Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in
Guatemala City, settle in, and get a first taste of the city's historic center.
Morning
Arrival at La Aurora International Airport (GUA)
Clear customs, exchange currency, and take a pre-arranged shuttle or taxi to your hotel in Zone 10 (Zona Viva). Settle in and acclimate to the altitude.
2-3 hours
$25-40 for airport transfer
Pre-book a shuttle with a reputable company like Guatemala Shuttle for safety and fixed price.
Lunch
El Cielo
Modern Guatemalan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Explore Plaza Mayor & National Palace
Visit the heart of Zone 1. See the Metropolitan Cathedral, the giant Guatemalan flag in the Plaza Mayor, and tour the beautiful, green-hued National Palace of Culture.
3 hours
$10 (Palace entry)
Guided tours of the Palace run regularly; no advance booking needed.
Evening
Dinner in Zona Viva
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Tres Toritos for classic Guatemalan steakhouse fare or Por Qué No? for a fun, eclectic atmosphere.
Where to Stay Tonight
Zona Viva (Zone 10), Guatemala City (Hotel Biltmore Express or similar mid-range hotel)
Safe, walkable area with many restaurants and amenities, ideal for a short stay.
Withdraw local currency (Quetzales) from an ATM at the airport or your hotel. It's widely preferred over USD for small purchases.
Day 1 Budget: $90
Visit the profound Ixchel Museum and Mayan ruins in the city before a short transfer to Antigua.
Morning
Museo Ixchel del Traje Indígena
Discover the impressive art of Mayan textiles at this superb museum on the campus of Universidad Francisco Marroquín. It showcases the history, techniques, and regional variations of traditional dress.
2 hours
$7
Lunch
Kacao
Traditional Guatemalan
Mid-range
Afternoon
Kaminaljuyú Archaeological Site
Explore the remains of this ancient Mayan city, now within the city limits. It has a glimpse into pre-Columbian history, with several mounds and a small museum, providing context before visiting Tikal later in the trip.
1.5 hours
$5
A guide on-site can greatly enhance the experience.
Evening
Transfer to Antigua & First Stroll
Take a pre-booked shuttle (1-1.5 hours) to Antigua. After checking into your hotel, take an evening walk to the Arco de Santa Catalina and feel the magic of the cobblestone streets.
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Antigua Guatemala (Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo or Posada del Angel)
To be immersed in the historic center. Casa Santo Domingo is a unique hotel built into convent ruins.
If your shuttle arrives early enough, visit the ChocoMuseo for a free chocolate-making history lesson and a delicious sample.
Day 2 Budget: $110
A full day exploring Antigua's iconic ruins, churches, and lively central park.
Morning
Convento de las Capuchinas & Cerro de la Cruz
Start at the well-preserved Convento de las Capuchinas, known for its unique circular cloister. Then, take a short walk or taxi up to the Cerro de la Cruz lookout for a impressive panoramic view of Antigua with Volcán de Agua in the background.
3 hours
$8 (Convent entry)
Go to Cerro de la Cruz in the morning for the clearest views; it's safe with regular tourist police presence.
Lunch
Fernando's Kaffee
Light lunches, salads, and great coffee
Budget
Afternoon
La Merced Church & Casa del Jade
Admire the ornate yellow baroque facade of La Merced Church. Then, visit Casa del Jade to learn about Guatemala's significant jade history and see beautiful jewelry crafted from local jadeite.
2 hours
Free (church), Museum tour is free.
Evening
Dinner with a View
Enjoy dinner at Café Sky or Cielo Sky Bar for a meal with a fantastic terrace view of the city and volcanoes.
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Antigua Guatemala (Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo or Posada del Angel)
Continue exploring the walkable city from a central base.
Buy a multi-site pass (Boleto Turístico) if you plan to visit several of the managed ruins and museums; it can save money.
Day 3 Budget: $85
An active day hiking up Volcán Pacaya to see flowing lava (conditions permitting) and roast marshmallows.
Morning
Volcán Pacaya Hike
Join a guided group tour for a moderately challenging hike up this active volcano. The landscape is surreal, and you can often feel heat from vents and see recent lava flows. The highlight is roasting marshmallows over volcanic heat.
4-5 hours (including transport)
$15-25 for guided tour
Book with a reputable operator like Old Town Outfitters or OX Expeditions the day before. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a jacket for the windy summit.
Lunch
Pack a picnic or eat a late lunch back in Antigua.
N/A
Budget
Afternoon
Relaxation & San Francisco Church
Recover from the hike. Later, visit the large and active San Francisco Church, which houses the tomb of Hermano Pedro, Guatemala's first saint, and features beautiful gardens.
1.5 hours
$2 (for tomb/museum area)
Evening
Low-Key Dinner
Try the authentic Guatemalan street food at the Antigua Market area or enjoy a relaxed pizza at Angie Angie.
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Antigua Guatemala (Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo or Posada del Angel)
Perfect location to return to and relax after an active day.
You can rent a walking stick from local children at the trailhead for a small tip. It's very helpful for the ascent and descent.
Day 4 Budget: $70
Learn about Guatemala's famous coffee on a farm tour, then explore a local village market.
Morning
Coffee Plantation Tour
Take a tour of a local coffee finca, such as Finca La Azotea or De La Gente cooperative. Learn about the entire process from bean to cup, walk among the plants, and enjoy a fresh tasting session.
3-4 hours
$25-35
Book directly through the farm or a tour company in Antigua. De La Gente offers excellent community-focused tours.
Lunch
On the plantation or at a local comedor in Jocotenango.
Simple local fare
Budget
Afternoon
Visit San Juan del Obispo
Take a short tuk-tuk ride to this nearby village. Visit the impressive colonial palace of the first bishop of Guatemala, now a cultural center, and see local artisans at work, in textile cooperatives.
2 hours
$5 (tuk-tuk + entry)
Evening
Farewell to Antigua
Enjoy a final dinner at one of Antigua's top restaurants, like Hector's Bistro or Mesón Panza Verde, for a special culinary experience.
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Antigua Guatemala (Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo or Posada del Angel)
Last night in this beautiful city.
Buy your coffee beans directly from the farm at the end of the tour. The quality is excellent and the price supports the local producers directly.
Day 5 Budget: $95
Scenic shuttle ride to Lake Atitlán, settle in Panajachel, and watch the sunset over the volcanoes.
Morning
Shuttle to Lake Atitlán
Take a morning shuttle (approx. 2.5-3 hours) from Antigua to Panajachel ("Pana"), the main gateway town on Lake Atitlán. The winding road offers spectacular views as you descend to the lake.
3 hours
$20-25
Book through your hotel or a company like GuateGo or Atitrans for a direct shuttle.
Lunch
Guajimbo's
Mexican/Guatemalan with lake view
Mid-range
Afternoon
Settle in & Calle Santander
Check into your hotel. Then, stroll down Calle Santander, Panajachel's main tourist street, lined with shops selling textiles, handicrafts, and art. It's a great place for initial souvenir shopping.
1.5 hours
Variable shopping budget
Haggle politely in the shops; it's expected.
Evening
Sunset at the Lake
Walk to the public dock or have a drink at a lakeside restaurant like Sunset Cafe to witness the impressive sunset over the lake and its surrounding volcanoes (San Pedro, Tolimán, and Atitlán).
Where to Stay Tonight
Panajachel, Lake Atitlán (Hotel Atitlán or Posada de los Volcanes)
Hotel Atitlán has impressive gardens and lake views. Panajachel is the most convenient transport hub.
Use this afternoon to book any specific lake tours or activities for the next few days from the many agencies along Calle Santander.
Day 6 Budget: $100
A day of boat-hopping to visit two of the lake's most distinctive villages: artistic San Juan La Laguna and backpacker-friendly San Pedro La Laguna.
Morning
Boat to San Juan La Laguna
Take a public lancha (boat) from Panajachel to San Juan. This Tz'utujil Maya village is known for its incredible community of female textile artists and natural dye workshops, as well as numerous murals and art galleries.
2-3 hours
$15-20 (boat + tour)
Get a guide at the dock or pre-book a cultural tour to visit cooperatives like Casa Flor Ixcaco to see the dye process.
Lunch
Café El Artesano or a local comedor
Simple Guatemalan
Budget
Afternoon
Boat to San Pedro La Laguna
Catch another short lancha to San Pedro. Explore the hectic, backpacker-friendly town. You can visit the local market, climb the Nariz del Indio viewpoint for a great photo, or simply wander the steep, colorful streets.
2-3 hours
$5 (boat)
Tuk-tuks are plentiful in San Pedro for getting up the steep hills.
Evening
Return to Pana & Dinner
Take a late afternoon boat back to Panajachel. For dinner, try Circus Bar for inventive international food and a great atmosphere.
Where to Stay Tonight
Panajachel, Lake Atitlán (Hotel Atitlán or Posada de los Volcanes)
Returning to Pana provides flexibility and dining options.
Public lanchas leave when full. For a more relaxed schedule, you can hire a private boat for the day to follow your own timetable.
Day 7 Budget: $75
Experience one of the world's most loud markets in Chichicastenango, then transfer to Quetzaltenango (Xela).
Morning
Chichicastenango Market
Take an early shuttle (market days are Thursdays and Sundays) to "Chichi." Spend time in the sights, sounds, and smells of this massive, centuries-old market. Explore the textile, produce, and craft sections, and witness traditional Maya rituals on the steps of Santo Tomás Church.
3-4 hours
$15-20 for shuttle from Pana
ONLY plan this day for a Thursday or Sunday. Book a direct market shuttle. Keep valuables secure in the crowds.
Lunch
Market food stalls
Local Guatemalan street food
Budget
Afternoon
Transfer to Quetzaltenango (Xela)
After the market, take a pre-arranged shuttle (approx. 2 hours) to Quetzaltenango, Guatemala's second city, located in a highland valley. It has a more local, less touristy experience.
2.5 hours
$15-20
Book this connecting shuttle in advance through your hotel or a travel agency in Panajachel.
Evening
Evening in Xela
Check into your hotel. Enjoy a dinner at Sabor de la India (excellent curry) or Casa Babylon for a bohemian vibe.
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Quetzaltenango (Xela) (Hotel Casa San Juan or Pension Bonifaz)
To experience a authentic Guatemalan city. Central location for exploring.
At the market, venture to the section selling ceremonial items like copal incense and flowers to see a more spiritual side of the commerce.
Day 8 Budget: $80
A relaxing morning at volcanic hot springs followed by an afternoon exploring Xela's cultural sites.
Morning
Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs
Take a taxi or colectivo to these beautiful natural hot springs located in a cloud forest on the slopes of the Zunil volcano. Soak in the warm, mineral-rich pools surrounded by lush greenery—a perfect way to relax.
3-4 hours (including travel)
$20-30 (transport + entry)
Go early to avoid crowds. You can rent towels and lockers on-site. The road is winding; motion sickness pills may help.
Lunch
Restaurant at Fuentes Georginas or pack a picnic.
Simple local food
Budget
Afternoon
Central Park & Museo de la Historia
Return to Xela. Explore the city's beautiful neoclassical Central Park (Parque Centroamérica). Visit the nearby Museo de la Historia to learn about the region's past, from pre-Columbian times to the modern era.
2 hours
$3 (museum)
Evening
Dinner in the Cultural Zone
Head to the Zona Viva around 15 Avenida for a variety of dining options, like El Salón de la Tía for traditional Guatemalan cuisine.
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Quetzaltenango (Xela) (Hotel Casa San Juan or Pension Bonifaz)
Second night to enjoy the city's atmosphere.
The hot springs can be quite hot. Test the temperature of different pools before fully submerging.
Day 9 Budget: $70
Fly from the highlands to the tropical lowlands of Petén, gateway to the Mayan world, and settle in Flores.
Morning
Transfer & Flight to Flores
Take a shuttle to
Guatemala City's airport (approx. 4 hours) for a domestic flight to Mundo Maya International Airport (FRS) near Flores. The flight saves a full day of overland travel.
5-6 hours total (land + air)
$120-160 (shuttle + flight)
Book the flight in advance with TAG Airlines or Avianca. Coordinate shuttle timing carefully with your flight.
Lunch
Airport or on the road.
N/A
Budget
Afternoon
Settle into Flores
Arrive in Flores, a charming island city on Lake Petén Itzá connected by a causeway. Check into your hotel and take a leisurely walk around the cobblestone streets of the island, enjoying the colorful buildings and lake views.
2 hours
$5 (airport taxi)
Evening
Sunset & Dinner on the Lake
Watch the sunset from the lakefront. Enjoy dinner at Raíces or Terraza de los Celajes, both offering beautiful views over the water.
Where to Stay Tonight
Isla de Flores, Petén (Hotel Casazul or Hotel La Casona de la Isla)
Staying on the island is scenic and convenient, with restaurants and tour agencies within walking distance.
If you have energy, climb the stairs of the Cathedral of Flores for a 360-degree view of the island and lake.
Day 10 Budget: $180
A pre-dawn start to witness sunrise over the ancient Mayan city of Tikal, followed by a full day exploring the monumental ruins.
Morning
Sunrise at Tikal
Depart Flores very early (around 4:00 AM) to enter Tikal park for sunrise. Climb Temple IV in the dark and watch as the jungle awakens and the sun rises above the mist-shrouded temples—an memorable, mystical experience.
5-6 hours
$70-90 (includes transport, guide, park entry)
Book a sunrise tour from Flores the day before. A guide is essential for navigating in the dark and explaining the site.
Lunch
Comedor at the Tikal Visitor Center
Basic Guatemalan set meals
Budget
Afternoon
Full Tikal Exploration
After sunrise, continue exploring the vast archaeological site with your guide. See the Grand Plaza, Temple I (Temple of the Great Jaguar), Temple II, the Lost World complex, and the acoustically fascinating Great Ball Court.
4-5 hours
Included in tour
Wear sturdy shoes, bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and plenty of water. The site is huge and involves a lot of walking.
Evening
Return & Relax in Flores
Return to Flores in the late afternoon, exhausted but exhilarated. Enjoy a well-earned dinner at a restaurant like Las Puertas or cool off with a swim in your hotel pool if available.
Where to Stay Tonight
Isla de Flores, Petén (Hotel Casazul or Hotel La Casona de la Isla)
Return to the comfort of your island base after a long, active day.
The 'sunrise' experience is often more about the sounds of the jungle waking and the light breaking through the mist than a clear solar disc. Embrace the atmosphere.
Day 11 Budget: $120
A flexible day to relax by Lake Petén Itzá, explore more ruins, or take an adventurous boat trip.
Morning
Option A: Relax at Lake Petén Itzá
Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely morning. Take a taxi to the nearby town of Santa Elena and visit the ARCAS animal rescue center, or simply relax by the lake, swim, or rent a kayak.
3-4 hours
$10-30 (taxis, entry, rentals)
Lunch
Cool Beans
International, great coffee and smoothies
Budget
Afternoon
Option B: Yaxhá or Boat Trip
Choose an adventure: 1) Visit Yaxhá, another impressive Mayan site with a impressive location between two lagoons (requires a tour). 2) Take a boat trip on Lake Petén Itzá to visit the cliff-side town of San Miguel or the pet monkeys on Isla de los Loros.
4-5 hours
$50-80 (for Yaxhá tour) or $25 (for local boat trip)
Book tours through agencies in Flores. Yaxhá is less crowded than Tikal and has a unique twin-pyramid complex.
Evening
Farewell to Petén
Enjoy a final dinner in Flores, perhaps trying the local specialty, 'pavo en relleno' (stuffed turkey), at Restaurante El Mirador.
Where to Stay Tonight
Isla de Flores, Petén (Hotel Casazul or Hotel La Casona de la Isla)
Last night in the Petén region.
For a unique sunset spot, walk across the causeway to the mainland and find a spot along the shore looking back at the illuminated island of Flores.
Day 12 Budget: $90
A spectacular full-day journey by boat down the Río Dulce canyon to the Garifuna town of Livingston on the Caribbean coast.
Morning
Boat to Livingston
Start a scenic public or private boat ride from the dock in Fronteras (Río Dulce town). The journey goes through the impressive Río Dulce canyon, past hot springs, the Castillo de San Felipe fortress, and mangroves before reaching the Caribbean Sea at Livingston.
4-5 hours
$25-35 (public boat) or $150+ (private charter)
Public boats leave in the morning (around 9 AM). Book through your hotel in Flores, which will arrange the connecting shuttle to the dock.
Lunch
In Livingston upon arrival.
Fresh Caribbean seafood or Garifuna cuisine
Budget
Afternoon
Explore Livingston
Check into your hotel. Explore this unique, Afro-Caribbean Garifuna town, which is inaccessible by road. Visit the colorful main street, the beach, and soak in the laid-back, culturally distinct atmosphere.
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Be prepared for basic accommodation and infrastructure. It's part of the charm.
Evening
Caribbean Flavors
Dine on fresh fish, coconut rice, and plantains. Listen to Punta music, the traditional Garifuna sound. Try Bahía Azul or Happy Fish restaurant.
Where to Stay Tonight
Livingston (Hotel Casa Rosada or Hotel Villa Caribe)
To experience the unique Garifuna culture. Casa Rosada is a lovely, eco-friendly option on the water.
The public boat can be crowded and luggage gets wet. Pack a rain cover for your bag and wear quick-dry clothing.
Day 13 Budget: $100
A final morning enjoying the Caribbean vibe before the journey back to
Guatemala City for international departure.
Morning
Los Siete Altares or Beach Time
Take a short boat ride to Los Siete Altares, a series of beautiful freshwater pools and waterfalls in the jungle. Alternatively, relax on Playa Blanca or the town's main beach.
3 hours
$15-20 (boat tour)
Arrange a boat tour with a local captain at the main dock. Agree on the price and duration beforehand.
Lunch
Final seafood lunch in Livingston
Garifuna/Caribbean
Budget
Afternoon
Take a fast boat back to Puerto Barrios (30 mins), then transfer to a pre-booked shuttle or private transport for the 5-6 hour drive to
Guatemala City. Alternatively, take a domestic flight from Puerto Barrios (if available and booked).
6-8 hours total
$60-100 (boat + shuttle) or $150+ (flight)
This is a long travel day. Book the entire transfer (boat + van) as a package through a tour operator in Livingston or Flores for smooth connections.
Evening
Departure
Arrive at
Guatemala City's La Aurora International Airport (GUA) for your evening or night international departure flight. Have a final meal at the airport if time allows.
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A - Departure (N/A)
N/A
Ensure you have a confirmed and reliable transfer booked for this long journey. Don't leave it to chance on the day.
Day 14 Budget: $150