Want to truly experience Guatemala’s cultural heart? Antigua’s best workshops put you right in the action. The city’s top-rated cooking classes teach you to prepare classic dishes like pepián and tamales in traditional kitchens. At ChocoMuseo, you’ll transform cacao beans into your own chocolate bar – a tasty hands-on lesson in Guatemala’s chocolate heritage. Local artisans demonstrate backstrap weaving, an ancient Mayan technique still used today. For total immersion, family homestays combine Spanish lessons with daily cultural activities.
I especially love the cooking workshops – they’re practical, fun, and you’ll leave with recipes to share back home. The chocolate-making sessions are perfect for families and anyone curious about this pre-Hispanic tradition.
Let’s explore the most rewarding workshops Antigua has to offer.
Good To Know
- Antigua offers a variety of cooking classes, including Guatemalan, Mayan, and private culinary experiences, providing hands-on learning and immersion in local cuisine.
- Chocolate workshops at ChocoMuseo allow visitors to learn the bean-to-bar chocolate-making process and create their own chocolate products.
- Craft workshops in Antigua include backstrap weaving and sandal-making, offering unique opportunities to learn traditional Guatemalan artisanal skills.
- Tea workshops at Pachamama Blends provide in-depth education on Guatemalan tea culture and flavors for up to 10 participants.
- Homestay experiences in San Juan del Obispo offer an authentic culture with a local family, including Spanish lessons and hands-on activities.
Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour
Although Antigua, Guatemala offers a wealth of cultural experiences, one of the most immersive and enjoyable activities is the Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour. Rated 5.0 out of 5 stars with 100% of travelers recommending it, this 5-hour experience takes participants on a culinary journey through the city’s vibrant market and into a rooftop kitchen with stunning mountain views.
The tour begins with a guided exploration of the local market, where travelers can interact with vendors and learn about Guatemalan ingredients, herbs, and spices.
Then, under the instruction of skilled local chefs, participants dive into hands-on preparation of traditional dishes like tamales, pepián, and chiles rellenos. With a maximum group size of 15, the cooking class ensures personalized attention.
Included in the $98.11 per person fee are private transportation, alcoholic beverages, bottled water, a delicious lunch, and recipe cards for continued practice at home.
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the authenticity of the experience, and the welcoming atmosphere, making this a must-do activity for anyone visiting Antigua.
Read our full review: Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour Review
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Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class in Antigua
For travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience in Antigua, Guatemala, the Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class is a must-do activity. With 188 reviews and a 100% recommendation from travelers, this hands-on cooking class at a school in Jocotenango village offers an opportunity to learn from local chefs and create traditional Guatemalan dishes.
The class includes lunch, snacks, beverages, and scenic views of Agua Volcano, providing a delightful dining experience on the rooftop terrace or in a colonial-style dining room. Participants can choose from a range of Guatemalan classics, including vegetarian options, and learn about the country’s culture and history through food.
Praised for its friendly staff and delicious cuisine, the class is accessible via private transportation from downtown Antigua hotels. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the class ensures an engaging and informative atmosphere.
Priced at $89.80 per person, this cooking workshop is a flexible, secure, and highly recommended activity for exploring Antigua’s culinary heritage.
Read our full review: Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class in Antigua Review
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Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop in ChocoMuseo Antigua
Situated within the heart of Antigua, the ChocoMuseo invites travelers to partake in a captivating Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop. This 2-hour experience delves into the intricate process of chocolate-making, from the cacao bean to the finished candy bar.
With a maximum of 15 participants per session, the workshop offers an intimate and interactive learning environment. Praised by 95% of travelers, the workshop is priced at $32.48 per person and includes all necessary materials and ingredients.
Participants will have the opportunity to prepare their own creations, taste various chocolate drinks, and take home 120g of handmade chocolates. The hands-on approach and knowledgeable instructors ensure an enjoyable and informative experience for all ages.
Conveniently located near public transportation and with wheelchair and stroller accessibility, the ChocoMuseo workshop is a must-try activity for chocolate enthusiasts visiting Antigua.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from traveler reviews, this workshop promises to satisfy the senses and leave a lasting impression.
Read our full review: Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop in ChocoMuseo Antigua Review
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Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class
Tucked away in the heart of Antigua, Guatemala, the Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class offers a unique opportunity for travelers to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of the region.
Priced from $69 per person, this highly-rated private class (5.0 rating from 14 reviews) invites guests to learn the art of preparing the iconic Chicken Mayan Pepian – a thick, flavorful soup made with roasted ingredients, served with rice or corn tamales and a local beverage.
The experience begins at Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala, where friendly guides in Kukul Tales shirts will lead participants to the cooking location. Along the way, guests can savor Guatemalan tortillas and a Mayan beverage.
The class isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infants can join, and service animals are welcome. Once the cooking is complete, the group will return to the original meeting point.
With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later, this cooking class is a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Mayan cuisine.
Read our full review: Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class Review
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Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour
Immersing visitors in the vibrant culinary culture of Guatemala, the Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour (94 reviews, 100% recommended) offers a comprehensive hands-on experience. Priced at $85 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, the class accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers per session, ensuring an intimate and personalized learning environment.
Guests embark on a guided tour of a local market to explore fresh produce, before returning to the rooftop kitchen of Milton’s family home to prepare authentic Guatemalan dishes.
The menu highlights include starters like tostadas and dobladas, main courses such as the national plate, pepián, subanik, and jocón, and desserts like rellenitos and torrejas. Throughout the class, participants learn to make their own corn tortillas while enjoying snacks, local fruits, and a selection of beverages.
Reviewers praise the class for its cultural insights, knowledgeable instruction, and delicious food, making it a standout highlight of their visit to Antigua, Guatemala.
Read our full review: Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour Review
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Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop
Nestled in the heart of Antigua, Guatemala, the Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop (10 reviews, 100% recommended) immerses visitors in the vibrant local culinary culture.
This 6-hour experience includes 6 market food tastings, a tuc tuc ride to El Comalote, and the opportunity to make 3 self-made tortillas. Participants also enjoy a traditional Guatemalan lunch with a drink.
Priced from $90 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option. The meeting point is at the Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala, where guides in Kukul Tales shirts will greet guests. The activity ends back at the same location.
While the tour includes snacks and lunch, alcoholic beverages aren’t provided. It’s not suitable for those with heart problems or serious medical conditions, and infants must sit on laps.
Private tours ensure only your group participates, ensuring an intimate and immersive culinary experience in Antigua.
Read our full review: Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop Review
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Market and Mayan Cooking Class
What better way to experience the vibrant culinary heritage of Antigua, Guatemala than through a Market and Mayan Cooking Class?
This immersive activity allows participants to explore traditional Mayan cuisine, starting with a guided tour of the Central Market to shop for fresh ingredients. Under the instruction of a local chef, guests will then prepare classic dishes like pepian (meat stew), hilachas (beef with tomato sauce), and jocon (green chicken stew).
The class includes a full lunch and dessert, as well as a recipe booklet to take home. Roundtrip transportation, all cooking supplies, and a refreshing natural drink are provided.
With a minimum of 4 and maximum of 12 participants, the intimate setting ensures personalized guidance. Vegetarians can request accommodations.
Priced from $80 per person, this 5-star experience concludes by 3 PM, leaving ample time to explore the charming streets of Antigua.
Read our full review: Market and Mayan Cooking Class Review
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Tea Workshop
The Tea Workshop at Pachamama Blends in Antigua, Guatemala invites participants to explore the rich cultural heritage of the region’s tea traditions.
Operated by Colonial Travel Agency, this 5-star rated experience offers an in-store tea education for a maximum of 10 travelers. Priced at €49.54 per person, the workshop is led by local guides and is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Participants will receive confirmation at the time of booking, though the experience is non-refundable.
The workshop takes place at Pachamama Blends, located at 5a Calle Poniente #13D, and concludes back at the same meeting point.
With just one glowing 5-star review, this tea-focused activity promises an immersive exploration of Guatemala’s vibrant tea culture.
Read our full review: Tea Workshop Review
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Two Hours Private Backstrap Weaving Workshop in Antigua
A Two Hours Private Backstrap Weaving Workshop in Antigua, Guatemala, allows participants to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region’s textile traditions.
Operated by Kakaw Designs, this intimate workshop offers a hands-on experience in the ancient art of backstrap weaving. Located just three blocks from Antigua’s central park, the workshop’s meeting point is easily accessible.
During the two-hour session, guests will receive a backstrap loom and learn the techniques of this traditional craft. Snacks are provided, and participants can take home a PDF guide with pre-recorded videos for future reference.
After the class, attendees enjoy a 20% discount on in-studio purchases, encouraging them to explore Kakaw Designs’ collection of handwoven products.
With a 4.8 overall rating from 12 reviews and a 92% recommendation rate, this workshop is a must-do activity for travelers seeking a unique and authentic cultural experience in Antigua.
Read our full review: Two Hours Private Backstrap Weaving Workshop in Antigua Review
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Simple Sandal-Making Class Led by Skilled Artisans
This simple sandal-making class in Antigua, Guatemala, allows participants to learn from skilled artisans the age-old craft of crafting their own customized footwear. Priced from $194.88 per person, the private tour provides an intimate setting where only your group will participate.
The class is located at a yellow house just half a block west from Parque San Sebastian, making it easily accessible via public transportation.
The class is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. Most travelers can participate, as the surfaces are wheelchair-friendly.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. Cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience are free, and the lowest price is guaranteed.
Secure your spot with a Reserve Now and Pay Later option. Whether you’re seeking a unique cultural experience or want to create a one-of-a-kind souvenir, this sandal-making class promises an enriching and memorable activity in the heart of Antigua.
Read our full review: Simple Sandal-Making Class Led by Skilled Artisans Review
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Local Homestay Fiesta: Spanish Lessons & Cultural Adventures
Enjoy the vibrant cultural tapestry of Antigua, Guatemala, with the Local Homestay Fiesta: Spanish Lessons & Cultural Adventures. This 4-night experience offers a unique opportunity to live with a local hosting family in San Juan del Obispo and dive into Spanish language learning and culture.
You’ll receive 3 days of Spanish lessons in the morning, with all materials provided. Complement your language skills with hands-on cultural activities, including a chocolate workshop, a day in the life of a farmer, and an experience at an indigenous women’s cooperative.
Savor the flavors of traditional Guatemalan cuisine, with 4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners included. Convenience is key, with hotel pick-up and transportation throughout the experience.
This private tour ensures personalized attention, making it the perfect way to authentically explore Antigua’s vibrant culture. Don’t miss this chance to learn about the heart of Guatemalan life.
Read our full review: Local Homestay Fiesta: Spanish Lessons & Cultural Adventures Review
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Private Cooking Class of Typical Guatemalan Dishes
Although Antigua is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, visitors can further enjoy Guatemalan culinary traditions through a Private Cooking Class of Typical Guatemalan Dishes.
Operated by Direct Adventure, this class offers a hands-on experience in preparing beloved local dishes like Guatemalan pepian, a thick stew with vegetables, tortillas, and a soft drink made from masa. Participants will also learn to make mole, a unique dessert of fried bananas dipped in chocolate and spiced with tomato, miltomate, cacao, and pepitoria.
The class, priced from $95 per person, includes private transportation, lunch, and bottled water. Pickup is available from selected accommodations, with the experience starting at 8:00 am.
The class is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infants can sit on laps. With a private tour format, only your group will participate, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.
Travelers can reserve now and pay later, making it a convenient and immersive culinary adventure in the heart of Antigua, Guatemala.
Read our full review: Private Cooking Class of Typical Guatemalan Dishes Review
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Potions Class (Cocktail Making) at El Alquimista Café & Bar
For those seeking a lively and interactive culinary experience in Antigua, the Potions Class (Cocktail Making) at El Alquimista Café & Bar offers a captivating alternative to traditional cooking classes. This unique activity allows visitors to explore the art of cocktail-making in a charming café setting, with a 4.6/5 average rating from 5 reviews.
The class is available year-round, with operating hours spanning from 8 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and 8 AM to 11 PM on weekends. Private tours ensure a personalized experience, with the meeting and end points located at 2 Avenida Sur 51a in Antigua Guatemala.
The class is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome. Priced from £43.50 per group (up to 2 participants), the Potions Class boasts a lowest price guarantee and a convenient “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this experience provides a flexible and accessible way to indulge in the vibrant cocktail culture of Antigua.
Read our full review: Potions Class (Cocktail Making) at El Alquimista Café & Bar Review
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Jade Workshop Experience With Guide
Visitors seeking an immersive cultural experience in Antigua can embark on the Jade Workshop Experience with a skilled guide. Located in the heart of Antigua, this half-day workshop offers participants the unique opportunity to learn the art of jade carving from a master carver.
The workshop runs from 9:30 am and accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers. The inclusive package covers all necessary workshop equipment, pure water or coffee, and entrance to the local jade museum.
Participants will also have the chance to create their own personal jade piece to take home as a memento. Lunch is provided, ensuring a full and enriching experience.
The meeting point is at Casa del Jade, with the workshop returning to the same location. The experience is accessible to wheelchair users, stroller-pushers, and those with service animals.
Flexible reservation options are available, including a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start time.
Read our full review: Jade Workshop Experience With Guide Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take the Class in a Different Language?
Yes, many of the classes and workshops in Antigua offer instruction in multiple languages. Participants can often choose to take the course in their preferred language, making the learning experience more accessible and comfortable.
Are the Workshops Suitable for Children and Families?
Many workshops and classes offer family-friendly options, with activities suitable for children. Some programs even provide childcare, making it easier for parents to participate. It’s best to check the specific details of each offering to ensure it’s a good fit for your family.
Do the Classes Accommodate Dietary Restrictions or Allergies?
The classes often accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies. Organizers typically work with participants to ensure their needs are met, providing appropriate meal options and avoiding potential allergens. It’s best to inquire about specific accommodations when signing up.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Workshops?
The cancellation policy typically allows participants to cancel their workshop registration without penalty if done so within a certain timeframe, often a week or two prior to the event. Late cancellations may incur a fee.
Can I Purchase the Ingredients or Products Used in the Classes?
Participants can often purchase the ingredients or products used in the classes. Many workshops and classes provide an opportunity to acquire the materials needed to continue the activity at home. Check with the organizers about purchasing options.
The Sum Up
Antigua offers an array of engaging workshops and classes for visitors. From Guatemalan cooking lessons to chocolate-making workshops and even cocktail mixology, there’s something to suit every interest. Participants can enjoy the vibrant local culture, learn traditional skills, and create memories that’ll last long after their Antigua adventure. Whether you’re a foodie, an aspiring artisan, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, Antigua’s diverse offerings provide ample opportunities to dive deeper into the heart of Guatemalan traditions.