The UNESCO Sites in Guatemala have resulted from the recognition of 3 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Guatemala and 23 locations on the Guatemala UNESCO tentative list. These touristic sites in Guatemala are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and preserved for future generations.
In addition to these 3 sites in the Guatemala UNESCO list, many other places to travel to Guatemala are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.
To help visitors discover these remarkable Guatemala tourist attractions, we have assembled an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Guatemala.
Guatemala UNESCO Map
Click markers to show information and photo.
World Heritage Sites in Guatemala
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Guatemala
There are 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Guatemala. All of these three sites are listed under the Cultural category.
- Antigua Guatemala
- Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua
- Tikal National Park
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Guatemala are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.
Antigua Guatemala
Is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the central highlands of Guatemala. It was the country’s capital until a major earthquake destroyed much of the city in the 18th century. Today, Antigua, Guatemala is a well-preserved example of a Spanish colonial town in the Americas. It features stunning Baroque-style architecture, cobbled streets, and beautiful public squares. The city has many historic landmarks, including the 17th-century La Merced Church, the Palace of the Captains General, and the Cathedral of Santiago. Antigua Guatemala is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture.
Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua
Is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Izabal Department of Guatemala. The park contains the remains of an ancient Maya city that was once a significant center of trade and culture. The site has well-preserved stelae and sculptures that provide insight into Maya art, architecture, and society. One of the most impressive features of Quirigua is its enormous stelae, some of which reach over 10 meters in height and are intricately carved with glyphs and images of Maya gods and rulers. The park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in ancient Maya civilization and history.
Tikal National Park
Is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Petén region of northern Guatemala. It is home to one of the world’s most important and well-preserved Mayan archaeological sites. The park contains over 3,000 ancient structures, including temples, palaces, and public squares, that showcase the Mayan civilization’s incredible architectural and engineering achievements. The park’s centerpiece is the Great Plaza, which features two large pyramids, the Temple of the Jaguar and the Temple of the Masks. The park is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including howler monkeys, jaguars, and various bird species. Tikal National Park is a must-visit destination for Mayan history and culture.
Guatemala UNESCO tentative list
- The Cultural Triangle
- The Cuenca Mirador
- The Core of the Mayan Area
- The Route of The Rivers
- Naj Tunich Cave
- The Mayan-Olmecan Encounter
- Route of the Franciscan Evangelisation
- Route of the to Dominique Evangelisation
- Route of the Peace and National Identity
- Castle of San Felipe de Lara
- Route of the Agroindustry and the Architecture Victoriana
- Town of Chichicastenango
- The Green Route of Verapaz, Guatemala
- Sierra De Las Minas Biosphere Reservation
- National Park Sierra del Lacandón
- The Manglares Route of Pacific Coast of Guatemala
- Protected area of Lake Atitlán: multiple use
- Visis Cabá National park and Triangulo Ixil Vernacular Architecture
- Tak’alik Ab’aj National Park
- The Painted Murals of San Bartolo
- The Caves of Naj Tunich
- Archeological Site Naranjo Sa’aal
- National Theater of Guatemala
Tours in Guatemala
Our choices of tours in Guatemala are divided into thematic features such as Antigua, Tikal, and the Lake Atitlán Experience.