Antigua’s workshops offer practical, hands-on ways to experience Guatemala’s living traditions. The standout activities include cooking classes with market visits, chocolate-making demonstrations, and traditional textile weaving sessions. I especially love the cooking workshops, where you’ll learn family recipes passed down through generations while exploring local markets with expert guides. The chocolate workshops are fascinating – you’ll transform raw cacao beans into finished bars while learning about this ancient Mayan crop.
What makes these classes special is their authenticity: you’re learning directly from local artisans in small groups, often in family homes or traditional workshops. The backstrap weaving classes and worry doll workshops provide meaningful connections with multi-generational craftspeople.
Check out these top-rated workshops that showcase the best of Antigua’s cultural traditions: [list would follow]
Key Points
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Authentic Guatemalan cooking classes in Antigua offer hands-on experiences in traditional cuisine with high recommendation rates and positive reviews.
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Chocolate-making workshops at ChocoMuseo provide an immersive bean-to-bar experience, attracting a 95% recommendation rate and 4.8/5 rating.
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Cultural workshops in Antigua, such as backstrap weaving, worry doll making, and diverse offerings, promote skill-sharing and educational value.
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Personalized Spanish language classes in Antigua focus on conversational learning in picturesque settings, with positive reviews highlighting effectiveness and adaptability.
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Workshops in Antigua cover a wide range of experiences, including coffee tasting, sandal-making, and plant-based Caribbean cooking, catering to diverse interests and traveler preferences.
Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class in Antigua
Nestled in the charming town of Jocotenango, the Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class in Antigua offers travelers a unique opportunity to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of the region.
With over 188 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, this class has earned a coveted Badge of Excellence. During the approximately 2-hour session, you will learn to prepare traditional Guatemalan dishes, including vegetarian options, under the guidance of local chefs.
The hands-on experience culminates in a rooftop terrace overlooking the stunning Agua Volcano, where guests can savor their culinary creations. The class includes transportation via tuk-tuk or pickup truck from downtown Antigua, as well as lunch, snacks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages.
Although not wheelchair accessible, the class is situated near public transportation. With confirmation upon booking and the flexibility to reserve now and pay later, this authentic cooking experience is a must-try for any foodie visiting Antigua.
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 ChocoMuseo in Antigua, Guatemala, the Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop offers visitors an immersive experience in the art of chocolate-making.
During this 2-hour activity, you will learn the entire process of transforming cacao beans into delectable chocolate bars. The workshop includes tasting various chocolate drinks and creating 120g of handmade chocolates to take home.
With a 95% recommendation rate and a 4.8/5 rating based on 261 reviews, this interactive class has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback.
Participants praise the engaging instructors, such as Diana and Jocelyn, and the fun, educational environment. Suitable for all ages, the workshop accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers and is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
Upon completion, guests depart with a custom-made chocolate bar and valuable knowledge about chocolate’s origins and production.
Read our full review: Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Workshop in ChocoMuseo Antigua Review
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Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour
The Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour at Cuscun Cooking School in Antigua, Guatemala, offers travelers a chance to enjoy the vibrant culinary traditions of the region.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this class promises an authentic and personalized experience. Participants will learn to create traditional Guatemalan dishes, including tamales, pepián, and chiles rellenos, under the guidance of knowledgeable local chefs.
The tour includes a market visit to shop for fresh ingredients, herbs, and spices, followed by a hands-on cooking session in a rooftop kitchen with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes.
Dietary restrictions can be accommodated, and recipes are provided for recreating the dishes at home. Consistently high-rated for the engaging guides and overall experience, the Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour is a must-do activity for anyone seeking a deeper connection with Guatemalan cuisine and culture.
Read our full review: Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour Review
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Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive culinary experience in Antigua, Guatemala, can embark on the Guatemalan Cooking Class and Market Tour at Cuscun Cooking School.
This 100% recommended class offers a hands-on introduction to traditional Guatemalan cuisine, with a maximum of 8 travelers per session. The experience begins with a market tour, where guests can sample exotic local fruits and explore the vibrant sights and sounds.
Back at the school, located on the rooftop of the host’s family home, participants learn to prepare a variety of national dishes, including the popular Pepián and Subanik. The menu also features starter snacks, such as tostadas and dobladas, and traditional Guatemalan desserts like rellenitos and torrejas.
Included in the $85 per person price tag are snacks, drinks, and personalized attention from the expert hosts. With a 5.0 rating based on 94 glowing reviews, this cooking class promises an authentic and immersive taste of Guatemalan culture and cuisine.
Read our full review: Guatemalan Cooking Class & Market Tour Review
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Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class
For those seeking an authentic Mayan culinary experience in Antigua, Guatemala, the “Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class” is a must-try.
Operated by Kukul Tales, this 100% recommended private tour allows you to learn how to prepare the classic Mayan dish, Chicken Mayan Pepian. This thick soup, made with roasted ingredients, is served with rice or corn tamales and a local beverage.
The class includes snacks, Guatemalan tortillas, and a Mayan beverage. Located in the heart of Antigua, the class takes place at the Parque Central, with guides wearing Kukul Tales shirts and holding signs with your name.
Priced at £57.72 per person, the 14 reviewed class is a great way to learn about Guatemalan cuisine. Non-wheelchair accessible and not serving alcoholic beverages, the 2-3 hour experience ends back at the meeting point.
Confirming within 48 hours, this class offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Read our full review: Make Your Own Mayan Pepian – Cooking Class Review
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Two Hours Private Backstrap Weaving Workshop in Antigua
A two-hour private backstrap weaving workshop in Antigua, Guatemala, is a captivating opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Operated by Kakaw Designs, this workshop invites participants to learn the traditional art of backstrap weaving, a centuries-old technique practiced by Mayan weavers.
The workshop takes place in the beautiful city of Antigua, where you will receive a backstrap loom and guidance from experienced instructors. Snacks are provided, and you will also receive a PDF guide with pre-recorded videos to reference after the class.
The workshop is highly recommended, with 92% of travelers praising the experience. At $48 per person, the private workshop offers fantastic value, and participants can enjoy a 20% discount in the studio’s showroom after the class.
Whether you’re a seasoned weaver or a complete beginner, this workshop promises a unique and unforgettable culture.
Read our full review: Two Hours Private Backstrap Weaving Workshop in Antigua Review
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Coffee Workshop
The Coffee Workshop in Antigua, Guatemala, is a captivating 6-review experience with a perfect 5.0 rating, operated by Colonial Travel Agency. Priced from $43.00 per person, the workshop provides an opportunity to learn ideal coffee extraction methods, including V60, Chemex, Tornado, and Origami.
Participants will receive equipment for the workshop, enjoy a coffee tasting, and take home 400 grams of specialty coffee. The workshop is led by a professional barista, who delivers an informative presentation.
Pickup is available for all travelers within the La Antigua Guatemala perimeter, with a start time of 9:00 am and a ticket redemption point at Calle Ancha de los Herreros, Antigua Guatemala. The experience is stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed, though it isn’t wheelchair accessible.
The maximum group size is 8 travelers. Booking confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the workshop is non-refundable, with no refunds for cancellations.
Additional reviews highlight the workshop’s informative presentations and friendly guides.
Read our full review: Coffee Workshop Review
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Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop
This engaging market food tour and tortilla workshop in Antigua, Guatemala, comes highly recommended by travelers, with 100% of 10 reviews praising the experience. Operated by Kukul Tales, the private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the local market, sample 6 traditional Guatemalan dishes, and learn to make 3 handmade tortillas.
The tour begins at the Parque Central, where guides wearing Kukul Tales shirts will greet you. You’ll take a tuc tuc ride to the El Comalote tortilla workshop, where you’ll learn the art of traditional tortilla making.
After your culinary creations, you’ll enjoy a delicious Guatemalan lunch with a drink. Throughout the tour, you’ll savor a variety of market food tastings and receive snacks.
While alcoholic beverages aren’t included, the experience promises a memorable culture. Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start.
With most travelers able to participate, this tour offers an excellent way to discover Antigua’s vibrant food scene.
Read our full review: Market Food Tour and Tortilla Workshop Review
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Worry Doll Workshop
Participants embark on a unique cultural experience with the Worry Doll Workshop in Antigua, Guatemala. This half-day tour allows travelers to enjoy the local community, away from tourist hotspots.
The workshop, led by multi-generational worry doll maker Doña Rosa, provides an educational and hands-on exploration of Guatemalan beliefs surrounding these iconic dolls. Participants travel to the workshop via a lively chicken bus, accompanied by a private guide.
The experience also includes a visit to a school supported by Niños de Guatemala, where attendees interact with local children. With a maximum of 15 travelers, the intimate setting fosters cultural exchange and skill-sharing in a welcoming environment.
Reviews highlight the workshop’s educational value, community involvement, and the warm hospitality of the hosts, Andrea and Rosa. Offering a glimpse into Guatemalan traditions, the Worry Doll Workshop is a captivating opportunity to connect with the vibrant culture of Antigua.
Read our full review: Worry Doll Workshop Review
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1-on-1 Spanish Language Class
Anyone seeking to enjoy the vibrant culture of Antigua, Guatemala can partake in a personalized 1-on-1 Spanish language class. This class, which supports the local NGO Ninos de Guatemala, offers specialized attention with a focus on conversation at the learner’s level.
The relaxed learning environment allows students to choose between sitting in a beautiful garden or taking a stroll during their lessons. The class is led by a certified Spanish teacher and takes place at the easy-to-find Good Hotel Antigua.
Along With the personalized instruction, the class includes coffee or tea, and students will end their activity back at the meeting point. The class is wheelchair accessible, stroller friendly, and welcomes service animals.
With positive reviews highlighting the class’s effectiveness, confidence-building, and adaptability, it’s a great option for anyone looking to improve their Spanish skills in a picturesque setting.
Read our full review: 1-on-1 Spanish Language Class Review
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Market and Mayan Cooking Class
Visitors to Antigua, Guatemala can enjoy the vibrant local culture by participating in a market and Mayan cooking class. The experience begins with a culinary tour, including a visit to the bustling Central Market to select fresh ingredients.
Under the guidance of a local chef, guests will then prepare traditional Mayan dishes such as pepian (meat stew), hilachas (beef with tomato sauce), and jocon (green chicken stew). The class includes round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable tour guide, and Wi-Fi access.
Participants will enjoy the prepared dishes, a natural drink, and a dessert, as well as receive a recipe booklet to recreate the flavors at home. The cooking class accommodates up to 12 travelers, with a minimum age of 17 and a vegetarian option available upon request.
Priced at $80 per person, this culture offers a memorable way to connect with Antigua’s rich culinary heritage.
Read our full review: Market and Mayan Cooking Class Review
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Tea Workshop
The Tea Workshop in Antigua, Guatemala provides a captivating in-store experience for up to 10 travelers. Operated by the Colonial Travel Agency, this non-refundable workshop is priced from $50.00 per person.
Participants will meet at Pachamama Blends, 5a Calle Poniente #13D, and the event will conclude at the same location.
The workshop offers engaging tea education concepts and is led by local people. It’s accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers, as the surfaces are wheelchair-friendly, allowing most travelers to participate.
Based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, the Tea Workshop has received a remarkable 5.0 rating from a single review.
This experience is part of the broader “Workshops and Classes in Antigua” article, following the “Market and Mayan Cooking Class” points.
The Tea Workshop provides a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy Guatemalan tea culture within the historic city of Antigua.
Read our full review: Tea Workshop Review
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Simple Sandal-Making Class Led by Skilled Artisans
Those seeking a hands-on cultural experience can join a simple sandal-making class led by skilled artisans in Antigua, Guatemala. Priced from $194.88 per person, the class takes place in a private setting with only your group participating.
The meeting point is a yellow house half a block west of Parque San Sebastian, and the activity concludes at the same location.
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, and free cancellation is an option up to 24 hours before the start time.
Snacks are included, and meeting and pickup details are provided. The class is conveniently located near public transportation, and a lowest price guarantee is offered.
This unique opportunity allows visitors to learn the art of sandal-making from experienced artisans, seeing the cultural traditions of Antigua.
Read our full review: Simple Sandal-Making Class Led by Skilled Artisans Review
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Afro Vegan Cooking Classes
Offering a unique culture, Afro Vegan Cooking Classes in Antigua, Antigua and Barbuda provide an opportunity to learn the art of plant-based Caribbean cuisine.
Operated by the Rastafari Experience Antigua, these classes invite participants to explore the rich flavors and traditions of Afro-Caribbean cooking.
For $555 per person, the classes include a cooking demonstration, a hands-on cooking session, and a delicious lunch or dinner featuring the prepared dishes.
Pickup and drop-off services are available from various locations around the island. With a maximum of 30 travelers, the classes offer an intimate and personalized experience.
Suitable for those with a moderate level of physical fitness, the classes are wheelchair accessible.
Participants can enjoy the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of the experience.
Whether a seasoned cook or a newcomer to plant-based cooking, the Afro Vegan Cooking Classes promise an immersive and flavorful journey through the culinary traditions of Antigua.
Read our full review: Afro Vegan Cooking Classes Review
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The Sum Up
Antigua offers a variety of engaging workshops and classes for visitors. From authentic Guatemalan cooking classes to chocolate-making workshops, there’s something to suit every interest. Whether you’re looking to learn a new skill or learn about local culture, Antigua’s diverse offerings provide ample opportunities to explore the region’s rich heritage and traditions.