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Fully Guided Tours & Trips in Guatemala

Find the right fully guided tour for you in Guatemala. There are 34 trips to choose from, that range from one day in length, up to 17 days. The month with the most departures is November, making it the most popular time to visit Guatemala.

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34 fully guided tour packages in guatemala with 103 reviews.

• Christmas & New Year

Guatemala's Treasure

Heart of Guatemala

• In-depth Cultural

The Best of Guatemala

Tailor-Made Guatemala Tour with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Best of Guatemala 8 Days Tour

We had an excellent experience seeing Ecuador on the 8 day tour. This tour was a great immersion in the lesser visited cities and communities of the Ecuadorian Andes mountains. The trip was well organized and paced for our comfort and full of culturally meaningful experiences. We felt that our safety and interests were always the top priority. Our guide, Josue, was very experienced, friendly and spoke excellent English. We especially enjoyed Intinan, Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, Ingapirca, Pumapungo museum. Banos and Cuenca were our favorite cities: beautiful and walkable. We loved trying all the new foods, and I appreciated Josue's help with my Spanish.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Guatemala to Measure

Customized Guatemala Trip with Daily Departure and Private Gudie

Guatemala Encompassed

• Hiking & Trekking

Coban & Semuc Champey Tour 3-day

I loved Semuc Champey! It was absolutely gorgeous. The Quetzal forest in Coban was okay. It was a pretty hike, but it was a LOT of time traveling in the car for just a couple of hours walking in the forest. It would probably be better to go in the season when there are Quetzal birds there, which I didn't know they were only there during a couple of months of the year. The caves were also pretty cool. I would have liked to fit in more activities though and had more options, such as kayaking, tubing and ziplining. One day all we did was have a really long drive and I got to see a cave for about an hour. It would have been great to have a few more activities.

Mayan Sun Southbound: Boat Rides & Ruins

One of the best trips I’ve done so far. However, it would’ve been nice to spend more time in Mexico as we were there for 2days only & we didn’t have time to do much. I would recommend to book few extra nights so that you can explore Mexico on your own.

Acatenango Volcano Trek & Tour from Antigua 2D/1N

Tour Guatemala: a Colorful Adventure in Central America

Heart of Central America

Guatemala - Land of the Maya

Well organized by guide Marvin. Busy itinerary with 2 days in Nebaj where hotel maintenance was like China in the 80,s and the weaving demonstration was poor and used as an opportunity for the locals to sell their goods. Also the walk was described as an endurance test but at 83 I did not participate. This had been organized since 1998 and now things have changed with concrete replacing wood and hotel maintenance let slip. The other hotels and locations were excellent and would rather have spent more time at these than spending the long drive to Nebaj.

Guatemala - Land of the Maya (Day Of The Dead)

What people love about fully guided tours in guatemala.

We had an excellent experience seeing Ecuador on the 8 day tour. This tour was a great immersion in the lesser visited cities and communities of the Ecuadorian Andes mountains. The trip was well organized and paced for our comfort and full of culturally meaningful experiences. We felt that our safety and interests were always the top priority. Our guide, Josue, was very experienced, friendly and spoke excellent English. We especially enjoyed Intinan, Cotopaxi, Chimborazo, Ingapirca, Pumapungo museum. Banos and Cuenca were our favorite cities: beautiful and walkable. We loved trying all the new foods, and I appreciated Josue's help with my Spanish.

We had an amazing time and were over-satisfied with everything. Our tour guide Davis was beyond amazing and very patient, helpful, knowledgeable, and a good driver as well.

Great trip with memorable moments.

Travel Styles

• Fully Guided

International Versions

• Deutsch: Geführte Rundreisen in Guatemala
• Français: Guatemala : Circuits entièrement guidés 2024/2025
• Español: Totalmente guidado Circuitos en Guatemala
• Nederlands: Volledig begeleid Rondreizen in Guatemala

Guatemala Tours & Vacations

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Guatemala – a land of ancient civilizations, steamy jungles and laidback locals.

This coffee-growing, lava-flowing, jungle-clad landscape definitely doesn't hold back when it comes to color – think retro chicken buses cruising down the highway, pastel-painted buildings lining the cobbled streets of historic Antigua and vibrant wares on sale at market stalls in Chichicastenango. And whether you're cruising down the Rio Dulce to Garifuna-influenced Livingston, strolling around the quaint island of Flores in Lago Peten Itza, or trekking to the Maya ruins of Tikal, your Guatemalan adventure will unlock all but one of its highland secrets – how this  Central American  beauty is still largely undiscovered will continue to remain a mystery.

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Heart of Guatemala

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Maya Encounter

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“I can speak in the voice of the Maya.” Embracing my Indigenous heritage in Guatemala

6 ways you can celebrate, support and connect with Indigenous cultures in 2023  

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Guatemala at a glance

Capital city.

Guatemala City (population 3 million)

(GMT-06:00) Central America

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Guatemala

Culture and customs.

Guatemalan culture is a vibrant mix of  Spanish ,  European  and Maya customs and languages. Although most of the population is Catholic, many indigenous communities still have links to ancient Maya rituals and practice these alongside their Christian faith.

Indigenous customs, dress, language and cuisine still persist, especially in villages where you commonly see people dressed in colorful traditional clothing, celebrating various age-old festivals and producing local handicrafts to sell at village markets. Traditional dress is highly regarded, and different villages have their own patterns and designs to set themselves apart.

People living in the cities range from business owners to culturally savvy university students to modest street cart operators. Rural life also varies; many people in villages rely on subsistence farming or handicraft-making and typically have less access to electricity, plumbing, health care and formal education than their urban counterparts. Outside the main cities, many live a very humble life, but despite this, Guatemalans maintain a positive outlook, focusing on family and religion.

History and government

The maya times.

Before the Spanish colonized this part of the world, hunter-gatherers lived on the land for thousands of years. Olmecs were in the region from 1500 BC, and in the following centuries, Maya civilizations came to dominate, and sites like Peten, Tikal, Cival and El Mirador were established.

Maya city-states dominated the region, some with massive temples and upwards of 100,000 inhabitants. But in the eighth and ninth centuries, conflicts and droughts forced the Maya to abandon their settlements and move north into Mexico.

Spanish colonization

Many believe the Maya had already moved on or were defeated during Spanish colonization in the 1520s. In 1542, after a capital city was destroyed by earthquake and flooding, Antigua was established, and Spanish settlers pushed some of Guatemala's indigenous population into forced labor. Antigua-based Dominican friar Bartolome de Las Casas convinced higher powers in Spain to end the system, and over the following years, the practice died out.

19th and 20th century

Guatemala declared independence from  Spain  in 1821 and became part of the fledgling First Mexican Empire. Like many of its Central American neighbours, Guatemala grappled with unstable governance, experiencing dictatorships, insurgencies, coups and civil wars.

The Guatemalan Civil War stretched out over more than thirty years of turbulent times between 1960 and 1996. A peace process was underway by the late 1980s, but it took many years to restore democratic rule and peace to the country.

More recently, Guatemala's economy has improved, mainly due to the strength of the local agriculture and tourism industries. Despite a rocky past and many ongoing social and economic issues, Guatemala continues to rebound from its challenges to modernise its industry.

Eating and drinking

Touted as the birthplace of chocolate, Guatemala obviously knows a thing or two about flavor. The food here is among the best in  Central America , so hit the markets for some street snacks or a restaurant for a more formal and wholesome meal.

Must-try dishes and drinks in Guatemala

• Elotes The simplicity of this dish is what wins travelers over. Take a fresh ear of corn, roast it on a barbecue, add cheese, lime, butter and chili, and serve it on a stick. Cheap and easy – you really can't go wrong.
• Chiles rellenos Chiles rellenos are another popular street food snack – peppers stuffed with pork and vegetables, then lightly battered and fried.
• Tamales This is one of the most popular comfort foods in Guatemala and a staple in a lot of Central American cuisines. Tamales are a corn-dough-based dish, boiled or steamed and served wrapped in a plantain leaf. Typical fillings include chicken, pork, cheese and vegetables, as well as sweet dessert fillings like fruit or almonds.
• Pepian Probably the most representative Guatemalan dish, pepian is a spiced and slightly bitter stew, with pumpkin seeds, tomatoes and guisquil, a type of squash. Try a chicken, pork or beef one, or mix and match your meats!
• Kak’ik What's a cuisine without a signature soup? Kak'ik is a sweet and sour broth made with turkey and often served when christening a new home in Guatemala. Be sure to ramp up the spice with some chilli paste, usually served on the side.
• Spiced mango Most cities and markets in Guatemala will have street carts selling mango spiced with chili and lime. The blend of sweet and bitter flavors with a hint of spice is a perfect pick-me-up during your day of exploring.
• Limonada con soda You think you've tried lemonade? Well, the Guatemalans take it next level. This zesty soft drink is made with real lemons and is the perfect refreshment on a hot and humid day of touring lanes and markets.

Geography and environment

Guatemala shares borders with  Belize ,  Mexico ,  Honduras  and  El Salvador , and is predominately mountainous terrain except for pockets of land on the south coast and northern lowlands. With large areas of rainforest, cloud forest, woodlands and mangroves providing a habitat for a huge range of birds, mammals, reptiles and insects, Guatemala one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world.

The fertile valleys provide perfect conditions for growing coffee and other crops, but farming can be difficult with volcanic eruptions and frequent floods and landslides. Despite the challenges, many Guatemalans live rurally, and visitors will be able to see many small villages and towns dotted throughout the country and larger cities with more developed infrastructure.

The varied environments and climates provide the perfect conditions for an array of wildlife, especially of the flying kind. Be sure to keep a keen eye out for some of Guatemala's famed birdlife on your travels.

Birds to spot in Guatemala

• Keel-billed toucan This tropical feathered icon is known and loved all over Central America. Often found in pairs or groups, keel-billed toucans use their huge beaks to chomp on fruit and nuts. Abundant populations make them easy to find in the rainforests and jungles of Guatemala.
• Guatemalan screech owl In Guatemala, owls represent luck, so you're bound to see plenty of owl trinkets, statues and jewelry in the shops and markets along the way. Hopefully, you'll also get to see a Guatemalan screech owl hiding in woodlands and forests. Listen for its faint but distinct call – its 'oos' get higher and higher in pitch until they abruptly break off.
• Resplendent quetzal Guatemala's national bird is a colorful mix of emerald green, scarlet red and white. The males feature a very long tail, which makes launching into flight difficult, so they often jump backward first – like a parachutist!
• Wine-throated hummingbird These tiny birds nestle in the cloud forests of highland Guatemala. Despite their size, they're not impossible to locate – just look for their green head and a stunning magenta throat that shimmers like a mini scarf.
• Ringed kingfisher These noisy birds – named after their wide, white collars – can be found near large bodies of water looking for their favorite food, fish, although they will also eat reptiles, insects and berries. You won't have many problems spotting this species as they are found in great numbers throughout Central and South America.
• Blue-crowned motmot This striking, multi-coloured bird has a green and yellow body with a turquoise-fringed face and deep-set red eyes. Motmots love humid conditions, so they can be found in forests, plantations and gardens throughout tropical Guatemala.

The most interesting shopping experiences in Guatemala happen at the many markets you can visit in villages and cities. Have fun, and don't forget to haggle for a good price! It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Countries like Australia and New Zealand generally have strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Guatemala

• Traditional handicrafts Colorful blankets, shawls, scarves and clothing, wooden carvings, woven baskets and handmade ceramics all make great souvenir options. Guatemalan goods come in a rainbow of colors and won't break the bank!
• Art Guatemalan paintings are typically colorful and uplifting. The galleries and markets of Antigua are among the best spots to pick up unique art, from traditional paintings to folk art and contemporary pieces by emerging local artists.
• Coffee Guatemala produces and exports some of the best coffee in the world, with its range of growing environments producing unique variations in flavor – from the complex, fruity notes of beans grown at high altitudes to the nutty, chocolatey products of volcanic soil. Coffee lovers should stock up here where the quality and price are exceptional, plus enjoy (at least) one local brew daily.
• Chocolate Guatemala also creates some of the finest chocolate in the world. Head to a chocolate shop and choose from bitter dark chocolate, spicy chili and cinnamon chocolate, or perhaps pick up some rich hot chocolate mix to take home.

Festivals and events

Semana santa.

Guatemalans take their Holy Week traditions seriously. Occurring the week leading up to Easter, celebrations of Maya and Christian traditions take place, including many processions of swathes of dyed sawdust made into colorful rugs. Most of the main Easter celebrations occur in and around Antigua and are some of Guatemala's busiest and most popular events.

Festival Folklorico de Coban

The Coban Folkloric Festival takes place in the last week of July, with parades, rodeos, art exhibitions and more. The main event is the Rabin Ajau, or 'daughter of the king' pageant, where girls from across the country don traditional dress and vie for the crown of Maya princess, a title bestowed to the contestant judged not just the most beautiful but, more importantly, the most representative of Maya values and traditions.

Dia de los Muertos

This well-known holiday that honors the dead is celebrated all over Central America. Guatemalans usually fly massive kites, visit the graves of ancestors and eat fiambre – a giant mixed salad of meat, cheese, olives, egg, corn and onion. Colorful altars decorated with flowers and skulls can also be found in homes, shops and streets during the Day of the Dead.

Fiesta de Santo Tomas

The highland town of Chichicastenango is home to one of the best outdoor markets in Central America, and also this extraordinary annual festival. Combining Catholic and Maya traditions, expect to see lively displays of fireworks, pageantry and a mash-up of dance and bungee jumping called palo volador (flying pole) – where two men scale a wooden pole, tie ropes around their waist, then leap off, spinning to the ground.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Guatemala adventure, check out these books:

• The Long Night of White Chickens – Francisco Goldman
• The President – Miguel Angel Asturias
• Popol Vuh: A Sacred Book of the Maya – Victor Montejo and Luis Garay
• In Search of Providence: Transnational Mayan Identities – Patricia Foxen
• Homies and Hermanos: God and Gangs in Central America – Robert Brenneman 
• Severina – Rodrigo Rey Rosa
• Guatemalan Journey – Stephen Connely Benz

Guatemala travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Guatemala?

Just like much of  Central America , Guatemala has a wet and dry season, with a pretty consistent temperature throughout the year. July–August and December–January are the peak seasons for traveling, which coincide with US and European summer holidays and winter breaks. However, visiting outside these times may mean that you not only escape the crowds, but you'll also be able to fit in a couple of popular Guatemalan festivals.

The dry season is from November to March, which is generally considered the best time to visit as the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest tourist time so expect more people about, especially around Christmas and Easter and in the main cities.

Do I need a visa to travel to Guatemala?

Citizens of over 86 countries, including Australia, New Zealand, the UK, the US and Canada, can visit Guatemala for up to 90 days without a visa. If you’re unsure if you need one or not, check your tour’s Essential Trip Information or enquire at a Guatemalan embassy well in advance of your travel date.

This is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 15/12/2023

Is tipping customary in Guatemala?

It's customary to add an extra 10% to restaurant bills – if this hasn’t already been included. Tipping elsewhere is optional, but leaving spare change or rounding up your bill at small cafes is always a good idea as most Guatemalans live on a very limited income.

What is the internet access like in Guatemala?

Wi-fi is becoming more and more prevalent in Guatemala’s cities, although the connection may be slower than you’re used to. Remote areas will have little to no internet access, so be aware if you’re traveling outside of the main tourist hotspots that you may have trouble getting online. The fast food chain Pollo Campero usually has wi-fi networks available, and they’re located in most larger towns.

Can I use my cell phone while in Guatemala?

Using your cell phone while in the cities of Guatemala shouldn’t be a problem. Coverage may be less reliable in remote and mountainous areas.

Note that global roaming is especially pricey in Guatemala, so if you want to stay connected on the go, it’s probably best to get a local SIM card. Service providers Tigo and Claro have the best coverage across the country.

What are the toilets like in Guatemala?

Many tourist sites and restaurants have flushable toilets, although some remote areas may have compostable or drop toilets. It’s a good idea to carry your own toilet paper and hand soap or hand sanitizer, as these aren’t always provided.

What will it cost for a…?

Guatemala's unit of currency is the quetzal. Prices here are approximate and shown in US dollars for ease of comparison.

• Cup of coffee at a cafe = USD 1.50
• A bottle of beer = USD 2
• Basic meal = USD 4
• Dinner at an international restaurant = USD 10–15

Can I drink the tap water in Guatemala?

Drinking tap water isn't recommended in Guatemala. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water – be sure to ask your group leader where filtered water can be found. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and peel fruit and vegetables before eating.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Guatemala?

Credit cards can be used at most large restaurants, shops and other tourist hotspots. Expect to pay cash when dealing with smaller vendors, family-run restaurants and market stalls. Make sure you have smaller denominations of currency with you when you’re purchasing at local vendors to make transactions simpler and easier.

What is ATM access like in Guatemala?

Internationally compatible ATMs can be found in most of Guatemala’s major cities. ATMs are far less common in rural areas and small villages so make sure you have cash on hand to cover purchases when traveling away from the larger cities.

What is the weather like in Guatemala?

Temperatures across Guatemala sit, on average, at a comfortable 22°C nearly year-round, and don’t differ too much in terms of season, but vary with the altitude.

In the wetter season, running from April until around September, rainfall is much more abundant; however, it would only disrupt your outdoor plans in the afternoon. The central region has mostly clear skies during the day with a downpour in the mid to late afternoon.

In the shoulder season (September–October), rains begin to ease up, but October is peak hurricane season. Mild temperatures and clear days make this a good time to travel and hike in the highlands.

The dry season from November through to April sees average temperatures drop slightly in the hilly central region – Antigua, Lake Atitlan, Chichicastenango, Coban and surrounds – to around 18°C.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Guatemala?

1 January: New Year’s Day

April: Holy Thursday (Thursday before Easter)

April: Good Friday (Friday before Easter)

April: Easter Sunday

1 May: Guatemalan Labor Day

30 June: Army Day

15 September: Independence Day

20 October: Revolution Day

1 November: All Saints Day

25 December: Christmas Day

Please note: Guatemalapublic holidays may vary.

Is Guatemala safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

As with many Latin American countries, Guatemala is not particularly gay-friendly, despite homosexual activity being legal over the age of consent. Many Guatemalans hold quite conservative Christian views, especially in remote or rural areas.

Same-sex couples and households are not eligible for the same legal protections as opposite-sex married couples, and while discrimination protections are in place in some contexts, discrimination against gender identity is not mentioned explicitly in law.

LGBTQIA+ identifying travelers are unlikely to encounter violence, outright hostility or overt discrimination in Guatemala, but it is advised to be mindful of the situation travelers find themselves in.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Guatemala accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Much of Guatemala’s hotspots are based around the coast and nature, so depending on travelers’ level of mobility, they can prove difficult to access. Many national parks are inaccessible for travelers using a wheelchair, as jungle paths are mostly remote and not stable. Antigua is also a bit tricky to get around, with rugged sidewalks and a lack of ramps. Transportation is an important factor also, and with not much space at all on public transport, private rental or tour-based travel may be the only option.

If you do live with a visual, hearing or another impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. What will assist you may depend on what country you are visiting, but as a general rule, knowing some of the local lingo, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets as a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

If you have a disability and are planning to travel with Intrepid, we recommend speaking with your booking agent about specific concerns that pertain to accessibility.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

Guatemala Tours & Trips

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Guatemala travel guide & tips, guatemala travel info, the famed ruins of tikal, guatemala faqs, guatemala weather, guatemala overview, guatemala travel video - easter in antigua.

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• Guatemala local market visits (9)
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Guatemala Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

The rugged mountains and jungles offer adventurous travelers a chance to get off the beaten path and explore pristine landscapes for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere in the world. And the ruins are underrated and a must-see for history buffs, including the impressive Tikal, an ancient Mayan city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I love this country and have always had an incredible time here. (One of my favorite memories involves camping in Tikal National Park)

In this travel guide to Guatemala, I’ll show you how to make the most of your trip, save money, and stay safe in one of Central America’s most popular destinations!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Guatemala

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Guatemala

1. Visit Lake Atitlán

This spectacular lake is actually a massive volcanic crater. The lake sits 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) above sea level and is also one of the deepest lakes in Central America. It should come as no surprise that it’s one of the best spots to watch the sunset in Guatemala. On the northern coast of the lake lies the tourist village of Panajachel, a good base to arrange lake and volcano tours (there are two volcanoes here you can explore, Toliman and San Pedro). The village offers incredible views of the surrounding volcanoes and you can also enjoy restaurants, bars, and nightlife in a rustic lakeside setting here too. Boat tours are available as well.

2. Head to Antigua

Antigua is a picturesque colonial city in a highland valley between three volcanoes. It’s full of colonial Spanish architecture, including cobbled streets, what’s left of the centuries-old San Francisco church, houses, and ruins. There’s a vibrant market with colorful Guatemalan blankets and fabrics as well as lots of crafts and souvenirs. Head to the Plaza Mayor to take in the city’s amazing garden and don’t miss a hike up the Fuego volcano (which is active). There are two routes to choose from: La Soledad and the super high, extremely steep Alotenango Route. Conversely, you can hike the difficult (yet super popular) Acatenango volcano, which offers well-earned views of Fuego spitting lava, fire, and ash into the air. The best time for these hikes is during the dry season from the end of November to early April.

3. Explore Tikal National Park

Tikal is home to the most popular Mayan ruins in the country . Located in Petén Province in the north of Guatemala, this enormous national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and spans nearly 600 square meters (6,500 square feet), housing centuries of Mayan history and archeology covered in lush vegetation. It is famous for rare animals like pumas, toucans, snakes, monkeys, and many species of birds. Arrive early and stay late as the park empties out in the afternoon when tour groups leave. I also recommend sleeping over in the park to catch the sunrise. You will need to pay extra for a guided tour if you want to see the sunrise or sunset. Ticket prices vary depending on if you buy day tickets, sunrise tickets, or sunset tickets. Admission is 150 GTQ for day hiking before sunset. You can reach Tikal from Flores by shuttle bus or even from neighboring Belize .

4.Visit Semuc Champey

This natural attraction outside the town of Lanquin near Coban consists of 300 meters (984 feet) of limestone bridges over the Cahabòn River that form natural lagoon-like pools. Take a candlelit tour through the Kamba caves, go tubing down the Cahabòn, or swim in the turquoise pools along the bridge. Keep in mind that the caves can only be visited with a guide. It’s possible to get here with local transport, private shuttles, or on a day trip. Go early in the morning to beat the crowds. To avoid getting rained on or risk that the area is flooded, visit during the dry season (December-April). Day trips cost 250-300 GTQ.

5. Explore the Chichicastenango Market

Most people who come to Guatemala visit Chichicastenango, the largest indigenous market in North America. Every Thursday and Sunday, thousands of Quiché Mayans come to town to buy and sell handicrafts, flowers, poetry, trinkets, pottery, and colorful textiles. There are plenty of places to eat tasty street food and buy local fruits and veggies, try fresh juices or Guatemalan coffee, and buy delicious handmade tortillas. Don’t forget to bring smaller bills and remember to bargain for the things you buy. Go early in the morning to beat the crowds.

Other Things to See and Do in Guatemala

1. visit the national museum of archaeology and ethnology.

Located in Guatemala City, this museum houses the many artifacts uncovered from the Mayan archaeological sites around the country. Created in 1898, the museum holds over 20,000 items and artifacts and is a good place to visit so you can learn more about the Mayan culture. Admission is 60 GTQ.

2. See the Yaxha ruins

If Tikal is too touristy for you, consider the more secluded Yaxha ruins. Like Tikal, Yaxha is a massive Mesoamerican archaeological site. Located in the northeast, it was the third-largest Mayan city in the region. Home to several huge stone pyramids, the site was “discovered” in 1904 and dates to 250-600 CE. Spend a few hours looking at ancient drawings and intricately carved hieroglyphs. Admission is 80 GTQ.

3. Explore Quirigua

The archaeological site of Quirigua, located in the southeastern corner of the country near the border with Honduras, contains the largest stelae (upright stone columns covered in drawings or carved into shapes) ever discovered in the Mayan world. Nine stelae are arranged around a central plaza, accompanied by altars carved into zoomorphic shapes that date from the 2nd-8th centuries CE. Although the stelae are unrestored, they are a magnificent sight; the largest of these is a whopping 25 feet tall! Admission is 80 GTQ.

4. Hike the Volcán de Pacaya

This active volcano frequently erupts ash clouds over Antigua, however, it makes for a fun day hike (don’t worry, it’s safe). The trail is relatively easy (it’s not that steep) and takes around two hours to hike, giving you lots of time to admire the view before you actually get a chance to peer into the volcano’s cone. Pacaya can only be accessed with an authorized guide so you will need to book a tour. Be aware the cheap tours often just offer transportation and a Spanish-speaking guide. If you don’t speak Spanish you will need to ask for an English-speaking guide. Guided hikes start at 250 GTQ . Some of the tours also include a visit to a thermal spa where you can soak in the naturally warm waters as well as a chance to roast marshmallows over the volcano.

5. Wander Flores

A small island, Flores sits on Lake Peten Itza, a large lake in the north and the second-largest lake in the country. A narrow man-made causeway connects the island to the mainland and the region is perfect for hiking, swimming, and spotting wildlife. From here, you’re just a short drive away from some of the most untamed jungles in the country (it makes for a good base for exploring the nearby jungles). It’s also close to the ruins at Tikal.

6. Visit the ruins at El Mirador

El Mirador is one of the most undiscovered Mayan sites in Guatemala. Located near the border with Mexico in the northeast, the majority of its complexes lie in the depths of the jungle and remain relatively inaccessible to tourists. It’s the largest of all the Mayan ruins, rivaling even the pyramids in Egypt in size. Though discovered in 1926, researchers didn’t start studying it until 2003! Multi-day tours cost around 2,300-3,100 GTQ since it’s so remote.

7. Explore Rio Dulce

Rio Dulce is a gorgeous river and popular backpacker destination in eastern Guatemala. Two towns, El Relleno and Fronteras, lie on either side of the river and are connected by one of the largest bridges in Central America. The area is famous for its trekking and water activities, including the Finca Paraiso hike, which leads to a hot spring and a waterfall. The Quiriguá ruins (mentioned above) are also nearby and worth a visit.

8. Visit the Antigua Market

This sprawling market is colorful and somewhat chaotic. It’s open-air and filled with everything from fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and poultry to fake DVDs and knock-off jeans. Come here to buy souvenirs, people watch, and take in the bustling chaos!

9. Relax at Monterrico

This is the most popular beach in the country. Located close to Guatemala City and Antigua, this laid-back beach town is a relaxing place to catch some sun and hit the waves. Between June-December, you can also see giant leatherback, green sea, and smaller olive ridley turtles. There are also lots of tours of the nearby mangroves.

10. Hike Acatenango

Located near Antigua, Acatenango is a stratovolcano standing almost 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). It’s the third-highest volcano in Central America and last erupted in 1972. It offers a strenuous 7-8-hour hike up to a campsite, where you camp overnight before summiting to watch the sunrise. Overnight hiking tours cost around 600-800 GTQ and include cold-weather gear, an English-speaking guide, and park admission.

11. Watch the sunrise from Indian Nose

The sunrise from the Indian Nose volcano is quite possibly one of the most magical sunrises you will ever experience. Located next to Lake Atitlan, you’ll get to look out across the water and the magnificent volcanoes before you (including the Atitlán and San Pedro volcanoes). You can do this hike alone but it is difficult finding the path in the dark so it is much better to go with a guide. Expect to pay around 465 GTQ.

12. Learn to surf

Guatemala isn’t known for its beaches but the small coastal town of El Paredon is a well-kept secret where you can hit the waves. The black sand beach is beautiful and the surf is great. A board rental is around 100-125 GTQ per day and surf lessons cost around 120 GTQ for a private class, including a board.

Guatemala Travel Costs

Budget hotels are plentiful in Guatemala and rooms cost as little as 235-250 GTQ for a double or twin bed with basic amenities. For a mid-range hotel with free breakfast, expect to pay closer to 500 GTQ

Airbnb is available around the country, with private rooms starting at 200 GTQ per night. For an entire home or apartment, prices begin around 300 GTQ per night though they average closer to 800 GTQ. Book early to find the best deals.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is not common and not recommended. You can camp in the parks of El Paredon and Tikal though. Camping there costs around 50 GTQ per night.

Food – Guatemalan cuisine leans heavily on traditional Mayan foods with a strong influence from Spain (the Spanish arrived here in 1524). Traditional foods use a lot of corn, chilies, avocados, and beans. Popular dishes include tamales, seafood soup, and meat stews (usually chicken or beef), which are readily available and usually quite affordable. Gallo en perro (spicy stew), tapado (seafood soup with green plantain and coconut milk), and fried rice are other popular dishes.

If you’re on a budget, you can get a large meal of beans, rice, corn, and meat for around 40 GTQ from a comedor (local eateries that usually offer large portions). Another local favorite is a tortilla with beans and eggs with sour cream and fried plantain on the side, which usually cost the equivalent of just a couple of dollars.

Lunch is the main meal of the day here, and many restaurants offer affordable set menus. These usually include soup and grilled meat.

Pre-made plates of food (usually chicken or beef, rice, and tortillas) are often sold on the buses during stops for about 25-30 GTQ. Street food, like hot dogs or tamales, can be found for less than 15 GTQ.

A three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant with a drink costs around 250 GTQ. Mexican-style dishes like tacos or enchiladas are a popular evening choice (since dinner is usually a lighter meal).

Fast food like McDonald’s costs around 45 GTQ for a combo meal. For a meal at a Western restaurant (think burger and fries or pizza), expect to pay at least 100 GTQ.

A beer costs 15 GTQ, bottled water is 6 GTQ, and a cappuccino/latte costs around 19 GTQ.

If you plan on buying your own groceries, expect to pay around 200 GTQ per week for staples like vegetables, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Guatemala Suggested Budgets

As a budget backpacker in Guatemala, expect to pay around 250 GTQ per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking most of your meals, sticking to free activities (like hiking and the beach), limiting your drinking, and using public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of 650 GTQ, you can stay in an Airbnb, eat out for all your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take some guided tours, use taxis here and there, and visit more attractions such as museums or ruins.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,750 GTQ per day, you can stay in a hotel, take taxis everywhere, book higher-end tours (including private tours and day tours), and eat out every meal at nicer restaurants. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in GTQ.

Guatemala Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It’s easy to save money while traveling in Guatemala since the country isn’t that expensive. However, a good budget traveler always looks for ways to maximize value. Here are some of the best ways to save money in Guatemala:

• Take a free walking tour – In some of the larger cities (like Antigua) you can find free walking tours. They’re the best way to get introduced to a new destination. Freetour.com has options you can choose from. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Stay with a local – While accommodation is cheap here, staying with a local via Couchsurfing makes it free. Not only will you save some money, but you’ll get firsthand knowledge from a local!
• Visit the Mercado – Although eating out is cheap in Guatemala, it makes sense to shop at the markets for your food to take on day trips or to prepare at your hostel. Fruit costs mere pennies and everything is always fresh.
• Eat street food – The local street food is the cheapest food you can eat — and the tastiest. Stick to street food when it comes to eating out.
• Avoid flying – Bus rides are longer, but if you are trying to see the country on a budget you shouldn’t fly. An hour-long flight can cost hundreds of dollars. Avoid flying as much as possible!
• Avoid drinking – Sure, the beer here is cheap but a couple of beers every day will add up. Watch your drinking to keep your budget intact!

Where to Stay in Guatemala

Guatemala has plenty of hostels in all the major cities. Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• Maya Papaya (Antigua)
• Barbara’s Boutique Hostel (Antigua)
• La Iguana Perdida (Santa Cruz, Lake Atitlan)
• Casa de Grethel (Flores)
• Hostal Los Lagos (Guatemala City)
• Hostal Guatefriends (Guatemala City)

How to Get Around Guatemala

Public transportation – The main method of transportation in Guatemala is las camionetas (“chicken buses”). They are old school buses from North America and are the most inexpensive way to get around. Expect to pay around 10 GTQ for a 1-2 hour journey. Shorter journeys can cost as little as 5 GTQ.

If you are traveling between places like Antigua and Lake Atitlan, shuttle buses are the most common form of transport for backpackers. Travel between Antigua and Guatemala City costs around 150 GTQ on a shuttle bus. On a chicken bus, it costs considerably less.

Train – There are no trains in Guatemala.

Bus – Because of the poor condition of the roads in Guatemala large coach buses aren’t available on many routes. You can find night buses between Guatemala City and Flores to take you to countries like Mexico , Belize , and Nicaragua . For most other places, you have to rely on shuttle buses.

You have two options for booking: asking in your hostel to call and book for you and pay in cash, or booking online through guatego.com. Unfortunately, websites like Busbud don’t operate in Guatemala as their transport infrastructure is still developing.

Keep in mind the shuttles are pretty basic. Most don’t have working AC and are not very spacious. Plan for delays as well.

Flying – There are regular flights from Guatemala City to Flores, usually costing around 1,000-1,400 GTQ per person for the one-hour flight. If you are short on time and have plenty of money to spend, I suggest flying. But for most travelers, the bus is the best option.

Car rental – Renting a car costs around 175 GTQ per day. Do take care if you decide to drive in Guatemala as the roads aren’t the best and landslides are common during the rainy season (which can often result in both accidents and road closures). Make sure you have an International Driving Permit (IDP) — you’ll need one for any car rental.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Guatemala

Guatemala is a fantastic place to visit at any time of the year because of its spring-like climate. As many places are at altitude, you can expect cool mornings and evenings and warm days. Expect temperatures to sit between 18-28°C (65-82°F).

Many choose to avoid Guatemala during the rainy season (May-September) as the rain can be a bit disruptive, especially if you want to do things like hiking. That said, it is during these months that Guatemala is at its most beautiful as the country turns green and the flowers bloom. Prices also drop significantly during the rainy season.

To beat the crowds, visit in the shoulder season (the start or end of the rainy season). You’ll see fewer people and things will be a little cheaper. The weather won’t be perfect but it will still be sunny and warm most days so you’ll still be able to hike.

How to Stay Safe in Guatemala

While Guatemala is generally safe, there’s no denying that certain precautions should be taken as there is a lot of petty crime (and other safety issues) in the country. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night and in big cities. Keep your personal belongings on you while using public transit (especially chicken buses) and night buses.

Additionally, don’t wear flashy jewelry or leave your valuables out in the open. Petty theft is common here so you must be vigilant.

Violent attacks against tourists are rare. Most of the time it’s because the tourist was involved in something drug-related or was where they shouldn’t be at night.

Scams are common in the larger cities so be wary of any overly friendly strangers. You can read about common travel scams to avoid right here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). Whenever possible, share a taxi with friends and avoid walking around alone just to be safe.

Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes so volcanic activity isn’t uncommon. Be sure to check for warnings before you embark on any hikes/activities (especially ones on or around volcanoes).

Additionally, due to its political instability, protests and demonstrations are common. If one is occurring near you, simply head back to your accommodation and avoid taking part.

If you experience an emergency, dial 110 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Guatemala Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Guatemala Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Central America and continue planning your trip:

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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• Where To Stay
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• North America Tours
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• Guided and Escorted Tours

Guatemala Escorted tours and Guided trips

The top guided and escorted tours to Guatemala. Choose from 34 escorted and guided tours through Guatemala backed by 10 customer reviews. Discovering Guatemala via a guided tour is a safe and very informative as the guide often offer a lot of local insight. If you are on a budget you may wish to check our guided group tours to Guatemala as they are often more budget-friendly.

34 guided tours in Guatemala

• Starts Guatemala City, Guatemala
• Ends Guatemala City, Guatemala

The Mayan Wonders of Guatemala

• Free cancellation
• Trip customizable
• Tour Type Private Tour
• Activities Adventure & Sightseeing Tours
• Accommodation Hotel, Hostel & Home-stay
• Transport Boat & Bus
• Age Range 5-79 yrs
• Operated in English
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Guatemala Encompassed

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Adventure
• Accommodation Hotel & Villa
• Transport Flight & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Apr 09 10+ seats left
• Apr 16 10+ seats left

Glimpse of Guatemala 5D/4N

• Transport Private Vehicle, Flight & Boat
• Apr 06 10+ seats left
• Apr 07 10+ seats left

• Starts Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
• Ends Antigua, Guatemala

Mayan Trail

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Explorer
• Accommodation Hotel, Resort & Home-stay
• Transport Boat, Private Vehicle & Bus
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,599
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 400
• Total Price from: US$ 1,199
• Apr 07 Only 7 seats left
• Apr 14 Only 5 seats left

• Starts Antigua, Guatemala
• Ends Caye Caulker, Mexico

Guatemala to Belize

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Local culture
• Accommodation Hotel & Lodge
• Transport Boat, Bus, Ferry, Private Vehicle & Taxi
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,700
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 255
• Total Price from: US$ 1,445
• Apr 18 Only 8 seats left
• Apr 25 Only 6 seats left

Guatemala - Land of the Maya

• Activities Active and outdoor & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Boat, Bus & Ferry
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• May 04 10+ seats left
• Oct 20 Only 9 seats left

Maya Encounter

• Accommodation Hotel & Home-stay
• Transport Ferry, Bus, Boat, Private Vehicle, Minibus & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,925
• Special Deal (30%): - US$ 577
• Total Price from: US$ 1,348
• Apr 13 Only 4 seats left
• Apr 20 Only 3 seats left

Mayan Sun Southbound: Boat Rides & Ruins

• Transport Boat, Bus, Private Vehicle, Ferry & Taxi
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,549
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 388
• Total Price from: US$ 1,161
• Apr 06 Only 6 seats left
• Apr 09 Only 8 seats left

• Ends San Jose, Costa Rica

Central American Journey

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Bird watching Cultural, religious and historic sites , Bird watching , Beach , Volcanoes & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3472'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Hut & Lodge
• Transport Boat, Bus, Private Vehicle & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,815
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 454
• Total Price from: US$ 1,361
• Apr 15 Only 3 seats left
• Apr 18 Only 6 seats left

• Ends Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Mayan Encounter

• Accommodation Hotel, Resort & Lodge
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,799
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 450
• Total Price from: US$ 1,349
• Apr 06 Only 3 seats left
• Apr 10 Only 1 seat left

• Ends Panama City, Panama

Amazing Central America

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Local culture Cultural, religious and historic sites , Local culture & Wildlife 'data-more-tripid='3474'>+1 more
• Transport Boat, Bus, Ferry, Private Vehicle, Minibus & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,145
• Special Deal (5%): - US$ 157
• Total Price from: US$ 2,988
• Apr 22 Only 2 seats left
• May 20 Only 3 seats left

Volcano Trail: Waves & Local Ways

• Accommodation Hotel, Hostel, Home-stay, Guest House & Resort
• Transport Boat, Ferry, Bus, Private Vehicle & Taxi
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 310
• Total Price from: US$ 1,239
• Apr 21 Only 8 seats left
• Apr 24 Only 2 seats left

Real Guatemalan Group Experience 8D/7N

• Activities Adventure & Explorer
• Transport Private Vehicle, Boat & Flight

• Starts Mexico City, Mexico

Central America Encompassed

• Activities Wildlife & Cultural, religious and historic sites Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='3478'>+1 more
• Transport Bus, Ferry, Boat, Private Vehicle, Minibus & Taxi
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,745
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 562
• Total Price from: US$ 3,183
• Apr 13 Only 5 seats left
• Apr 20 Only 4 seats left

Guatemala Guided Tour Reviews

• IAIN MACLEOD

Guided and escorted tours

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• Guatemala last minute deals
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Guatemala upcoming departures

• Spring 2024/2025
• Summer 2024/2025
• Winter 2024/2025
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024

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Tours and Activities in Guatemala

Guatemala isn’t just ruins and rainforests, although there is a good amount of both those things here. It’s a country of huge lakes, Mayan villages, fuming stratovolcanoes, and colorful marketplaces. There are an incalculable number of things to do in Guatemala, with tour options to fit every type of traveler. If you’re into nature, you can explore jungles or go bird watching. If culture is your cup of tea, you’ll visit Mayan villages and ancient temples. And if you’d prefer to simply relax, there are tranquil places to breathe deep and unwind.

Adventure Tours

Adventure tours are ideal for travelers who enjoy excitement and the outdoors. These tours include zip lining, rafting, and horseback riding. The activities are safe and suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Professional guides lead the tours and work hard to provide travelers with an unforgettable experience.

Cultural Tours

Guatemala’s thriving culture celebrates both the past and present. These tours explore Guatemala’s cultural makeup — you’ll visit Mayan ruins, coffee plantations, archeological museums, traditional marketplaces, and more. They are a great way to fully appreciate the history, customs, and lifestyle of Guatemalans.

Educational Tours

It’s our belief that to really appreciate a country, you must first understand it. Educational tours help travelers do just this. These tours expose travelers to the various cultural, environmental, and agricultural influences in Guatemala. You might take a Spanish language course along the shores of Lake Petén Itzá, or be guided through the Mayan ruins of Copán. You can learn about nocturnal creatures during a night hike or watch sea turtles nest along the Pacific coast. No matter what the tour is, you’ll walk away with a fuller understanding of the forces that shape Guatemala.

Leisure Tours

While traveling in a foreign country, it can be nice to slow down and pamper yourself. These tours will help you both relax and enjoy Guatemala’s beautiful surroundings. You can visit a spa and indulge in a massage or pedicure. Other leisure tours help you explore Guatemala in an unhurried pace — you might take a safari float along a river and search for animals along the banks.

Marine Tours

Guatemala is bordered by both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Marine tours include snorkeling, scuba diving, sea kayaking, deep-sea fishing, and marine mammal observation. You’ll enjoy access to the country’s beautiful coastal areas and have the opportunity to spot all kinds of marine animals — including fish, dolphins, whales, and manta rays.

Nature Tours

The Guatemalan landscape is composed of huge forests, active volcanoes, and alpine lakes. What's more, the Guatemalan plant and animal life is off the charts. These tours bring travelers to some of the country’s best outdoor areas. The tours include bird watching, hiking with naturalist guides, and marine mammal observation.

159 Things to Do in Guatemala

Get ready to spot some colorful birds during this full-day bird watching tour in Antigua. The tour explores the El Pilar Nature Reserve, which is set just 2 miles from Antigua’s central park.

Fincal El Pilar’s gardens hum with the tiny, whirring wings of its resident hummingbirds. This farm does not produce agriculture, but rather exists to help conserve some of the rare and endangered species of plants and animals in Antigua.

On the first day of your journey, you’ll start your exploration of the area’s wildlife on a trail through the jungle of the Tikal National Park. Eventually you will come to a clearing, scattered with the stony ruins of Mayan temples and palaces. You have arrived at Tikal, home to one of the most prominent dynasties during the Mayan classic period. OPTIONAL only Professional Bird guide, lunch ,entrance fee to site.

Guatemala’s Pacific Coast has healthy populations of enormous fish, and this tour allows you to catch some of the most impressive species. This tour is also an excellent opportunity to see sea turtles, dolphins, and the occasional whale.

The San Pedro Volcano was declared a national park in 2006. The volcano is covered with tropical forests and takes about 4–5 hours to reach the summit along a well-maintained trail.

This tour includes a visit to indigenous villages and a soak in hot springs. As such, it's a nice mixture of cultural exploration and leisure activities.

The Pacaya Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in Guatemala. During this tour, you’ll hike up the volcano and enjoy incredible views of both the volcano and the surrounding area.

This tour brings travelers to the Postclassic Mayan site of Iximché. Iximché was once a Kaqchikel capital and today it’s still used in many Mayan ceremonies.

This tour explores the Mayan ruins of Iximché and a few surrounding towns in the area.

Fill your head with new recipes and your belly with a delicious, 5-course meal. These recipes aren’t haute cuisine, but a look at what Guatemalan families actually eat on an everyday basis, dishes that you’ll want to recreate in your own home. This includes one of the staples of Guatemalan cuisine – hearty, delicious tortillas.

Yaxhá is the third largest Mayan site in Guatemala, but due to its seclusion, it tends to lack large crowds. Enjoy a visit to Yaxhá during this one-day tour.

This hike through the tree canopy of the Atitlan Reserve will give you a bird’s eye view of an exciting environment. Atitlan Reserve is shaped by the three volcanoes that surround Lake Atitlan. Pristine Lake Atitlan and the surrounding grounds of the reserve offer more natural beauty than you can capture with a few snapshots. To get the most out of this scenery, get a view from the top.

La Antigua is one of Guatemala’s most charming and historic cities. During this half-day walking tour you’ll visit some of Antigua’s best sites.

This tour offers you an interesting looks at some of the historical and cultural underpinnings of Antigua. Start your tour with a peek behind the curtain of local transportation with a visit to one of the factories that makes chicken buses — local worker Don Augusto will show you around the factory and give you some insight into the artistry that gives these vehicles their vibrant personalities.

During this tour, you’ll visit carpenters in Ciudad Vieja, weavers in San Antonio Aguas Calientes, and farmers at an experimental macademia nut plantation. It’s a great way to experience some of Guatemala’s best culture.

Explore both the San Felipe Castle and the Río Dulce during this tour. The castle, which is set at the mouth of the Río Dulce, dates back to the 17th century and has fantastic views of Lake Izabal.

This collective or private tour explores areas in and around Lívingston and the Río Dulce. You'll visit the San Felipe Castle, Bird Island and hot waterfalls. If you choose the private tour, you'll enjoy additional time at each of these destinations, plus a musical presentation.

Monterrico's mangroves are a great place to see birds and other animals. This tour explores the mangrove forests and tule grasses that grow alongside the banks of the mangroves.

The Circo del Aire Canopy is in the Efrain Recinos Cultural Park. This park is a short distance outside of Antigua.

Spend an afternoon riding horses above the shores of Lake Atitlán. You'll enjoy fabulous views of the lake, forests, and mountains on this tour.

Guatemala Tours

Attractions, places to go, frequently asked questions.

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Reach out to our local experts .

What Adventure Activities Are There In Guatemala?

A number of adventure activities can be enjoyed in Guatemala. These include zip-lining , kayaking , horseback riding , and white-water rafting . The availability of these activities depends on the destination.The area near Lanquín . has caves to explore and excellent white-water rafting on the Río Cahabón . Zip-lining can be enjoyed in Panajachel or Tikal , and horseback riding can be done along the Pacific Coast .

What should I wear or bring to a national park in Guatemala?

The trails in Guatemala are not be in poor condition, so it's important to bring a good pair of hiking shoes. Long pants and a long-sleeved shirt will protect you from UV rays and mosquitos, and a hat will keep the sun out of your eyes. It's also a good idea to have a rain jacket on hand, as unexpected showers can occur, especially in the Amazon . Moisture-wicking clothing will allow you to sweat but not get soaked.Bring a small daypack to carry other items, including a camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, guide books/map, snacks, and a water bottle. Remember to bring water, as there usually aren't water fountains in Peruvian parks and it's important to stay hydrated while hiking.

What Are the Top Activities in Guatemala?

Guatemala's top activities involve cultural and natural exploration. Cultural activities include visiting Mayan ruins , touring historic sites , and perusing some of the country's colorful local markets . There are national parks and reserves that are great for hiking or bird watching . River rafting is popular in some areas, and some of Guatemala's coastline lends itself towards swimming, snorkeling , and fishing .

I Haven't Tried Some of These Activities. Is That A Problem for my trip to Guatemala?

No. Some travelers may have experience with adventure activities, but many do not. Our professional guides are here to help you get comfortable with the sport of your choice. Whether it's flying across a zip-line or rafting down a white-water rapid, these activities can be tailored to your level of comfort. They are safe, fun, and exciting.

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Best Guided Tours in Guatemala

• by Marco Polo

A 2-hour hike up Pacaya Volcano will reward you with breathtaking vistas. Take a 1-hour bus ride from Antigua to the volcano's base, and then begin your 2-hour trek with a native guide right away.

Visit a sulfur-smoking cone after ascending via lovely pine trees and across tricky volcanic ash terrain. Depending on the volcano's activity, you may possibly witness minor eruptions and lava flows.

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Discover the ancient Mayan site of Tikal, which is believed to be one of the most spiritual destinations on earth. Once at the national park, you'll see the profusion of wildlife surrounding the temples. Discover how the Mayan civilisation developed magnificent temples and towns that constituted a vast complex of religious, social, and political power.

Volcan Acatenango is a sleeping behemoth and a twin of the most active volcano in Guatemala. Acatenango is the third highest volcano in all of Central America, and it is a tremendous experience to trek to the top. It gives you the best spot to see the sunset and the sunrise. Sleeping overnight in the base camp of the volcano will be a unique experience. Its highest point is 3,976 meters (13,044 feet).

Discover the magnificent splendor of Tikal, which means Place of Voices. The park, named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979, spans an area of 576 square kilometers.

Experience the wonders of two of Guatemala’s most renowned Mayan archaeological sites. On this 2-day tour, you’ll explore ruins and learn about the more than 100 wildlife species that reside in and around the parks.

Visit the 2,500-meter-high Pacaya Volcano, Guatemala's most active volcano (more than 8,000 feet). The lagoon of Calderas and three more volcanoes, Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango, may be seen on this tour. Humid woodland and rocks make up a substantial portion of the surrounding area.

Antigua Guatemala, formerly the third-largest city in all of Spanish Colonial America and for 200 years the capital of Guatemala, is today a quiet, picturesque, and partially restored colonial metropolis. Cobblestone streets wind through the city's stunning cathedrals and monasteries.

Your 10-hour tour begins with a drive into the western highlands of Guatemala. The region is home to picturesque and colorful mountain communities, highland lakes, pine forests, and the majority of Guatemala’s indigenous peoples.

Discover the wonders of three of Guatemala's four largest cities in a single day. Make the most of your time in Antigua, Ciudad Vieja, and Iximché (the country's first capital). There are a number of fascinating places to explore on today's tour that combine Spanish colonial and Mayan influences. We can learn a lot by observing the local indigenous people who still come to Iximché, and if we're lucky, we'll get to see a real Mayan ceremony in action.

Start the day with a trip from Antigua or Guatemala City to the Maya hamlet of Panajachel. During the trip, there will be a quick stop in Katok, a very popular restaurant, where you may indulge in a hot drink.

Once at Panajachel, it's time for a boat ride to cross Lake Atitlán and visit the Tzutuhil Village of Santiago de Atitlán. In this village you will see the confraternity of the local saint named Maximon or Ri Laj Mam, visited by people all over the world who come to ask for health and wealth in their lives.

Take the journey to the Western Highlands region, home to quaint and colorful mountain communities, highland lakes, pine forests, and the bulk of Guatemala’s indigenous population. This is the region most travelers familiar with Guatemala think about when daydreaming about a trip to this wonderful country.

First day in Guatemala City/Cobán:

 Depart from Guatemala City or Antigua to Coban. You may get the chance to view Quetzal. Begin your journey in the jungle of El Biotopo del Quetzal. After 2-hours of hiking, a lunch of traditional food will be given (not included). Afterwards, transfer to your preferred hotel in Cobán for overnight lodgings. Accommodation: Park Hotel Resort or comparable.

Semuc Champey/Lankin Caves (B) on Day 2:

 After breakfast, the expedition will begin by taking a 2-hour ride to Semuc Champey, a monument constructed by nature. Explore the natural splendor and swim in the pools made out of limestone. Relax, enjoy, and, afterwards, have time for lunch. Next, you will get to explore the Lankin Caves. In the afternoon, transfer back to your accommodation in Cobán. Accommodation: Park Hotel Resort or comparable.

 Day 3:Rey Marcos Caves (B):

In the morning, explore the Rey Marcos Caves, where you can enjoy a magnificent adventure while connecting with nature. During the tour, you will view spectacular formations of the karst caves sculpted by water with minerals in the limestone of the region of Alta Verapaz. You can cool yourself off by taking a dip in the river outside the caves when you're done exploring. You are responsible for your own hotel room.

Visit La Nueva Guatemala de la Asunción, the country's cultural, religious, and commercial hub, to learn more about Guatemala. On this day, you'll be able to see a wide range of colonial and modern structures, as well as notable museums and historical sites. After checking into your accommodation in Guatemala City, your tour guide will meet you there to begin your city tour. An overview of what to expect along the road is provided here.

Volcano Pacaya (8370ft/2552m) may not be Guatemala’s highest mountain, but its slopes and unique views are surely some of the most magnificent volcanic landscapes in all of Central America. Set in its own national park, Pacaya is a storybook volcano with a constant plume of smoke wafting from its peak and a large dry lava field forming the valley at the base of its caldera. The group meets in Antigua at 08:00 (for a morning hike) or 14:00 (for a sunset hike)—where drinking water, bathroom facilities, and retail outdoor equipment are available.

You will be picked up at your accommodation in Antigua and taken to National Park Pacaya. Upon arriving at the park, your local guide will be waiting for you and ready to fill you in with everything you need to know. Start trekking at the San Vicente de Pacaya Village and begin the journey with a 1-hour hike to the top of the volcano.

Antigua is a wonderful place to spend a day. Guatemala's traditional one-day tours include this package. On this full-day trip to Antigua, you'll see some of the city's most significant cultural and historic landmarks.

Start your day at the open market of Chichicastenango. Here, you may explore the indigenous market and watch the continual interchange of fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts between local people and outsiders. This quaint local market truly does provide just about everything—you can even purchase wood items, ceramics, and the sorts of presents that the Mayan priests offer on their pre-Hispanic altars.

This full-day shared sightseeing tour includes a cruise over Lake Atitlan and a visit to San Juan La Laguna. Lake Atitlan, the deepest lake in Central America, is surrounded by three volcanoes on its southern side.

If you need to restock your water supply or purchase more gear before the trip, you can do so at our office in Antigua at 5:00 a.m. Hikers should eat breakfast before setting out and bring a little snack with them. We drive from Antigua to La Soledad, a small mountain community nestled on the ridge of Volcan Acatenango's Pacific slope. It takes roughly an hour to hike through each of the four unique microclimates on the Volcan Acatenango path. A difficult road through local agricultural fields will lead us to a lily, corn, and snow pea field that local villagers use every morning to get to their fields. Acclimatization and leg muscle warming-up are key components of our first hour of trekking.

Observe an important Maya ritual at Lake Atitlan's holiest spot.

Take a shuttle from Panajachel to the trailhead. Once you've done that, head to the first cave (a maximum 20-minute hike). The four caves, "Nimajay," "San Simon," "Singing," and "Colorado," have been used by the Mayans for their fire cleaning and protection ceremonies for millennia. They spend many hours exploring these tunnels, which have a tremendous sensation of force and intensity.

Experience Antigua’s surrounding surroundings by motorbike, scooter, or ATV. This half-day tour takes you to many communities on the outskirts of Antigua, including Ciudad Vieja, Guatemala’s first capital. Visit a textile market and an indigenous settlement at the foot of the Agua Volcano. Enjoy a short stroll, hammock time, and panoramic views from a viewing point above Antigua.

Antigua's cityscape, valley, and nearby volcanoes are all visible from the summits of the three mountains that you'll visit on your journey. In Antigua, the renowned vantage point known as "The Cross" is our first stop. Our second destination, "Earth Lodge," comes after we've gotten a good look at the colonial city from the air. El Hato, a little mountain community, is home to an avocado farm and an eco-lodge. We'll take a break for refreshments and snacks, hang out in the hammocks, or go for a brief walk on the plantation's nature trail. We'll take a pickup vehicle to Hobbitenango after seeing this wonderful location.

Pacaya Volcano and Kawilal Hot Springs are included in this 9-hour day tour, so you may enjoy both excitement and leisure. Pacaya, one of Guatemala's most active volcanoes, may be climbed to a height of 8,300 feet (2,500 meters). You'll be able to look down into the crater and feel the earth's rumble from the top of the crater. Kawilal Hot Springs includes 12 soaking pools, 25 steam baths, and 3 hydrotherapy tubs for you to relax in after descending from the mountaintop. Entrance fees, a guide, and round-trip hotel transportation are all included in your Pacaya day trip.

No need to rent a car or navigate the highways of Guatemala. Book this private shuttle service and sit back and relax as you go to Antigua Guatemala, Panajachel (Lake Atitlán), and Guatemala City. The driver will make stops along the trip, allowing you to enjoy the country. Service from the Guatemala City Airport is provided.

Enjoy caffeine and excitement in one trip on this adventure from Antigua. The varied tour is sure to please a variety of travelers. Climb onboard your personal ATV and head to a local plantation, where you will discover the coffee-producing process from seed to mug. After a hot cup of the local beverage, ride up to Cerro de la Cruz, which offers a wonderful view of the city and surrounding mountains.

Experience one of the ancient world’s most spectacular archaeological sites at Tikal, a famed Mayan city deep in the Guatemalan rainforest, on an easy 10-hour excursion by air from Antigua. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Guatemalan rainforest on your trip to this UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mayan site, spending the day seeing this spectacular city’s steep temples and beautiful plazas with the guidance of your guide. Your day trip from Antigua to Tikal includes all entrance fees, lunch, and round-trip transportation from your Antigua hotel.

Take a two-day trip from Antigua to Acatenango Volcano to see the volcano. The Agua and Fuego Volcanoes may be seen from the advanced trip, which is about 13,000 feet (4,000 meters) above sea level. You'll find everything you need for a comfortable night's sleep right here, right in the bag. All you need is a backpack, a sleeping bag, and an adventurous spirit. Every step of the way, your guide is there to ensure that you have the greatest possible experience.

Even if it's a bit of a challenge, visiting Acatenango Volcano is a must-do while visiting Antigua, Guatemala. In addition to ensuring your safety, taking this guided tour also relieves you of the responsibility of arranging your own meals and equipment. It's all you need: personal items, a sense of adventure, and a camera to take a picture of the stunning sunrise over the Ring of Fire.

In Guatemala, the Pacaya Volcano is one of the most active and popular. Travelers looking for an easy climb, magnificent vistas, and a few memorable tales should head to this mountaintop location, which sits at an elevation of 8,000 feet (2,500 meters). Pre-booked transportation ensures that you get the most out of your hiking experience.

Book a private vehicle service from the Guatemala City International Airport to Antigua, Guatemala. All flights are tracked in case of delays so that you are picked up on time. One suitcase and one carry-on bag are permitted for each traveler. Hotel guests in Guatemala City's hotel district can also take advantage of this service.

In a city surrounded by volcanoes, adventure is hard to resist. Give in to your feeling of adventure on this tour through the outskirts of Antigua on an ATV, motorcycle, or scooter; take your pick of a vehicle and opt to drive it yourself or sit in the rear seat. Visit the mountains around Antigua, a local Mayan community, the famed El Cerro de la Cruz, and an organic farm with a full view of the valley below.

Skip the stress of making your own way between Lake Atitlan and Antigua with a shared transportation service that allows you to avoid public transport and pricey taxi journeys. Traveling in a small group limited to only 10 people means you won't have to wait for many pickups and drop-offs, while air conditioning guarantees you stay cool and relaxed throughout the gorgeous ride.

Trek the 7-hour Pacaya Volcano climb in Guatemala to get up close and personal with one of the country's most active volcanoes. In addition to stunning views of Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango at the summit, the route takes you through volcanic vegetation and strange landscapes. In addition to round-trip transportation from your hotel to the volcano, you'll also have a guide with you.

This day excursion to Pacaya Volcano and a thermal bath resort offers the ideal combination of excitement and relaxation. Climb Pacaya, Guatemala's tallest and most active volcano, soars to a height of 8,300 feet (2,500 meters). You'll be able to look down into the crater and feel the earth's rumble from the top of the crater. Kawilal Hot Springs, which includes an included lunch, has 12 soaking pools and 25 steam baths, as well as three hydrotherapy baths to relax in. A guide and round-trip hotel transportation are also included in your Pacaya day trip package.

Satisfy your taste for Guatemalan street cuisine on a private half-day trip during which you’ll sample different specialties from stalls and cafes that you would otherwise have missed. Plus, you'll have your guide's full attention the whole time, which will help you learn more about Guatemalan food and culture than you would on your own.

Discover the ancient remains of Tikal and gain a greater understanding of Mayan culture and traditions on this Tikal day excursion by plane from Guatemala City with lunch. Take a picturesque flight from the nation's capital and make your way to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed archeological park in the comfort of an air-conditioned carriage. Wander the jungle with your experienced guide, who will provide facts, anecdotes, and history about the temples that surround you. Get the most of your stay in Guatemala with this wonderfully spectacular day trip!

Getting around Guatemala City, which is Central America's second-largest city, on your own might be a daunting experience. Make your way around the city's best landmarks in only a few hours on this trip that includes a guide who tells you everything about the history of the colonial buildings you'll see along the way.

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tikal at the side of a guide who puts the Mayan remains into context. This private tour from Flores allows you to explore the huge archaeological site at a speed appropriate to you and your party—plus, you’ll have an extra opportunity to stop and ask questions. Plus, getting picked up and dropped off at your hotel in Flores means you don't have to worry about renting a car and figuring out how to get around.

The Lake Atitlan area can be explored on this half-day ATV ride. To begin with, take the lakeshore road to San Antonio Palopo. Then, visit a local ceramics business and a chocolate factory while you're there. Afterward, head to Santa Catarina Palopo, where you'll be able to observe and learn about the traditional blanket-making process. For one last photo op, head to Playa Blanca in Barrio Jucanya.

Learn how to cook chocolate delicacies in the country that does it best during a 2-hour course at the ChocoMuseum in Antigua. Learn all about the chocolate making process, from cacao bean to candy bar. Afterwards, with the guidance of an expert, prepare your own masterpieces. Take home 120g of your handcrafted treats to share with friends or, more likely, to enjoy all on your own.

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Table of Contents

What are guided tours?

Guided tours are all-inclusive group travel experiences often guided by a local travel guide and follow a set agenda for a particular tourist attraction or local activity. Several sightseeing guided tours, skip-the-line tickets for major tourist destinations, group day/night trips, food and wine tastings, and even airport transfers are available.

Should I use guided tours on my vacations?

Explore and experience your destination like a local.

Discover what your holiday destination has to offer like a local. Uncover hidden Gems!

Avoid scams and pay better prices

Avoid con artists! Numerous local brokers abroad hike up costs exorbitantly in order to take advantage of tourists. Reserve your guide excursions in advance!

I have a tight budget, can I still buy a guided tour?

With so many different guided tours to choose from, no matter what your budget is, you’re sure to find one that fits your needs.

Save time, and Get the most out of your trip.

Use every minute of your trip! Memories aren’t made while you wait in line. BOOK AHEAD and avoid the long lines at the world’s best places.

With a scheduled tour schedule, you know precisely what you’ll be doing every day, eliminating the possibility of any disappointment.

Check reviews before buying a guided tour

Overwhelmed with options and unsure about which guided tour to select? Determine which activities are most suited for you by checking out other user reviews

No risk to you. Free cancellation

Many of the guided tours allow you to change your mind and cancel your booking up to 24 hours before the date of the activity. There is no charge if you do this. As soon as your travel plans change at the last minute, this will be very useful for you.

Meet people all over the world, make new friends on your next vacation

It’s great to meet folks from all around the world on your guided trips!

Types of guided tours available for your vacation

Depending on the city you are taking a trip to, there are practically any guide trips and activities for everyone. There are outdoor guided trips, water activities, Nature routes, Music festivals, Local food trips, Workshops and Classes, Arts Performances, Hidden Gems expedition, beer or white wine drinking and tasting trips, special television & Movies trips, romantic couple tours, kids’ activities, trips to Parks and Gardens, Island exploration tours, check out popular landmarks, Museum guided trips and tickets, Airport transfer services, Memorials for you to check out to under the local culture and history, go up Towers & viewing platforms to get a birds-eye view of the landscape, shopping tours, theaters and auditorium, stop by ports and harbors, sightseeing cruise, bikes for leasing, helicopter trips, ferryboat tickets, Jeep and SUV for rental, yacht services and sailboat leasing.

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Guatemala's diverse country captivates travelers with its extraordinary landscapes and a civilization-spanning culture that reaches back centuries.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, your next trip starts here.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Iglesia y Convento de Santo Domingo

Founded by Dominican friars in 1542, Santo Domingo became the biggest and richest monastery in Antigua. Following three 18th-century earthquakes, the…

Reserva Natural Atitlán

A former coffee plantation being reclaimed by natural vegetation, this reserve is 200m past the Hotel Atitlán on the northern outskirts of town. It makes…

Chichicastenango

Some villagers still walk for hours carrying their wares to reach Chichi's market, one of Guatemala's largest and a highlight of many people's trips to…

Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey & Around

Semuc Champey is famed for its great natural limestone bridge, 300m long, on top of which is a stepped series of pools with cool, flowing river water good…

Cofradia San Simón

Western Highlands

While you're in Zunil, visit the image of San Simón, the name given here to the much-venerated Mayan deity known elsewhere as Maximón. His effigy, propped…

Iglesia Merced

At the northern end of 5a Av is La Merced – a striking yellow building trimmed with white plaster filigree. Its facade is one of the most beautiful in…

Arco de Santa Catalina

The Arco de Santa Catalina is Antigua's most iconic monument, and an early-morning or late-afternoon photo opportunity framing Volcán Agua through its…

Cofradía Maximón

Santiago Atitlán

Maximón is a traditional Maya deity who resides in Santiago Atitlán. He appears as a life-sized but broken-legged effigy in a hat, dark suit and glasses,…

Top picks from our travel experts

The top things to do in guatemala, from cultural experiences to volcano treks.

Biotopo del Quetzal

Alta & Baja Verapaz

In the lush cloud forests south of Cobán is the Biotopo Mario Dary Rivera nature reserve, commonly called Biotopo del Quetzal.

Templo IV, at 65m, is the highest building at Tikal and the second-highest pre-Columbian building known in the western hemisphere, after La Danta at El…

K'anba Caves

About a kilometer before Semuc Champey, just before the large bridge crossing the river, you'll see a turnoff to the right for these caves, which many…

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Best Things to Do

Guatemala is a dream destination for adventurers and a great place for cultural immersion. Here are the top things to do.

Things to Know

What do you need to know before you visit Guatemala? Check our top tips, including information on vaccines, what to pack and how to dress.

Transportation

Guatemala may be small but getting around it can sometimes feel like a mighty challenge. Here's everything you need to know about navigating Guatemala.

Visa Requirements

Guatemala is becoming ever more popular with travelers and with good reason. Here's everything you need to know about visas before you go.

Money and Costs

Guatemala may be an inexpensive country to visit but that doesn't mean there aren't lots of ways to stretch your budget further. Here's how to do it!

Traveling with Kids

Guatemala welcomes teeny travelers with open arms and warm smiles, but there are some challenges when visiting with kids. Here's how to handle them.

Best Road Trips

Explore the wild and beautiful landscape of Guatemala in places a bus can't get to. These are our favorite 6 road trips in this Central American gem.

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Guatemala and beyond

The Ultimate One- or Two-Week Guatemala Itinerary

By Author Steph Dyson

Posted on Last updated: 25th November 2023

If there’s one thing you notice when you first arrive in Guatemala it’s how colour seems to bleed from every feature of life here.

In Antigua Guatemala, the 17 th -century buildings are painted in vivid pastel shades, while in the villages surrounding nearby Lago de Atitlán, local people dress in vivid huipiles , with millennial-old symbols woven in bright threads.

Above, the sky is the bluest you’ve ever seen, while the lofty apexes of still-bubbling volcanoes rise out of the earth, surrounded by patchwork fields of crops.

Guatemala is the heartland of the ancient Maya people. A large proportion of Guatemalans are of Maya descent; with the culture survived the arrival of the Spanish and has since fostered a unique national identity that pervades every part of daily life.

What’s more, a wealth of wildlife, dazzling volcanic landscapes dotted with ancient ruins and beautiful, crumbling cities grant it a charm that has long been overlooked by travellers who instead opt for places like Blue Hole National Park in Belize or vibrant Merida, Mexico on the skirts of the Yucatán Peninsula’s UNESCO-listed archeological sites.

But Guatemala’s beyond-the-beaten-path status is all part of the appeal and these one and two-week Guatemala itineraries are a great way of getting under the colourful skin of one of Central America’s most fascinating countries.

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Guatemala travel itinerary: How to start planning your trip

Recommendations for how to use these itineraries and things to know when travelling in Guatemala:

• Compared with many other Latin American countries, Guatemala is compact, spanning an area around the size of the state of Tennessee. However, poor infrastructure and even poorer quality Guatemala transportation – including the now legendary “chicken buses” – mean that getting around Guatemala can be quite a trial. While chicken buses are a truly local experience (expect live chickens and blaring pop music for the duration of the ride), a more comfortable option are the more expensive Pullman public buses or the private shuttle services, the latter of which are aimed at tourists . These are by far the more expensive option but are considerably safer. Atitrans Panajachel operate shuttles to most destinations in this itinerary and can be booked in advance (note that their destinations list for their shuttles only makes sense in Spanish – the English version translates Antigua into old , among other entertaining errors).

• Guatemala has a long and turbulent history and crime is still an issue in the country. For travelers, staying safe means taking sensible precautions to protect yourself. Guatemala City can be dangerous and it’s for this reason that tourists generally opt to stay in nearby Antigua. Armed robberies and muggings are common in Guatemala City, but can be avoided by taking Uber or radio taxis at night and by not flashing expensive jewellery, camera equipment or phones. ATMs can be tampered with, so always aim to use an ATM attached to a bank and don’t withdraw cash if anything seems wrong.
• Guatemala is a very cheap destination to visit. Hostels and guesthouses cost from $30 USD for a double and even high-end hotels are a steal at upwards of $100 USD per night. Restaurants in Antigua are pricey compared with the rest of the country, but you can find comedores, cheap eateries frequented by locals and serving up tasty soups and corn tortillas accompanying everything from mashed beans to fried meat and guacamole from only a few dollars per meal.

• With a year-round spring climate found across most of the country, the best time to go to Guatemala is difficult to pin down. Much of the country is at altitude, with cities such as Antigua at 1,533 metres (5,029 feet) above sea level, making day time temperatures hover around the mid-20s (high 70s) most of the year. However, the rainy season, which runs from May through October, does impact travel , with heavy downpours are common in the late afternoon, however the rest of the day is generally cooler and more pleasant than during the dry season. Tropical storms in September and October are more serious, often bringing heavy rains and poor conditions for travel and it’s recommended to avoid this period if you’re looking to visit Tikal and the Petén region, where mud and humidity levels can be unpleasant.
• Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Guatemala. Whenever I travel, I avoid spending lots of money on buying water (and polluting the environment with single-use plastic) by bringing my own portable water filter. I’ve personally found the Grayl Geopress and Steripen to both quickly and reliably purify water, eliminating all viruses and bacteria to make any water safe to drink (and you can read how I came to this conclusion in this article comparing six of the most popular travel water purifiers.
• I’ve only personally spent a few weeks in Guatemala, however his entire Guatemala travel guide has been checked by my friend who works for the UN in Guatemala. She has lived in Guatemala for the past 2.5 years – so you can rest assured that it’s up-to-date and informed by expert local knowledge.

One-week Guatemala travel itinerary: Antigua – Lago de Atitlán – Tikal

With a one-week vacation in Guatemala, there’s time to appreciate the country’s prettiest colonial city, Antigua, head out to colourful communities around the volcano-fringed waters of Lago de Atitlán and stand in awe before the country’s flagship Maya ruins of Tikál in the Petén region.

Day one: Antigua

Fly into Aeropuerto Internacional La Aurora and organise in advance a shuttle to take you directly to Antigua (around $10 USD, 50 mins to 1.5 hours).

It won’t take long for you to understand why this splendid city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Founded by the Spanish in the 16 th century and serving as the capital of what was effectively all of Central America for two centuries, Antigua is a remarkable example of colonial architecture at its finest.

Even those without religious leanings can’t fail to be dazzled by the city’s richness of churches and pastel-hued grand homes and the best way to appreciate its fine architecture is by spending your first day in Guatemala exploring the city’s cobbled streets. There are plenty of things to do in Antigua , whether you have one day or choose to extend your stay.

Start in the main square, the Parque Central, at the spectacular Cathedral , which was only partly rebuilt after a devastating 18 th -century earthquake attempted to raze it to the grounds. Head to the ruins at the back to see how splendid this building once was.

On the northern end of Avenida Cinco Norte, don’t miss the Iglesia de la Merced , with its striking canary yellow façade. This road is also home to the iconic 17 th -century Arco de Santa Catalina , a yellow archway that, when faced from the north, seems to sit beneath the towering peak of Volcán de Agua in the distance.

Souvenir shops line this road, although you’ll want to save your money to buy directly from the artisans themselves to ensure the quality of your purchases and that they receive a fair wage for their work.

Finally, while away the afternoon in Santo Domingo , a former monastery turned luxury hotel and spa that is home to seven museums and a wealth of ruins, crypts and cultural exhibitions.

Where to stay in Antigua: In a spectacular setting, El Convento Boutique Hotel ($255 USD double) has just 26 rooms, all of which are decorated in a charming, historic style and many of which play host to their own private jacuzzi or terrace. A small pool and vine-slung courtyards make for perfect spots for relaxing, while its location, a few blocks north of the Parque Central, ensures an oasis of calm at the very centre of the city.

Where to stay in Antigua on a budget: Modern décor is combined with plenty of outdoor patio and garden space for guests at the top-notch Adra Hostel ($100 USD double, $20 USD dorm), situated just a few blocks east of Parque Central. Rooms are spacious and there’s a fantastic bar and restaurant if you don’t want to leave your lodgings in the evening, while a rooftop terrace with outstanding views across the city is the cherry on the top of this excellent hostel.

Day two: Santo Domingo Xenacoj

Much of Guatemala’s unique heritage lies in its Maya people, who form the largest indigenous group in the country, accounting for around 40% of the population of Guatemala.

However, indigenous groups in Guatemala are disproportionately poor compared with the rest of the population and one means of addressing this inequality is through community-level tourism, which focuses on one of the many strengths of the Maya people: their textiles .

Beautifully woven, these include traditional huipiles (loose-fitting tunics) as well as religious garments, all of which reflect thousands of years of craftsmanship and even the beliefs and traditions of the Maya themselves.

Spend a day with the Consejo de Tejedoras de Santo Domingo Xenacoj (The Weaving Council of Santo Domingo Xenacoj) in Santa Domingo Xenacoj , which lies 30 kilometres north of Antigua. At their workshop, you can learn about how the patterns of the textiles reflect millennia-old religious symbols as you try your hand at weaving – with the help of the female artisans of course.

Take a day trip from Antigua with local operator  Guate4You . A tour of the weaving community and other local groups in Santo Domingo Xenacoj, plus a local lunch costs from $125 USD per person (minimum of three) or $75 USD per person for a group of six or above.

Days three and four: Lago de Atitlán

Flanked by a picturesque collection of volcanoes, as well as traditional Maya villages, Lago de Atitlán is surely one of the most spectacular lakes in Central America and, as such, a must on any Guatemala itinerary.

Wherever you go on the lake, keep an eye out for local people dressed in traditional outfits, with the symbols and patterns of which denoting exactly which villages they hail from.

While backpackers often head across the lake to the party hangout of San Pedro La Laguna, a more authentic Guatemalan experience is can be found in San Juan La Laguna , a small village known for its striking textiles and unique artistic style of painting.

There’s plenty to do in this small town. Spend a day visiting local weaving cooperatives and buying beautiful textiles as souvenirs, learning about traditional Maya medicine, or visiting one of the town’s clutch of art galleries.

Alternatively, organise a guide to hike up Rupalaj K’istalin, the mountain above the village, for glorious lake views. Be sure to catch the sunrise across the lake from the Sendero Nariz del Indio, an unguided hike which also leaves from the village.

For tours within San Juan La Laguna, contact the Asociación de Guías de Ecoturismo Rupalaj K’istalin (+502 4772 2527/ +502 5930 4773, [email protected] , or visit their office ) in advance of your visit. 

You can also use San Juan La Laguna as a base from which to explore different towns. San Marcos La Laguna is the lake’s official hippie hangout, home to a beautiful nature, Cerro Tzankujil, as well as yoga studios and vegan cafés galore.

To get to San Juan La Laguna, boats for all villages depart from regional hub Panajachel, a two-hour, 45-minute bus journey from Antigua (again, I recommend Atitrans Panajachel (2.5 hours, from around $15 USD) for the shuttle). The pier at the end of Calle del Embarcadero has boats to San Pedro La Laguna from where you can connect with vessels to San Juan La Laguna.

In Panajachel

If you’ve got a few hours to spare when you get to Panajachel , make sure you jump on a local bus (from Calle El Amate, the main road heading south out of town) for Santa Catarina Palopó .

This shoreside settlement home to the project Pintando Santa Catarina , where bold patterns and colours taken from the designs of local textiles have been painted onto houses. The project’s aim is to preserve Maya culture, using art as a tool to bring sustainable tourism to a place where 80% of the inhabitants live in poverty.

You can take a tour of the artwork (which is highly recommended if you want to better understand better the designs) from the project’s headquarters (in the Plaza Central) at a cost of $95 Q ($12 USD).

Where to stay in San Juan La Laguna: Stay overnight in a homestay with a local family , where you’ll dine on a traditional meal cooked by your hosts, and have the opportunity to chat with them and learn more about their lives. Facilities are basic, but your contribution is vital to these families, many of whom use the money to send their children to school.

For more information or to book a homestay, contact the Asociación de Guías de Ecoturismo Rupalaj K’istalin (+502 4772 2527/ +502 5930 4773, [email protected] ).

Days five and six: Flores and Tikal

For Lago de Atitlán, return to Antigua and then take a shuttle to the airport in Guatemala City.

Catch a flight to Mundo Maya International Airport (1 hour, $170 USD one-way) with Avianca or TAG – although be sure to turn up on time to the airport, as flights can often be overbooked, while departures can also often be delayed.

Perched on an island in the middle of Lago Petén Itzá and connected to the mainland by a 500-metre causeway, Flores is a tiny, picture-perfect village of cobbled streets flanked by grand old colonial buildings painted in primary shades.

There’s not an awful lot to do here – although taking a dip in the water or hiring a kayak from your hotel and heading out onto the lake is a great way to pass a few hours – but it’s the perfect spot for exploring the nearby archaeological site of Tikal and other interesting things to do around Flores .

The region of Petén was at the centre of the Maya culture, which blossomed here from 1,000 BC until around 150 AD, when the culture moved to Yucatán in modern-day Mexico. One of their legacies was Tikal , Guatemala’s most iconic Maya archaeological site, which lies just an hour away from Flores.

Tikal is believed to have been one of the most important Maya city states. 1,600 hectares of barely cut back jungle within Parque Nacional Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage site , is still packed full of temples, ceremonial platforms, squares and roads, some of which date as far back as 500 BC and measure over 60 metres high.

Excavations have sought to understand more about Tikal and, after you’ve wandered around the ruins themselves, you can discover what archaeologists have learned by visiting the two on-site museums which contain many of the treasures unearthed at Tikal.

The ruins are best explored with a guide, and it’s a good to arrive here for sunrise (for an additional Q 100 ($13 USD)) to avoid the heat of the afternoon. To get here, take a tourist shuttle from your hotel for around 100 GTQ ($13 USD, includes cost of guide), and pay the entrance fee to the site of  Q 150 ($20 USD).

Useful information about the park is available here . You can also stay overnight at a hotel right inside the national park, allowing you to see sunrise at the temples without having to wake up too early.

If you want to go with a guide, Gem Trips and local archaeologist Roxy Ortiz are a good bet.

Where to stay in Flores : A short drive from the airport and with a dazzling location on Laguna Exequil, just a few kilometres east of Flores, Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel ($300 USD double) is a true paradise. Bungalows built on stilts overlook the lake and each has enjoy a balcony, from which you can enjoy a sundowner. Try out their kayaks for a gentle paddle on the water, join their guides for an early-morning monkey tour or take a dip in their freshwater pool ; whatever you choose,there’s plenty of love here. They can arrange tours of Tikal, as well as airport transfers.

Where to stay in Flores on a budget: Rooms are dated at Zapote Tree Inn ($40 USD), but that doesn’t matter when you’ve got a view of Lago de Peten Itzá and Flores quite like this. The swimming pool and terrace have the vest views in the house, while close proximity to hiking trails and a nearby beach give this guesthouse an excellent location. It’s situated a short boat ride from Flores, but the owners can help you organise tours of Tikal, transport and practically anything you need.

Alternatively, you can stay within Parque Nacional Tikal, a short walk from the entrance to Tikal.

Where to stay near Tikal: Right inside the national park, Jungle Lodge ($100 USD double) is a remarkably up-scale hotel right in the middle of the jungle. Individual cabins are hidden away into the undergrowth, with beds made up with crisp white sheets and silky mosquito nets. A series of patios and a swimming pool allow you to while away the afternoon absorbing the sights, sounds and smells of the jungle, while a bar and restaurant provide decent dining options. They organise direct shuttles to the airport to connect with flights and lead sunrise and day tours of Tikal.

Where to stay near Tikal on a budget: The more affordable Jaguar Inn ($70 USD double, $30 USD two-person tent) is also situated right in the heart of Parque Nacional Tikal. Private bungalows are clean and comfortable and surrounded by the forest, while you can also book a campsite or a campsite and tent if you’re on more of a budget – although the humidity can make camping a fairly uncomfortable experience.

Day seven: Guatemala City and home

Catch a flight back to Guatemala City and head home.

Two week-Guatemala travel itinerary: Antigua – Lago de Atitlán – Chichicastenango – Tikal and Yahxá – Río Dulce

Visiting Guatemala for two weeks gives you more space to slow down and delve into the country and its unique culture. You can explore some of the country’s most picturesque natural spots, spend longer appreciating ancient Maya ruins deep in the jungle and even climb to the crater of an active volcano.

Days one to three: Antigua

Follow the itinerary above but on your third day set up an adventure tour to hike up one of the nearby volcanoes .

Many of the volcanoes can be visited as part of a day trip from Antigua, although, as some are still active, it’s a good idea to check the governmental website INSIMUVEH for up-to-date information before you decide to climb any.

An hour’s drive from Antigua lies Volcán Pacaya , an active complex volcano that last erupted in 2014 – but only showered nearby cities with ash.

There’s a moderate climb to reach the crater, where you can see molten lava glowing against blackened ash and even toast marshmallows. You’ll want hiking boots and to go with a licensed tour operator based out of Antigua (from $15 USD including transport to the volcano).

Another option is Volcán Acatenango , although only if you’re in good shape as it’s a challenging climb to the summit.

A seven-hour hike up to the 3,975-metre peak promises outstanding views across Antigua Guatemala in the distance, as well as many of the nearby volcanoes including the smoke-puffing Volcán Fuego. Again, you’ll want to organise a tour with a company in Antigua (from $90 USD pp). 

Where to stay in Antigua on a budget: Modern décor is combined with plenty of outdoor patio and garden space for guests at the top-notch Adra Hostel ($100 USD double, $20 USD dorm), situated just a few blocks east of Parque Central. Rooms are spacious and there’s a fantastic bar and restaurant if you don’t want to leave your lodgings in the evening, while a rooftop terrace with outstanding views across the city is just the cherry on the top of this excellent hostel.

Days four to seven: Lago de Atitlán and Chichicastenango

Follow the previous itinerary but on day seven, hop on either a tourist shuttle from Panajachel ($14 USD) or for a considerably cheaper option, catch a series of local buses ($11 Q) to Chichicastenango (known as Chichi by the locals), a pretty highland town home to mostly Maya people of the K’iche culture. 

The town’s main attraction is its local market , with Chichicastenango taking the riotous colour and chaos of the traditional Latin American market to the next level.

Every Thursday and Sunday the town comes alive, with stalls offering everything from high-quality huipiles and other beautiful traditional textiles to pottery, ceremonial wooden masks and every fruit and vegetable you could ever find in Guatemala.

While you’re in town, be sure to pop into the church, Santo Tomás , which has been the site of a curious mix of Catholic and Maya religious beliefs for the past few centuries.

Inside (enter through the side door and don’t take photos – it’s strictly forbidden) you’ll find local people praying for their ancestors and making offerings of maize, flowers and bottles of alcohol.

Return to Antigua in the evening and stay overnight.

Days eight to ten: Petén – Tikal and Yaxha

Follow the previous itinerary but on day ten organise a tour to visit the Maya site of Yaxhá ($30 USD entrance), which lies just 30 kilometres away from Tikal.

Although it is smaller in size than its better-known brother, Yaxhá is home to around 500 structures including nine mighty temples that tower over the jungle landscapes of this remote part of Guatemala.

Visited by far fewer tourists than Tikal, Yaxhá is a place to get under the skin of the Maya, in a site that has still barely been excavated from the jungle. It’s thought that the first structures here were built around the same period as Tikal and it similarly found itself abandoned sometime around the 9 th century AD.

Spend a couple of hours exploring the site and be sure to climb up Structure 216, a restored pyramid that has outstanding views of the surrounding landscapes and Laguna Yaxhá that lies nearby. Sunset is particularly spectacular.

While it’s possible to get here under your own steam, it’s far easier to take a tour from Flores. These start from $175 USD per person and local operators Mayan Adventure and Gem Trips run excellent English-language tours.

Where to stay in Flores: A short drive from the airport and with a dazzling location on Laguna Exequil, just a few kilometres east of Flores, Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel ($300 USD double) is a true paradise, with bungalows built on stilts overlooking the lake. Try out their kayaks for a gentle paddle on the water, join their guides for an early-morning monkey tour, enjoy a sundowner on your balcony or take a dip in their freshwater pool – there’s plenty of love here. They can arrange tours of Tikal, as well as airport transfers.

Where to stay in Flores on a budget: Rooms are dated at Zapote Tree Inn ($40 USD), but that doesn’t matter when you’ve got a view of Lago de Peten Itzá and Flores quite like this. A swimming pool and terrace have the vest views in the house, while proximity to hiking trails and access to a nearby beach give this guesthouse an excellent location. It’s situated a short boat ride from Flores, but the owners can help you organise tours of Tikal, transport and practically anything you need.

Alternatively, you can stay in Parque Nacional Tikal, a short walk from the entrance to Tikal.

Where to stay near Tikal: Right inside the national park, Jungle Lodge ($100 USD double) is a remarkably up-scale hotel right in the middle of the jungle. Individual cabins are hidden away into the undergrowth, with beds made up with crisp white sheets slung with mosquito nets. A series of patios and a swimming pool allow you to while away the afternoon absorbing the sights, sounds and smells of the jungle, while a bar and restaurant provide decent dining options. They organise direct shuttles to the airport to connect with flights and lead sunrise and day tours of Tikal.

Where to stay near Tikal on a budget: The more affordable Jaguar Inn ($70 USD double, $30 USD two-person tent) is also situated right in the heart of Parque Nacional Tikal. Private bungalows are clean and comfortable and surrounded by the jungle, while you can also book a campsite or a campsite and tent if you’re on more of a budget – although the humidity can make camping a fairly uncomfortable experience.

Days eleven to thirteen: Río Dulce and Livingston

From Flores, hop on a bus bound for Río Dulce Town (four hours), a non-descript community with access to the sparklingly beautiful Río Dulce gorge. A vast river that winds through a towering canyon, stunning tropical vegetation and a rich array of jungle wildlife await.  

Get picked up from Río Dulce by boat and head out to your jungle lodge tucked deep into the gorge. Spend at least one day relaxing in a hammock or paddling up the tributaries of the river with a kayak, keeping your eyes peeled for howler monkeys and toucans in the canopy above. 

During your time here, you can take a day trip out to Lago de Izabal , a vast lake that feeds into the Río Dulce and whose shores are lined by dense jungle. Notable places to visit include the remarkable Finca Paraíso , a hot spring waterfall where the scorching spray mixes with the icy water of a secondary river that feeds into the pool beneath the falls.

Make sure you carve out a day to truly appreciate the canyon, with a day trip out to Livingston . Accessed only by boat, this shabby town bridges the gap between Guatemala and the Caribbean, lying as it does on the Caribbean Sea.

There’s not much to do in Livingston – and the beaches aren’t much to write home about – but it’s the journey there that’s unforgettable.

The most spectacular part of the gorge known is located in the final few kilometres of the 30-kilometre stretch of river to Livingston, with the walls reaching up to 100-metres high at points and, if you’re lucky, the chance to spot manatees in the water.

When you get to Livingston, make sure to try the local delicacy, tapado (a spicy fish stew).

Where to stay in Río Dulce: Situated on the shores of the Río Dulce between Río Dulce Town and Livingston, El Hotelito Perdido ($30 USD double) is a rustic but charming eco lodge, with cosy thatched cabins, each with hammocks on their private terraces. It’s a great place for a bout of relaxation; hire a kayak, arrange a tour by boat or just enjoy a refreshing drip in the river. Delicious dinners are served for guests in the evening around a large family table, making this the ideal place to get chatting to other travellers.

Where to stay in Río Dulce on a budget: Reached by boat up a tributary of the Río Dulce, Finca Tatin ($25 USD double, $10 USD dorm) is a true jungle paradise, with basic cabins, many of which overlook the river, making up the lodgings here. Private doubles and dorms provide a range of accommodations for different budgets, while you can organise a hiking trip or hire a kayak to keep you busy during the day.

Day fourteen: Guatemala City

Take the bus back to Guatemala City (6 hours) and then head home.

Alternative destinations to add into your Guatemala travel itinerary

If you’ve got a little more time for your Guatemala vacation or fancy switching out some of the cultural destinations for more nature-focussed activities, these following places will be right up your street.

El Paredón (two to three days)

If you want to chill out in a hammock, learn about local environmental projects or do some surfing, the scruffy beach village of El Paredón is a great option for a couple of days, and is located a two-hour shuttle from Antigua .

Lying on Gutaemala’s Pacific Coast (where the water is far warmer than what you find further south), El Paredón is a relaxed little village known for its turtle population and surfing.   

The best place to see them is with a tour of the nearby mangroves and river – one of only seven sea turtle feeding grounds in the world.

The fantastic La Choza Chula , a social enterprise and tour operator who run a series of social and environmental projects in the community, run tours ($25 USD).  They can also arrange homestays ($13 USD) if you fancy staying with a local family.

On the beach, you’ll find a turtle hatchery where, if you’re in luck and visiting between June and November, you might get to see baby turtles being released across the beach to the sea.

Where to stay in El Paredón: There aren’t many options in El Paredón, but for surfers, there’s no better choice than Surf House El Paredón ($85 USD double, $30 USD dorm), which supports the work of local social enterpriseLa Choza Chula. All of the bungalows have spectacular beach views, with more rustic dormitory-style bungalows and smarter double cabins with terraces and comfy seating offering a range of options depending on your budget. Breakfast and dinner are included in room rates and they have surf boards to rent and operate surf classes.

Semuc Champey (one to two days)

If you’re got a couple of extra days or instead of visiting Río Dulce, you can head out to Guatemala’s most photographed natural landform: Semuc Champey .

A series of six turquoise pools are stepped into the river bed on a natural limestone bridge over the Río Cahabón. It’s the ultimate place to spend a day wallowing in the refreshing water and admiring the picture-perfect location, which is set within an idyllic valley thick with jungle.

Semuc Champey is difficult to include on a short itinerary because of the difficulty in getting to the destination.

You can either get here by an eight-hour shuttle from Flores or Antigua to the town of Lanquin, from where it’s easiest to take a tour (around $30 USD) or catch a local pick-up truck (just be aware that you’ll need to leave early to catch the final one back).

Where to stay near Semuc Champey: Down river from Semuc Champey, Utopia Eco Hotel ($35 USD double, $11 USD dorm) doesn’t quite live up to its name, but it tries its best, with its clutch of basic rooms boasting large open terraces with views across the jungle and the river beyond. Yoga classes, plenty of communal space and a great on-site restaurant serving up tasty local dishes almost makes up for the cold showers.

How to amend this Guatemala itinerary

Want to learn Spanish while getting to explore some of Guatemala’s most exciting destinations? Combing travel with language learning with this two- or four-week immersive Spanish language course , that takes you from Antigua to Lake Atitlan and then up to Shemuc Champey and Flores, giving you the chance to explore some of Guatemala’s most beautiful locations, go hiking through the jungle at the Mayan city of Tikal, and even take part in volunteering along the way. This course includes accommodation, various activities, and transportation, plus small-group Spanish language classes across the two- or four-week program – just remember to use the code WorldlyAdventurer to secure a 5% discount.

Saturday 1st of October 2022

Hey, thanks so much for this very detailed and authentic article, is there any way i can contact you for more question as i'm heading there with a friend around christmas time.

Steph Dyson

Wednesday 12th of October 2022

Hi Alexandre. Yes: [email protected]

The world is smaller than you think.

Guatemala guided tours.

Our guides hand-pick destinations from our favorite countries around the world to create an experience unlike other guided tours. Next up… GUATEMALA!! Most tour operators just herd groups from sight to sight, overlooking beautiful little details and potential experiences in between. Our Guatemala guided tours get you off the beaten path and feature details that make the journey more enjoyable and authentic. We also give you genuine opportunities to interact with locals and to give back to the communities you visit.

For our next tours, we’ve chosen  amazing Guatemala, Central America’s cultural gem . From its palpable Mayan influence to ancient ruins to active volcanoes to beautiful colonial cities , Guatemala has much to offer an adventurous spirit . We’ve designed four Guatemala guided tours  for experiencing this fascinating country and all of our tours include an element of philanthropy , giving you the opportunity to give back to local communities. Don’t miss out, Guatemala is just a Hop, Skip, and Jump away!

explore our guatemala GUIDED Tour packages

Our Guatemala guided tours provide you with a unique and immersive experience, connecting you with the country’s rich history, natural wonders, and vibrant culture . All of our Guatemala guided tours incorporate an element of philanthropy , ensuring meaningful connections with local communities. Don’t miss out on these unforgettable adventures in Central America’s cultural gem!

Best of Guatemala

April 20- may 5, 2024.

This tour hits all the best highlights and is as close as one can get to having the “complete” Guatemalan experience in under 3 weeks. The first half of the trip is more relaxed and focused on soaking up the beauty and history of this fascinating country, while the more adventurous second half will get you off the beaten path and test the explorer in you. This package includes everything featured in our other Guatemala guided tours combined. Cobblestone Streets, Lakeside Villages, Volcano Trekking, Jungle Pools, Mayan Ruins, and so much more…

Culture, Beauty & Ruins

April 20 - april 30, 2024.

This tour is a more compact “Greatest Hits” for those who don’t have time for the full 16 day Guatemala guided tour. You’ll visit all of the highlights of the Colonial & Mayan Beauty tour: Charming Antigua, stunning Lake Atitlan, Chichicastenango’s indigenous market, Long Way Home’s spectacular eco-friendly school, art galleries, cooking classes, and more…plus you’ll fly to northern Guatemala to experience beautiful Flores and the Ancient Mayan Ruins of Tikal.

Adventure Seekers

April 27- may 5, 2024.

If you want to feel like an explorer and prefer a faster pace with more physical activity, this is the Guatemala guided tour for you. Hear the jungle come alive as you watch the sunrise atop an ancient Mayan temple. Explore pitch-black caves with helmet lamps and handheld candles. Take a 4×4 ride to swim in pristine hidden jungle pools. Hike up a volcano to camp overnight and watch another erupt. Spend a morning volunteering at the fantastic ARCAS animal rescue .

Colonial & Mayan Beauty

Apr 20-27, 2024.

This Guatemala guided tour moves at a relaxed pace, allowing you time to soak up the beauty and charm of your surroundings. Walk the cobblestone streets of colonial Antigua, visiting old Spanish churches and convents. Explore the charming lakeside villages of gorgeous Lake Atitlan. Shop the spectacular, colorful indigenous market in Chichicastenango. Tour the galleries and murals of artistic Comalapa. Spend a special day at Long Way Home’s amazing school built from tires.

Guatemala is the first tour chosen by our lead guide but we can design customized tours to anywhere in the world for your group.

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Travel Guide Guatemala

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Spanning a mountainous slice of Central America immediately south of Mexico, Guatemala is loaded with incredible natural, historical and cultural appeal. As the birthplace and heartland of the ancient Maya, the country is, defined by the legacy of this early civilization.

Guatemala travel facts

Where to go in guatemala, best time to travel to guatemala.

• How to get to Guatemala

How to get around Guatemala

7 best places to visit in guatemala, itineraries for guatemala, accommodation in guatemala, food and drink in guatemala, things to do in guatemala, living and working in guatemala, festivals in guatemala, travel visa requirements for guatemala, guatemala’s best fiestas.

Their rainforest cities were abandoned centuries ago, but Maya people continue to thrive in the Guatemalan highlands , where traditions and religious rituals endure to form the richest and most distinctive indigenous identity in the hemisphere.

Guatemala today is very much a synthesis of Maya and colonial traditions, fused with the influences of twenty-first-century Latin and North American culture. It is still a developing nation, a young democracy with a turbulent and bloody history that’s beset by deep-rooted inequalities.

And yet, despite alarming levels of poverty and unemployment, most Guatemalans are extraordinarily courteous and helpful to travellers, and only too eager to help you catch the right bus or practise your Spanish.

It’s this genuine and profound hospitality combined with the country’s outstanding cultural legacy and astonishing natural beauty that makes Guatemala travel so compelling.

• Language : Spanish (majority of population).
• Official unit of currency : quetzal (GTQ)
• Population : 17.3 million in 2018, with a growth rate of 1.75 percent per annum (one of the highest in the western hemisphere). Ethnically, the population is almost equally divided between indigenous Maya and ladinos (who are mainly of mixed race), although there are tiny numbers of black Garífuna (about eight thousand in all), ethnic Chinese and non-Maya Xinca.
• Tourist numbers : 826,000 in 2000; 2.11 million in 2017.
• Politics : The Republic of Guatemala (capital Guatemala City) is a democratic republic, headed by a president who is head of both state and government. It shares land borders with Mexico, Honduras, Belize and El Salvador and comprises of 108,890 square kilometers.
• UNESCO World Heritage sites : Guatemala has three: the city of Antigua, the Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua and Tikal National Park.

To travel Guatemala is to experience a country of wonderful contrasts. Take in the colonial beauty of UNESCO-listed Antigua and marvel at the difference to busy, modern Guatemala City.

Get out of the cities and back to nature, along with an insight into Maya culture, in the beautiful and captivating western highlands. Lago de Atitlán is unmissable – think Lake Como with soaring volcanoes – while the Cuchumatanes mountain range offers some excellent walking trails.

East of Guatemala City you’ll find the Oriente and Izabal , where you can cruise down the idyllic Río Dulce and explore its spectacular gorge. It’s also the region to head to for Guatemala’s best beaches. The Pacific coast is not as impressive with its black-sand coast and dangerous undertow, but it’s worth a visit for the lovely seaside town of Monterrico.

Head north to Petén to explore ancient Maya temples and palaces, including Tikal , possibly the most impressive Maya site in all of Latin America.

Indulge in some serious relaxation in the natural bathing pools of Semuc Champey in the Cobán and the Verapaces region, surrounded by lush rainforest.

Discover more places in Guatemala

• Petén Travel Guide
• The western highlands Travel Guide
• Antigua Travel Guide

Guatemala enjoys a warm climate all year round, with temperatures peaking at an average of 32 degrees on the Caribbean coast in April and May. This makes deciding on when to travel to Guatemala a lot easier.

Humidity is determined by altitude: you won’t get hot and bothered in many of the traveller hot spots thanks to their location, including Antigua, Guatemala City and Lago de Atitlán.

There is a rainy season, which runs from May to October, with the worst of the rain falling in September and October. The rain is usually limited to late afternoon downpours, so it needn’t hamper your visit.

Peak season is between December and March and again between July and August, seen as the best time to visit Guatemala in terms of weather, but best to avoid if you want cheaper accommodation.

Here’s the full lowdown on the best time to travel to Guatemala .

There are two international airports in Guatemala. La Aurora International Airport is the biggest and will land you in the capital, Guatemala City. Most flights are routed via US hub cities Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami and New York. There are no direct flights from the UK or Ireland, Australasia or South Africa, with most travellers heading via the States.

If you visit Guatemala as part of a bigger Central America trip, a land or boat crossing is a great way to experience more of the region. You’ll find regular bus services from Mexico , El Salvador and Honduras , while a daily boat runs from Belize .

Here’s a bit more about getting to Guatemala , along with a run-down of our favourite tour operators.

Buses are the most common way to travel around Guatemala. Some comfortable coaches run the main routes, while pricey shuttle buses take passengers between the main tourist centres. But for an essential Guatemalan experience, a chicken bus or microbus is the order of the day. Be warned: they are bumpy, busy and fume-filled, but also cheap, convenient and often the only way to get to an off-the-beaten-track destination.

If you can’t face the bus, taxis are available in all the main towns and their rates are pretty low — just make sure you negotiate the fare beforehand. Thai-style tuk-tuks have popped up in a lot of places, if you’re after a cheaper alternative.

There are no passenger trains in Guatemala, and the only internal flight runs from Guatemala City to Flores, gateway to Tikal.

Take a look at our full travel guide to getting around Guatemala .

• Explore the centro histórico in Guatemala City It may be gritty and run-down, but a trip to the capital’s Zona 1 is a rite of passage when you’re in Guatemala City. It houses some impressive, albeit crumbling, nineteenth-century architecture and Parque Central, an imposing plaza that is prime for people watching. The centre is slowly regenerating: walk along pedestrianised streets and stop in some of the new cafes and bars that have sprung up amongst the chaos.
• Trek up Volcán de Pacaya A day-trip from Antigua or Guatemala City, a hike to the top of active volcano Pacaya is an unforgettable experience. One of Central America’s most active volcanoes, Pacaya regularly spits out clouds of rock and ash. Watch the eruptions at night, when brilliant orange lava lights up the sky.
• Kick back in Antigua There’s a reason Antigua has become Guatemala’s foremost tourist destination. Wander the beautiful streets, admire the colonial churches and grand houses or relax in one of the many cafes, bars or top-notch restaurants. OK, it could be perceived as a little bourgeois compared to the rest of the country, but aesthetically, it’s like nowhere else in the world. Relax and enjoy.
• Take in Maya ruins and wildlife at Tikal It’s been lauded as the most impressive of all Maya sites, and a visit to Tikal won’t disappoint. Five 60m tall temples dominate the ruins with thousands of other structures around them, many still hidden under mounds of earth and entwined with tree roots. Around the site you’ll find the Parque Nacional Tikal, a protected part of the Reserva de la Biósfera Maya rainforest. Head there are dawn or dusk for the best wildlife spotting opportunities and listen out for the distinct roar of the howler monkeys.
• Bathe in the pools at Semuc Champey The prime attraction in Cobán and the Verapaces, the sublime turquoise pools of Semuc Champey are at the foot of a plunging, jungle-clad river valley. Bring your swimsuit, because this will be the most beautiful bathing spot you’ve ever encountered.
• Kayak the Río Dulce gorge The incomparable Río Dulce gorge is worth taking your time over. Forgo the fast public boat in favour of a slower cruise or, even better, kayak from one of the nearby hotels and explore it at your leisure. If you’re lucky (and an early riser), you might even spot some manatees on a morning paddle.
• Shop ‘til you drop in Chichicastenango Pick up something to help remember your trip to Guatemala at Chichicastenango, a vast twice-weekly market in El Quiché at the heart of the western highlands. It’s on the touristy side, but local people still come here to trade their wares. If you’re after some traditional weaving, be prepared to hunt and haggle for the best quality. For a less touristy market, pay nearby Sololá a visit instead.

Whether you’ve got two weeks or a few months to travel around Guatemala, carefully crafted itineraries will help you make the most of your trip.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Guatemala, created by local experts

12 days  / from 6840 USD

Off the tourist trail and highlights of Guatemala and Belize

Meet school kids in Antigua and traders in Chichicastenango before learning ancient cookery and weaving skills and viewing a Mayan ceremony. This fascinating tour visits archaeological sites such as majestic Tikal before an idyllic private island stay off Belize’s Caribbean coast completes the trip.

12 days  / from 2820 USD

The Best Of Guatemala & Belize

Visit Antigua with the nearby Pacaya volcano before heading to Lake Atitlán and further to Tikal, once one of the most powerful kingdoms of the ancient Maya. Afterwards, cross the border to Belize to visit the Caracol ruins and enjoying some sun & sand on Ambergris Caye.

12 days  / from 2450 USD

Guatemala and Belize Family Adventure

Take a family-friendly adventure through Guatemala and Belize. Discover Lake Atitlan on kayaks, explore the active volcano Pacaya or play hide and seek in the large archaeological complex of Tikal before heading out to Belize for its fantastic underwater world and gorgeous beaches.

8 days  / from 1280 USD

The Best Of Guatemala

You will visit the most popular destinations including the Western Highlands, Tikal and Antigua Guatemala. Enjoy the different types of activities like exploring the Mayan pyramids in the middle of the virgin jungle or having one of the best cups of coffee surrounded by a unique landscape.

9 days  / from 2385 USD

Unparalleled Guatemala

Guatemala's culture and archaeology is one of the most fascinating ones in the world. On this trip, you will get to know the locals of several places: Mayan food in Antigua, the Quiché people in Chichicastenango, the Mayan ruins of Tikal and much more.

11 days  / from 1790 USD

A true Mayan expedition

This trip takes you all over Guatemala, from Antigua over Chichicastenango to Lake Atitlán. Take a day trip across the border to Honduras to visit the Mayan ruins of Copán before continuing to Guatemala's Caribbean coast: Rio Dulce awaits before you head to the ruins of Tikal.

8 days  / from 1450 USD

Guatemala Family Adventure Tour

This is the perfect family vacation taking you throughout Guatemala. Visit the active Pacaya volcano on an easy trek and watch the lava; enjoy a canopy ride through the middle of the rain forest and observe the nature just as the birds see it and enjoy Lake Atitlan by kayak.

If you’ve got at least a month and want a taste of the cities, Maya culture, natural sites and ancient temples, the Grand Tour is for you. It’s the classic route that aims to give you a flavour of everything that Guatemala has to offer.

Short on time? Don’t try to see it all. Ancient Maya is a jam-packed trip around Petén, Guatemala’s Maya heartland and home to hundreds of ancient sites.

Or you could focus your energy on one diverse region with our Western highlands route, which includes stops at the famous Chichicastenango market and Fuentes Georginas hot springs. Take a look at all our Guatemala itineraries in more detail.

Budget travellers, rejoice: cheap accommodation in Guatemala is plentiful. You should be able to bag a double room for US$15 in any town (Guatemala City will set you back a bit more). Hostels are often run by expats and offer everything even the most discerning backpacker could desire. If you’ve got some cash to splash, it’ll stretch to luxury hotels with impressive colonial decor.

Our guide to accommodation in Guatemala will give you the full lowdown, as well as an option to book hotels and hostels.

You certainly won’t go hungry in Guatemala. The cuisine is a mix of Maya, Latin American and Western traditions, and it’s filling and good value. You’ll find more choice in the touristy spots, where there are plenty of vegetarian options too.

If you’re travelling on a shoestring, or just want a more authentic Guatemalan experience, dine in a comedor — simple eateries that serve big portions of food at inexpensive prices — or head to a street food stall.

Stomach rumbling? Read more about food and drink in Guatemala .

Watch a fútbol game

Guatemalans have a furious appetite for spectator sports and fútbol (soccer) tops the bill. If you get the chance to see a major game it’s a thrilling experience, if only to watch the crowd. The two big local teams, both from Guatemala City, are Municipal and Communications.

Guatemala has great hiking, particularly volcano climbing, which is hard work but almost always worth the effort. There are 37 volcanic peaks; the tallest is Tajumulco in the far west, which at 4220m is a serious undertaking. Pacaya is a fairly easy climb and a dramatic sight. For your personal safety, it’s best to hike in an organised tour group.

There’s excellent ocean and freshwater fishing in Guatemala. The Pacific coast offers exceptional sport-fishing, with some of the best waters in the world for sailfish, as well as dorado, mahi mahi and some blue marlin, jack crevalle, yellow and black tuna, snapper and bonito. The Caribbean side offers excellent opportunities for snook and tarpon. In Petén, the rivers and lakes are packed with sport fish, including snook, tarpon and peacock bass.

Whitewater rafting

Guatemala’s dramatic highland landscape and tumbling rivers provide some excellent opportunities for whitewater rafting. As well as being a thrilling experience, rafting gives you the chance to see some very remote areas and also visit some of the country’s most inaccessible Maya sites.

Caving and tubing

Caving is popular, especially in the area north of Cobán where you can explore great caverns and tube down underground rivers. The northern Alta Verapaz region is the place to head.

Mountain biking

There are terrific mountain bike trails throughout the highlands, with several professional operators organizing trips. Maya Mountain Bike Tours and Old Town Outfitters, both in Antigua, have excellent bikes and tours, staring at about US$35 for a half-day escorted ride. Further west, Atitlán Tours organizes excellent mountain-bike excursions around the crater of Lago de Atitlán.

Two of the best areas for kayakers are the Río Dulce region with its stunning gorge and jungle tributaries, and the sublime shoreline around Lago de Atitlán. Hotels in both these places offer kayaks for rent or contact Los Elementos in Santa Cruz La Laguna for expert advice and guided paddles.

Scuba diving

The seas off Guatemala have little to offer compared with the splendours of the neighbouring Belizean or Honduran coastal waters. Nevertheless, there are some diving possibilities, including Lago de Atitlán.

There is some surfing in Guatemala, but with a strong undertow along much of the Pacific coast, conditions are not ideal. However, there is a growing surf scene at Paredón, near Sipacate, and Iztapa.

If shopping is your thing, visit as many markets as possible, particularly in the highland villages, where the colour and spectacular settings are like nowhere else in Central America.

The large markets of Chichicastenango, Sololá and San Francisco el Alto are all well worth a visit, but equally fascinating are the tiny weekly gatherings in remote villages like San Juan Atitán and Chajul, where the atmosphere is hushed and unhurried.

Guatemalan crafts are known locally as artesanías, and are very much a part of Maya culture. The best place to buy them is in their place of origin, where prices are reasonable and their creators get a greater share of the profit. The most impressive craft has to be textile weaving — each Maya village has its own traditional designs, woven in fantastic patterns and with superbly vivid colours.

Plenty of travellers get seduced by Guatemala’s natural beauty, inexpensive cost of living and the hospitality of its citizens. Many choose to put down roots for a while to study Spanish. Similarly there are myriad opportunities for voluntary workers, and dozens of excellent projects, though little in the way of paid work.

Studying Spanish

Most schools offer a weekly deal that includes four or five hours one-on-one tuition a day, plus full board with a local family. This all-inclusive package works out at between US$120 and US$310 a week (most are in the US$140–180 bracket) depending on the school and location.

The most popular places to study are Antigua, Quetzaltenango and Lago de Atitlán. Beautiful Antigua is undoubtedly an excellent place to base yourself, though the major drawback is that there are so many other students and tourists here that you’ll probably end up spending your evenings speaking English. Quetzaltenango has a different atmosphere, with a stronger Guatemalan character and far fewer tourists, while Lago de Atitlán is popular with younger travellers and has very cheap rates.

Volunteer and paid work

There are dozens of excellent organizations offering voluntary work placements in Guatemala. Medical and health specialists are always desperately needed, though there are always openings in other areas, from work helping to improve the lives of street children to environmental projects and wildlife conservation. Generally, the longer the length of time you can commit to, and the higher your level of Spanish, the more in demand you’ll be. The best place to start a search is on the web (or in Guatemala itself).

As for paid work, teaching English is your best bet, particularly if you have a recognized qualification like TEFL. There are always a few vacancies for staff in the gringo bars of Antigua, and in backpackers’ hostels.

Traditional fiestas are a highlight of a trip to Guatemala and offer a real insight into the culture. Every town and village, however small, devotes at least one day a year to celebration. The main day is normally prescribed by the local saint’s day, though the celebrations often extend a week or two around that date. With a bit of planning you should be able to witness at least one fiesta – most of them are well worth going out of your way for. All share an astonishing energy and an unbounded enthusiasm for drink, dance and fireworks.

Fiesta dances

In Guatemala’s Maya villages, traditional dances form a pivotal part in the fiesta celebrations. They are all heavily imbued with history and symbolism. The most common dance is the Baile de la Conquista, which re-enacts the victory of the Spanish over the Maya, whilst bringing a touch of ridicule.

Fiesta music

Guatemalan music combines many different influences. For fiestas, bands are always shipped in, complete with a crackling PA system and a strutting lead singer.

Traditional Guatemalan music is dominated by the marimba, a type of wooden xylophone that originated in Africa. Marimba orchestras play at every occasion and in the remotest of villages you sometimes hear them practicing well into the night, particularly around market day. Mainstream music reflects modern Latin American sounds, much of it originating in Miami, Panama, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.

Travel advice for Guatemala

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Guatemala

• Eating and drinking in Guatemala
• Getting around Guatemala: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips Guatemala for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Guatemala
• 5 days in Guatemala — 4 travel itineraries

Before you travel to Guatemala, it’s worth making sure you have up-to-date travel advice. Our guide to Guatemala travel essentials will bring you up to speed on the climate, time difference, recommended vaccinations, location of embassies and consulates, tips on travelling with children and lots more.

Citizens from most western countries (including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and most, but not all, EU states) need only a valid passport to enter Guatemala for up to ninety days.

Passport holders from other countries (including some Eastern European nations) qualify for a Guatemalan visa, but have to get one from a Guatemalan embassy or consulate.

Citizens from most developing world nations, including much of Asia and Africa, need to apply for a visa well in advance.

If you’re wondering whether you’ll need a visa, phone an embassy for the latest entry requirements; Guatemala has embassies in all the region’s capitals.

Although there’s no charge to enter or leave the country, border officials at land crossings commonly ask for a small fee (typically US$2.50), which is destined straight for their back pockets. You might try avoiding such payments by asking for un recibo (a receipt); but prepare yourself for a delay at the border.

Top image © SL-Photography/Shutterstock

Almost all addresses are based on the grid system, with avenidas (Av) running in one direction (north to south) and calles east to west, often numbered. All addresses specify the street first, then the block, and end with the zone. For example, the address “Av la Reforma 3–55, Zona 10” means that house is on Avenida la Reforma, between 3 and 4 calles, at no. 55, in Zona 10. In Antigua calles and avenidas are also divided according to their direction from the central plaza – north, south, east or west (norte, sur, oriente and poniente). Diagonales (diagonals) are what you’d expect – a street that runs in an oblique direction.

Easter Week

Semana Santa processions Antigua.

Maximón confronts Christ in Santiago Atitlán.

July 31–August 6

National Fiesta of Folklore, Cobán.

August 12–15

Marimba-playing marathon Nebaj, in the Ixil region.

September 15

Independence Day nationwide, particularly impressive in Guatemala City

Pagan skull-bearing procession San José, Petén.

Kite-flying festival, Santiago, Sacatepéquez and Sumpango.

Drunken horse race, Todos Santos Cuchumatán.

November 26

Garífuna day, Lívingston.

December 21

Maya-style bungy jump in Chichicastenango.

Overshadowing the southern half of the country, a chain of volcanoes extends in an ominous arc from 4220m-high Tajumulco on the Mexican border to the frontier with Honduras. Depending on how you define a volcano – some vulcanologists do not classify lateral cones in the folds of a larger peak to be volcanoes for example – Guatemala has somewhere between 33 and 40. Three of these, Pacaya , Fuego and Santiaguito are highly active, regularly belching soaring plumes of smoke and ash. An ascent up Pacaya rarely fails to disappoint as it’s usually possible to get up close and personal with the orange lava flows, but there are myriad other incredible climbs.

Lago de Atitlán is actually the former caldera of a giant volcano that cataclysmically blew its top some 85,000 years ago. So much magma was expelled that most of the vast cone collapsed, and centuries of rainwater filled the depression, creating today’s lake.

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Home » Central America » Guatemala » Backpacking Guide

Backpacking Guatemala Travel Guide (Updated for 2024)

People always ask me what my favourite country is that I’ve travelled to. It’s a tough question to answer, but I always say backpacking in Guatemala with no hesitation. This country really stole my heart.

Its steaming jungles, diverse highlands, active volcanoes, and crumbling Mayan temples will keep even the most adventurous travellers busy for weeks. It’s no wonder travellers (and hippies) have been backpacking Guatemala for decades.

My favourite part about Guatemala is the prominent, vibrant Mayan culture that is still alive and well (despite hundreds of years of persecution due to Spanish colonization and racism, but that’s another story). The local people are so unbelievably friendly and welcoming; they’re truly excited to share the beauty of their country with others.

I had the best day of my life in Guatemala. I trekked up an active volcano and watched repeated magical eruptions amongst the backdrop of an enchanting night sky.

If you haven’t travelled to Central America yet, Guatemala is a MUST-VISIT. Prepare for a culturally enriching and fruitful journey you’ll be recounting to your friends for years to come.

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Yes? Ok, let’s go to Guatemala!

Why Go Backpacking in Guatemala

Guatemala is a relatively small country, so you can cover a lot of ground with minimal time. That being said, many backpackers spend months in hotspots like Antigua, Xela, and  Lake Atitlan.

Whether you love or hate the remains of Spanish colonization, Antigua is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in the world. Staying in Antigua is an excellent to explore close by volcanos; a few are still active and it’s possible to watch Volcano Fuego erupt – a must-see on any Guatemala travel itinerary.

The highlands of Guatemala are home to many Mayan communities and some beautiful places. Lake Atitlan is the most famous destination in the highlands, thanks to the beautiful scenery and dozens of unique towns surrounding the lake. If you want to get off the beaten path, check out the Ixil Region , and consider participating in a home stay. Many expats and long-term backpackers base themselves in Xela  for Spanish lessons and an immersive cultural experience.

Finally, Guatemala grows some of the best coffee in the world! Make sure to visit a local coffee farm or another type of  finca  (farm) in Guatemala, and help support the local economy . You can also visit cacao farms and factories, as well as macadamia and avocado farms!

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking Guatemala

I have included 3 Guatemala Travel Itineraries below to inspire your next visit! It is possible to see a lot of the country in just a few short weeks of backpacking Guatemala.

Backpacking Guatemala 4 Week Itinerary #1: Guatemala’s Highlights

If you truly want to explore Guatemala, I suggest setting aside at least 4 weeks. There are a few backpacker spots that can easily captivate your heart and steal you away for months.

If you are flying to Guatemala, you will definitely start your trip in Guatemala City , the capital. I’ve spent a lot of time in the city, but I don’t recommend that tourists spend much time here. Head to the beautiful (though touristy) colonial city of Antigua  instead.

Only 45 minutes from the capital, Antigua feels a world away from the city. You can easily spend several days in Antigua, especially if you plan on visiting nearby  fincas  (farms), the great La Iguana Perdida hostel , and hiking a lot of volcanoes.

While it technically makes sense to head to  Lake Atitlan  first, I’m going to suggest you get a bus to the city of Xela next. Xela is another backpacker hang out, a bit grimier than Antigua, though more authentic and cheaper to live.

This is another great town to base yourself for nearby volcanoes and hikes! Many backpackers choose to live here for a couple of months for volunteer opportunities and Spanish lessons instead of Antigua (which is more expensive and touristy).

You can access the lesser-visited highland area of Guatemala, like the Ixil Region (the most targeted area during the Civil War), here.

From Xela,  hike to Lake Atitlan with the awesome crew at Quetzal Trekkers . This volunteer-based non-profit company guides various hikes out of Xela while raising money for the local schools.

The Xela to Lake Atitlan 3 day excursion is one of the coolest experiences you can have in Guatemala because you have the opportunity to hike through and spend the night in remote Mayan villages only connected by narrow footpaths.

Once in Lake Atitlan , you can spend weeks here, as many backpackers do. I suggest devoting at least 5 days if you have the time. The lake is rather large, and all of the surrounding towns are completely unique to one another.

From Lake Atitlan, you can visit Chichicastenango , home to the biggest market in Central America. The market is only open on Thursdays and Sundays, so plan accordingly.

Then we leave the Guatemalan highlands and head to Guatemala’s beautiful Cobán region, full of jungles, waterfalls, and Maya culture. The most famous backpacker hang out is Semuc Champey , near the town of Lanquin (where the hostels are located, thanks to the unreal waterfalls and pools. You’ll want at least 3 days here, especially since the journey to/from is tiring.

Next take an overnight bus to Flores , the gateway to the impressive Mayan ruins of Tikal . Flores is a laid-back town and backpacker hang out on the middle of an island in a lake. You only need a couple days to visit Tikal, but you can access other Mayan ruins like Yaxha . You can also arrange a 5-6 day hiking excursion to the newly discovered El Mirador ruins, which are still being uncovered by archaeologists today!

After visiting Tikal you can travel onward to Belize or Mexico by bus. Otherwise, you need to return to Guatemala City for an international flight.

If you are travelling south on the Central American gringo trail, you can bus to the Caribbean side of Guatemala. Most backpackers stop in Río Dulce and Livingston , where the river meets the ocean, for a few days, and then carry on to Honduras, specifically the Bay Islands for some diving.

Backpacking Guatemala 2 Week Itinerary #2: Guatemala Highlands

This is a great itinerary if you only have 2 weeks to backpack Guatemala. You will start your trip in Guatemala City and quickly head to Antigua  for 3-5 days. From here you can shop, explore the local  fincas , and climb volcanoes like  Volcano Acatenango and Volcano Santa Maria .

Next head to Lake Atitla n and base yourself for another 5 days. You can make a day trip to Chichicastenango for the biggest market in Central America.

Finish your adventures with 4 days in Xela , exploring the nearby volcanoes, hot springs, and villages. Catch a ride back to Guatemala City just in time for your flight.

Backpacking Guatemala 1 Week Itinerary #3: Jungles and Ruins

If you only have one week to backpack Guatemala I suggest two options. One, stay in Antigua and explore the nearby surroundings.

Or two, go on an adventure through Guatemala’s jungles and ruins. Catch a long bus to Lanquín and base yourself here for 3 days exploring the nearby caves and Semuc Champey. Next, take an overnight bus to Tikal and explore the ruins for two days before looping back to Guatemala City via an overnight bus, or moving on to backpacking Mexico for more Mayan ruins.

Places to Visit in Guatemala

Now that we’ve covered a few Guatemala itineraries, I’m going to expand on what you should do in the best places to visit in Guatemala , including Antigua, Xela, the Tikal area, and more.

Backpacking Antigua

Most first-time travellers who are backpacking Guatemala will start their trip in Antigua. This is a classic colonial town with beautiful neighbourhoods to stay at, and a great place to kick back or wander around the cobblestone streets. You’ll find quite a few hostels in Antigua as well, which makes it a great hang out spot for backpackers from all over the world.

During the day, explore the main square, do some shopping, or just chill out in one of the hundreds of cafes. There are plenty of great places to eat here, like Cafe Condesa and the organic Cafe Boheme. Don’t neglect the local food either! For something really special check out the amazing Casa Santo Tomas or Rainbow Café .

If you’re looking to party, check out the Terrace hostel’s rooftop bar or swing by the Snug. Cafe No Se is the best bar in Antigua, set up somewhat like a speakeasy. Try their homemade (illegal) mezcal, which is similar to tequila with a smoky flavour. Tropicana Hostel is the party hostel in the area, but there are hundreds of guesthouses to choose from for something more relaxing.

I can also recommend Tropicana Hostel for the nearby volcano climbs like Volcano Acatenango. They offer fair prices, decent gear, and a great view from their base camp.

For a real treat, head outside Antigua to Home Earth Lodge , an eco hotel and avocado farm.

There are plenty of other great farms to visit too. Make sure to visit a coffee farm for an afternoon, or better yet, volunteer at one. For a  unique experience, visit Valhalla Macadamia Nut Farm for the  best macadamia pancakes and to learn about their mission.

This farm is working to save the planet (macadamia trees are more sustainable than almonds and avocados) and give local families plots of land to provide a sustainable income (macadamia nuts grow year-round providing consistent income).

Visiting Antigua’s Nearby Volcanoes

There are a few awesome volcanoes you can summit near Antigua!

Volcán Pacaya is the easiest volcano to climb, and just takes a few hours. You can even roast marshmallows on the volcano. It is active, so you can’t climb to the top, but you can watch smoke arise from the crater and a somewhat safe distance! The last eruption – in 2014 – was catastrophic for the nearby villages.

My favorite volcano is Volcán Acatenango , which offers stunning views of the nearby Volcano Fuego (an active volcano erupting constantly). This is usually a 2 day climb where you spend the night near the top. (Although this volcano is extinct – meaning it will never erupt again – don’t  because of the intense wind and cold.)

You can also climb Volcán Agua  for spectacular views of Antigua. Hiking time is about 5 hours from Santa Maria de Jesús.

Backpacking Lake Atitlán

Just a few hours from Antigua, Lake Atitlán is an easy bus journey or hitchhike away. There are a number of villages surrounding the lake with completely different atmospheres and many amazing things to do . Many of them require a boat to reach them.

Panajachel is the most convenient town to base yourself because it’s connected to the main road. Many expats live here for its convenient shops, restaurants, and bars.

The most popular backpacker town around Lake Atitlan is undoubtedly San Pedro , thanks to its cheap bars, restaurants (check out Zoola!) and easygoing hostels. Mr Mullet’s offers one of the best valued dorms. I definitely recommend hanging out by the lake or renting kayaks. Make sure to hike up the nearby San Pedro Volcano. Bear in mind it takes 6 hours!

You can also summit Volcano Atitlán – the tallest of the three volcanoes – in 8 hours.

On the other side of the lake, you’ll find  San Marcos , a hippy enclave and mecca for yoga, massage, and spirituality. The Yoga Forest holds yoga retreats high above the main town. It’s pricey, but includes 3 meals and 2 yoga sessions a day.

My favorite town is Santa Cruz , next to San Pedro. You can visit local co-ops, take a weaving class, or visit the beautiful shops and cafés. It’s a quiet, laid-back atmosphere with plenty of authentic culture. You also have access to a coffee farm that serves their coffee on a nice patio!

Iguana Hotel (pictured below) is a great place to base yourself for a couple of days. Located in Santa Cruz, there isn’t much to do here except chill and admire the view, but that’s kind of the point. Hike up the steep hill to visit the locals!

Backpacking Chichistastenango

Chichi is home to the biggest market in North America! It’s an awesome place to explore and hunt for souvenirs and beautiful Maya textiles. Te market is only open on Thursdays and Sundays, so plan accordingly.

The local Santo Tomás Church blends both Maya rituals and Catholicism, and it’s well worth a visit. Most people just take a day trip to ChiChi.

Backpacking Xela (Quetzaltenango)

Quetzaltenango is commonly referred to as Xela (pronounced  Shela ). This bustling mountain town is a great city to organise 1 to 7 day treks in the stunning mountains, or base yourself for Spanish lessons, as many gringos do! Xela isn’t as clean or extravagant as Antigua, but it’s also not as expensive.

You can arrange a home stay with local families around here and see a side of Guatemala many travellers miss.

While visiting Xela, check out the local cemetery. Seriously! It’s colorful and fascinating. I also recommend indulging in the local street food, like pupusas , a delicious Salvadorian dish that is popular in Guatemala.

From Xela, you have access to hot springs and several volcanoes. Tajamulco Volcano is the highest point in Central America. You can hike for three days to Lake Atitlan via narrow footpaths in between remote Mayan villages. Another great multi-day hike is Nebaj to Totod Santos – four days of trekking through the stunning and varied scenery.

Backpacking Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey is an absolutely stunning series of waterfalls and limestone pools. Most people stay in the nearby town of Lanquin. It’s a bitch to get here, so allot enough time to chill and recuperate.

I recommend Greengo’s Hotel , there’s a lot to see out there.

You can also trek to a look-out point for panoramic views of the rain forest. If you’re feeling brave, head to the nearby caves and swim through the darkness with nothing but a candle. You can climb up waterfalls, scramble along walls, and just in deep, pitch-black pools. It’s actually not too dangerous, as long as you can swim properly!

Backpacking Flores and Tikal

From Semuc, you have a hell of a journey, 11 hours or so, to Flores. Most backpackers stay at the awesome Los Amigos Hostel, though I opted for the much quieter Dona Goya.

Flores itself is tiny; you can walk around it in about 20 minutes. It’s a chilled out little island and a good place to base yourself before you head to  Tikal or  El Mirador .

Make sure to visit the local night markets for amazing street food and deserts!

Tikal is a truly amazing place. Often times you will have the national park to yourself to wander around the massive temples with spider and howler monkeys swinging above you.

If you hike to  El Mirador , make sure to shop around for a proper guide!

You can hitch or take a public bus to Tikal, but consider hiring a guide with transport from Flores. It can actually end up costing the same price as a round-trip public bus ticket. We were able to get this deal, and our morning guide was quite knowledgeable. After the 2 hour tour, we left the group and explored Tikal on our own while still hitching a ride with one of their vans!

Backpacking Rio Dulce & Livingston

A lot of backpackers head to Rio Dulce, though it’s honestly not my favorite spot anymore. I used to love going there as a kid, but now it’s sort of expensive, especially the food, and the mosquitoes and cockroaches are heinous. Plus, everyone gets around via boat, so you kind of get “stuck” at your accommodation after hours (swatting away the mosquitoes and cockroaches).

That being said, it is a cool experience to grab a kayak or rent a boat and explore the river. The lush vegetation and mangroves are beautiful, and the houses built on stilts on the river are a sight to see. Still, I say 2 full days is plenty here.

Some travellers continue on to the Caribbean town of Livingston. I haven’t been, but I’ve heard mixed reviews. Some say it’s pretty dirty. Others say the Garifuna culture of Linvingston is fascinating! It’s a completely different cultural experience than elsewhere in Guatemala.

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Top Things to do in Guatemala

Whether you love the culture, the highlands, or the jungle, Guatemala has something incredible to discover in each of its distinctly different regions. Explore until your heart’s content and love every single minute of it.

I have listed the  top 10 most popular and best things to do in Guatemala below (but don’t worry, there are actually way more epic things to do ) to get your ideas flowing for your next Guatemala backpacking trip!

1 . Explore Tikal’s Mayan Ruins

Deep in the jungle, Tikal’s ruins were never discovered by Spanish invaders, so they remain remarkably brilliant and restored. This ancient city is impressive both in size and grandeur, and a testament to the cultural heights of the ancient Mayan civilization.

2. Visit the Beautifully Restored Colonial City of Antigua

Yes, Antigua is touristy (and expensive), but the vibrant, cobblestone city has everything you want in a backpacker hotspot: good restaurants and bars, epic volcanic scenery, an excellent base for multi-day hikes, coffee farms, and great shopping opportunities.

3. Shop for Traditional Mayan Textiles and Souvenirs

And speaking of shopping opportunities, Guatemala has endless opportunities to shop for amazing souvenirs. This is my favorite country in the world (along with Morocco) for shopping, thanks to the hand-woven, colorful Maya textiles.

If you want to go big (and not go home), visit Chichicastenango. On Thursdays and Sundays, this town is home to the largest marketplace in Central America. Lake Atitlan (the towns of San Juan and Panajachel, specifically) and Antigua have great shopping opportunities too.

4. Summit a Volcano

Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes! This means you plenty of options to summit one! Keep in mind a few of them are active… and dangerous to climb. Favorites include Volcano Acatenango, Tajumulco, and San Pedro.

5. Hang out around Lake Atitlán

This might be my favorite destination in Guatemala, due to its amazing scenery (three volcanoes), and amazing villages and towns, each with something different to offer. There is a prominent Maya indigenous culture here too. Make sure to support the locals, visit some co-ops, and kick back with a cerveza on the lake!

6. Take Spanish Lessons in Quetzaltenango (commonly known as Xela)

This city blends mountain scenery, indigenous life, and wonderful architecture. It’s a great city (not as expensive or touristy as Antigua) to base yourself and learn another language! There are numerous language institutes to choose from. It’s also a great base to visit nearby volcanoes, Laguna Chicabal, and natural hot springs.

7. Swim in the clear blue pools of Semuc Champey

This series of limestone pools and waterfalls in the middle of the jungle is known as one of the most beautiful places in Central America.

8. Visit the lesser known beaches of Guatemala

While Nicaragua tends to steal the spotlight for the best beaches and surf in Central America, Guatemala’s raw, black sand beaches are cool in their own right, though the surf isn’t as good.

9. Hike to El Mirador

This six-day hike will lead you through steamy jungles, mud, and mosquitoes to the newly discovered Mayan site still being excavated.

10. Visit a  finca and local co-ops trying to better the local economy

One of my favorite things to do in Guatemala is visit the farms; think coffee, cacao, macadamia nuts, permaculture, etc.

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Backpacker Accommodation in Guatemala

Room costs vary wildly across the country. Antigua is easily the most expensive place to stay. In general, the good places fill up fast so you want to try and book in advance.

It’s possible to get a dorm bed for as little as $8-10. A double room will often cost the price of two beds in a dorm, so if there’s two of you, you can have a private room for no additional cost.

And as a quick insider tip: If you want to see all – and we mean ALL – hostel options in Guatemala, be sure to check out BOOKING.COM . You can even filter your personal travel needs to find the perfect place for you.

The Best Places To Stay in Guatemala

Backpacking guatemala travel costs.

A lot of Guatemala travel blogs will tell you that the country is extremely cheap, but the truth is costs have gone up quite a bit in the last couple years, and Mexico and Nicaragua are cheaper.

If you want to backpack Guatemala for less than $20 a day you need to really dirtbag it. Only take chicken buses, stay outside tourist areas, eat beans, rice, and tortillas, and do not participate in many tourist activities.

It is possible to backpack Guatemala for $20 a day by staying away from Antigua, and cooking all of your own food or eating street food.

A Daily Budget in Guatemala

Money in guatemala.

Cash is the only way to pay at outdoor markets, food stalls, small bakeries, and chicken buses.

ATMs are widely available everywhere, but you can expect a withdrawal fee for international bank cards, which is why I travel with a debit card that refunds me for transaction fees. (Americans, I recommend checking out Charles Schwab!)

Top Tips for Broke Backpackers

• Camp: With plenty of gorgeous places to camp, Guatemala can be a great place to camp in the rural areas. Just be safe! Most hostels will also let you pitch a tent for a small fee.
• Cook your own food: If you are on a tight budget, you can save money by cooking your own food – I recommend bringing a portable backpacking stove. if you are camping.
• Couchsurf: While there isn’t a huge couchsurfing community in Guatemala, it’s still an option.
• Pack a travel water bottle   and save money every day!

Why You Should Travel to Guatemala with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

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Best Time To Travel To Guatemala

Guatemala has two seasons: the dry season and wet season.

The dry season generally takes place from December to May. This is the best season to travel to Guatemala if you want to do a lot of hiking.

The wet season is from June to November and is generally the cheapest time to visit Guatemala. It only rains for a couple hours a day, so it doesn’t necessarily mean your vacation is ruined!

While most of Guatemala is temperate, January and February can get chilly at elevation, especially if you are summitting volcanoes. Sometimes it even snows up there!

Make sure to bring a couple layers for the nights in the Highlands. Bring a down jacket, beanie, and warm layers for trekking the volcanoes.

Festivals in Guatemala

• Coffee Harvest Celebration – The town of Frajianes celebrates coffee harvest with food and dancing on February 2nd and 4th.
• Semana Santa – Semana Santa  translates to “Saints Week,” and takes takes place in March or April depending on Easter Sunday. This is one of the biggest celebrations in Guatemala, especially in Guatemala City and Antigua. Many towns and cities spend days creating mile-long carpets with intricate stencils and dyed sawdust in beautiful designs. Parades and processions march on the saw dust carpets.
• Día de los Muertos – Literally translating to “Day of the Dead,” this popular holiday is celebrated in Guatemala on November 2 with the flying of massive kites in the cemeteries of Santiago Sacatepéquez and wild horse racing in Todos Santos Cuchumatán .
• Navidad – As a mostly Catholic country, Christmas is one of the most important holidays, celebrated with family and friends. Most families go to Church on Christmas Eve, and open gifts at midnight on Christmas Eve, instead of on Christmas Day.

What to Pack For Guatemala

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Staying Safe in Guatemala

On one hand, Guatemala is totally safe for backpackers, but I have extensive family here so I hear about all of the dangers and dicey stories. Most touristic areas are safe, but you do need to be careful for both petty theft and armed robberies (mostly at night in isolated areas).

The most dangerous areas of Guatemala are generally congregated within certain zones of Guatemala City.

In my experience, most robberies or assaults happen at night – when one or both parties are intoxicated. Walk in large groups from the bars, especially if you are a girl. Generally, do not travel after dark. There are staged muggings that target rental cars and luxury vehicles.

The exception is the highway to Tikal, which is safe for overnight buses and vans. Chicken buses are also safe (and cheap) for getting around Guatemala, but there have been fatal accidents around the windy highlands. I do not recommend riding chicken buses in Guatemala City due to gang violence and extortion.

People are warm and inviting in Guatemala, and you should have no problem getting around, but I am not going to sugarcoat the economic situation in Guatemala. Half the population lives below poverty and gang violence is increasing in the city – mostly in specific zones.

Traveling Guatemala is safe , so don’t let the talks of gang violence shy you away, as this doesn’t specifically target tourists, but it is best to be aware. Always ask your hostels and hotels for up-to-date safety information.

Sex, Drugs & Rock n Roll in Guatemala

Weed is definitely common on the backpacker scene throughout Guatemala. Although it’s easily available, it’s also easy to wind up in trouble with the po po, especially in touristy areas like Lake Atitlán.

Check out Blazed Backpackers 101 for tips on how to stay safe whilst backpacking Guatemala!

Travel Insurance for Guatemala

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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How To Get Into Guatemala

If you are flying into Guatemala, the only international airport is in the capital, and it’s a rather small airport. There is also an airport in Tikal, but flights come in and out of Guatemala City, and they’re expensive.

If you are arriving overland by bus (as many travellers do) you can arrive by the Mexico, Belize, or Honduras border. I have covered the overland border crossings in the “onward travel from Guatemala” section below.

Entry Requirements for Guatemala

You will receive a 90 day tourist visa on arrival for free. The visa includes entrance and exit to El Salvador and Honduras.

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How To Get Around Guatemala

Buses are the main way to travel in Guatemala. Most locals get around by chicken bus , which are essentially tricked-out and bedazzled old American school buses. They are quite an experience, though sometimes a bit dicey on the sharp turns in the highlands.

Traveling by Bus in Guatemala

Chicken buses are dirt cheap for Westerners, often costing less than a $1. They stop every few minutes though, so be prepared for long travel days. You can also take private deluxe buses for long journeys, like Antigua to Xela, or from Guatemala City to Tikal. Overnight buses can be dangerous in certain areas, but the route to Tikal is totally fine, and recommended to save time and accommodation costs.

Most tourist destinations are also connected by private shuttle vans that cater to tourists, often transporting backpackers from their hostel’s front doorstep. These are significantly more expensive than the chicken buses, so I rarely used them though sometimes it’s nice to treat yourself A/C and comfort.

I recommend using a private shuttle to get to your next destination in Honduras/Nicaragua for safety reasons.

The only time you would take a flight is to/from Tikal, and it’s expensive, so don’t count on flight travel in Guatemala. Río (River) Dulce’s river is the lifeline of the area, and the locals and tourists get around by boat. They even have gas stations to fill up.

Hitchhiking in Guatemala

The chicken buses are pretty cheap, but if you want to hitch a ride, check out some info on Hitchwiki . You’ll catch a ride easier if you appear clean cut. The dirty hippy look doesn’t really fly.

Onwards Travel from Guatemala

Belize: Frequent local and tourist buses and vans cross the border from Flores near Tikal to Belize. Most of these buses go to San Ignacio before reaching the coast. Lots of travellers that want to backpack Belize use this option for onwards travel from Guatemala.

You have to pay the entrance and exit visa fees for Belize, even if you are not staying there. There is one company –  Marlin Espadas – that will do this trip to Mexico in one day. If you take the local bus, you will end up spending at least one night in Belize, so you may as well make a trip out of it.

Mexico: There are buses and tourists vans that pass through La Mesilla border, mostly to San Crístobal de las Casas, Chiapas, Mexico (one of my favorite areas of Mexico). If you want to backpack the Carribbean side of Mexico, you will need to pass through Belize. Buses will go to Chetumal. From here you can get a bus to Bácalar, Mahahual, or other areas in the Costa Maya region, and then continue up to other places like Tulum.

Honduras: You can easily get a bus or van from Guatemala City or Antigua to start your backpacking adventure in Honduras . Many private buses and vans will stop at the Cópan Ruins in Honduras too. If you want to get to the Bay Islands – Utila is a backpacker and diving hot spot – you will need to take a bus or van to La Ceiba. From here you can catch a 4 pm ferry. There are some companies that drive you between Río Dulce and La Ceiba.

El Salvador:  El Salvador is easily reachable from Antigua or Guatemala City.

Nicaragua: Many travellers start backpacking Nicaragua by crossing through Honduras or El Salvador. There are tourist vans and buses that will do this in one day, but I have to warn you it is a long day. You will pass through a lot of traffic in Honduras. Talk to your hostel in Antigua or Guatemala City for more information.

Working in Guatemala

Guatemala is small, humble nation and not exactly an international power house for business. Unless you bag a political or non-governmental organisation job, your best bet to find work is teaching English – English teachers can usually find work pretty easily.

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Work Visas in Guatemala

In order to work in Guatemala, foreign nationals will need a Work Visa and a temporary residency permit. Work Visa’s will only be considered once a job offer has been secured.

Volunteering in Guatemala

Volunteering overseas is a great way to experience a culture whilst doing some good in the world. There are lots of different volunteer projects in Guatemala which you can join ranging from teaching, to animal care, to agriculture to pretty much anything!

Guatemala is still a greatly developing country and there are lots of opportunities for backpackers to volunteer. English teachers are constantly needed, and you’ll also find opportunities in hospitality, farming, and administration. A 90-day tourist visa is all you’ll need to volunteer in Guatemala, which can be easily renewed if you decide to stay longer.

Want to find some awesome volunteering opportunities in Guatemala? Then signup for Worldpackers , a platform that connects local hosts with volunteer travelers. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll also get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Programs run through reputable work exchange programs , like Worldpackers, are generally very well-managed and highly reputable. However, whenever you are volunteering do stay vigilant especially when working with animals or children.

Teaching English in Guatemala

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Demand for English teachers in Guatemala is constant. Conditions and pay vary greatly depending on whether you teach at a high end university or a barrio school.

Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills! It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online, TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad .

What To Eat in Guatemala

Tamales – A bigger tamal made with either mashed potatoes or rice; whereas, Mexico makes them with corn and pork. They are then wrapped in banana leaves.

Chicken Pepian – A spicy stew made meat and vegetables (usually pear, squash, carrot, potato and corn) and served with rice and tortillas.

Pupusas – Though they originated in El Salvador, Pupusas  are found all over Guatemala. Thick corn tortillas are stuffed with a variety of fillings – usually refried beans, cheese and/or pork – and then fried until the surface with a still squashy inside. They are served with salsa and cabbage on top.

Guatemalan Enchiladas – They are different than Mexican enchiladas, often made in a deep fried shell filled with salsa, and meat. What makes them especially unique is shredded beets for a topping.

Flan – Caramel custard

Tres Leches – Three layer cake

Rellenitos de Plátano – Small balls of mashed plantains filled with sweetened black beans, fried and sprinkled with sugar.

Ceviche – This fresh seafood dish is made by marinating the fish or seafood in lime for 24+ hours and then adding fresh tomatoes, lime juice, cilantro, onions, and avocado.

Guatemalan Culture

It’s hard to stereotype an entire population, but generally, Guatemalans from the city are live very differently than Guatemalans in rural areas.

The majority of the Guatemalan people is considered Mestizo (a blurred mix of Spanish and Mayan descent). About 40% are Mayan. They often live completely separate from the rest of the population – physically, geographically, and economically.

One thing I love about Guatemala is the prominent and beautiful Mayan culture despite centuries of discrimination. Mayans are proud to be Mayan. I think tourists’ interest in the Mayan culture helps this in a way too.

There is a huge gap between the rich and poor in Guatemala. Through a complicated history (that I covered below) and a historically corrupt government, Guatemalans have endured their share of problems.

The Civil War ended in the 1990s, though many Guatemalans do not even view the struggle as a “war.” The government, and frankly most citizens, continue to dismiss the war’s human rights’ abuses.

To put it bluntly, the government and elitists have no interest in helping the poor or funding schools, education, healthcare, etc for Mayans. Racism is still very rampant here, as it is throughout most of Latin America. Thanks, colonialism.

Fortunately, local co-ops and grassroots organizations are making serious progress when it comes to creating economic opportunities for lower classes.

It’s a good idea to read up about Guatemalan culture in detail before you start your travels. Understanding the locals, their traditions and habits will make your visit a lot more interesting and in some cases, even easier!

Useful Travel Phrases for Guatemala

The first official language of Guatemala is Spanish, but there are also 23 Mayan languages spoken here! Many Mayans in remote places do not speak Spanish, let alone English. This is quickly changing in the touristic areas.

10 years ago most Mayans couldn’t speak Spanish in Lake Atitlán, for example. Now they speak Spanish and English.

Hola – Hello

Buenos Días – Good Day

Buenas Tardes – Good Evening

Buenas Noches – Good night

Cómo estás – How are you? (Informal)

Una cerveza, por favor – One beer, please.

Buena Onda – Basically translates to good vibes.

No entiendo. – I don’t understand.

Sin bolsa de plástico – No plastic bag

No paja por favor – No straw please

No hay cubiertos de plástico por favor – No plastic cutlery please

Perdón – Excuse me

Sorry – Disculpe (pardon) or lo siento (emotional)

¿Me puedes ayudar, por favor? – Can you help me, please?

Vos – Informal You , instead of the Spanish word Tú.

Books to Read About Guatemala

Below are my favorite books set in Guatemala. I seriously recommend reading a couple to understand the social, economic, and political atmosphere in Guatemala.

• I, Rigaberta Menchú – Winner of a Nobel Peace Prize, Rigoberta Menchú is a rural indigenous Guatemalan woman, who recounted her story of her father, mother and brother’s murder during the Guatemalan military campaign to eradicate “communism” in the countryside. It was her story that truly put the human rights abuses and question of genocide on the world’s radar in the 1990s.
• Rigoberta Menchú and All Poor Guatemalans – David Stoll’s book contested Menchús story, claiming that her recount was not entirely truthful, and fabricated. It’s worth a read if you are serious about learning about Rigoberta’s story. I think he’s kind of a shit for writing this, but some of his claims are valid. Still, Menchú’s cause is supported.
• Bitter Fruit: The Story of the America Coup in Guatemala – A powerful account on the CIA operation to overthrow the democratically elected Jacobo Arbenz, who was going to strip land from the elitist to provide peasants with the opportunity for economic growth. This coup led to the 36-year civil war.
• Homies and Hermanos – Based on Guatemala City’s street gangs, and why a number of gang members are leaving to become evangelists.

A Brief History of Guatemala

This is an important subject to me. I even wrote my undergrad thesis on a forgotten (or rather an unknown) genocide against the Mayan people in the 1980s that ultimately stems back to Spanish Invasion and systematic racism instilled in Latin America since the 1400s.

Before Spanish conquest under Cortés, Maya people lived in Guatemala for centuries building extravagant cities you can still visit today (Tikal, for example).

The Colonial Period essentially enslaved Guatemala’s indigenous people, and took away their land. Truthfully, it’s never been returned. By the time Guatemala gained independence from Spain in 1821, there was already a class system in place. After independence, there was a constant struggle for power between the elite conservatives and liberals.

In 1945, Juan José Arévalo won the election and began to turn Guatemala around by improving the public health system and labor laws. He survived 25 military attempted coups!

His successor was Colonel Jacobo Arbenz, who wanted to take Arévalo’s policies even further by implementing land reforms to break up the elitist land estates to give peasants individually owned farms. Naturally, his policies were unpopular with the extremely wealthy people of Guatemala…and the United Fruit Company.

US Insurgency and a Series of Right Winged Presidents

The United Fruit Company was owned by one of the American Dule Brothers. The other Dule Brother was none other than the head of the newly formed American CIA. Under the CIA’s first covert mission, the US orchestrated an invasion to remove Arbenz and implement a right-winged military president.

And so began the series of military presidents with counterinsurgency training and money from the US government. They may have been “anti-communist” during the Cold War, but they were no stranger to violence. Land reforms were reversed, voting rights were restricted, a secret police force was created, and the military repression was common.

In response to these dictators, a few left-wing guerrilla groups began to form, and so began the Civil War.

By 1979, 60,000 people had been killed in political violence. My family tells me stories of professors, students in political groups, and anti-government sentimented people disappearing overnight.

There are rumours in Guatemala that many of the missing people’s bodies were dropped into active volcanoes because many bodies were never found.

1980s – A Genocide

Four guerrilla groups united to form URNG (The Guatemalan national Revolutionary Unity). The President the time, General Efraín Ríos Montt, was an Evangelical Christian nut, who acted out on the groups by orchestrating the systematic murders of men, women, and children in more than 400 Mayan villages in the name of anticommunism.

100,000 Maya refugees fled to Mexico. Hundreds of thousands more died.

Both sides during the war committed atrocities and horrible acts of war. The left-winged guerrillas were not above these atrocities, but there’s no question that the government continued to violate human rights and lead civilian massacres.

Peace Accords and Recent History

After 36 years of Civil War, the Peace Accords finally took place in 1996 under a center-right president, but not much progress has been made on owning up to the atrocities. International organizations continue to criticize the government for dismissing the genocide.

The current Presidential Administration still refuses to admit there was a genocide in the Ixil triangle in the 1980s, even though Ríos Montt was charged with genocide. A later court ruling overturned the conviction, however, and called for a re-trail that will probably never happen.

Many Presidents since have been accused of laundering money and corruption.

Otto Pérez, a general for Ríos Montt during the genocide, took office in 2012. In 2015, the UN anti-corruption agency claimed Pérez’ administration was taking bribes from importers in exchange for reduced customs fees. Mass protests were organized and tens of thousands of Guatemalans turned to the streets. The Vice President resigned first, unable to explain how she paid for a US$13 million helicopter.

In the following months over 20 officials resigned and many were arrested. President Otto Pérez was forced to resign and arrested that year. This is the first time in Guatemala’s history that peaceful protests made some serious progress and an ex-president sits in a cell.

Jimmy Morales, whose popularity stems from the fact he is from outside the country’s political elite, hasn’t proven to be much better, thanks to his military ties. Gun violence and drug related crime is on the rise in Guatemala, and police are understaffed, underpaid, and under-resourced.

Some Unique Experiences in Guatemala

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Scuba Dive Guatemala on a Liveaboard Trip

Guatemala might not be super well-known for its scuba diving. That said, if you love to dive, joining a Liveaboard trip in Guatemala is a chance to explore the waters off of Guatemala’s coast.

You dive in the mornings, chill with fellow dive maniacs by evening; it’s that simple! Liveaboard trips take you to some pretty incredible remote dive locations. Who doesn’t want to wake up on a boat and dive in the sea everyday for a week?

Final Advice Before Visiting Guatemala

As someone who is half Guatemalan, this country holds a special place in my heart. I spent my childhood traveling to Guatemala to visit family. Last year I finally got a chance to truly backpack Guatemala, and go places even my family hasn’t been. This experience led me to fall in love with this country in a different way, all over again.

I highly suggest backpacking Guatemala if you are in search of an adventure. You will meet some of the kindest and warmest people in Guatemala, and experience some of the most beautiful culture and natural scenery.

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Ana Pereira

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14 Comments

Wow Ana, this is a nice article. So interested to travel in this part of the world.

Glad you enjoyed it!

Hi, i have a little supplement about getting around in Guatemala. If you are a group of 3 or 4, you should think about a rental car. For a three weeks tour it is not much more expensive than the private shuttles and you have more flexibility. Best regards Stefan

I will be traveling from belize to guatemala in a couple months. What would you suggest is the best way to get from belize to guatemala as well as the safest as I will be a solo traveling female. Is there a specific bus line or shuttle you would recommend?

Thank you! Zeina

Thanks for putting your excellent research and suggestions clearly in one place. If I only have 3 weeks, how would you modify your 4 week itinerary?

FLORES! Beware! AVOID THIS PLACE AT ALL COST! Everlasting Travel Agency selling bus tickets and tours is a LYING CHEATING FRAUD!!! If they know you are buying a ticket out of Flores and won’t come back, they will overcharge you by up to 400% while telling totally sincere sounding stories how they feel sorry for travellers getting cheated by others. Trip times are easily double of what this crook tells you. He also lied about the route, saying this bus would go directly to Chetumal and NOT stop on the road. Instead, it got off to a really late start because the driver picked up extra passengers (Guatemalans as a side business ,in all sorts of out of the way places), then went all the way into Belize City to pick up more travellers, Instead of 7 hours, we took 14,5 hours! They sold me a ticket to Chetumal/Mexico and on to Tulum at 400% the regular price. I knew it was expensive but wanted a guaranteed seat as it was the last bus of the evening to Tulum, Mexico and transfer time was short. I was given a (fake) voucher for the onward Chetumal-Tulum trip, to be changed into a bus ticket at their “partner agency” in Chetumal terminal. The partner agency did not exist. Needless to say, I had to buy a new ticket and also ended up missing the bus and getting stranded in Chetumal for the night. Fraud like this seems to be common in Flores – they prey on travellers who they know will not come back and report them to the police. Best buy at your honest hostel. I compared a lot of prices and the touts were ALWAYS a worse deal. Do not believe what they tell you about hostels taking higher prices.

Lake Atitlan is a beautiful lake in the Western Highlands of Guatemala that is ringed by several volcanoes. You can hop by shuttle boat between the villages surrounding the lake, many of which are backpacker favourites.

Great article, I’ll be checking out as many of those places as possible next month! Where is that gorgeous place in the photo you have below the title? I must know…

I’m heading to Guatemala for 3 weeks in June, and can’t wait. As a young solo female traveller, do you think it is safe and do you have any precautionary advice??

Hey Emma, Here are a few things you could keep in mind especially as newer traveller. Don’t go crazy and do a bunch of stuff you’d never even think of doing at home. Sure, try new and exciting things, but don’t go overboard with straight out risky behaviour. Be aware of your surrounding and who is around you. Don’t immediately divulge extensive information about yourself, where you’re staying, if you’re travelling alone or not. Keep it vague. Scams can happen over a number of days and involve a number of people, who, if you put too much info about yourself out there to the wrong person now know, who you are, where you’re staying and if you’re alone. Follow your gut instincts and use your street smarts! Have a great trip

Hi Emma! I am travelling to Guatemala alone this June and saw you that were there travelling alone last June. How did you find the experience and do you have any precautionary advice for a female traveller there??

I was wondering how much did you spend in Guatemala and how did the whole journey took. I live in El Salvador, it’s really close to GT and I fell in love just by reading your blog.

I spent five weeks in Guatemala, had a truly brilliant time 🙂

Thanks for this article! x

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Guatemala Travel Guide and Reservation Services

Guatemala is a Central American country that stands out due to its vivid culture, intriguing history and fascinating nature. Volcanoes, natural lakes, turquoise waters, a lush jungle and colorful indigenous markets combine in one place! Discover Guatemala and plan your next vacation with the assistance of our Guatemala Travel Guide. You will find information about the main highlights, best recommended hotels, insider tips and the advice of our expert travel consultants.

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