Volcanoes, Villages & Vibrant Culture of Guatemala: Lake Atitlán, Antigua & Central Highlands - 8 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Guatemala City, Transfer to Lake Atitlán, Explore at Leisure

Welcome to Guatemala's charming capital, Guatemala City! Meet your driver at the airport and transfer 3-4 hours to your hotel near the picturesque Lake Atitlán. The rest of the day is free to spend as you wish. You could head to Panajachel, the largest and most developed of the lakeside towns. Stroll down the main street, Calle Santander, to discover the charming boutiques, colorful shops, and bustling markets. Shop for souvenirs among the traditional textiles, local art, and handmade goods, or indulge in Guatemalan dishes like pepian (a hearty stew made with tomatoes and chicken or pork).

If you like the outdoors, make your way to the Reserva Natural Atitlán instead and choose from an array of activities, such as hiking, bird-watching, or nature photography. A highlight of the reserve is its zipline course, which offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes. In the evening, head to San Pedro La Laguna to experience its low-key nightlife, with several bars and cafés offering live music, open mic nights, and dance sessions. 

Day 2: Boat Tour of Lake Atitlán's Maya Villages

Today, you'll discover why Lake Atitlán is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world as you set off on a half-day boat tour to the surrounding Maya villages. Meet your expert guide, then board a private boat and glide across the deep blue/green waters, enjoying views of the surrounding volcanoes: San Pedro, Atitlán, and Tolimán. Stop at various villages, including San Juan La Laguna, to explore local markets and visit a women's weaving cooperative. Learn about the age-old artistry behind traditional Maya textiles and consider purchasing some as a souvenir.

Then, cruise to Santiago Atitlán, where you'll encounter the shrine of the infamous Maya saint, Maximón, a revered figure in local spiritual practices. The village's bustling market is a feast for the senses with colorful textiles, handcrafted goods, and delicious local foods. Throughout the tour, you'll learn about the history of the lake, formed approximately 84,000 years ago due to a volcanic eruption, and the Maya civilization from your guide and the locals you meet. After four hours on the water, return to shore and enjoy some free time by the lake. 

Day 3: Kayak Across & Hike Along Lake Atitlán, Transfer to Antigua

Day 4: Day Hike to Pacaya Volcano

Lace up your hiking boots and get ready for a 3.8-mile (6 km) trek in Parque Nacional Volcán de Pacaya, home to an active volcano that last erupted in 2021 CE. Transfer 1.5 hours to the trailhead, then follow your guide across the varied terrain, including lush vegetation, volcanic rock formations, and ash-covered paths. As you ascend, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the volcano's active craters and surrounding countryside.

Once you reach the base of the caldera, your guide will take you through the dried lava fields. Walk across the jagged, twisted remnants of solidified lava that once flowed from the volcano. The surface can be uneven, so watch where you walk. When you reach the peak, sit down for a picnic lunch with views of nearby volcanoes, including Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango. After lunch, roast a marshmallow for dessert at one of the geothermal hotspots, then return to the trailhead on another path, taking you through the remaining dried lava fields, lesser-known forests, and farmlands. 

Day 5: Bicycle Tour of Antigua's Villages, Farms & Ruins

Get ready for another active adventure as you join your guide on a bicycle tour of the villages, farms, and ruins dotting the Almolonga Valley. Cycle past local farmers tending their crops, small markets selling fresh produce, and crumbling churches and historical structures that tell tales of the city's colonial past. Riding south, head to the base of Agua Volcano and look up at the mist-shrouded peak. From there, you'll visit a macadamia farm in Valhalla to learn about the prized nut. Stroll through rows of lush macadamia trees while you gain insight into the nut's growth cycle and traditional harvesting methods.

Taste freshly harvested nuts in various forms, such as roasted or coated with different flavors, before ending the tour in San Antonio Aguas Calientes. This charming village is known for its colorful textiles and weaving traditions. Watch the local artisans hard at work and peruse the stalls brimming with handcrafted goods that make the perfect souvenir. Return to Antigua around midday for lunch, then meet your driver for a six-hour transfer to the quaint village of San Agustín Lanquín in the central highlands.

Day 6: Day Trip to Semuc Champey via Kam'ba Caves & the Río Cahabón

Start your day trip with a 30-minute 4WD transfer to Semuc Champey, a natural landmark known for its turquoise limestone pools. On the way, stop at Kam'ba Caves, where you'll follow your guide down into the cool, dark cave system illuminated only by candlelight. Along the way, you'll spot underground rivers, waterfalls, bat colonies, and impressive rock formations like stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millennia. Back at the 4WD, enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing to the Río Cahabón to float along the river's gentle current in an inner tube. 

Drift past tranquil pools, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs before completing the journey to Semuc Champey. Start your visit with a 45-minute uphill hike to El Mirador (The Lookout) for sweeping views of the lush jungle and terraced pools below. Then, head down to the pools for a refreshing swim in the turquoise water surrounded by dense rainforest and towering mountains. Around 4:00 pm, you'll return to your hotel to get ready for dinner. 

Day 7: Transfer to Guatemala City via Reserva Ram Tzul

Bid farewell to San Agustín Lanquín this morning as you set off on a six-hour transfer back to Guatemala City for your flight home tomorrow. On the way, stop at Reserva Ram Tzul, a 247-acre (100 ha) nature reserve in the heart of Guatemala's coffee country. Stretch your legs on a leisurely hike through the bamboo forest to a 260-foot-high (80 m) waterfall. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like armadillos, howler monkeys, and toucans along the way. When you arrive at the cascade, watch it drop dramatically into the emerald pool below and go for a refreshing dip before completing the drive to your new hotel.

Day 8: Depart Guatemala City

Set an early alarm so you have time to explore Guatemala City on your own before your flight home. The historic center is a good place to start. There, you'll find landmarks like the National Palace of Culture, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and Plaza Mayor. If you want to shop for souvenirs, head to Mercado Central and peruse the array of traditional crafts, intricate jewelry, and colorful pottery, all reflecting the rich artisanal heritage of the country. When it's time, meet your driver and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!