National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology Zone 13 Guatemala City
Discover Guatemala's ancient Mayan past and vibrant ethnological present through well-preserved artifacts and displays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology Zone 13 Guatemala City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Guatemala's ancient Mayan past and vibrant ethnological present through well-preserved artifacts and displays.
"A very well-curated and laid-out museum, perfect for a 45-minute to 1.5-hour visit."
🎯 Cash is King!
Remember to bring cash for admission, as the museum is cash only. :moneybag:
🗣️ Ask Questions
Staff are happy to share information if you ask. Don't hesitate to engage them! :speech_balloon:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mayan Artifacts
Explore thousands of well-preserved archaeological pieces showcasing Guatemala's rich Mayan heritage.
Ethnological Displays
Discover indigenous musical instruments and cultural items that represent the diverse ethnological heritage.
Indigenous Musical Instruments
A fascinating collection highlighting the vibrant musical traditions of Guatemala's indigenous communities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Hours & Tickets
Navigating the Museum
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Cash is King!
Remember to bring cash for admission, as the museum is cash only. :moneybag:
🗣️ Ask Questions
Staff are happy to share information if you ask. Don't hesitate to engage them! :speech_balloon:
🎒 Bag Check Available
You'll need to check your bags before entering the exhibition areas. :handbag:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 45 minutes to 1.5 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits. :hourglass:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Cash is King!
Remember to bring cash for admission, as the museum is cash only. :moneybag:
🗣️ Ask Questions
Staff are happy to share information if you ask. Don't hesitate to engage them! :speech_balloon:
🎒 Bag Check Available
You'll need to check your bags before entering the exhibition areas. :handbag:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 45 minutes to 1.5 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits. :hourglass:
🚗 Uber for Convenience
Uber is a convenient way to reach the museum located in Zone 13. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the museum for its well-curated and perfectly sized collections, offering a deep dive into Guatemala's archaeological and ethnological heritage. While some exhibits may have limited English, the staff are helpful, and the Q60 foreigner admission is considered good value. Some minor maintenance issues were noted, but overall, it's a highly recommended cultural experience.
"10 out 10 museum. Very well curated and laid out. The size is perfect. Expect to spend 45-minutes to 1.5 hours.
The museum is new. Just reopened in 2025.
Cash only (no credit cards). Wish there was more English."
Brian Ferris
"Last April 22, 2025, my partner and I went to this museum.
The museum is responsible for the conservation, research, and dissemination of the archaeological and ethnological heritage of the Guatemalan people.
It is located in Zone 13. We use Uber to get there.
The museum has nearly 20,000 archaeological pieces and 5,000 ethnological pieces. The archaeological collection is very well preserved. We saw a display of indigenous musical instruments. It is definitely worth a visit.
We encourage the Guatemalan community to visit and support the museum, as well as tourists. The cost is Q5.00 for Guatemalans and Q60.00 for foreigners. Children under 9 years old are admitted free. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m."
Aury De Jesus
"Beautiful expositions, quiet place, it was under maintenance and some spots were not available even if they were complete, no many visitors, museum personal not very interested on explain or guide visitors."
Julietta LlGg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Zone 13 of Guatemala City. Many visitors find Uber to be a convenient and reliable option for transportation to the museum.
While specific details about parking availability are not widely publicized, using ride-sharing services like Uber can bypass parking concerns.
Zone 13 is accessible by various means of transport. For tourists, Uber is frequently recommended for ease and safety.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays.
Admission is Q5.00 for Guatemalan citizens and Q60.00 for foreigners. Children under 9 years old are admitted free of charge.
No, the museum is cash only. Make sure to bring enough cash for your admission fee.
While specific discounts for students or seniors are not detailed, children under 9 are free. It's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
Information on advance ticket purchases is not readily available. It's best to plan to purchase tickets upon arrival, ensuring you have cash.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors find that 45 minutes to 1.5 hours is sufficient to explore the museum's collections.
Yes, children under 9 get in free and many find the exhibits engaging. The museum is described as enjoyable for kids.
While some exhibits may have limited English explanations, the staff are generally helpful and happy to answer questions.
The museum houses nearly 20,000 archaeological pieces and 5,000 ethnological pieces, including indigenous musical instruments and Mayan artifacts.
Yes, there is a bag check service available for visitors who need to store their belongings before exploring the exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Information regarding dining facilities within the museum is not widely available. It's advisable to dine before or after your visit.
Typically, museums have policies against bringing outside food and drinks into exhibition areas. It's best to consume these outside the museum.
📸 📸 Photography
While not explicitly stated, many museums allow non-flash photography for personal use. It's always a good idea to check for signage or ask staff.
Flash photography is generally prohibited in museums to protect artifacts. Be mindful of any specific rules posted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🤓 Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Archaeological Collection
These Mayan artifacts are not just historical relics; they are tangible connections to a sophisticated society that shaped the region for centuries. The museum's commitment to conservation ensures that these pieces remain in excellent condition for future generations to learn from. Exploring this section provides a foundational understanding of Guatemala's deep historical roots and its significance in the broader context of ancient American civilizations.
Ethnological Heritage
These exhibits provide a crucial understanding of the contemporary cultural tapestry of Guatemala, emphasizing the traditions, crafts, and daily lives of its indigenous peoples. The museum's approach aims to celebrate and disseminate this heritage, making it a valuable resource for both locals and tourists. Engaging with these displays offers a more holistic perspective on Guatemala, bridging the gap between its ancient past and its dynamic present.
Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Accessibility is a key consideration for many travelers. While the museum is located in Zone 13, making it reachable via ride-sharing services like Uber, some reviews mention that exhibit explanations might have limited English.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit