Iximche near Tecpán, unlike the famous jungle sites like Tikal, sits high up in the pine-oak forests.
It has a fascinating history: it was the capital of the Kaqchikel Maya and actually served as the very first Spanish capital of Guatemala in 1524.
It’s incredibly calm and quiet. It is also still an active spiritual site. At the back of the ruins, you can see local Mayan priests performing fire ceremonies.
Highly recommend a stop here if you are driving between Antigua and Lake Atitlán.