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Introducing Guatemala

When is the best time to visit? 
The weather in Guatemala is generally split between two seasons — dry and rainy. The dry season generally runs from mid-October to late April, with the other half of the year being the rainy season. That being said, tourism is still alive and thriving during the rainy season as we're not dealing with monsoon-type rains, think more afternoon/evening showers. Depending on your goals while visiting Guatemala, each season has its benefits. Overnight camping and long hikes favor the dry season, while birding, morning adventures, and smaller crowds are best during the rainy season. Learn more

Where to go in Guatemala? 
A few of the top sights that most people think of when visiting Guatemala are Antigua, Lake Atitlan, one of the many volcanoes, and the Tikal ruins. When you search Guatemala they will be the top sights, although if you are open to getting a little more off the beaten path, Guatemala has so many wonders to experience including the beautiful hiking trails in the Western Highlands, the rivers and caves in Alta Verapaz, black sand Pacific beaches, mountain biking trails in every corner, and many more. Let us know what types of adventure you're seeking and we'll help recommend the right areas.

How many days do I need?
Although Guatemala is a fairly small country in size, the variety in Mayan culture and drastic landscapes make it huge! At least a week is recommended to get a feel for the different experiences this country has to offer.

Getting Around Guatemala
There are two main airports in Guatemala, La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, and Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores—close to the Tikal ruins. Once in the country, it's best to get around by private transfer or shared tourist shuttle (minibus or coach). Learn more

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Guatemala Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Volcano views from the streets of Antigua
Map of Best of Guatemala: Antigua, Lake Atitlán & Tikal - 8 Days
Best of Guatemala: Antigua, Lake Atitlán & Tikal - 8 Days

This eight-day trip packs in some of Guatemala's greatest hits, from touring Maya ruins to climbing an active volcano. Hike, bike, and kayak around the country as you explore the picturesque colonial city of Antigua, scale the lava fields of Pacaya, experience the magic of Lake Atitlán, and venture deep into the rainforest to discover the ancient pyramids of Tikal.

Antigua's Santa Catalina Arch
Map of Highlights of Guatemala - 10 Days
Highlights of Guatemala - 10 Days

Experience the rich culture and natural beauty of Guatemala on this 10-day, action-packed itinerary. Stroll the cobbled streets of historic Antigua, tour Lake Atitlán by boat, and hike around Indigenous villages and towering volcanoes. Finally, experience living history as you explore ancient Maya ruins at Iximché and Tikal.

Santa Catalina Arch in Antigua
Map of Highlights of Guatemala - 5 Days
Highlights of Guatemala - 5 Days

This five-day Guatemala adventure begins with a walking tour and traditional cooking class in the colonial city of Antigua. Then conquer the summit of Pacaya Volcano as you hike along its dried lava fields and dense forests. End the trip on the tranquil shores of Lake Atitlán with visits to humble indigenous villages before venturing into the highlands to discover the ruins of an ancient Maya kingdom at Iximché.

Sunset over Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
Map of Luxury & Maya Culture in Guatemala -  8 Days
Luxury & Maya Culture in Guatemala - 8 Days

Immerse yourself in ancient Maya culture while traveling in style on this eight-day sojourn to Guatemala. Pamper yourself in luxury hotels and see famous sights from above as you travel by helicopter to some of Guatemala's best attractions. Among other highlights, you'll bask in the serene beauty of Lake Atitlán, discover the charming colonial city of Antigua, and participate in a Maya ceremonial ritual.

View of Agua volcano from Antigua, Guatemala
Map of Mayan Adventure in Guatemala - 6 Days
Mayan Adventure in Guatemala - 6 Days

This trip to the heart of Central America offers fascinating historical culture, thrilling adventure, and jaw-dropping vistas. You'll fall in love with the charming colonial city of Antigua, learn about ancient Mayan civilization, and hike and bike some of Guatemala's stunning mountain volcanoes.

Lake Atitlán
Map of Guatemalan Highlands: Antigua, Lake Atitlán & Tikal - 7 Days
Guatemalan Highlands: Antigua, Lake Atitlán & Tikal - 7 Days

On this weeklong journey through Guatemala, explore major sites in the western highlands and northern rainforests. The trip begins in Antigua with a sightseeing tour followed by a stay on beautiful Lake Atitlán and a visit to an indigenous market dating back thousands of years. Then venture north to discover the ancient Maya city of Iximché and the awe-inspiring pyramid temples at Tikal National Park.

Make the Most of Your Time in Guatemala

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Antigua
How Many Days to Spend in Guatemala

Guatemala's relatively small size allows you to comfortably visit its iconic volcanoes, colonial cities, and Maya ruins in around seven days. But even in as few as five days,...

Guatemala Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Our Latest Guatemala Content

Explore nature reserves, like Semuc Champey, on this outdoor-themed tour
Map of Caves, Waterfalls & Maya Culture in Guatemala - 10 Days
Caves, Waterfalls & Maya Culture in Guatemala - 10 Days

Outdoor enthusiasts will love this 10-day trip to Guatemala, which includes guided hikes, kayak rides, and underground excursions. First, head to Río Dulce from the capital, where you'll kayak to Ak'Tenamit, hike to Siete Altares, and cruise to Livingston. Next, explore caves in Candelaria Caves National Park and swim in the terraced pools of Semuc Champey. Finish by discovering more nature reserves like Reserva Ram Tzul and Biotopo del Quetzal before returning to the capital for your flight home.

Float along two Guatemalan rivers (one in a cave) in an inner tube
Map of Active Tour of Guatemala's Natural & Ancient Wonders - 10 Days
Active Tour of Guatemala's Natural & Ancient Wonders - 10 Days

Explore caves, ride an inner tube along an underground river, and swim in natural lagoons on this active tour of Guatemala's natural and cultural sites. Touch down in Guatemala City, then head to Río Dulce for three days exploring the wetlands by kayak. Then, it's on to Flores for a sunrise tour of Tikal National Park and kayaking on Lake Petén Itzá. Discover the Crater Azul and Candelaria Caves National Park before heading to San Agustín Lanquín, your gateway to Semuc Champey's terraced pools.

Cruise across Lake Atitlán and visit the Maya villages adorning the shore
Map of Volcanoes, Villages & Vibrant Culture of Guatemala: Lake Atitlán, Antigua & Central Highlands - 8 Days
Volcanoes, Villages & Vibrant Culture of Guatemala: Lake Atitlán, Antigua & Central Highlands - 8 Days

This eight-day Guatemalan itinerary blends cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and natural beauty. Begin with a visit to Lake Atitlán, where you'll explore Maya villages by boat and kayak and hike along the lake's shores. In Antigua, hike up an active volcano and take a cycling tour of the countryside before journeying to the central highlands to discover the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey and Kam'ba Caves. Finally, explore the natural wonders of Reserva Ram Tzul on your way back to Guatemala City.

Guatemala Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 7 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 10 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Guatemala
Travel specialist Eduardo Celada
active 7 hours ago

Eduardo Celada

My passion for showing the beauty of Guatemala began when I was traveling in Guatemala as a tourist in my own country. After working in several hotels and other tourism related businesses, I...

read more...
Travel specialist Chris Gwinner
active 3 hours ago

Chris Gwinner

I am passionate about adventure travel and feel very lucky to be able to share that passion with others through Old Town Outfitters. I'm originally from Savannah, Georgia but have been living...

read more...
Travel specialist Catherina Tittaferrante
active 6 hours ago

Catherina Tittaferrante

I create personalized tours based on our travelers' passions to show them the real Guatemala. I take care of logistics, organizing and confirming every single detail needed to make your experience...

read more...
Travel specialist Alex Coronado
active 9 hours ago

Alex Coronado

Having grown up and lived my entire life in a place as special as Antigua Guatemala, has allowed me to involve myself in the world of travel and tourist experiences. My family is from this area and...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Guatemala

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Great communication
Guatemala | Jun 14 - Jun 30, 2024

R
Rebecca M.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Nov 15, 2024

Our local specialist, Chris, was great with communication while planning our trip as well as during it. He was able to change our itinerary while we were in Guatemala on short notice due to an illness in our group, so that we could still do an excursion that was important to us on a different day. Our in-country tour guide and driver was also great - very welcoming and knowledgeable.

Local specialist: Chris Gwinner
Chris
Chris Gwinner
Local specialist in Antigua, Guatemala | Replied on Nov 18, 2024

Thank you for taking the time to leave us your review Rebecca. I'm glad you and the family were able to get to explore Guatemala and Belize with our local team. Be sure to spread the word to your friends and family, the more people know about our area the better. Thank you again for your business!

Kudos! To all the team members of Columbus Gu...
Guatemala | Sep 21 - Sep 27, 2024

Katrina
Katrina C.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Sep 29, 2024
Kudos! To all the team members of Columbus Guatemala travel! They are always there from the beginning of our journey til the end it was perfect! I will recommend this travel agency to al travellers they are very reliable, and trustful. All the team effort they did makes you feel comfortable in every way of the journey. They will create our journey memorable! I would like to thank all the team members from the drivers, tour guides and especially the group of the Columbus Guatemala... Read more

Kudos! To all the team members of Columbus Guatemala travel! They are always there from the beginning of our journey til the end it was perfect! I will recommend this travel agency to al travellers they are very reliable, and trustful. All the team effort they did makes you feel comfortable in every way of the journey. They will create our journey memorable! I would like to thank all the team members from the drivers, tour guides and especially the group of the Columbus Guatemala travel. I really wanted to give you all 10 stars!!! Till we meet again , Muchos Gracia’s!!!

Hotel Reviews
Maya Internacional
Flores
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Utzjay Hotel
Panajachel
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Naif Boutique Hotel
Antigua
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
El Recreo
Lanquin
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Welcome to Guatemala
Welcome to Guatemala
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transfer from San Ignacio to Tikal National Park
Transfer from San Ignacio to Tikal National Park
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Semuc Champey
Semuc Champey
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Pacaya Volcano visit
Pacaya Volcano visit
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Thank you
Thank you
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tikal Maya Ruin
Tikal Maya Ruin
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Villages Around Lake Atitlán by Boat
Villages Around Lake Atitlán by Boat
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Catherina Tittaferrante
Catherina
Catherina Tittaferrante
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Nov 09, 2024

My lovely Katrina!
So greatful for your family and friendship, it was extraordinary to share with you the entire time, we enjoyed a little more to celebrate your life and conmemorate your energies.

Our hope is to see you soon and that you keep on the beautiful heart you have, discovering and adventuring.
Our community means everything to us and you and your parents will always have a guatemalan family waiting to hug you.

Memorable trip
Guatemala | Aug 28 - Sep 6, 2024

Abdul
Abdul A.
Kuwait | Reviewed on Sep 29, 2024
The trip was very well organized on short notice. I enjoyed the nature and the culture part of the trip. I would highly recommend it to those who would like a little adventure or relax and enjoy nature and old towns, like Antigua. Read more

The trip was very well organized on short notice. I enjoyed the nature and the culture part of the trip. I would highly recommend it to those who would like a little adventure or relax and enjoy nature and old towns, like Antigua.

Hotel Reviews
Casa Encantada
Antiigua
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Casa Amelia
flores

I was looking for a luxury or a boutique hotel. This was neither. The staff were very professional and the location was very good. I appreciate everybody’s support whenever I asked for something.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Isla Verde
Santa Cruz la Laguna
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Villa Caribe
Livingston
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Good hotel Guatemala City
Guatemala
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Eduardo Celada
Eduardo
Eduardo Celada
Local specialist in Antigua, Guatemala | Replied on Oct 22, 2024

Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the trip and appreciated the blend of nature, culture, and adventure. It means a lot to us that you would recommend the experience, and we’re excited to welcome more people based on your positive feedback. We hope to see you again on another adventure soon!