restoration efforts. Learn about Guatemala past and present.
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$35.00
Pacaya is one of the most active volcanoes in Central America and easily accessible with a height of 2552 masl. For more than 50 years the volcano has maintained a moderate eruptive phase. It is one of the most recommended volcanoes for its easy ascent and beautiful landscapes.
The ascent is an easy walk with some points of medium-high difficulty that offers wonderful panoramic views.
The tour starts from Antigua. After one-hour ride, you will arrive at the entrance of the National Park where you have to pay the cost of the admission Q100.00 p/p.
We suggest to wear hiking boots, and a hiking stick (if you don´t have one you can rent it for Q5.00). This tour can be walking or in a horse, (horse is not included). After walking along the trails of the volcanic sand with great views, you will reach the plateau from which you can see the main crater of the volcano. For safety reasons is not possible to visit it, but you will see some steam emanations produced by the heat of the volcano.
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$63.00
This is the best activity you can do in the afternoon in Antigua. This tour will take you to 3 mountain tops with incredible views of the city, valley, and volcanoes near and around Antigua. Our first stop is ¨El Cerro de la Cruz ¨ Antigua’s famous lookout point known as ¨The Cross¨. After getting a close-up aerial view of the colonial city, we hop back on the vehicles and head up the El Hato Mountain towards our Second stop. We arrive at our parking lot in El Hato where we hop into our 4*4 pick-up truck which takes us to the ¨HOBBITENANGO¨.
This is a lord of the rings themed Eco-Park where we catch the Sunset and are able to enjoy some food, drinks, and games. Here we will go up the hill and sightsee, enjoy great views and various activities in this enchanted little forest. Once, finished we will head back down the mountain where if you are hungry we can grab some food and drinks at a Guatemalan restaurant located on the side of the mountain called El Tambor.
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$89.00
Acatenango Overnight Hike
Climb one of the most beautiful volcanoes in Central America with spectacular views to the active Fuego volcano from our amazing campsite! Here at OX we pay special attention to the details so that you can relax knowing that every part of your tour is being taking care of. From the moment you book to the moment you leave our office we will make every effort to ensure you have the adventure of a lifetime!
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$50.00
During this tour we visit a local coffee plantation located in the nearby city of Jocotenango. From the office you will follow a local guide on the ATV’s for about a 15 minute ride to the coffee plantation “La Azotea” located in city of Jocotenango. Once at La Azotea, you will receive a bilingual tour of the plantation where you are able to learn and see the various processes of the coffee producing, making, and packaging that goes into serving a good cup of coffee. The coffee tour in the plantation lasts about 1 hour once finished you will walk around the plantation with the local guide to see check out the plants and you could also grab a drink or snack. Once finished at the plantation you will hop back on the ATVs and head over to "El Cerro de la Cruz" to visit one of Antigua’s most well-known and visited landmarks. After getting a close-up bird’s eye view of the colonial city, we hop back on the vehicles and head back to our office.
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$25.65
Learn how to make your own chocolate on a 2-hour workshop at the ChocoMuseo in Antigua. This is a hands-on activity, starting from the cocoa tree to the finished product passing by every step of the whole chocolate-making process. You will also discover the history of cocoa and the reasons why Guatemala is so important in the history of chocolate.
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$37.34
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Antigua and Barbuda, a twin-island nation located in the Eastern Caribbean, has made significant strides in becoming more accessible for people with disabilities and seniors in recent years. The government, alongside various organizations and businesses, has taken steps to improve physical access, transportation options, and overall inclusivity.
1. Physical Accessibility:
- Many major hotels, resorts, and public buildings in Antigua have made efforts to improve physical access for individuals with disabilities. They provide ramps, elevators, wider doorways, and accessible restrooms.
- Some of the popular attractions, such as the Nelson’s Dockyard, Betty’s Hope Plantation, and Stingray City, have also made accessibility improvements, including ramps and accessible paths.
- Some beaches, like Dickenson Bay, Jolly Beach, and Half Moon Bay, have designated accessible beach accesses, allowing individuals with disabilities to enjoy the sand and water with the help of beach wheelchairs.
2. Transportation:
- The Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board offers a limited number of buses with lifts to accommodate wheelchair users. However, it is recommended to arrange transportation in advance if needed.
- Several taxi companies on the island offer accessible transportation services with vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts for wheelchair accessibility. It is advisable to pre-book accessible taxis to ensure availability.
- Many car rental companies in Antigua provide accessible vehicles with features such as hand controls. Advance booking is recommended to secure the appropriate vehicle.
3. Accommodation:
- Numerous hotels and resorts in Antigua offer accessible rooms equipped with features like spacious doorways, roll-in showers with grab bars, and lowered sinks.
- The Antigua and Barbuda Hotels & Tourism Association has implemented the \"Accessible Antigua & Barbuda\" program, which certifies properties that meet specific accessibility standards. These certified accommodations ensure wheelchair accessibility, accessible parking, and trained staff to assist individuals with disabilities.
4. Tours and Activities:
- Some tour operators on the island provide accessible tours with specialized vehicles equipped with ramps and lifts.
- Adaptive equipment rentals, such as beach wheelchairs, are available for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the stunning beaches of Antigua.
5. Support and Resources:
- The Antigua and Barbuda Association of Persons with Disabilities (ABAPD) is an organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and needs of individuals with disabilities. They provide guidance, support, and resources for disabled individuals in Antigua.
- The Antigua and Barbuda National Office for Persons with Disabilities is responsible for ensuring the implementation of policies and programs that promote disability inclusion.
It is important for individuals with disabilities or seniors to plan their trip well in advance and contact specific hotels, tour operators, and transportation providers to ensure availability and make necessary arrangements. Additionally, visitors are encouraged to consult with their healthcare professionals and travel insurance providers before embarking on their journey to Antigua.
City Info and Accessibility
Antigua is considered a safe destination for travelers, however, as with any other place, it is important to take certain safety precautions. It is recommended to stick to well-lit and populated areas, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your belongings secure.
English is the official language spoken in Antigua and Barbuda, so visitors should have no trouble communicating with locals. Additionally, many locals also speak a local dialect called Antiguan Creole.
The best time to visit Antigua is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April. This is when the weather is most pleasant, with sunny skies and lower humidity. The peak tourist season is from December to April, so be sure to book accommodations and activities well in advance if you plan to visit during this time.
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Antigua, a picturesque town in Guatemala known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. Here are some recommendations for options ranging from budget to luxury, as well as accessible accommodations for seniors and individuals with disabilities:
1. Budget Accommodations:
- Hostels: Antigua has numerous hostels offering affordable dormitory-style accommodation for budget-conscious travelers. Some popular options include The Black Cat Hostel, El Hostal, and Adra Hostel.
- Guesthouses: There are also many guesthouses in Antigua that offer budget-friendly private rooms with shared facilities. Casa Cristina and Posada Juma Ocag are good choices for this category.
2. Mid-Range Accommodations:
- Boutique Hotels: For travelers looking for more comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank, Antigua has a variety of boutique hotels such as Hotel Casa Cristina, Hotel Posada Don Valentino, and Hotel Meson del Valle.
- Bed and Breakfasts: Antigua also has charming bed and breakfast options like Hotel Casa de las Fuentes and Posada San Vicente, offering personalized service and cozy atmospheres.
3. Luxury Accommodations:
- Luxury Hotels: For those seeking a more luxurious stay, Antigua boasts several upscale hotels and resorts with top-notch amenities and services. Hotel Casa Santo Domingo, El Convento Boutique Hotel, and Hotel Museo Casa Santo Domingo are excellent choices for luxury travelers.
4. Accessibility for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities:
- While Antigua’s historical cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks can present challenges for seniors and individuals with disabilities, there are accommodations that cater to their needs. Some hotels and guesthouses in Antigua offer accessible rooms with features like widened doorways, grab bars, and accessible bathrooms.
- It’s recommended to inquire directly with accommodation providers about their accessibility features to ensure a comfortable stay. Additionally, choosing accommodations located in or near the central area of Antigua can help reduce the need for extensive walking or transportation.
When choosing an accommodation in Antigua, consider factors such as location, accessibility, amenities, and budget to find the best option that suits your preferences and needs.Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred accommodations in this charming Guatemalan town.
Antigua, a charming colonial city in Guatemala, offers various transportation options for visitors to explore the city and surrounding areas. Here are the transportation options in Antigua:
1. Airport Transfers:
Upon arrival at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, travelers can opt for private airport transfer services to Antigua. These pre-arranged services offer a convenient and hassle-free way to reach your accommodation in Antigua. Alternatively, there are shuttle buses that operate between the airport and Antigua, offering a more budget-friendly option.
2. Public Transport:
In Antigua, the most common form of public transportation is the colorful local buses known as \"chicken buses.\" These repurposed school buses provide a cheap and authentic way to travel around the city and nearby towns. Taxis are also readily available in Antigua and can be hailed on the street or arranged through your accommodation.
3. Senior and Disability Accessible Transportation:
While public transportation in Antigua may not be fully accessible for seniors and people with disabilities, some taxi services in the city provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles upon request. It is advisable to inquire with the taxi company in advance to ensure a suitable vehicle is available.
4. Getting Around the City:
Antigua is a compact city that can easily be explored on foot. Its cobblestone streets are lined with charming buildings, shops, and restaurants, making it a pleasant city to wander around. For those looking for a more leisurely option, horse-drawn carriages are a popular way to tour the city and take in its historic sites.
Tips for Navigating the City:
- Familiarize yourself with a map of Antigua to help navigate the city’s streets and landmarks.
- Be cautious when crossing the cobblestone streets, as they can be uneven and slippery at times.
- When using public transportation, be prepared for crowded conditions on chicken buses and consider keeping valuables secure.
- Stay vigilant of your surroundings and belongings to prevent theft, particularly in tourist areas.
- Consider renting a bicycle to explore Antigua and its outskirts at your own pace while enjoying the city’s picturesque scenery.
Overall, Antigua offers a range of transportation options to suit different preferences and needs, allowing visitors to explore the city and its surroundings comfortably and conveniently.
1. Nelson’s Dockyard National Park: This historic park in English Harbour offers scenic views, restored historic buildings, and opportunities for sailing and exploring the waterfront.
2. Runaway Beach: A family-friendly beach with calm waters and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for swimming and building sandcastles.
3. Stingray City Antigua: A unique experience for children to interact with and feed Southern Stingrays in their natural habitat.
4. Devil’s Bridge: A natural limestone arch formation where visitors can watch waves crash against the rocks and explore tidal pools.
5. Donkey Sanctuary Antigua: A great place for kids to learn about and interact with rescued donkeys in a peaceful setting.
6. Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour: An exhilarating zipline adventure through the lush rainforest, offering a fun outdoor activity for families.
7. Jolly Harbour: A marina village with shops, restaurants, and watersports activities, including boat rentals and snorkeling tours.
8. Fig Tree Drive: A scenic drive through lush tropical vegetation, with opportunities to stop at roadside stalls for fresh fruit and local souvenirs.
9. Museum of Antigua and Barbuda: Learn about the history and culture of the islands through exhibits and artifacts at this educational museum.
10. Dickenson Bay Watersports: Offers a variety of water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and banana boat rides, suitable for children and families.
Antigua is a vibrant and culturally rich destination with a wide range of experiences to offer visitors. One of the biggest cultural events in Antigua is the Semana Santa, or Holy Week, which takes place in the lead up to Easter. During this time, the streets of Antigua come alive with elaborate processions, colorful carpets made from flower petals and sawdust, and traditional music and dance performances.
Throughout the year, there are also various local festivals and events that celebrate Antigua’s rich heritage and traditions, such as the Feast of the Virgen de la Merced in September, the Independence Day celebrations in September, and the traditional fiestas in various towns and villages.
For those looking to explore Antigua’s hidden gems, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path attractions to discover. Visit the ruins of the Church of La Recolección, a hauntingly beautiful abandoned church that offers a glimpse into Antigua’s colonial past. Take a hike up to Cerro de la Cruz for panoramic views of the city and surrounding volcanoes. Explore the local markets and street food stalls to sample traditional Guatemalan dishes such as tamales, pepian, and atol.
When it comes to nightlife, Antigua has a lively and diverse scene to offer. From upscale cocktail bars and trendy clubs to laid-back cafes and live music venues, there is something for everyone. Grab a drink at a rooftop bar overlooking the city, dance the night away at a salsa club, or simply relax with a cup of coffee in a cozy courtyard cafe.
Overall, Antigua is a destination that delights visitors with its rich cultural experiences, vibrant festivals, hidden gems, and lively nightlife. Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s history, indulging in local cuisine, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, Antigua has something for everyone to enjoy.
1. Budget-Friendly: An affordable option in Antigua is Cafe Sky, offering stunning views of the city and delicious food at reasonable prices. Another great choice is Rincon Tipico, a local spot known for serving authentic Guatemalan cuisine at budget-friendly prices.
2. Fine Dining: For a more upscale dining experience, consider visiting the Meson Panza Verde, a beautiful restaurant featuring a courtyard garden and serving gourmet dishes. La Fonda de la Calle Real is another fine dining option, offering a refined atmosphere and a menu of sophisticated dishes.
3. Allergy-Friendly: If you are looking for allergy-friendly options, try Saberico Restaurante, known for its accommodating staff who can assist with dietary restrictions. Roots Cafe is another great choice for those with food allergies, offering allergen-free options on their menu.
4. Dietary-Conscious: For those who are dietary conscious, Frescafe is a great choice serving healthy and wholesome meals made with locally sourced ingredients. Lava Terrace Bar & Grill also offers a variety of dietary-conscious options, including vegetarian and gluten-free dishes on their menu.
Essential tips for travelers in Antigua include:
Currency exchange: The official currency in Antigua is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), but the US Dollar is widely accepted. It is advisable to exchange some currency at local banks or authorized exchange offices for small purchases and transportation.
Financial tips: Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Antigua. However, it’s always wise to carry some cash for small purchases or in case of emergencies. ATMs are available in major towns and tourist areas for withdrawing cash.
Local laws: Respect local laws and customs while in Antigua. Drug offenses carry severe penalties, and it is illegal to wear camouflage clothing on the island. Drinking alcohol in public places is also prohibited.
Customs and etiquette: Antiguans are friendly and welcoming people, so it’s important to show respect for local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites, and always ask for permission before taking photos of locals.
Safety advice: Antigua is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s important to take common-sense precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas, and keep your belongings secure to prevent theft. Be cautious when swimming in the sea, as strong currents can be dangerous.
Health tips: Make sure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of illness or injury. It’s also recommended to drink bottled water and use mosquito repellent to prevent mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever.
Overall, by following these essential tips for travelers in Antigua, you can have a safe, enjoyable, and culturally respectful experience on the island.
