15-Day Epic Guatemala Itinerary

Start your day off with a delicious Guatemalan breakfast. You'll enjoy a guided visit of Antigua's charming streets, markets, ruins and main highlights. You'll discover the charming architecture and history of Antigua, all while basking in the warm hospitality of the locals. After a day of exploring, you'll have a free evening to unwind.

Live the ultimate adventure when you hike Pacaya volcano, one of the three active volcanoes in Guatemala. This hands-on tour is suitable for hikers of different ages and expertise. It will bring you up close to petrified lava trails, volcanic rock formations and incredible panoramic views of the surroundings. As you hike, you'll witness the effects of constant volcanic activity, and if the conditions are favorable get clear skies for overlooking the other volcanoes in the area. Visit the Lava store for a memorable souvenir and enjoy roasting marshmallows in one of the rock ovens. Once the excursion is over, you'll return to Antigua, feeling exhilarated and accomplished after conquering an active volcano.

Today you will venture to a small village outside Antigua for an exceptional culinary experience. You’ll visit a local family who will open the doors of their home and share their traditional cooking techniques with you. Learn how to move around in a Guatemalan kitchen, and prepare a local dish that is usually prepared for special occasions. Experience firsthand the use of traditional methods and utensils in the preparation of authentic Guatemalan cuisine, accompanied by fresh and local ingredients. Learn insights about the culture, regional ingredients, local produce, and flavors. Taste your creation for lunch with your hosts before continuing your travels to the heart of Lake Atitlan. Free afternoon to begin exploring the area.

Embark on a boat ride across the waters of Lake Atitlan to the captivating town of San Juan la Laguna. Surrounded by primitive art, beautiful textiles and majestic views, San Juan will give you a warm welcome and the opportunity to interact and learn the way of life and customs of its T’zutujil villagers. You will take a guided visit to local associations where you'll learn the process of natural dyeing and textiles, the use of medicinal plants, cacao production, stingless beekeeping, and the background and evolution of naif art. You'll also have the option of visiting the Kaqasiiwaan lookout that has amazing lake views and was handpainted by the community's artists. After the tour feel free to explore the town on your own before heading back to your hotel. Free evening.

Venture on a guided kayak expedition where you will admire the incredible views of the surrounding mountains, and volcanoes. You will have the opportunity of swimming and jumping in the lake’s refreshing waters, before arriving to the community of T'zununá. Once you arrive to the docks of T'zununá you will leave the kayaks and you will make your way hiking back to Santa Cruz! The trails will offer you amazing views of the lake and will allow you to witness the calm life of the local farmers and fishermen that work in the area. Be advised this hike requires you to go up steep hills and narrow trails, if it gets challenging at any point you'll have the option of getting back on the boat. Enjoy having lunch in one of the restaurants in the area before returning to your hotel for the afternoon.

Spend the day relaxing by the lake shores and exploring Lake Atitlán at your own pace. Go to the art-filled and colorful town of Santa Catarina Palopo or venture to the bohemian streets of San Marcos la Laguna and go swimming in the nature reserve.

Explore the heart of Guatemalan trade on a guided tour of Chichicastenango market day. Say goodbye to the lake and prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and bustling energy of a place where artisans, farmers, and travelers come together to offer all sorts of crafts, textiles, local produce, and living traditions. Discover the colorful cemetery and historic Santo Tomás Church, witness Maya syncretism and cosmovision rituals. Shop for unique and authentic crafts and textiles, and taste the local produce that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. Indulge in a traditional market day rustic lunch, and then take time to explore on your own, soaking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of market day. After this experience, you will travel to Guatemala City airport (3.5 hours approx). Upon arrival, you'll take a short flight to the Maya Biosphere Reserve. Once you land, you'll transfer to your hotel hidden in the lush jungles.

Enjoy breakfast and a slow paced morning. At noon, you'll meet your local guide and will head to Yahxá National Park. Prepare to immerse yourself in off the beaten path jungle trails surrounded by the sounds of wildlife. This national park is located between two impressive lagoons and is one of the most biodiverse wetlands of Guatemala. First, you will take the boat to Topoxté Island, a small off-the beaten track minor site in the park and then you will go through the vast jungle and structures of Yahxá . You will culminate your visit admiring the sunset over the tallest temple in the site. Head back to your hotel in Flores for the evening.

Prepare for an adventure and boat trip to the Blue Crater. You’ll transfer to the village of Josefinos where you will take a speed boat through the uncharted La Pasión River all the way to the Pucté creek where the colors of the water start to change. You will arrive at the "Crater Azul" a surreal subaquatic garden and pristine fresh blue water pools where you will be spending your day swimming surrounded by nature. In the afternoon you will head to Tikal National Park for the evening.

Begin your day with the sounds of howler monkeys as you get ready for an excursion to explore the ancient Maya kingdom of Tikal before it opens. You will be able to explore the park in the dark and walk to the tallest temple to watch the sunrise. This is a magical experience. Tikal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for both its cultural and natural significance. Keep your eyes open for wildlife when you explore the ancient Maya trails. After a unique expedition you will continue your journey to Río Dulce (approx. 4 hours). Enjoy your first taste of Caribbean cuisine for lunch and get ready to take a boat to your eco-hotel hidden amongst the canals of the river. The boat transfer is subject to the hotel you choose to stay in.

Take the boat to the colorful town of Livingston, home of the Garífuna, descendants of the African population that came to Guatemala during colonial times. Your local guide will teach you about the culture and history while admiring the murals and urban art in town. You'll also have the option of visiting Ak Tenamit, a local school and non-profit for Maya and Garifuna students who wish to gain experience in sustainable travel. Visiting the school shares insight on Guatemala's social context and supports the mission and impact in the area. You'll also pass through the towering Rio Dulce canyon and will admire the main highlights of this unique boat ride. Enjoy lunch in one of the riverbank local venues before returning to your hotel for a refreshing swim. Free evening.

Go for a morning kayak adventure or simply enjoy the sounds of birds in the area. We couldn't think of a better way to finish your trip other than with a relaxing day in this beautiful place.

Embark once again on panoramic boat ride down the Rio Dulce. Take in the lush tropical scenery and reflect on the unforgettable memories made during your adventure. A ground transfer will be ready and waiting to take you on a comfortable and scenic drive back to Guate City. The drive will be approximately 6 hours depending on traffic with stops to use the bathroom and eat. Marvel at the stunning landscapes you'll pass through, while reminiscing about the highlights of your vacation. Spend your last evening soaking up the city’s atmosphere and celebrate your last night in Guatemala with a leisurely dinner.

Savor one last cup of exceptional Guatemalan coffee and bid farewell to this beautiful country as you transfer to the airport for your departure flight. We're so happy you chose to explore Guatemala with us and we hope you had an unforgettable trip! Don't be a stranger and come back to visit us again soon!