Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala Luxury Cruises

Puerto Quetzal is the entry port into Guatemala, an incredible country in Central America with a wonderful Mayan heritage. Central to this is the wonderfully preserved city of Antigua. Not to be confused with the Caribbean island, this colonial destination is surrounded by towering mountains and volcanoes, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its charming cobblestone streets and amazing architecture, including restored churches and palaces.

Head to the La Azotea Cultural Centre to visit museums dedicated to Mayan history, including ancient musical instruments and traditional clothing worn by the Guatemalans of old. Or alternatively you can head to Lake Atitlan, where modern Maya people live today, and see their elaborate stitched clothing that brings to life their beliefs and their varied history.

The natural scenery here is truly spectacular, with the country playing home to 37 volcanoes including the active Pacaya, which stands at over 8,000 feet tall. You can also head to the Chapin Nature Park and enjoy a walk-through zoo and a drive-through safari, with animals native to Guatemala along with various African species too.

The currency in Puerto Quetzal is the Quetzal, although US Dollars are widely accepted. Puerto Quetzal is 6 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT -6).