3 Unknown Treks in Guatemala You Shouldn’t Miss
Guatemala has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure, self-discovery, and raw contact with nature. As small as it may appear on the map, Guatemala is a land of incredible contrasts: over 300 volcanic cones, misty cloud forests, lush jungles, black sand beaches, and tropical lowlands that once formed the cradle of Maya civilization.
One of the most iconic treks in Guatemala is the hike to Acatenango volcano, a challenging adventure with epic rewards. From summiting a volcano above the clouds to witnessing the explosive activity of neighboring Fuego Volcano, it’s a bucket-list experience for good reason. But here’s the thing, Acatenango is only one of many treks in Guatemala that will blow your mind.
Views of the sunrise on Acatenango Volcano.
This guide is for those who brought their hiking boots and want to dive deeper. For those looking to explore off the beaten path, these lesser-known treks in Guatemala promise unmatched landscapes, cultural encounters, and unforgettable stories to tell.
Let’s hit the trail!
5 Day Trek from Carmelita to El Mirador
Ready to trade city streets for ancient jungle trails? This 5-day trek to El Mirador is one of the most remote and awe-inspiring treks in Guatemala. Hidden deep in the northern rainforests, El Mirador is home to La Danta, one of the largest pyramids in the world by volume, even larger than Egypt’s Great Pyramid of Giza!
The staff from the Carmelita Cooperative in action preparing fresh meals and caring for every detail
But the journey is just as powerful as the destination. Trekking 55 km through the Maya Biosphere Reserve, you'll follow ancient causeways that once connected thriving preclassic cities like Nakbé, El Tintal, and El Mirador. Along the way, you’ll immerse yourself in the rhythm of the jungle; with spider monkeys swinging overhead and tropical birds bursting through the trees. This is not your average trek in Guatemala. It’s a true off-the-beaten-path expedition that fuses archaeology, biodiversity, and adventure into a once in a lifetime experience!
Book the 5 Day Trek from Carmelita to El Mirador!
3 Day Trek from Antigua to Lake Atitlán
Why drive from Antigua to Lake Atitlán when you can hike it? This 3 day trek in Guatemala connects two of its most iconic destinations in a way few travelers experience. Spanning 43 kilometers,, this trek takes you from the colonial charm of Antigua through cloud forests, ridgelines, and traditional highland villages, culminating at the shores of majestic Lake Atitlán.
Views of 3 different volcanoes on the trails from Antigua to Lake Atitlan
Expect epic views of volcanoes, fragrant pine forests, coffee fields, and the warm hospitality of local communities. You’ll camp in stunning natural settings, share stories by firelight, and wake to sunrises that set the highlands aglow. This trek in Guatemala is Ideal for hikers, photographers, and anyone seeking deeper connection with nature and local culture.
Secure your spot for the 3 Day Trek from Antigua to Lake Atitlan!
3 Day Trek from El Zotz to Tikal
Calling all adventurers! This 3-day, 2-night trek in Guatemala takes you from El Zotz Biotope to Tikal National Park. It’s an adventure that blends jungle immersion, ancient history, and the thrill of discovery into one epic journey.
The 3 Day Trek from El Zotz to Tikal rewards you with the sounds of the jungle and majestic views of temple crests
Hike 55 kilometers (34 miles) through dense tropical rainforest, following the footsteps of the ancient Maya. Each day brings 6 to 7 hours of hiking surrounded by rich biodiversity: howler monkeys, toucans, deer, and maybe even the distant call of a jaguar! Along the way, you'll uncover ruins hidden beneath layers of vegetation and mysteries waiting to be revealed. The grand finale of the is something truly special: arriving at the monumental temples of Tikal on foot. Recognized by UNESCO for both its cultural and ecological importance, Tikal is one of the most iconic Maya cities in the world. And seeing it emerge from the jungle after days of trekking? A trek in Guatemala that is absolutely out of this world!
Book the 3 Day Trek from El Zotz to Tikal today!
These Treks in Guatemala Are Your Next Adventure
If you're seeking off-the-beaten-path treks in Guatemala and adventures that push your limits, deepen your connection with nature, and introduce you to the rich cultural legacy of the Maya, these treks in Guatemala are your gateway. They are the opportunity for you to skip the highways and tourist hotspots.
These journeys through Guatemala’s trails also support the preservation of ecosystems and uplift the people who protect them, while creating employment of local guides. Lace up your boots and start planning your custom adventure with us! See you on the trailhead!