Documentaries from the heart of Guatemala

The Guatemala List is a documentary film company dedicated to storytelling the living traditions that make Guatemala one of the most culturally rich places on earth.

We document the most extraordinary cultural moments in Guatemala, from ancient Maya traditions to living festivals, to preserve, educate and promote social cohesion.

Creating three Documentaries in a year

In 2026, The Guatemala List is on a mission to document three of the country’s most stunning traditions.

Garifuna Celebration - Nov 22-28 2026

In this exciting Guatemalan adventure, explore the heritage of one of Guatemala’s most remote and enduring cultures. This journey that will take you through two worlds, from the Maya in the highlands to the Garifuna on the Caribbean coast. You’ll take part in Garifuna Festival, a lively celebration marking the arrival of the Garifuna people to Guatemala more than 200 years ago.

Semana Santa - March 27 - April 5, 2026

Experience Semana Santa (Easter) as no one else offers it: from Antigua’s solemn processions and fleeting alfombras, to the Tz’utujil traída de frutas at Lake Atitlán, and the penitential crawlers of San Andrés Sajcabajá. This exclusive journey unites three distinct cultural expressions into one unforgettable passage through Guatemala’s most sacred week.

Rabin Ajaw July 23 - 27, 2026

Journey into the highlands for Rabin Ajaw, Guatemala’s “Daughter of the King” celebration, where pageantry and tradition converge in a vibrant homage to Maya heritage. Amidst music, dance, and ancestral ritual, witness the crowning of a cultural ambassador chosen not for beauty, but for wisdom, leadership, and devotion to community. This rare experience offers an intimate window into living Maya identity at its most radiant.

Fernando Ruiz Matamoros

Fernando Ruiz Matamoros is the creator of The Guatemala List, a project focused on documenting and sharing Guatemala’s living traditions. Born and raised in Guatemala, his work centers on gaining respectful access to cultural events and practices through close collaboration with local communities.

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Embark on Your Cultural Journey

Join us at The Guatemala List and dive into the vibrant tapestry of Guatemala’s living culture. Our curated experiences, led by the expert guidance of Fernando Ruiz Matamoros, offer you unparalleled access to cultural events that few have the privilege to witness. Whether you’re a cultural explorer, a passionate photographer, or a videographer eager to capture the world, our unique journeys are crafted just for you. Don’t miss the chance to be part of these exclusive adventures.