Top 3 Photography Locations in Antigua Guatemala (Plus Travel Tips!)
What is the most photogenic city in Guatemala?
Antigua, is the most photogenic city in Guatemala. Guatemala is an untapped gold mine of beauty, great food, amazing adventure, and awesome people! Read this guide to discover the best photography locations in Antigua Guatemala.
I made this guide to help new travelers immediately find great locations so you can also take beautiful photos of Guatemala!
Below is the list of the three best photography locations in Antigua Guatemala.
The Most Beautiful Photography Spots in Antigua, Guatemala
1. Cerro de La Cruz
Address: H779+Q8 Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala (map here)
Cerro De La Cruz is an overlook at the north end of Antigua, Guatemala with an excellent photo opportunity of the city and the looming Volcan de Agua (Volcano of Water) in the background.
The beautiful cross on the hill was first built in 1930 out of wood but then replaced by a cement one some years later.
The hill was originally known as Cerro del München, however this was changed the year cross was built to stand over the city.
Cerro De La Cruz is a short walk from the north end of the city.
If you are meeting friends or family, the Plazuela San Sebastián (map here) is a quiet and restful park with tall trees and a central fountain. It’s the perfect place get together as a group before you head out together.
It took our family about 20-30 minutes to walk to the overlook. This was with our two daughters, age 2 and 5.
Riding a TukTuk to Cerro De La Cruz, Antigua, Guatemala.
It is possible to take a TukTuk to the Cerro De La Cruz paved walking path.
It costs about 25 Quetzales, or $2-4 USD depending on where you are in the city.
Once you reach the walking path trail head, you will have about a 10 minute walk on a paved, but steep, path to the top.
Visiting Cerro de La Cruz with kids?
If you’re traveling with kids you’ll want to plan for 2-3 hours total. It depends on how much time you’d like to spend at the Cerro De La Cruz overlook.
If you need breakfast before you go you need to visit Luna De Miel. They sell the most delicious crepes. But be sure to get there when they open so you don’t have to wait in line.
Cerro De La Cruz is a popular photography location in Antigua, Guatemala. Plan to go as early as possible. Not only are there are fewer people but you’ll be thankful for the cool morning breeze.
Regardless of the weather make sure to take a water bottle.
It’s important to note that it is highly recommend not to drink the tap-water in Antigua, and instead ask for Agua Pura at any of the local corner stores.
Cerro De La Cruz provides a beautiful and refreshing view of Antigua, Guatemala.
High above the colorful walls and narrow sidewalks of the city, you’ll have a chance to breath fresh air and feel the breeze on your face.
If you’re fortunate and the weather is clear you’ll also have a perfect view of Volcán de Agua. It’s a majestic backdrop to this beautiful city.
2. Santa Catalina Arch (El Arco de Santa Catalina)
Address: 5a Avenida Norte, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala (map here)
The Santa Catalina Arch is one of the most distinguishable landmarks in Guatemala.
This famous landmark is a top photography location in Guatemala for good reason.
Kids and adults alike enjoy walking underneath and remarking at the beautiful colonial colors and amazing architecture.
Like most things in Antigua, the earlier you get out to see it the fewer tourists and street vendors there will be.
If you’re after a classic photo of this landmark without too many tourists blocking your shot, you’ll want to be here early, no later than sunrise.
When was the Santa Catalina Arch built?
The Santa Catalina Arch was built in 1694 as a passage across the street for nuns. The clock tower was built about 200 years later after the city was re-inhabited following an evacuation and relocation of the Guatemalan capital due to a devastating earthquake in the 1700’s.
Take some time to marvel at the history and order a coffee or sit down for a meal at one of the restaurants on 5th avenue.
We spent almost six weeks in Antigua, Guatemala.
Our two year old was delighted every time she could see the arch. On our walk back from the Parque Central (map here) each evening she loudly request, “See the arch, dad!” When we saw it, she would whoop and holler every time.
The colors come alive at dusk when the sunset sinks below the nearby volcanoes and the sky turns to the deep hues of the evening.
No trip to Antigua is complete without visiting this famous landmark.
3. Tanque La Unión
Address: 6a Calle Oriente, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala (link here)
For beautiful and historic photos in Antigua consider a visit to Tanque La Unión!
The Union Tank (Tanque La Unión) in Antigua Guatemala was inaugurated on February 3, 1853.
It is a historic space that was used as a public laundry during the colonial era in Antigua. The Tanque La Unión used to be known as the Plaza de San José.
It was renamed to Tanque La Union after the Guatemalan army defeated El Salvador in the battle of Arada in 1851, and the public square or park was built to honor the victory.
Photography Tip
When you visit don’t forget to explore taking photos at multiple angles and at all times of day. Like the photo above you can see that it looks totally different than many of the classic photos you see in magazines and blogs.
Today it is one of the most unique and beautiful pieces of architecture in the city, and attracts tourists from all of the country who come to see the beautiful colonial city.
Photography Tip
Like I mentioned on the other locations in this list, it is best to get here early in the day if you want to avoid the crowds and have a chance at taking the best photos. However, I have found if you can’t get here early, with some patience and creative composition you can take a photo without too many distractions.
Other awesome photography locations in Antigua?
No way! I haven’t even mentioned the churches, ruins, parks, and markets that are so popular in Antigua. We spent almost 6 weeks learning Spanish at one of the many excellent Spanish schools in Antigua and know how much more there is to share in this city and the surrounding areas. Here is a list of places you’ll find in our future posts:
- Ancient Catholic Ruins
- Ornate Churches
- Lake Atitán in Panajachel
- Antigua Coffee Shops
- The Best Rooftop Restaurant in Antigua
- Caoba Organic Farms
Map Of The Best Photo Locations in Antigua, Guatemala.
Below is a map of the best photography locations in Antigua, Guatemala mentioned in this blog post.
Use this for your own research in planning a photography trip to Antigua, Guatemala.
What are your top photo locations for photography in Antigua? There is so much more to explore.
I’d love to hear from you and know what would make this Antigua Guatemala Photography Guide more complete.
