10-Day Guatemala Itinerary for Families with Kids

Stroll through Antigua’s colorful alleys and hidden courtyards as you discover the city’s rich history. This day includes a fun hands-on experience: either a traditional Guatemalan candies workshop or a cooking class, where kids and adults alike can roll up their sleeves and learn age-old family recipes.

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.  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.

Spend a slow paced morning exploring Antigua's cobblestone streets, markets and colonial ruins and monuments. Make your way to Lake Atitlan via ground transfer and enjoy an afternoon relaxing at the hotel gardens or choose an optional activity.

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. Here your family will meet local weavers and try a natural tie-dye workshop, a colorful, creative experience using plants and other organic fibers. Top it off with a one of a kind souvenir to take home.

Go on an exhilarating zip-lining adventure in a nature reserve and soar over the forest canopy surrounded by volcano views. You will then travel back to Guatemala City, from where you’ll take a short flight to the Maya Biosphere Reserve in the northern part of the country. You'll head to Tikal National Park for the an evening deep in the Guatemalan jungles.

Begin your day with the sounds of howler monkeys as you get ready for an excursion to explore the ancient Maya kingdom of Tikal. Being one of the most important sites for the Maya civilization, Tikal was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for both its cultural and natural significance. Kids will feel like explorers as they climb ancient temples, listen for howler monkeys, and spot toucans in the treetops. After a unique expedition, you will enjoy lunch inside the national park followed by a free afternoon to unwind.

After days of adventure, it’s time for some coastal relaxation. Make your way back to Mundo Maya airport and hop on a 1 hour flight back to Guatemala City. You will continue your travels via ground transfer to El Paredón, a laid-back surf town on the Pacific, perfect for families to slow down, enjoy the beach, and soak up the sunset.

Enjoy a full day by the ocean. Build sandcastles or try paddleboarding and kayaking along El Paredón’s calm mangrove channels. For a unique experience, you can visit the turtle sanctuary, where your family can learn about conservation efforts and connect with Guatemala’s coastal wildlife. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the beach at your own pace.

Savor one last exceptional Guatemalan breakfast 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 family trip!