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Introducing Guatemala

When is the best time to visit? 
The weather in Guatemala is generally split between two seasons — dry and rainy. The dry season generally runs from mid-October to late April, with the other half of the year being the rainy season. That being said, tourism is still alive and thriving during the rainy season as we're not dealing with monsoon-type rains, think more afternoon/evening showers. Depending on your goals while visiting Guatemala, each season has its benefits. Overnight camping and long hikes favor the dry season, while birding, morning adventures, and smaller crowds are best during the rainy season. Learn more

Where to go in Guatemala? 
A few of the top sights that most people think of when visiting Guatemala are Antigua, Lake Atitlan, one of the many volcanoes, and the Tikal ruins. When you search Guatemala they will be the top sights, although if you are open to getting a little more off the beaten path, Guatemala has so many wonders to experience including the beautiful hiking trails in the Western Highlands, the rivers and caves in Alta Verapaz, black sand Pacific beaches, mountain biking trails in every corner, and many more. Let us know what types of adventure you're seeking and we'll help recommend the right areas.

How many days do I need?
Although Guatemala is a fairly small country in size, the variety in Mayan culture and drastic landscapes make it huge! At least a week is recommended to get a feel for the different experiences this country has to offer.

Getting Around Guatemala
There are two main airports in Guatemala, La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, and Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores—close to the Tikal ruins. Once in the country, it's best to get around by private transfer or shared tourist shuttle (minibus or coach). Learn more

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

Guatemala Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Volcano views from the streets of Antigua
Map of Best of Guatemala: Antigua, Lake Atitlán & Tikal - 8 Days
Best of Guatemala: Antigua, Lake Atitlán & Tikal - 8 Days

This eight-day trip packs in some of Guatemala's greatest hits, from touring Maya ruins to climbing an active volcano. Hike, bike, and kayak around the country as you explore the picturesque colonial city of Antigua, scale the lava fields of Pacaya, experience the magic of Lake Atitlán, and venture deep into the rainforest to discover the ancient pyramids of Tikal.

View of Agua volcano from Antigua, Guatemala
Map of Mayan Adventure in Guatemala - 6 Days
Mayan Adventure in Guatemala - 6 Days

This trip to the heart of Central America offers fascinating historical culture, thrilling adventure, and jaw-dropping vistas. You'll fall in love with the charming colonial city of Antigua, learn about ancient Mayan civilization, and hike and bike some of Guatemala's stunning mountain volcanoes.

Antigua's Santa Catalina Arch
Map of Highlights of Guatemala - 10 Days
Highlights of Guatemala - 10 Days

Experience the rich culture and natural beauty of Guatemala on this 10-day, action-packed itinerary. Stroll the cobbled streets of colonial Antigua, tour Lake Atitlán by boat, and hike around indigenous villages and towering volcanoes. Finally, experience living history as you explore ancient Maya ruins at Iximché and Tikal.

Overlooking Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
Map of Luxury & Maya Culture in Guatemala -  8 Days
Luxury & Maya Culture in Guatemala - 8 Days

Immerse yourself in ancient Maya culture while traveling in style on this eight-day trip to Guatemala. Pamper yourself in luxury hotels and see the sights from above as you fly by helicopter to some of Guatemala's best attractions. You'll bask in the beauty of magical Lake Atitlán, discover the charming colonial city of Antigua, and participate in a Maya ceremonial ritual.

View of the volcano from Antigua, Guatemala
Map of Best of Guatemala & Copán - 13 Days
Best of Guatemala & Copán - 13 Days

Delve into the incredible natural beauty and diverse cultures of Guatemala and Honduras on this two-week trip. Discover Maya ruins, towering volcanoes, and vibrant cities through a well-rounded mix of outdoor adventures and cultural encounters. You'll roam around colonial Antigua, kayak on stunning Lake Atitlan, and browse the artisan markets in indigenous Maya towns.

Santa Catalina Arch in Antigua
Map of Highlights of Guatemala - 5 Days
Highlights of Guatemala - 5 Days

This five-day Guatemala adventure begins with a walking tour and traditional cooking class in the colonial city of Antigua. Then conquer the summit of Pacaya Volcano as you hike along its dried lava fields and dense forests. End the trip on the tranquil shores of Lake Atitlán with visits to humble indigenous villages before venturing into the highlands to discover the ruins of an ancient Maya kingdom at Iximché.

Make the Most of Your Time in Guatemala

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
Antigua
How Many Days to Spend in Guatemala

Guatemala's relatively small size allows you to comfortably visit its iconic volcanoes, colonial cities, and Maya ruins in around seven days. But even in as few as five days,...

Guatemala Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Our Latest Guatemala Content

Belize
Map of Wildlife, Jungle & Maya Ruins in Guatemala & Belize - 15 Days
Wildlife, Jungle & Maya Ruins in Guatemala & Belize - 15 Days

This 15-day adventure takes you to two countries offering some of the most incredible nature, culture, and activities in Central America. In Belize, hit the Caribbean and snorkel along its famous Barrier Reef followed by cave tubing in the jungle. Then hop over to Guatemala to explore ancient Maya ruins and hidden waterfalls, go paragliding and horseback riding, and camp out near the top of an active volcano.

White sand and turquoise waters await in Belize
Map of Highlights of Guatemala & Belize: Adventure & Culture - 15 Days
Highlights of Guatemala & Belize: Adventure & Culture - 15 Days

Combine the best of Guatemala with the most exciting adventures in Belize on this unforgettable 15-day escape. In Guatemala, you'll mix tours of historic cities with excursions to lakes, mountain retreats, and hikes up volcanoes. After visiting ancient Maya ruins, you'll cross the border into Belize for rides down jungle rivers, snorkeling in pristine marine reserves, and relaxing on white-sand beaches.

Sunset over the Río Dulce
Map of Guatemala & Beyond: Ruins to Reefs & Cobblestone Streets - 15 Days
Guatemala & Beyond: Ruins to Reefs & Cobblestone Streets - 15 Days

This 15-day adventure through Guatemala will take you to its most heralded wonders, both man-made and natural. It begins deep within coffee country as you visit nature reserves, waterfalls, and Maya ruins, then continues to the colonial towns and volcanoes around sacred Lake Atitlán. As an added bonus, you'll hop the border into Belize to visit coral islands and snorkel along one of the world's largest barrier reefs.

Guatemala Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Guatemala map: 7 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Guatemala map: 2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Guatemala map: 10 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Guatemala
Travel specialist Eduardo Celada
active 1 day ago

Eduardo Celada

My passion for showing the beauty of Guatemala began when I was traveling in Guatemala as a tourist in my own country. After working in several hotels and other tourism related businesses, I...

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Travel specialist Chris Gwinner
active 1 day ago

Chris Gwinner

I am passionate about adventure travel and feel very lucky to be able to share that passion with others through Old Town Outfitters. I'm originally from Savannah, Georgia but have been living...

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Travel specialist Catherina Tittaferrante
active 1 day ago

Catherina Tittaferrante

I create personalized tours based on our travelers' passions to show them the real Guatemala. I take care of logistics, organizing and confirming every single detail needed to make your experience...

read more...
Travel specialist Esteban Tittaferrante

Esteban Tittaferrante

I am passionate about travel and I like that every traveler gets the best possible experience that they will never forget in their lives, so I try my best every time, because I do it with love with...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Guatemala

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

They were simply amazing. What a great trip
Guatemala | Oct 28 - Nov 7, 2022

D
Dana C.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Feb 08, 2023

They were simply amazing. What a great trip

Local specialist: Catherina Tittaferrante
Catherina
Catherina Tittaferrante
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2023

Dear Dana,

Thank you so much, what a way to describe us! You are amazing too, we are extremely grateful for meeting you guys. We will always keep in touch, you have friends and family forever in Guatemala.

A Memorable Two Weeks in Guatemala and Belize
Guatemala | Dec 31 - Jan 15, 2023

Simone
Simone B.
Brooklyn, NY | Reviewed on Jan 25, 2023

I can't say enough positive things about our trip to Guatemala and Belize. Eduardo did a fantastic job organizing everything. We loved the itinerary he prepared which was a perfect mix of activity and relaxation. He came to meet us in person when we first arrived and was constantly in touch throughout our trip to ensure everything was running smoothly. Our local guides and drivers were wonderful. Esmeralda and Jonathan took amazing care of us in Guatemala. Two beautiful countries with so much... read more

I can't say enough positive things about our trip to Guatemala and Belize. Eduardo did a fantastic job organizing everything. We loved the itinerary he prepared which was a perfect mix of activity and relaxation. He came to meet us in person when we first arrived and was constantly in touch throughout our trip to ensure everything was running smoothly. Our local guides and drivers were wonderful. Esmeralda and Jonathan took amazing care of us in Guatemala. Two beautiful countries with so much to see and do and highly recommend Eduardo to anyone looking at planning a trip there. Lake Atitlan, Antigua, and Tikal were highlights of Guatemala. We also went to Semuc Champey which took some expert planning by Eduardo to make happen but we're so glad did. Travelling to the highlands of Guatemala we got to see a different side of the country and it is a spectacular place. The ATM caves in Belize was an experience I'll never forget and Caye Caulker was the perfect place for us to wind down after such an adventure!

Local specialist: Eduardo Celada
Eduardo
Eduardo Celada
Local specialist in Antigua, Guatemala | Reviewed on Jan 26, 2023

Thank you very much Simone and Olivier for your comment! We are glad that you enjoyed our "Journey and adventure trips in Guatemala" program, it is one of the favorites of our clients! And today you have contributed to better position this service, which is undoubtedly one of the best things you can do in our beautiful country.

I invite you to text me on your next visit to Guatemala to show you other beautiful places in our land of beautiful people.

Thank you for being a high-level Client and providing value to our service!

Sincerely,
Eduardo

Eduard Was Able to Accommodate Last Minute Changes
Guatemala | Dec 24 - Jan 4, 2023

Li
Li K.
San Francisco, CA | Reviewed on Jan 10, 2023

I especially appreciated that Eduardo was able to make last minute changes for us. Due to the major storm in Dec 2022, our flight from the US to Belize City was delayed one day. Thus, we had to begin our trip on Day 2 of our itinerary, instead of Day 1. Eduardo arranged for us to be picked up a day late, and got us quickly caught up to our Day 2 itinerary, which required him to adjust the pick up time for 3 drivers. Had we booked this trip on our own... we would have had a problem rearranging... read more

I especially appreciated that Eduardo was able to make last minute changes for us. Due to the major storm in Dec 2022, our flight from the US to Belize City was delayed one day. Thus, we had to begin our trip on Day 2 of our itinerary, instead of Day 1. Eduardo arranged for us to be picked up a day late, and got us quickly caught up to our Day 2 itinerary, which required him to adjust the pick up time for 3 drivers. Had we booked this trip on our own... we would have had a problem rearranging our pick up times. We had Pablo as our guide for the half day bike ride in Antigua and Pablo has a wonderful personality and was patient with our 12 year old. We appreciated having Pablo. Our trip didn't have any hiccups. All the drivers/guides were either on time or early and we had maybe 10 different times/days to meet up. Don't be shy about getting Eduardo's WhatsApp chat info BEFORE you depart for your trip. He'll be super responsive on WhatsApp.

Hotel Reviews
Jungle Lodge Tikal
Peten

For some reason, our hotel room did not have hot water. And for the bed, we each got one sheet as the cover. And the windows actually didn't close all the way. It was December and we all had to sleep in our street clothes and I had to use my jacket as my cover. Just make sure you have warm PJs and a warm coat to cover yourself, and probably skip the shower until your next hotel.

Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Having hot water in the shower. Having a bedcover on the bed, and not just one thin sheet as the cover.
Hotel San Jorge
Antigua

This one looked okay from the outside, but inside the room, it was really old. Bed was uncomfortable, sheets were clean, but the blanket and bed cover were old and worn. They need to replace all their beds and beddings. The towels were nice though. The location was very convenient. The breakfast was kinda sad. The staff were lovely, but the breakfast was just so so.

Location
Close to downtown.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
They should consider replacing all their beds and bed covers. When you go to a hotel, you just want to sleep comfortably.
Jan's Hotel
Caye Caulker

Surprisingly, this hotel was simple, yet just right. The beds were comfortable, the shower was strong and the staff was helpful. We got picked up by a staff from the Ferry and he was helpful.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ramon's Village Resort
San Pedro

This was a nice resort. There was a restaurant onsite, and there's also a pier onsite where you can book any water activities (fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving) when you are there so you don't have to worry about booking months in advance for the activities. We booked a half day fishing trip and a fisherman (Tino) picked us up in a boat and took us to maybe 4 spots to fish. We caught about 15 or 20 fish, and took 4 with us when we left. He gutted the 4 fish and we brought it to the resort restaurant where for $10 per person (there were 3 of us) they cooked the fish, and gave us rice/salad as sides. It was a wonderful experience to eat your own catch. The hotel will pick you up at the ferry and drop you off when you depart. We also rented a golf cart for 3 hours from the hotel to drive around the island. Beware, there were lots of mosquitos in our hotel room though! We had to kill about 3-4 mosquitos each night before we went to bed.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Explore Tikal National Park
San Ignacio

This was the jewel of the trip. Our guide was super knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Antigua Walking Tour
Antigua
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guide, Pablo was very patient and answered my many many questions.
Transport
Transport was via our foot!
Traditional Guatemalan Cooking Class
Antigua

This was a shared experience with another couple. We thoroughly enjoyed our cooking and eating experience.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Valley Ride - Bicycle Tour of Antigua's Villages, Farms, and Ruins
Antigua

We had a good time on this trip, though it got scary whenever we had to ride on the main roads with many trucks and cars.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Snorkeling Tour in the Belize Barrier Reef
Caye Caulker

This snorkel trip to the Hol Chan departed from Caye Caulker, which was pretty far. I think if the visitors are also saying in San Pedro, then it would be a shorter distance to travel from San Pedro to the Hol Chan reserve for snorkeling.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Eduardo Celada
Eduardo
Eduardo Celada
Local specialist in Antigua, Guatemala | Reviewed on Jan 25, 2023

Thank you very much Li,
We are absolutely happy to hear you enjoyed your trip with us. My stuff and I did our best to provide unique experiences in Guatemala and we love to hear that we fulfilled our Target.

We hope you can spread the word with friends and relatives and have more people coming from your side.

Until next time!
Eduardo