Guatemala is a treasure trove of contrasts—where cobblestone colonial streets wind past active volcanoes, crystal-clear lakes reflect indigenous villages, and ancient Maya pyramids emerge from lush rainforests. This compact country packs in more cultural and natural diversity than many larger nations, making it ideal for a 7-day immersive journey. Designed for travelers from the Americas and beyond who crave authentic cultural encounters, outdoor exploration, and a deep dive into history, this itinerary prioritizes actionable details, local insights, and unforgettable experiences.

Best Time to Visit: November to April (dry season). During these months, the weather is stable with minimal rainfall, perfect for hiking volcanoes, exploring ruins, and navigating rural areas. The skies are clear, offering unobstructed views of volcanoes and lake sunsets.

Visa Information: Most travelers from North America, South America, and Europe enjoy visa-free entry for stays up to 90 days. However, visa policies can change, so always verify the latest requirements with Guatemala’s embassy or consulate in your home country before departure.

Currency & Money Tips: The local currency is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas and can be exchanged for Quetzals at banks, official exchange offices (casas de cambio), or hotels (note: hotels may offer slightly less favorable rates). Carry small denominations of US dollars (e.g., $1, $5, $10) for small purchases and tips, and withdraw Quetzals from ATMs in major cities for local markets and rural areas. Credit cards are accepted at mid-range to high-end hotels and restaurants but not at small eateries or local markets.

Key Highlights of This Itinerary:

• Antigua Guatemala: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture set against a backdrop of towering volcanoes.
• Lake Atitlán: Often hailed as “the most beautiful lake in the world,” surrounded by traditional Maya villages and ringed by volcanoes.
• Tikal National Park: The largest and most impressive Maya ruin site, where ancient pyramids rise from the dense Petén rainforest.
• Chichicastenango Market: Central America’s largest indigenous market, a vibrant hub of Maya culture, handicrafts, and traditional ceremonies.
• Pacaya Volcano: A hikeable active volcano where you can stand near flowing lava and even roast marshmallows over volcanic heat.

Daily Itinerary: 7 Days of Culture, Nature & Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in Guatemala City → Antigua Guatemala (1-Hour Drive)

Morning: Arrival & Transfer to Antigua

Your journey begins at La Aurora International Airport (GUA), Guatemala’s main international gateway. Upon arrival, clear customs and baggage claim, then head to the pre-arranged airport transfer. We highly recommend booking a private transfer with a reputable company like Guatemala Travel Adventures—their English-speaking drivers are knowledgeable, and vehicles are well-maintained, ensuring a smooth 1-hour ride to Antigua Guatemala. Avoid unlicensed taxis at the airport, as they can be unsafe and overpriced.

If you arrive early, you can stop at a café near the airport (we suggest Café Barista) for a quick breakfast of desayuno típico (traditional Guatemalan breakfast: eggs, black beans, plantains, and fresh bread) before heading to Antigua.

Afternoon: Antigua Guatemala Walking Tour

Check into your hotel and freshen up before embarking on a self-guided or guided walking tour of Antigua’s historic center. This compact city is best explored on foot, with its cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, flower-filled courtyards, and iconic landmarks.

Start at Central Park (Parque Central), the heart of Antigua. Surrounded by the Municipal Palace, the Cathedral of San José, and the Palace of the Captains General, this lively square is a great spot to people-watch and soak up the colonial atmosphere. From here, walk to the Santa Catalina Arch, Antigua’s most photographed landmark. Originally built to connect two parts of a convent, the arch offers stunning views of the Agua Volcano in the background—be sure to snap a photo during the late afternoon when the light is soft.

Next, visit La Merced Church, one of Antigua’s most ornate colonial churches. Its baroque facade and intricate interior carvings are a testament to the city’s rich history as a Spanish colonial capital. After exploring the church, make your way to Cerro de la Cruz (Cross Hill), a short 20-minute hike from the city center. The uphill climb is worth it for the panoramic views of Antigua, the surrounding valleys, and the trio of volcanoes (Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango) that tower over the city.

Dinner: Sunset Dining with Volcano Views

For dinner, head to Café Sky, a popular rooftop restaurant with unbeatable views of the sunset over the volcanoes. Their menu features a mix of Guatemalan and international dishes—we recommend trying the pollo en salsa de pepita (chicken in pumpkin seed sauce) or the carne asada (grilled beef) paired with a local Gallo beer or a glass of Guatemalan wine. The sunset here is magical, with the sky turning shades of orange and pink as the sun dips behind the volcanoes.

Accommodation Recommendations

• Luxury: Casa Santo Domingo. Housed in a 16th-century Dominican convent, this luxury hotel blends colonial charm with modern amenities. The property features beautiful gardens, a museum, a spa, and multiple restaurants. Rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with some offering views of the volcanoes.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo. A sister property to Casa Santo Domingo, this mid-range option offers comfortable rooms, a small museum showcasing colonial artifacts, and a relaxing spa. The courtyard is a peaceful spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

Transportation Tips

Antigua’s historic center is entirely walkable. For longer distances (e.g., to Cerro de la Cruz), you can take a tuk-tuk (auto-rickshaw) for a small fee (around 10-15 GTQ per ride).

Day 2: Antigua → Pacaya Volcano Hike → Chichicastenango (3-Hour Drive)

Morning: Pacaya Volcano Hike

Wake up early for a once-in-a-lifetime hike up Pacaya Volcano, one of Guatemala’s most active and accessible volcanoes. The hike is moderate, taking approximately 4 hours round-trip, and requires a guide (all tours include a certified local guide). We recommend booking a tour with Antigua Adventure Tours—they offer small-group tours with English-speaking guides, and include transportation from your hotel in Antigua.

What to bring: Sturdy hiking boots (the trail is rocky and uneven), a lightweight windbreaker (it gets cool at the summit), sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. You can also bring a small snack (like energy bars) for the hike.

The hike begins with a 1.5-hour climb through pine forests, gradually ascending to the volcano’s slopes. As you near the summit, the vegetation thins out, and you’ll start to see volcanic rock and steam rising from the ground. At the active lava flow area, your guide will lead you to a safe viewing spot where you can watch molten lava flow and feel the heat from the volcano. A fun highlight of the tour is roasting marshmallows over the volcanic heat—your guide will provide the marshmallows and sticks!

After spending about 30 minutes at the lava viewing area, you’ll hike back down to the trailhead, arriving back at your hotel in Antigua around midday.

Afternoon: Transfer to Chichicastenango

After lunch (we recommend a quick bite at Café Condesa in Antigua, known for their sandwiches and salads), board a private car or a tourist bus to Chichicastenango. We recommend Atitrans, a reliable bus company that offers comfortable, air-conditioned buses with Wi-Fi. The journey takes approximately 3 hours, winding through mountainous terrain with scenic views of Guatemalan countryside.

Upon arrival in Chichicastenango, check into your hotel and take some time to relax. Chichicastenango is a small town with a laid-back vibe, perfect for unwinding after a morning of hiking.

Dinner: Local Market Food Experience

For dinner, immerse yourself in local culture by exploring the town’s food stalls and small eateries. Head to the area near the main market (even on non-market days, there are plenty of food vendors) and try pupusas (thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat) or tacos de churrasco (grilled meat tacos). Our top recommendation is comida típica stall run by Doña Maria, where you can try chiles rellenos (stuffed peppers) or kak’ik (traditional Maya turkey soup). Wash it down with a glass of horchata (a sweet rice drink) or a local soda like Refresco de Jamaica (hibiscus soda).

Accommodation Recommendation

Hotel Santo Tomás: This charming mid-range hotel is located in the heart of Chichicastenango, just a short walk from the main market. The property features a beautiful central courtyard with a fountain, comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, and friendly staff who can help arrange tours and transportation.

Transportation Tips

The transfer from Antigua to Chichicastenango can be done by private car (more expensive but more flexible) or tourist bus (affordable and reliable). If you’re traveling in a group, private car is a good option; solo travelers or small groups will find the bus convenient. Once in Chichicastenango, the town is small enough to explore on foot.

Day 3: Chichicastenango Market → Lake Atitlán (2.5-Hour Drive)

Morning: Chichicastenango Market & Cultural Immersion

Chichicastenango is famous for its weekly market, held every Thursday and Sunday—the largest indigenous market in Central America. If your visit falls on one of these days, you’re in for a treat; if not, you’ll still find a smaller version of the market open daily.

Start your morning at San Tomás Church, located at the center of the market. This 16th-century church is a unique blend of Spanish colonial and Maya religious traditions. Inside, you’ll find Maya altars alongside Catholic icons, and on market days, you can witness traditional Maya ceremonies where locals offer prayers and sacrifices (often in the form of candles, flowers, and incense) to the Maya gods.

From the church, explore the market stalls that stretch across the town’s plazas and streets. The market is a feast for the senses—colorful handwoven textiles (blankets, scarves, clothing), hand-carved wooden masks, Maya pottery, and traditional medicinal herbs line the stalls. Bargaining is expected here, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices (aim for a 10-20% discount off the initial asking price). We recommend buying a handwoven textile as a souvenir—they’re made by local Maya women using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Be sure to try some market snacks while you explore, like empanadas (fried pastries stuffed with cheese or meat) or dulce de leche (caramel) candies.

Afternoon: Transfer to Lake Atitlán

After exploring the market, grab lunch at a local eatery (we recommend Restaurant El Zanjón, which serves hearty Guatemalan dishes) before heading to Lake Atitlán. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours, with scenic views of the mountains and valleys along the way.

Lake Atitlán is surrounded by several small Maya villages, each with its own unique character. We recommend staying in either San Pedro La Laguna (popular with backpackers and known for its lively nightlife and outdoor activities) or Panajachel (more tourist-friendly with a wider range of hotels and restaurants). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take a stroll along the lakefront to enjoy the stunning views.

Dinner: Lakefront Dining with Local Seafood

For dinner, head to Restaurante Posada de Santiago in Panajachel, a lakefront restaurant with beautiful views of the lake and volcanoes. Their menu features fresh local seafood, including pescado frito (fried fish) and camarones al ajillo (garlic shrimp), as well as traditional Guatemalan dishes. We recommend ordering the filete de pescado a la plancha (grilled fish) with a side of plátanos fritos (fried plantains) and a glass of white wine.

Accommodation Recommendations

• Luxury: Casa Palopó. Perched on a cliff overlooking Lake Atitlán, this luxury hotel offers breathtaking lake views from every room. The property features a infinity pool, a spa, and a fine-dining restaurant. Rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with private balconies.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Regis Panajachel. Located in the heart of Panajachel, this mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms with lake or garden views. The property features a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar. It’s within walking distance of the lakefront and local shops.

Transportation Tips

The transfer from Chichicastenango to Lake Atitlán is best done by private car (book in advance through your hotel or a local tour company) or shared shuttle. Once at Lake Atitlán, you can get around between villages by lancha (small boat) or tuk-tuk. Lancha is the most scenic option, offering views of the lake and volcanoes along the way.

Day 4: Lake Atitlán Deep Dive

Morning: Boat Tour of Lake Atitlán & Village Visits

Spend the morning exploring the villages surrounding Lake Atitlán by boat. We recommend booking a private or group boat tour with a local guide—they’ll take you to the most interesting villages and share insights into Maya culture and traditions.

Your first stop is San Juan La Laguna, a small village known for its traditional textile workshops. Visit Cooperativa de Tejidos de San Juan, a women’s cooperative where you can watch local Maya women weave textiles using traditional backstrap looms. You can also take a short weaving workshop (1-2 hours) to learn the basics and create a small souvenir. After the workshop, grab a coffee at a local café and explore the village’s colorful streets.

Next, head to Santiago Atitlán, the largest village on the lake. Here, you’ll visit the Altar of Maximón, a sacred site dedicated to Maximón, a Maya deity who is a blend of indigenous and Catholic traditions. Maximón is believed to grant wishes, and locals leave offerings of cigarettes, alcohol, and money at his altar. Your guide will explain the significance of the altar and the traditions surrounding Maximón.

Your final village stop is San Pedro La Laguna. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a short hike up San Pedro Volcano (the hike takes approximately 2 hours round-trip and offers stunning views of the lake). If hiking isn’t your thing, you can join a yoga class at one of the village’s many yoga studios (we recommend Yoga Forest, which offers lakefront yoga classes).

Afternoon: Relaxation & Outdoor Activities

After lunch (we recommend Restaurant El Sol in San Pedro La Laguna, which serves delicious vegetarian and vegan dishes), spend the afternoon relaxing or enjoying an outdoor activity. Options include:

• Meditation in San Marcos La Laguna: San Marcos is a small, bohemian village known for its spiritual retreats. Join a guided meditation class at Osho Leela Retreat or simply relax by the lake and practice mindfulness.
• Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Rent a kayak or paddleboard from one of the rental shops along the lakefront in Panajachel or San Pedro. Paddling on the calm waters of Lake Atitlán is a peaceful and scenic experience.
• Coffee Plantation Tour: Many coffee plantations are located near Lake Atitlán. Take a tour of Finca Santa Clara, where you’ll learn about the coffee-making process from bean to cup and sample freshly brewed Guatemalan coffee.

Dinner: Traditional Maya Cuisine in San Pedro

For dinner, head back to San Pedro La Laguna and eat at Restaurant Kak’ik, a local favorite that specializes in traditional Maya dishes. We recommend trying the kak’ik (Maya turkey soup seasoned with chili peppers and herbs) or the pato en mole (duck in mole sauce). The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and the staff is happy to explain the ingredients and preparation methods of each dish.

Accommodation

Stay another night in your chosen hotel in Panajachel or San Pedro La Laguna (see Day 3 for recommendations).

Transportation Tips

Use lancha to travel between villages—schedules are frequent (every 30 minutes to 1 hour) and affordable (around 20-30 GTQ per ride). If you’re taking a group tour, transportation will be included.

Day 5: Lake Atitlán → Guatemala City → Tikal (Flight + Drive)

Morning: Return to Guatemala City & Domestic Flight to Flores

Wake up early and take a shuttle or private car back to Guatemala City (approximately 3-hour drive). Arrive at La Aurora International Airport in time for your domestic flight to Flores, a small town near Tikal National Park. We recommend flying with Tag Airlines, a reliable Guatemalan airline that offers daily flights between Guatemala City and Flores (flight time: 1 hour).

Pro tip: Book your domestic flight in advance, especially during the peak season (December-February), as flights can sell out quickly. Also, arrive at the airport 1.5 hours before your flight for check-in and security.

Afternoon: Explore Flores & Transfer to Tikal

Upon arrival at Flores International Airport (FRS), take a pre-arranged private transfer to Flores (10-minute drive) or directly to Tikal National Park (45-minute drive). We recommend spending a few hours exploring Flores before heading to Tikal. Flores is a charming town located on an island in Lake Petén Itzá, connected to the mainland by a causeway.

Take a walk around the island’s cobblestone streets, visit the Museo Regional de Petén (which showcases Maya artifacts and local history), and enjoy the views of Lake Petén Itzá from the town’s waterfront. Grab lunch atRestaurant El Dorado, a lakefront restaurant that serves fresh seafood and traditional Guatemalan dishes.

In the late afternoon, take a private car to Tikal National Park and check into your hotel inside or near the park. Staying inside the park allows you to explore the ruins early in the morning before the crowds arrive.

Dinner: Hotel Dining

Dining options near Tikal National Park are limited, so we recommend eating at your hotel’s restaurant. Most hotels inside the park offer buffet-style dinners with a mix of international and Guatemalan dishes. We recommend trying the carne de res a la parrilla (grilled beef) or the pasta alfredo (a safe option for picky eaters).

Accommodation Recommendations

• Luxury: Jungle Lodge. Located inside Tikal National Park, this luxury lodge offers a unique jungle experience. The bungalows are nestled in the rainforest, and you can hear the sounds of howler monkeys and tropical birds at night. The lodge features a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
• Mid-Range: Hotel Jaguar Inn. Located just outside Tikal National Park, this mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms. The property features a garden, a restaurant, and a bar. It’s a short drive from the park entrance.

Transportation Tips

The transfer from Lake Atitlán to Guatemala City should be booked in advance. Once in Guatemala City, the domestic airport is a short drive from the international airport. The transfer from Flores Airport to Tikal can be arranged by your hotel or a local tour company.

Day 6: Tikal Sunrise Tour & Ruins Exploration

Early Morning: Tikal Sunrise Experience

This is the highlight of your trip to Tikal—watching the sunrise over the ancient Maya pyramids. Wake up at 4:30 AM and meet your guide at the hotel lobby (most hotels offer sunrise tours with certified guides). Your guide will take you into the park before it opens to the public (entry fee: 150 GTQ per person) and lead you to the Temple IV, the tallest pyramid in Tikal.

Climb the 70-meter-tall pyramid (the climb is steep but worth it) and wait for the sunrise. As the sun rises, the rainforest comes alive with the sounds of howler monkeys, toucans, and other tropical birds. The view from the top of Temple IV is breathtaking—you can see the tops of other pyramids emerging from the dense jungle canopy, bathed in golden light.

Morning: Explore Tikal’s Ruins

After the sunrise, spend the morning exploring Tikal’s main ruins with your guide. Tikal was one of the most powerful cities of the Maya civilization, and its ruins include temples, palaces, ball courts, and plazas. Key sites to visit include:

• Great Plaza: The heart of Tikal, surrounded by Temple I (Temple of the Great Jaguar) and Temple II (Temple of the Masks). This plaza was used for religious ceremonies and public gatherings.
• Lost World Complex: A group of ruins located north of the Great Plaza, including the Temple of the Lost World and several ball courts. This area is less crowded than the Great Plaza and offers a more peaceful exploration experience.
• Central Acropolis: A complex of palaces and residential buildings that were once home to Tikal’s ruling elite. The buildings feature intricate carvings and murals that offer insights into Maya daily life.

Your guide will share fascinating stories about Maya history, culture, and architecture, making the ruins come alive. Don’t forget to bring your camera—every corner of Tikal is photogenic.

Afternoon: Return to Flores & Relaxation

In the early afternoon, return to your hotel in Tikal to freshen up, then take a private car back to Flores. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing—you can take a boat tour of Lake Petén Itzá, visit the Yaxhá Ruins (a smaller Maya ruin site near Flores), or simply relax at your hotel’s pool.

If you’re interested in wildlife, take a walk around the Isla de Yaxhá, a nature reserve located on an island in Lake Petén Itzá. You can spot howler monkeys, spider monkeys, and a variety of bird species here.

Dinner: Lakefront Dining in Flores

For your last night in Guatemala, enjoy a memorable dinner at Terrazzo del Lago, a lakefront restaurant in Flores with stunning views of the lake and sunset. Their menu features a mix of international and Guatemalan dishes—we recommend trying the lobster thermidor (a luxurious option) or the churrasco (grilled steak). Pair your meal with a bottle of Guatemalan wine or a local cocktail.

Accommodation

Stay the night in Flores at Hotel Petén Itzá, a mid-range hotel located on the waterfront with lake views. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.

Transportation Tips

Your sunrise tour will include transportation within the park. The transfer from Tikal to Flores can be arranged by your hotel. Once in Flores, the town is small enough to explore on foot.

Day 7: Flores → Guatemala City → Departure

Morning: Return to Guatemala City

Wake up early and take a domestic flight from Flores back to Guatemala City (flight time: 1 hour). Upon arrival, take a private transfer to the city center for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you have time, visit the Museo Popol Vuh, a museum dedicated to Maya art and culture. The museum’s collection includes ancient Maya pottery, sculptures, and textiles, and it’s a great place to learn more about Guatemala’s rich history. The museum’s gift shop is also a great place to buy souvenirs—we recommend purchasing a Maya ceramic vase or a handwoven textile.

Afternoon: Departure

Depending on your flight time, take a private transfer to La Aurora International Airport. We recommend arriving at the airport 3 hours before your international flight to allow time for check-in, security, and customs.

Before you leave, grab a quick bite at the airport’s Café Guatemala, where you can enjoy a final cup of Guatemalan coffee and a pastry.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

Safety Tips

• Guatemala City: Avoid walking alone at night, especially in areas like Zone 1 (historic center) and Zone 18 (airport area). Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber or InDrive for transportation at night.
• Valuables: Keep your valuables (passport, money, camera) in a secure place, such as a money belt or a hotel safe. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash in public.
• Rural Areas: When traveling to rural areas (like Chichicastenango or Lake Atitlán), stick to well-traveled roads and use reputable transportation companies. Avoid traveling alone in remote areas.

Health Tips

• Water: Drink only bottled water (available everywhere in tourist areas). Avoid tap water, including ice in drinks (unless it’s from a reputable restaurant).
• Food: Avoid eating raw or undercooked food, especially at local markets. Stick to food that is cooked fresh in front of you. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
• Altitude Sickness: Areas like Antigua, Chichicastenango, and Lake Atitlán are located at high altitudes (around 1,500-2,000 meters). If you’re prone to altitude sickness, drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and take it easy for the first day or two.
• Mosquitoes: In Tikal and other jungle areas, mosquitoes are common. Bring insect repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves and pants at night, and consider bringing a mosquito net for your bed (most hotels provide them).

Cultural Etiquette

• Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of local people, especially in indigenous villages. Some Maya communities consider photography intrusive, so respect their wishes if they say no.
• Market Etiquette: Bargain politely at local markets. Don’t be aggressive, and remember that the vendors rely on the market for their livelihood.
• Religious Sites: When visiting churches or Maya sacred sites, dress modestly (cover your shoulders and knees). Remove your hat when entering churches.

Budget Reference (Mid-Range, Per Person)

• Accommodation: $40-80 per night (mid-range hotels)
• Food: $15-30 per meal (local restaurants and markets)
• Transportation: $800-1,200 for the entire trip (including airport transfers, bus/train tickets, domestic flight, and boat rides)
• Tours & Activities: $300-500 (volcano hike, Tikal sunrise tour, boat tour of Lake Atitlán)
• Entrance Fees: $100-150 (national parks, museums, archaeological sites)

Optional Extension: Extend Your Adventure

If you have extra time, consider adding these destinations to your itinerary:

• Semuc Champey: A natural wonder featuring a series of limestone pools and waterfalls. It’s a 6-hour drive from Guatemala City, but well worth the trip for swimming in the crystal-clear waters and exploring the nearby caves.
• Livingston: A colorful Caribbean town on the Atlantic coast, known for its Garifuna culture, reggae music, and fresh seafood. Accessible by boat from Flores, Livingston offers a unique blend of Caribbean and Guatemalan culture.