Guatemala Travel Insights

Best of Guatemala with Kids: Antigua & Lake Atitlán - 7 Days

With one week in Guatemala, families can enjoy a range of cultural and natural attractions that will appeal to both older and younger members. This relaxed tour is split between Antigua and Lake Atitlán and takes easy trips from both places, so you and your kids won't feel rushed. Learn about Guatemala's fascinating history in the colonial-era city of Antigua and the Iximché ruins, be amazed by lake and volcano views, as well as local handicrafts at Lake Atitlán, and much more.

Guatemala Volcano Hiking Adventure: Pacaya, Acatenango, Zunil, Santa María & San Pedro – 12 Days

Summit five of Guatemala's volcanic peaks on this 12-day hiking adventure, starting in the colorful, UNESCO-listed city of Antigua before embarking on epic hikes ascending: Pacaya, Acatenango, Zunil, Santa María, and San Pedro. Along the way, you'll camp atop mountains, relax on the shores of Lake Atitlán, and explore ancient Maya ruins at Tikal National Park.

Hike Guatemala: From Antigua to the Maya Highlands - 12 Days

Discover Guatemala's volcanoes and lakes on this 12-day hiking holiday. The adventure begins in the UNESCO-listed city of Antigua and continues to the lush Maya highlands, where you'll summit three fiery volcanic peaks: Pacaya, Acatenango, and Fuego, and camp on the mountains as you go. Finish with a three-day trek through the countryside via coffee farms and Maya shrines to sparkling Lake Atitlán.

Best of Guatemala: Antigua, El Paredón & Lake Atitlán - 13 Days

This 13-day adventure starts in historic Antigua, where you'll take a cooking class, tour local villages and farms, and visit ancient Maya ruins. Then transfer to El Paredon, where you can surf, relax on the beach, go whitewater rafting, or spot sea turtles. In scenic Lake Atitlán, learn about goat cheese production and traditional carpet-making. Finally, head to Guatemala City to visit a chocolate museum, learn about colorful "chicken buses," and hike Pacaya volcano.

Guatemala Culture & Active Adventure: From Antigua to Lake Atitlán - 10 Days

Discover Guatemala's culture and Maya roots on this active tour from Antigua to Lake Atitlán. Bike through macadamia nut and coffee farms, visit artists' workshops, and sleep aside the peak of the Acatenango volcano. Kayak along the shores of famous Lake Atitlán and visit one of Central America's largest markets in busy Chichicastenango. End your tour with a step back in time as you wander the archaeological site at Iximché and see how Maya culture courses through present-day Guatemala.

Guatemala Culture & Nature: Antigua to Lake Atitlán - 11 Days

Explore Guatemala's mystical, mountainous, and volcanic landscapes on this tour, including hiking, biking, and boating. Follow your guide through Antigua's main square to learn about its colonial architecture and sleep under the shadow of Pacaya Volcano in its national park of the same name. Relax on the beach in El Paredon, cruise serene Lake Atitlán, and visit one of Central America's largest markets in Chichicastenango.

Food, Culture & Nature in Guatemala: Antigua, Lake Atitlán & Tikal National Park - 13 Days

Taste Guatemalan specialties, learn about Maya history, and get outdoors on this 13-day adventure, starting with a street food tour of Antigua and a nature hike and weaving workshop. Tour a coffee farm, hike up Pacaya and camp overnight on the active volcano, and learn how chocolate is made. Transfer to Lake Atitlán for kayaking, paragliding, and bustling outdoor market visits, finishing your trip in Tikal National Park, where you'll go bird-watching and ziplining and explore the Maya ruins.

Nature & Culture in Guatemala: Antigua to Río Dulce - 10 Days

If you want to soak in Guatemala's spectacular scenery while exploring its Maya heritage, you'll love this 10-day itinerary. Hike up Pacaya Volcano, then explore the historic city of Antigua. Transfer to Lake Atitlán for kayaking and hiking, then fly to the island town of Flores, where you'll explore the Maya ruins of Yaxhá and Tikal National Park. Afterward, head to Río Dulce for a boating excursion followed by a dip in the Finca Paraíso Hot Springs.

Best of Guatemala: Antigua to Flores - 10 Days

See Guatemala's main highlights in 10 days, beginning in the historic city of Antigua, where you'll enjoy a walking tour and cooking class. Next, visit the Iximché Maya ruins and Chichicastenango Market, followed by a day of relaxation by Lake Atitlán, where you can go kayaking and hiking. Go on a nature hike at the Biotopo del Quetzal, see beautiful Semuc Champey, and explore the Candelaria Caves, ending your trip with Tikal National Park and the Yaxhá Maya ruins.

Guatemala Cultural Bike Tour: Antigua & Lake Atitlán - 9 Days

Learn about Guatemalan culture as you explore the country by bike on this exhilarating nine-day trip. Begin in the colonial city of Antigua, where you'll cycle through nearby valleys and visit a coffee-growing cooperative. Then head to Lake Atitlán for more biking, kayaking, and hiking as you get to know the lake and the nearby Agua volcano. Afterward, return to Antigua for a bike ride and a visit to the Maya ruins of Iximché.

Best of Guatemala: Guatemala City to Lake Atitlán - 9 Days

This trip will take you to Guatemala's top highlights in nine days. Wander through Guatemala City on a guided tour, visit Tikal National Park and Flores, and explore Actún Kan Caves before transferring to Lanquín to see Semuc Champey's famous turquoise pools. Next, visit Ram Tzul and the Biotopo del Quetzal, where you can spot Guatemala's national bird. Enjoy a street food tour and cooking class in Antigua, then transfer to Lake Atitlán for a village tour, chocolate workshop, and ziplining.

Guatemala Nature & Culture Tour - 15 Days

Experience Guatemala's natural and cultural treasures on this 15-day tour. As you traverse the country, you'll soak up history in the colorful streets of colonial Antigua, visit ancient Maya ruins, and relax in jungle spas. Adventures include a challenging overnight trek to the top of Acatenango volcano, a boat trip down the tranquil Río Dulce, and horseback riding on the shores of sparkling Lake Atitlán.

Nature & Culture in Guatemala: Lanquín to Tikal National Park - 7 Days

On this seven-day journey, you'll immerse yourself in Guatemala's cultural and natural wonders. Start in Lanquín, where you'll keep an eye out for colorful birds at the Biotopo del Quetzal. Explore Semuc Champey and go tubing on the Río Cahabón, then head to Candelaria Caves and tour the stunning scenery around the Río Dulce. Visit Livingston, known for its distinctive Garifuna culture, and explore the colonial town of Flores. Finish your trip at the Maya ruins in Yaxhá and Tikal National Parks.

Active Highlights of Guatemala: Kayaking, Hiking & Tubing - 8 Days

Get ready for eight days of exhilarating excursions through some of Guatemala's most stunning natural landscapes. On this fast-paced adventure, you'll set out from Antigua for hiking and kayaking along the shores of Lake Atitlán. Then it's on to Flores for a sunrise over Maya pyramids, wildlife spotting in Tikal National Park, and a thrilling inner tube ride through the Candelaria Caves. Wind down your trip in Guatemala City, learning about its colonial history and traditional cuisine with a walking tour and cooking class.

8 Days in Guatemala - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Since Guatemala is a relatively small country, eight days is enough time to see the highlights in Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Guatemala City, so consider adding a visit to one of the many volcanoes, the Tikal ruins, or the black-sand Pacific beaches. Those wanting to venture off the beaten path can do so with beautiful hiking trails in the Western Highlands, the rivers and caves in Alta Verapaz, or a cultural experience like attending a traditional cooking class or witnessing a Maya fire ceremony.

Nature & Culture in Guatemala: Antigua, El Paredón & Lake Atitlán - 6 Days

On this six-day trip, you'll get an exciting taste of Guatemala's culture, food, and landscapes. Start in the historic city of Antigua, which you'll explore on a street food tour. Then hike up Pacaya Volcano, and transfer to El Paredón Beach for surfing and sunbathing. Move on to Lake Atitlán, where you'll learn about Guatemala's ancient Maya culinary heritage at a cooking class, kayak on the lake, and enjoy some hiking. Return to Antigua for one last night before heading home.

Luxury Guatemala Helicopter & Cultural Tour - 13 Days

See Central America's most diverse country in style on this 13-day guided tour of Guatemala. A luxury twist on an adventure trip, you'll take to the skies in a helicopter six times for thrilling bird's eye views of lush mountain forests. Experience camping on a volcano with the added comfort of a 4WD ride almost to the top. Land at top sights such as Lake Atitlán and El Mirador Maya ruins by helicopter.

Guatemala Panorama: Culture, Adventure & Cuisine - 13 Days

Uncover Guatemala's highlights with a side trip to the Copán Ruins in Honduras on this 13-day tour. Travel in a loop from Guatemala City, traversing the country's vibrant cities, highlands, and temple-filled jungles. Along the way, you'll hike to the top of Pacaya volcano, kayak on Lake Atitlán, and zipline in Tikal National Park. Cultural experiences abound, from Guatemalan cooking classes and carpet-making workshops to traditional Maya saunas and sacred shaman rituals.

Complete Guatemala - 13 Days

Discover Guatemala's cities, lakes, volcanoes, and caves on this comprehensive 13-day tour. Start with urban sightseeing in Guatemala City and Antigua before escaping into the wild, where you'll explore Copán's Maya ruins and hike up the active volcano of Pacaya. You'll get to kayak across sparkling Lake Atitlán before continuing to the national parks of Semuc Champey and Tikal for tubing and caving adventures. Wrap up your Guatemalan journey with a sacred Maya fire ceremony.

Belize Islands & Guatemala Highlights - 13 Days

Combine outdoor adventures with island living on this 13-day Belize/Guatemala adventure. You'll arrive in the Caribbean islands off Belize, from which you'll embark on sailing cruises and snorkeling tours around one of the most extensive barrier reefs in the world. Then hop over to Guatemala, where you'll visit Indigenous markets and villages between kayaking trips, mountain biking, and hiking up volcanoes.

Culture & Beaches in Guatemala & Belize - 12 Days

This 12-day adventure mixes the highlights of Belize with a sprinkling of fun and culture in neighboring Guatemala. In the former, you'll visit coral islands, swim with manatees, snorkel the famous Blue Hole, and sail the Caribbean, followed by a picnic lunch. In Guatemala, tour the Maya ruins at the legendary Tikal, stroll the colorful streets of historic Antigua, and learn to prepare traditional cuisine in a cooking class.

Best of Guatemala: Volcanoes, Maya Ruins, Hot Springs & Waterfalls - 13 Days

Guatemala is Central America's most diverse country, with rainforests, volcanoes, mountains, coffee fields, and beaches. This 13-day guided tour lays out some of its most captivating natural and cultural highlights, with plenty of time to absorb the big-hitter destinations before you move on. Take a boat ride and kayak on Lake Atitlán, relax at waterfalls and hot springs around the Río Dulce, and venture among Maya ruins in Tikal National Park.

Guatemala Volcano & Coast Adventure - 12 Days

Get ready for a true action-packed adventure in the untamed wilds of Guatemala. Begin with a food tour around the Spanish colonial city of Antigua, followed by an overnight hike up the volcanic slopes of Acatenango. After a quick trip to the coast for some surfing, you'll visit Lake Atitlán for kayaking and village tours before returning to Antigua and conquering one last volcano summit.

Best of Guatemala & Copán - 12 Days

Twelve days is the perfect amount of time to experience Guatemala's ruins, nature, Indigenous culture, and delectable cuisine. It begins in the historic city of Antigua with walking and food tours before continuing to Lake Atitlán and the jade waters of the Río Dulce. As if that's not enough, you'll hop the border to Honduras to visit the Maya archeological site at Copán, one of the most impressive in Central America.

Guatemala's Volcanoes, Lakes & Jungles - 12 Days

Experience the best of Guatemala with this 12-day adventure from the southern volcanoes to the northern jungles. Start on the colorful streets of Spanish colonial Antigua, followed by a hike up Pacaya volcano, excursions on Lake Atitlán, and visits to Indigenous markets. Then fly north to tour the Maya ruins at Tikal before finishing the trip with riverboat rides and soaks in natural hot springs.

Guatemala Culture & Cuisine Tour - 12 Days

Learn about Guatemala's history and culture during 12 days of visits to the most incredible places in the country. Walk the historic streets of Guatemala City and Antigua, visit Indigenous markets, and take boat rides on famous lakes and rivers. Beyond that, you'll tour ancient ruins at Tikal and Iximché, hike up volcanoes, and more.

Essential Guatemala: Volcanoes, Ruins & Waterfalls - 11 Days

This unforgettable adventure introduces you to the wonders of Guatemala in 11 days. Start with a whirlwind tour of the southern highlands as you walk the cobbled streets of Spanish colonial Antigua, hike Pacaya volcano, and kayak on Lake Atitlán. Then you'll head north for a visit to the legendary Maya ruins at Tikal before winding down with day trips to hot spring waterfalls and a leisurely ride down the Río Dulce.

Guatemalan Adventure: Antigua, Atitlán, Tikal & Río Dulce - 11 Days

Travel to the far corners of Guatemala in search of fun, culture, history, and beauty. Set off from the cobbled streets of colonial Antigua to embark on countryside bike tours and volcano hikes. After enjoying activities at the stunning Lake Atitlán, you'll travel north to visit Tikal and other ancient Maya ruins before finishing the trip cruising the emerald waters of the Río Dulce and soaking in natural hot springs.

Guatemala Cities, Summits & Coast - 7 Days

Authentic Maya culture, up-close wildlife encounters, and activities in epic landscapes: this adventurous seven-day trip shows off the sheer diversity of Guatemala. Starting in the colonial capital of Antigua, you’ll cycle around the surrounding villages beneath three imposing volcanoes. Then, hike beside Lake Atitlán, one of the most beautiful lakes on Earth, before hitting the Pacific coast and its enchanting mangrove forests. Guided tours are included, with one free day to enjoy the beaches in between.

Guatemala's Maya Culture & Volcanoes - 7 Days

Smoldering volcanoes, lava fields, crater lakes, and wildlife-rich rainforest—Guatemala often feels like a land before time. On this week-long itinerary, you'll experience the Central American country's highlights on guided tours, from Lake Atitlán to Volcán Pacaya. Every step of the way, you'll be immersed in Maya culture, both from the past (like at the spectacular Tikal ruins) and present (by learning to cook, Maya-style, and joining a shamanic ritual).

Guatemala's Maya Ruins, Hot Springs & Waterfalls - 6 Days

The natural beauty and Maya history of Guatemala make it the ideal destination for culture seekers and nature lovers alike. This six-day itinerary starts in the city of Antigua, where you'll visit colonial landmarks before swimming in waterfalls deep within the Guatemalan jungle. Explore national parks and discover the ruins of ancient civilizations before soaking in naturally-formed turqoise pools of Semuc Champey and traversing through vast cave systems by flashlight.

Guatemala & Northern Belize Adventure - 9 Days

Experience the best of Guatemala and its Caribbean neighbor Belize on this action-packed nine-day adventure. You'll arrive in Guatemala City and, from there, embark on lake tours, volcano hikes, and visits to ancient Maya ruins. Then you'll hop over the border to the Belize highlands, your base for excursions to Caribbean isles and even more historic ruins.

Culture, Adventure & Cuisine in Guatemala - 11 Days

Get to the heart of Guatemala's culture by touring ancient ruins, exploring the great outdoors, and indulging in street food. The experience kicks off with a traditional cooking class in Spanish-colonial Antigua, followed by a ride in the famous "chicken buses." From there, you'll tour lakes and villages, visit cloud forest reserves, bathe in waterfalls, and explore the grandest Maya archeological site in the nation: Tikal.

Highlights of Guatemala: Natural Wonders & Maya Ruins - 11 Days

The highlights of Guatemala are many, and you'll experience most of them over 11 unforgettable days with this active itinerary. Start on the cobbled streets of Antigua, where you'll visit colonial landmarks, ride bikes around the southern highlands, and hike the active Volcán Pacaya. Then you'll fly north to explore ancient Maya ruins, including the legendary Tikal, before finishing the trip with a ride down the jade waters of the Río Dulce.

Introduction to Guatemala: Antigua, Lake Atitlán & Tikal National Park - 11 Days

See the best of Guatemala over 11 action-packed days. It begins in the southern highlands, where you'll visit Spanish colonial landmarks in historic Antigua, hike up the active volcano of Pacaya, and ride bikes to coffee plantations. After spending time at the almost mythic Lake Atitlán, you'll fly to the northern jungles and walk in the footsteps of the ancient Maya on tours of the Tikal and Yaxhá ruins.

Guatemala Multi-Sport Adventure - 9 Days

Lace up your hiking boots, grab a paddle, and hop on a mountain bike for nine days of outdoor adventure in the perfect country for it: Guatemala. Start with a stroll on the cobbled streets of historic Antigua before ascending formidable volcanoes, followed by kayaking around Lake Atitlán and cycling between lakeside villages. Enjoy a final day decompressing in a sauna and soaking your weary muscles in a jacuzzi.

Authentic Guatemala: Antigua & Guatemala City - 6 Days

Discover volcanic landscapes, colorful cities, and captivating Maya culture on this immersive, six-day trip to Guatemala. Start in Antigua, where you'll have ample time to explore the history and heritage of the former colonial capital. Immerse yourself in nature with a hike up Volcán Pacaya, hop between villages and markets like a local via "chicken bus," and learn to cook Guatemalan classics with the help of Indigenous chefs. Finish with a visit to Guatemala City and its many markets and museums.

Guatemala Adventure Highlights - 9 Days

This nine-day journey through Guatemala is heavy on action and adventure. Experience the country's great outdoors on a trip to the southern highlands for volcano hikes, zipline rides, tours of coffee plantations, and lake excursions. As if that's not enough, you'll venture into the jungles of northern Guatemala to walk amid the ruins of Tikal, one of the most formidable cities of the ancient Maya kingdom.

Guatemala Culture, Nature & Coast - 8 Days

Guatemala is filled with rich culture and unspoiled nature—and eight days is more than enough time to hit the highlights. You'll arrive in the miraculously well-preserved colonial city of Antigua and, from there, do everything from taking cooking classes to hiking up volcanoes. The adventure continues with a kayak ride along Lake Atitlán, surfing on the Pacific coast, whitewater rafting, Maya spiritual ceremonies, and more.

Guatemala Culture & Adventure Tour - 8 Days

Ruins, volcanoes, colonial cities—you'll experience all that and more on this eight-day Guatemalan adventure. It's an active itinerary that starts in Antigua, one of the most well-preserved colonial towns in the Americas. Besides taking cooking classes and cycling the countryside, you'll hike the active volcano of Pacaya, take a boat tour of Lake Atitlán, visit the Iximché ruins, and more.

Active Trip to Guatemala: Kayak, Hike & Cycle - 6 Days

Indulge your cravings for adventure on this brisk getaway to Guatemala. Over six days, you'll enjoy some of the best outdoor workouts on earth, starting easy with a stroll on the cobbled streets of colonial Antigua. Follow that with a hike up a volcano, mountain biking to rural villages, kayaking across a sacred lake, and much more.

Outdoor Adventure in Guatemala - 6 Days

In just six days, you'll enjoy an unforgettable adventure around Guatemala's highlights. You'll arrive in the central highlands, where you'll tour the Spanish-colonial city of Antigua, hike up nearby volcanoes, enjoy spa treatments, visit coffee plantations, and soar over the treetops on a zipline. The last stop is at sacred Lake Atitlán, which you'll explore on kayak rides as well as visit nearby ancient Maya ruins.

Guatemala Lakes & Volcanoes: Atitlán & Acatenango - 6 Days

In less than a week, you can experience some of the most phenomenal natural wonders in Guatemala. This active adventure will take you to the central highlands, where you'll explore the cobbled streets of Antigua, followed by a hike up the mighty Volcán Pacaya. Then you're off to mythical Lake Atitlán for kayak rides and nature hikes before ending the trip strong with camping at the summit of yet another volcano.

Culture, Nature & Exploration in Guatemala - 9 Days

Discover Guatemala's culture and heritage over nine event-filled days that showcase the highlights of this beautiful country. You'll do it all, from taking traditional cooking classes to hiking volcanoes to exploring the jungles of the central highlands. In the midst of this fun will be tours of colonial cities, nature hikes to waterfalls, and a visit to Tikal National Park, home to some of the most impressive Maya ruins in the world.

Discover Guatemala's Culture & Nature - 9 Days

This deep dive into Guatemala will take you to some of its most historic landmarks and exceptional natural wonders. It begins with tours of Spanish-colonial Antigua, where you'll sample local cuisine and tour historic buildings. Then head into the jungles of the central highlands to explore caves, waterfalls, and nature reserves before returning south to experience Indigenous Maya culture on gorgeous Lake Atitlán.

Active Guatemala: Flores, Antigua, Lake Atitlán & El Paredon - 8 Days

If your idea of the perfect vacation involves more outdoor activities than indoor relaxation, then this eight-day adventure in Guatemala is for you. Get the blood pumping as you hike around the ancient Maya ruins at Tikal, then really push yourself on an ascent up the volcanic slopes of Pacaya. Finish the trip on the countryside and beaches as you kayak on Lake Atitlán, surf at El Paredon, and embark on coffee tours in the highlands.

Central & Northeast Guatemala - 8 Days

Venture deep into the jungles of central and northern Guatemala, where mysterious caves, romantic waterfalls, and ancient ruins await. After a tour of Guatemala City, you'll fly north to Tikal, the ruins of an ancient Maya city and one of the most incredible archeological sites in the world. Finish the trip with visits to remote forests home to terraced waterfalls and caverns, then browse a traditional Indigenous market.

Guatemala Nature & Cities - 8 Days

Make time for a quick getaway to Guatemala for adventures in its cities and countryside. Over eight days, you'll visit highlights in the capital plus the UNESCO World Heritage colonial city of Antigua. Round out the trip with volcano hikes, kayaking the famous Lake Atitlán, and visiting local markets and Indigenous villages.

Cuisine & Culture of Guatemala - 6 Days

In just under a week, you can enjoy the adventure of a lifetime in Guatemala. This quick escape begins in the UNESCO World Heritage City of Antigua, famous for its Spanish-colonial architecture. Relax and indulge with yoga sessions, cooking classes, and food tours, plus a bonus hike around the villages of Lago Atitlán, one of the most beautiful lakes in the country.

Maya History in Caribbean Guatemala & Belize - 14 Days

Spend 14 days exploring Maya history in Guatemala and Belize, beginning the adventure in Antigua, a former colonial capital surrounded by mighty volcanoes. Then, head to the Caribbean to learn about Afro-Guatemalan culture before visiting Tikal, an important Maya city. Move onto neighboring Belize, where you'll spend days snorkeling around the Belize Barrier Reef and enjoying the Caribbean Sea.