Trip Overview:
Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and scenery of Guatemala. Wander the cobbled streets of the old capital, La Antigua, whilst unravelling the country's intricate past. Kayak on Lake Atitlán, the most beautiful lake in the world, before visiting ancient Mayan villages. Pick up a bargain at the market town of Chichicastenango, whilst learning about Mayan syncretism. Along the way, sip on world-class coffees and discover what makes Guatemala the Mayan Heartland and the Land of Eternal Spring.
Highlights:
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Hike through an active lava field
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Stay at a beautiful boutique lodge on the shores of Lake Atitlán.
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Try your hand making Mayan specialties.
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Witness ancient ceremonies in the Guatemalan Highlands.
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Fill up your bags with Mayan crafts at Central America's largest artisan's market.
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Explore the ancient capital of the Kaqchikel Mayan Kingdom.
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Welcome to Antigua
Welcome to the Highlands of Guatemala. Once you’ve settled into your hotel in the UNESCO Heritage city of La Antigua, you can explore as you please. We'll be meeting for a welcome drink and then heading to dinner as a group.
- Night in Antigua: Luxury Colonial Home
DAY 2: Ancient Capitals
Today we set off deeper into the highlands to the town of Tecpán, where we'll visit the ancient capital of the Kaqchikel Mayan Kingdom. We'll grab a quick lunch at my favourite roadside cafe, before driving to Panajachel, the gateway town to Lake Atitlán. From here, it's a short boat trip to our boutique lodge - where we'll be staying for the next 3 nights.
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- Night at Lake Atitlán: Hotel Bambu
DAY 3: San Juan La Laguna
A short boat ride will take us across the lake to San Juan La Laguna. For centuries, this town has been inhabited by the Tz'utujil people, and in recent years it's become well-known for its strong Mayan culture. Here we'll learn about local customs, visit a weaving cooperative and explore the most colorful viewpoint in the country. Following lunch, we'll have plenty of time to explore San Juan's many artists shops, before we head back to our lodge for a relaxing afternoon & evening.
- Night at Lake Atitlán: Hotel Bambu
DAY 4: Lake Atitlán
This morning is dedicated to relaxing and enjoying our lakeside lodge. Go for a dip, head out on a kayak or have a long lie in. For lunch we'll head to a nearby terraced restaurant before boating across to another Mayan town, known for its rather cheeky "resident" saint. We'll even have the opportunity to try our hand at cooking some Mayan dishes with some classic local ingredients.
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- Night at Lake Atitlán: Hotel Bambu
DAY 5: Chichicastenango
In the late morning, we’ll head back to Panajachel, where we’ll hop into our private transport and make our way to Chichicastenango (aka “Chichi”). With its cobbled streets, pre-Christian beliefs and Mayan traditions, Chichi is as magical as it is mysterious. After checking into the beautiful Santo Tomás hotel, we'll have some downtime before our dinner and a musical surprise!
- Night in Chichicastenango: Hotel Santo Tomas
DAY 6: Market Day
Market days in Chichicastenango are a mix-mash of vibrant colors, smells, fabrics, and traditions. For the early risers, we'll be up exploring at the crack of dawn. At breakfast, we'll re-group before we have an introduction to the town’s market history and traditions. For the rest of the morning and early afternoon, we'll have plenty time to people watch, explore and pick up a few souvenirs. After lunch, we'll make our way back to Antigua, for a relaxing afternoon & evening.
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- Night in Antigua: Luxury Colonial Home
DAY 7: Volcano hike
There are over 30 volcanoes dotting Guatemala, some more active than others! Today we visit Pacaya Volcano, and hike through its other-worldly lava field. As the day goes on, we’ll learn about the topography and history of this volcano, whilst taking in some stunning volcanic scenery. The hike only takes a few hours; however, we'll be out the whole day and eating a volcanic picnic lunch. After a few volcano-roasted marshmallows (and maybe even a Guate S’more!), it's back to Antigua for our final group dinner.
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- Night in Antigua: Luxury Colonial Home
DAY 8: Goodbyes
Today, catch flights home or onto your next adventure. I'll be on hand to help arrange transport to the airport or offer suggestions for things to do for the day.
Something to note
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Itineraries and daily schedules are subject to change. We expect to do everything listed in the itinerary; however, the order may be rearranged based on weather or other local conditions.
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Before you go ahead and book, scroll down and have a read of the additional info!
Some more info
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What's included?
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Accommodation throughout the trip (8 nights).
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All breakfasts, 3 lunches & 4 dinners.
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One alcoholic (or non-alcoholic) drink for the welcome dinner.
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All experiences as described in the itinerary.
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Transportation throughout the trip.
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Airport arrival transfer to Antigua (if you arrive on Day 1).
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Local translator (Spanish/English).
- Online Zoom session to help you plan flights.
- Dedicated guide & host (Ross, Isa & Travis).
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What's not included?
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Transportation and flights to/from Guatemala.
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Pre/post trip accommodation.
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Travel insurance (highly recommended).
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Additional meals and drinks outside of itinerary.
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Passport and visa fees (if applicable).
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Customary gratuities for Guides & Drivers.
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Airport departure transfer from Antigua to La Aurora International Airport​.
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Pricing
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The listed price of this trip (USD $2,475) is per person based on double occupancy. If you're happy to share a room, you'll be matched with another solo traveler of the same gender.
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If you would rather a private room, this is available for an additional cost of USD $475 (on top of the trip price). When you pay your deposit, this will be indicated clearly as an option.
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In order to reserve your spot on the trip, a deposit of USD $175 is required. This is fully refundable for 7 days after payment.
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Activity Level
We’ll be spending a lot of our time outside and in rural areas. In some cases, this will involve dirt and/or cobblestone paths. The most physical day will be our Volcano hike, so you should feel comfortable walking for at least 3 hours uphill and 1 hour downhill.
Arrival & Departure Flights
When booking international flights, please choose Guatemala's La Aurora International Airport​ (airport code GUA).
Ready for an adventure?
The total price of this trip is USD $2,475
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To ensure the best experience for all our guests, before you pay your deposit:
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We request a brief, friendly 15-minute video call with each guest.
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This allows us to understand guest preferences and ensure the trip aligns perfectly with everyone's expectations.
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Our aim is to create a super unique trip, and this personalised touch ensures that we're able to do this.
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One last thing! We want to say how grateful we are that you're considering this trip. We (Travis & Ross) started building this travel company back in 2018 and its been a serious adventure.
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If you have any questions, please drop us an email here, otherwise what you waiting for?! Book that trip!
