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The Ultimate Week in Guatemala

From Colonial Antigua to Ancient Mayan Ruins

Trip Overview

This comprehensive week-long journey through Guatemala takes you from the cobblestone streets of colonial Antigua to the towering temples of Tikal, with stops at stunning natural wonders and vibrant indigenous markets along the way. Experience the perfect blend of ancient Mayan heritage, Spanish colonial architecture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. The itinerary balances cultural immersion with outdoor adventure, moving from the highlands to the jungle lowlands. You'll explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, swim in turquoise pools, witness sunrise over Lake Atitlán, and discover why Guatemala is one of Central America's most captivating destinations. This moderate-paced journey allows time to absorb each location while covering the country's essential highlights.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$60-90 per day
Best Seasons
November to April (dry season)
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Guatemala, Culture and history enthusiasts, Adventure travelers, Photography lovers, Solo travelers and couples

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Colonial Charm & Volcanic Views

Antigua Guatemala
Arrive in Guatemala and transfer to Antigua, the country's most beautiful colonial city. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic center and its iconic landmarks.
Morning
Arrival and transfer to Antigua
Land at Guatemala City's La Aurora International Airport and arrange a shuttle transfer to Antigua, approximately one hour away through scenic highlands. Check into your accommodation and take time to settle in. Have a light breakfast or coffee at a cafe near your hotel and get oriented with the grid-style streets of this UNESCO World Heritage city.
2-3 hours including transfer $15-25 for shuttle
Pre-book airport shuttle online for best rates and reliability
Lunch
A courtyard restaurant in the historic center serving traditional Guatemalan cuisine
Traditional Guatemalan Mid-range
Afternoon
Exploring Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala and surrounding landmarks
Begin at Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala, the heart of the city surrounded by colonial buildings and the cathedral ruins. Walk to the iconic Arco de Santa Catalina, the yellow arch that's Antigua's most photographed landmark. Continue to Convento Santa Clara to explore the beautiful ruins of this 17th-century convent. End at Cerro de La Cruz for panoramic views over the city with its three surrounding volcanoes.
3-4 hours $5-10 for entrance fees
Evening
Dinner and evening stroll
Dine at a rooftop restaurant with volcano views, then explore the illuminated streets and browse artisan shops around the central plaza

Where to Stay Tonight

Antigua Guatemala historic center (Colonial-style boutique hotel or guesthouse)

Staying in the historic center puts you within walking distance of all major attractions and creates an immersive colonial atmosphere

Visit Cerro de La Cruz before 4pm for the best light and clearer skies; go with others or a guide as the trail can be isolated
Day 1 Budget: $60-80
2

Markets, Museums & Colonial Treasures

Antigua Guatemala
Dive deeper into Antigua's cultural heritage with visits to local markets, museums, and the colorful umbrella street installation.
Morning
Market exploration and cultural immersion
Start early at the local market to experience authentic Guatemalan commerce with vendors selling fresh produce, textiles, and handicrafts. Browse colorful fabrics, traditional clothing, and local ingredients. Then visit La Calle de las Sombrillas, the famous umbrella-covered street that creates a rainbow canopy overhead, perfect for photography. The installation changes seasonally, offering a unique visual experience.
2-3 hours $10-20 for purchases
Lunch
A family-run cafe serving pepian or kak'ik, traditional Guatemalan stews
Local specialties Budget
Afternoon
Coffee plantation tour
Join a guided tour at one of Antigua's surrounding coffee fincas to learn about Guatemala's world-renowned coffee production. Walk through the plantation, observe the processing methods from bean to cup, and enjoy tastings of different roasts. The tours typically include transportation from Antigua and provide insight into the region's coffee culture and economic importance.
3-4 hours $25-35
Book through your hotel or a tour operator the day before
Evening
Traditional dinner and cultural performance
Seek out a restaurant offering live marimba music, Guatemala's national instrument, while enjoying traditional dishes like chiles rellenos or jocon

Where to Stay Tonight

Antigua Guatemala historic center (Same accommodation as Day 1)

Two full days in Antigua allows thorough exploration without rushing

Bargaining is expected at markets but should be done respectfully; start at about 70% of the asking price
Day 2 Budget: $55-75
3

Journey to the Highlands

Lake Atitlán
Travel to stunning Lake Atitlán, surrounded by volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages. Settle into lakeside accommodation and explore your base village.
Morning
Transfer to Lake Atitlán
Take a shuttle bus through the scenic highlands to Lake Atitlán, approximately 2.5 hours from Antigua. The journey offers spectacular mountain views and passes through traditional villages. Arrive at Panajachel, the main town, then take a boat to your chosen lakeside village. San Pedro, San Marcos, or Santa Cruz each offer different atmospheres. Check in and enjoy lunch with lake views.
3-4 hours including transfer and boat $15-20 for shuttle and boat
Book shuttle the evening before through your Antigua hotel
Lunch
A lakeside restaurant with fresh fish and views of the volcanoes
Lake fish specialties Mid-range
Afternoon
Village exploration and swimming
Explore your lakeside village on foot, visiting local artisan cooperatives, yoga studios, or swimming docks depending on which village you've chosen. Walk along the lakefront paths, interact with local vendors, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Consider a sunset kayak rental to experience the lake from the water as the light changes and the volcanoes glow.
3-4 hours $10-15 for kayak rental
Evening
Sunset watching and dinner
Find a lakefront spot to watch the spectacular sunset over the volcanoes, then enjoy dinner at a restaurant specializing in organic, locally-sourced ingredients

Where to Stay Tonight

Lakeside village at Lake Atitlán (Eco-lodge or lakeside guesthouse)

Staying in a smaller village offers authentic experiences and stunning natural surroundings away from tourist crowds

Boats stop running around 5-6pm; plan your village-hopping accordingly or you may be stranded
Day 3 Budget: $50-70
4

Mayan Villages & Sunrise Vistas

Lake Atitlán
Wake before dawn for an unforgettable sunrise hike, then spend the afternoon visiting traditional Mayan villages around the lake.
Morning
Sunrise hike to Indian Nose Viewpoint
Start at 4:30am for a guided hike up to Indian Nose Viewpoint, one of the most spectacular sunrise spots in Guatemala. The steep climb takes about 45 minutes in the dark with headlamps. Watch the sun rise over the lake and volcanoes from this sacred Mayan site, with 360-degree views. The viewpoint's profile resembles a face looking skyward, hence the name. Return for a well-deserved breakfast.
4 hours total including transport $15-25 including guide
Book the evening before through your accommodation; guides are essential for safety and navigation
Lunch
A village cooperative restaurant in San Juan La Laguna serving traditional Mayan dishes
Traditional Mayan Budget
Afternoon
Village hopping and cultural experiences
Take boat taxis to visit traditional villages around the lake. In San Juan La Laguna, visit women's weaving cooperatives using natural dyes and traditional backstrap looms. The Trailhead to Mirador Kaqasiiwaan, San Juan la Laguna offers another viewpoint option if you want more hiking. Continue to Santiago Atitlán to see the unique syncretistic worship of Maximón, a Mayan folk saint. Each village has distinct traditions and crafts.
4-5 hours $10-15 for boats and small donations
Evening
Relaxation and early dinner
After an early start, enjoy a quiet evening with dinner at your accommodation or a nearby restaurant, perhaps trying caldo de gallina (chicken soup)

Where to Stay Tonight

Lake Atitlán (Same lakeside accommodation)

Two full days allows proper exploration of the lake's diverse villages

Bring small bills for boat taxis and village purchases; few places accept cards and change is limited
Day 4 Budget: $45-65
5

Journey to the Jungle

Flores/Tikal
Travel day from the highlands to the Petén jungle region. Fly to Flores and prepare for tomorrow's Tikal adventure.
Morning
Return to Guatemala City and fly to Flores
Take a shuttle back to Guatemala City (3-4 hours) or arrange a direct transfer to the airport. Catch an afternoon flight to Flores in the Petén region, about one hour. The dramatic landscape shift from highlands to tropical lowlands is remarkable. Flores is a charming island town on Lake Petén Itzá. Check into your hotel and explore the colorful streets.
Full morning and early afternoon $80-120 for flight, $30-40 for shuttle
Book flights well in advance for better prices; afternoon flights allow a relaxed morning
Lunch
Pack snacks for travel or eat at the airport before your flight
Light fare Budget
Afternoon
Flores island exploration
Walk around the small island town of Flores, with its colorful buildings and lakefront promenade. The entire island can be circled in 30 minutes. Visit the central church, browse local shops, and enjoy the laid-back Caribbean-influenced atmosphere. Consider swimming in the lake if time permits or simply relax after travel. Arrange your early morning Tikal tour for tomorrow.
2-3 hours $5-10 for refreshments
Evening
Lakefront dinner and early rest
Dine at a lakefront restaurant enjoying fresh fish, then rest early for tomorrow's 4am departure to Tikal

Where to Stay Tonight

Flores island or nearby Santa Elena (Mid-range hotel with early breakfast option)

Flores offers charm and convenience as the base for Tikal visits, with many tour operators nearby

Confirm your hotel can provide breakfast at 3:30am or pack snacks for the early Tikal departure
Day 5 Budget: $130-170 (higher due to flight)
6

Ancient Mayan Temples

Tikal National Park
Experience one of the world's greatest archaeological sites with a sunrise tour of Tikal's magnificent temples rising above the jungle canopy.
Morning
Sunrise tour of Tikal National Park
Depart at 4am for Tikal National Park, arriving before dawn. Climb Temple IV in darkness to watch sunrise over the jungle canopy with temple tops emerging from the mist. The howler monkeys' calls create an unforgettable soundtrack. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site with a guide who'll explain Mayan history and point out wildlife including toucans, spider monkeys, and coatis. Visit the Grand Plaza, Temple I and II, and The Lost World complex.
6-7 hours $50-70 including transport, guide, and entrance
Book through your Flores hotel the day before; sunrise tours are essential for best experience
Lunch
Simple restaurant at the park entrance serving traditional Guatemalan plates
Guatemalan basics Budget
Afternoon
Return to Flores and relaxation
Return to Flores exhausted but exhilarated from the early morning adventure. Take a refreshing swim in Lake Petén Itzá to cool off from the jungle heat. Rest at your hotel or explore more of Flores at a leisurely pace. Visit the small museum or simply enjoy the lake views. Consider a sunset boat ride around the lake if energy permits.
3-4 hours $10-15 for boat ride
Evening
Celebratory dinner
Enjoy a special dinner at one of Flores' better restaurants, celebrating your Tikal experience with local specialties and perhaps a cocktail

Where to Stay Tonight

Flores (Same hotel as previous night)

Staying put allows recovery after the intense Tikal experience

Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and plenty of water to Tikal; the jungle is hot and humid with mosquitoes
Day 6 Budget: $70-95
7

Return & Capital Highlights

Guatemala City
Fly back to Guatemala City for your final day, exploring the capital's museums and cultural sites before departure.
Morning
Flight to Guatemala City and museum visit
Take a morning flight back to Guatemala City. Head to the Nacional Museum of Mayan Art: Archeology and Ethnology to deepen your understanding of the ancient civilization whose sites you've explored. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, jade pieces, ceramics, and textiles. Nearby, visit Museo Miraflores for insights into the Mayan site that once existed in this area of the city.
4-5 hours including flight $80-120 for flight, $10 for museum entries
Book morning flight to maximize final day
Lunch
A modern restaurant in Zona 10 or Zona 4 serving contemporary Guatemalan fusion cuisine
Contemporary Guatemalan Mid-range
Afternoon
Plaza de la Constitución and Palacio Nacional de la Cultura
Visit the historic center to see Plaza de la Constitución, the main square surrounded by important buildings. Tour the Palacio Nacional de la Cultura, the former presidential palace with stunning murals, stained glass, and architecture. If time allows and interest permits, browse Mercado Central for last-minute handicraft purchases. The three-story market offers textiles, leather goods, and souvenirs at better prices than tourist areas.
2-3 hours $5-10 plus shopping
Evening
Departure preparations
Enjoy a final Guatemalan meal near your airport hotel or in Zona Viva before heading to the airport for your international flight

Where to Stay Tonight

Near La Aurora International Airport (Airport hotel for convenience)

Easy access for morning departures and secure location after a full day of sightseeing

Guatemala City traffic can be intense; allow 45 minutes to reach the airport even from nearby hotels
Day 7 Budget: $100-140 (higher due to flight)

Practical Information

Getting Around

This itinerary uses a mix of transportation: pre-arranged shuttles between Antigua and Lake Atitlán (most comfortable and reliable), domestic flights between Guatemala City and Flores (essential for time efficiency), local boat taxis around Lake Atitlán, and organized tours to Tikal. Within cities, walking is primary with occasional taxis. Chicken buses are cheapest but slower and less comfortable. Private shuttles cost $15-30 per route and can be booked through hotels. Domestic flights should be booked in advance for around $100-120 each way.

Book Ahead

Book domestic flights to/from Flores at least 2-3 weeks ahead. Reserve Tikal sunrise tour one day in advance. Coffee plantation tours in Antigua should be booked 1-2 days ahead. Indian Nose sunrise hike needs booking the evening before. All other activities can be arranged upon arrival or with short notice.

Packing Essentials

Layers for varying climates (cool highlands, hot jungle), rain jacket year-round, sturdy walking shoes, sandals, headlamp for sunrise hikes, insect repellent, sunscreen SPF 30+, refillable water bottle, daypack, modest clothing for churches, swimsuit, camera with extra batteries, Spanish phrasebook, small bills in quetzales

Total Budget

$510-695 for the week (excluding international flights and accommodation)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Stay in hostels ($8-15/night) instead of hotels, take chicken buses instead of shuttles ($2-5 vs $15-30), skip the coffee tour and domestic flights by traveling overland to Tikal (overnight bus saves accommodation cost), eat at local comedors for $3-5 meals, join group tours instead of private guides. This reduces daily costs to $35-50, making the week possible for $250-350 total.

Luxury Upgrade

Stay at Casa Santo Domingo in Antigua, a five-star hotel in a converted monastery, book a private helicopter tour over Lake Atitlán and the volcanoes, arrange a private guided Tikal tour with overnight at a jungle lodge inside the park, dine at Antigua's finest restaurants, hire private drivers throughout, and add a spa day at the lake. Budget increases to $200-300 per day or $1,400-2,100 for the week.

Family-Friendly

Replace the 4am sunrise hikes with later morning starts and easier walks. Add IRTRA Mundo Petapa or Xetulul Guatemala theme parks near Guatemala City for a fun day. Stay in family rooms or apartments with kitchenettes. Focus more time at Zoológico La Aurora in Guatemala City. At Lake Atitlán, add kayaking and swimming time. Keep Tikal but start later (6am instead of 4am). Build in more rest time and flexibility for tired children.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Guatemala

Continue Planning Your Trip

Things to Do

Top attractions and activities for Guatemala

Budget Guide

Trip costs and money tips for Guatemala

Getting Around

Transport options and tips for Guatemala

Where to Stay

Accommodation guide for Guatemala

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