Grabbing the Guate spirit: 5 ways to experience Guatemala Mayan culture

Lake Aitilan, Guatemala Photo by Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

Imagine ancient temples, enchanting lakes, mystical calendars and a thriving indigenous culture. In Gautemala, that’s not something you have to travel back in time for. Instead, expect the ultimate Mayan cultural experience, with a culture made up of 21 different Maya ethnic groups weaving a multi-layered history of traditions that include everything from food and textiles to Nahual astrology and archaeologial wonders. Check out these activities for a little Guatemala Mayan cultural magic.

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A woman weaving in San Juan La Laguna. Photo by Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

1. Explore Weaving Traditions

Guatemala is famous for vibrant textiles and the ancient Mayan method of  weaving with a backstrap loom is how most authentic designs are produced. Visit the villages that surround Lake Aitilan and learn about the symbolism and dying methods that women have used for centuries.

Kaq-Iq, a traditional Mayan dish made with turkey.
Photo by Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

2. Taste Mayan Cuisine

Food is woven into spiritual and cultural life and represents much more than just sustenance. You’ll spot familiar dishes like tortillas and guacamole but caldos, rich savory stews, are also very significant. Try the gut-busting Kaq-Ig, filled with turkey and spices, or the bright green joco’n, made with tomatillos.

The reference book for finding your nahual.
Photo by Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

3. Discover Your Nahual

Mayan mythology shows up everywhere in Guatemala, and one way to start to understand it is to have your nahual calculated. Similar to western astrology, individual nahuales are calculated by date of birth according to the Mayan calendar. Each nahual is associated with an ancient totem or spirit animal with corresponding traits and qualities.

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A textile display in Chichicastenango.
Photo by Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

4. Browse The Region’s Biggest Traditional Market

Up in the highlands,  the small village of Chichicastenango hosts a bustling market that attracts artisans from all over the country. Everything important to Maya culture, from black corn tortillas to handcrafted pottery and textiles, can be found here.

Iximche ruins. Photo by Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

5. Visit Ancient Mayan Sites

Intricate examples of ancient Maya civilization dot the Guatemalan landscape. Take in sacred locations, plazas and temples from one end of the country to the other and learn about the archaeological significance. Among the most popular are Tikal, set in the northernrain forests, and the La Danta Pyramid in El Mirador. The latter is one of the country’s largest and most impressive sites, with most of the ruins situated underground.

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