Antigua, Guatemala—a city where cobblestone streets meet colonial charm, where volcanoes loom dramatically in the distance, and where every corner offers a photo-worthy backdrop. Our Black Travel Experiences (BTE) influencer press trip took us on a whirlwind adventure, blending culture, food, and unforgettable experiences. From hidden gems to must-visit spots, here’s everything you need to know about making the most of your trip to Antigua!
Landing in Guatemala: Stock Up Before You Hit the Road
Before heading to Antigua, we made a quick stop in Guatemala City for snacks and wine—trust us, you’ll thank yourself later. The drive from Guatemala City to Antigua is scenic but infamous for heavy traffic. Being stuck in gridlock without drinks and munchies? Absolutely not.
Where We Stayed: Monaguí Residences
Nestled in the heart of Antigua, Monaguí Residences felt like a stylish home away from home. This boutique stay is perfect for those who appreciate modern design with a touch of colonial elegance. It’s also incredibly Instagrammable—think stunning archways, lush greenery, and dreamy balconies.
BTE Tip: Book a room with a view for those morning coffee moments overlooking the city.
Dinner at Mr. Taco: A Hidden Gem with Strong Drinks
📍 Mr. Taco
After a long day of travel, nothing hits quite like tacos and margaritas. Located inside a hostel, Mr. Taco serves up delicious, no-frills Mexican food with strong (but sneaky) drinks. If you’re a tequila lover, ask for extra shots in your cocktails—trust us, the standard pour won’t cut it.
BTE Verdict: Great vibes, flavorful tacos, and a perfect low-key spot to kick off your Antigua adventure.
Exploring Hobbitenango & Altamira ($11 Entry)
Hobbitenango: Cute, But Overrated
We had high hopes for Hobbitenango, a Lord of the Rings-inspired eco-park, but it fell flat. It’s a great stop if you’re traveling with kids, but as adults looking for aesthetics and adventure, it didn’t quite hit the mark. The views are nice, but the overall experience felt underwhelming.
Altamira: A Photographer’s Dream
Altamira, on the other hand, is 100% worth the visit. It offers breathtaking views, artistic sculptures, and a serene escape from the city. If you’re looking for stunning Instagram shots, this is the place to be.
BTE Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best lighting for photos!
La Tortilla Cooking School: The Ultimate Wine & Dine Experience
This 3-hour cooking class was hands down our favorite activity. It’s interactive, fun, and comes with unlimited wine.(Yes, you read that right.) Learning to cook traditional Guatemalan dishes while sipping on wine and chatting with fellow travelers? A perfect evening.
BTE Verdict: If you do one activity in Antigua, make it this one.
Drinks at Aqua Antigua & Bar Hopping at El Barrio
Aqua Antigua is a vibe. With a poolside setting and a rooftop bar, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail.
From there, we hit up El Barrio, a collection of small bars, each with its own unique style. Whether you’re into craft cocktails, chill reggae spots, or lively dance floors, you’ll find a bar that matches your mood.
BTE Tip: Start at Aqua Antigua for sunset drinks, then bar-hop your way through El Barrio for a fun night out.
Pacaya Volcano Hike & Pizza: A Worth-It Challenge?
📍 Pacaya Volcano | Entrance Fee: Q100 | Tour Cost: $299 (via Get Your Guide)
This 7-hour adventure starts at 6 AM, so get ready for an early wake-up call. The hike is tough, so unless you love trekking, we recommend taking the horse up (no shame in saving your legs).
The main attraction? Baking pizza on lava-heated rocks. It sounds cool, but honestly, the pizza you make won’t be the tastiest. Instead, skip the DIY and buy from the “Pizza Man”—his pizza is much better, though a bit pricey.
BTE Verdict: Only for outdoor lovers. If hiking isn’t your thing, skip this tour.
Dinner at Uuuh Mami: A Hidden Gem with Small Portions
For our last night, we dined at Uuuh Mami, a hidden restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and delicious food. The only downside? The portions are small, so if you’re really hungry, you might need to order extra.
BTE Tip: Perfect for a date night or chill dinner, but not the spot if you’re starving.
Final Thoughts: Is Antigua Worth the Hype?
Absolutely. Antigua blends history, adventure, and culture with a vibrant food and nightlife scene. Whether you’re sipping wine at a cooking class, capturing picture-perfect moments at Altamira, or indulging in tacos and tequila at Mr. Taco, there’s something for everyone.
Would we go back? 1000% YES.
BTE Quick Guide to Antigua:
✅ Where to Stay: Monaguí Residences
✅ Best Eats: Mr. Taco, Uuuh Mami
✅ Must-Do Activity: La Tortilla Cooking School
✅ Best Photo Spot: Altamira
✅ Skip If You’re Not Outdoorsy: Pacaya Volcano Hike
Ready to plan your trip to Antigua? Let us know your favorite spots and tag us in your adventures! #BTEExplores #BlackTravelExperiences
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