Antigua Guatemala, often referred to simply as Antigua, is a city in central Guatemala and the former capital of the Kingdom of Guatemala until 1773. Its name translates to “Old Guatemala.” Due to its amazing architecture and increased safety compared to Guatemala City, Antigua is quickly becoming a popular tourist attraction.
If you’re ready to beat the crowds and discover Antigua Guatemala for yourself, find out what travel medical insurance you need, and prepare for the trip of a lifetime.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers visiting Antigua Guatemala – FAQs
When you think about the primary expenses you will incur on an international trip, you probably think of meals, drinks, and tourist activities. But if you get hurt or become sick on your trip and require medical attention, you could spend far more than you imagined on treatment. This is why it’s a must to have travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Antigua Guatemala?
Guatemala doesn’t require visitors to have travel medical insurance, but it’s not something you want to go without. The care you can receive at public hospitals in Guatemala may not be sufficient, so you’ll have no option but to seek more expensive private care. In either case, you must have valid insurance to pay for it. Travel medical insurance is the best option to provide this coverage.
Why buy travel medical insurance before visiting Antigua Guatemala?
Many hospitals in Guatemala have limited resources and can be understaffed. Emergency medical evacuation to another location or country may be the only option to treat an especially serious illness or injury. Obviously, this can be quite expensive, but you may not know how expensive. Emergency medical evacuation can cost as much as $250,000. If you don’t want to pay that bill yourself, get travel medical insurance that can cover it.
Antigua Guatemala’s Most Popular Activities
Antigua Guatemala is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its Baroque-influenced architecture. So, there’s plenty to see here for history buffs and other tourists. Try adding the following to your Antigua Guatemala trip itinerary.
Tour the Spanish Colony Monuments
With Baroque buildings and ruins dating back to the 16th century, Antigua Guatemala is perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts. See the incredible Captain General Palace, Santo Domingo Monastery, historic San Pedro Hospital, Chapel of the Holy Cross, and much more. There are dozens of buildings throughout Antigua Guatemala that perfectly illustrate its colonial past.
See Elaborate Religious Processions
If you visit Antigua Guatemala during Lent, you can see incredible decorations and of flowers, dyed sawdust, and pine needles marking the path of parishioners marching through the city’s streets. Even if you have a different religion, it is worth seeing the elaborate way Antigua Guatemala celebrates Lent and Semana Santa.
Set Sail on a Cruise
With its developed tourism industry, Antigua Guatemala is a popular staging place for tourists before embarking or disembarking on a cruise ship from a Guatemalan port. Numerous cruise lines and travel companies run shuttles from the city to the ports, and there is a large expatriate community in Antigua as well.
Get a Whole New View from Hill of the Cross
Though it takes a bit of a climb to get there, hiking up to Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross) is well worth it. Adorned with a large Christian cross, the hill offers fantastic views of the city, as well as its adjacent volcanos, Agua, Acatenango and Fuego. Those who would prefer less of a workout are welcome to hire a car to drive them to the top.
Take a Volcano Tour
Guatemala has 37 volcanoes, and three of them overlook Antigua. Book a guided tour to explore Agua, Acatenango, or Fuego. You can choose a day tour, or an overnight hike to suit your schedule and your fitness. Some guide companies also offer bicycle and mountain biking tours of the mountainous surroundings.
Key Guidelines for Travelers visiting Antigua Guatemala
You may have certain assumptions about visiting Guatemala, but they are sure to be proven wrong when it comes to Antigua. Follow these guidelines for a safe and enjoyable trip.
Is Antigua Guatemala Safe?
Though Guatemala does have a mostly deserved reputation for crime, Antigua is considered considerably safer than Guatemala City, which is roughly one hour away. The only real risk is pickpocketing, which is most likely in popular tourist areas. Just leave your valuables locked in your hotel and don’t carry more cash than you need for the day.
Night Owls Need Not Apply
Though some bars stay open later, the majority of the city closes down early. You may not be able to find a restaurant that’s open or a store to buy goods late in the evening. It’s a good idea to do your shopping early, and avoid walking around on the desolate streets at night.
How to Dress
Though you’re welcome to dress however you like, keep in mind that locals in Antigua never wear shorts. Long pants are the order of the day, as they do a better job of protecting you from insect bites. Female travelers should also be aware that wearing shorts can attract unwanted attention.
Before You Visit Antigua Guatemala – Do This
- Learn some basic Spanish – Though you will find many people who speak English, it’s a good idea to have some knowledge of the local language.
- Consider renting an apartment – You’ll find numerous short-stay apartments available for rent in Antigua, and they can be easier on your budget than hotels.
- Purchase insurance – A travel medical insurance plan can allow you to enjoy your time in Antigua Guatemala with less worry.