Tikal was the capital of a conquest state that became one of the most powerful kingdoms of the ancient Maya. Though monumental architecture at the site dates back as far as the 4th century BC, Tikal reached its apogee during the Classic Period, ca. 200 to 900 AD. During this time, the city dominated much of the Maya region politically, economically, and militarily, while interacting with areas throughout Mesoamerica such as the great metropolis of Teotihuacan in the distant Valley of Mexico. Tikal, Guatemala, 2014.

Overlooking Antigua from the north is Cerro de la Cruz providing fine views looking south over the town toward Volcán Agua.

Lake Atitlan is technically an endorheic lake (lacking direct flow to an ocean) but substantial seepage feeds two nearby rivers. Atitlan is recognized to be the deepest lake in Central America, with maximum depth about 340 metres. It is approximately 12 x 5 km, with around 20 cubic km of water. The lake is shaped by deep escarpments which surround it and by three volcanoes on its southern flank. Lake Atitlan is further characterized by towns and villages of the Maya people. The lake is about 50 kilometres west-northwest of Antigua. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala, 2014.