Virgin Voyages' guide to Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala
From the colonial charm of ancient Antigua to the mystical ruins of Ancient Mayan Civilizations, Puerto Quetzal, on Guatemala’s picturesque Pacific coast, serves as the entryway to Central America’s most picturesque and fascinating destinations.
A Gateway to Guatemala’s Heritage
Located on the glistening waters of the Pacific Ocean, Puerto Quetzal’s backdrop of jade-green mountains and volcanic silhouettes are the quintessential welcome to this gorgeous gateway to ancient kingdoms carved in stone, pastel-washed colonial streets and natural wonders that await ahead.
If you’re more drawn to the natural wonders of these naturally wonderful destinations find yourself hiking active volcanoes, watching fishermen glide across the ocean waters, touring the countless coffee plantations or simply tasting locally sourced rum while taking it all in. Guatemala’s layered beauty of ancient civilizations, colonial charm, volcanic vistas and heartwarming culture has certainly mastered the art of being unforgettable.
Shore Excursions
Perfect Puerto Quetzal Pastimes
Cobblestone corners, luxury lunches & rich relics.
Charm & Craft Beer in Antigua
Start your tour with a visit to the Jade Museum — and maybe even grab yourself a souvenir — before strolling through Antigua's cobblestone streets, past the iconic Santa Catalina Arch and Main Plaza. Your adventure culminates at Antigua Brewing Company, where the master brewer guides you through a tasting of four local craft beers paired with local snacks. End the day right with stunning rooftop views of this UNESCO World Heritage city from the brewery's terrace.
Lunch at Casa Santo Domingo & Jade Museum Tour
Discover this stunning and unique city via a tour of its charming, cobblestoned downtown — laid out in a grid pattern inspired by the Italian Renaissance. With a local guide, you'll explore the highlights of this 16th-century cultural hub: Central Park, the magnificent Cathedral, and the Church of La Merced, to name a few. Have lunch at the luxurious Casa Santo Domingo and finish up with a visit to the famous Jade Museum to learn how precious jadeite becomes Mayan-inspired art.
Maya Ruins of Iximche
You'll travel through Guatemala's scenic highlands on a guided 2.5-hour drive to explore this powerful archaeological site where Maya shamans still conduct authentic rituals. Learn about Mayan calendar mysteries (including the so-called 2012 "end of the world" phenomenon) and experience the high concentration of energy that makes this ancient capital so spiritually significant.
More Shore Things for your wishlist...
We have even more in our curated catalog.
Even the name is brightly colored!
A Quetzal is a bright green bird with a super long tail.
From the outside Puerto Quetzal may appear to be your typical breezy Pacific cruise port, but what lies beyond is what makes it so special. Colonial streets that feel plucked from the pages of a history book, ancient worlds carved into stone in the jungle, volcanic landscapes and the warm aroma of the world’s favorite coffee wafting in the air. So no matter if you spent your time getting lost in the sights, the sounds or the taste, you’ll leave Puerto Quetzal with a new appreciation of what you can find if you look beyond the beautiful coasts.
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