With its smoking volcanoes, emerald lakes, colorful colonial cities, and deep-rooted Mayan culture, Guatemala is one of Central America’s most magical destinations. Whether you’re wandering the cobblestone streets of Antigua, kayaking across Lake Atitlán, or hiking up an active volcano, this country offers a little something for every type of traveler—from backpackers and culture seekers to yoga lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
I visited Guatemala twice—once in the dry season (February–March) and again during the rainy season (August)—and both times were packed with unforgettable moments, welcoming locals, and stunning natural beauty. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before you go, including travel logistics, safety tips, where to stay, what to eat, and a long list of must-do experiences across the country.
Things to Know Before You Visit Guatemala
🌤 Climate
Guatemala has a tropical climate, but it varies dramatically depending on altitude. Antigua and Lake Atitlán enjoy a spring-like climate year-round, with average daytime temperatures of 70–80°F (21–27°C). Nights can dip into the 50s (10–15°C), especially in higher-elevation areas.
Dry Season (Nov–April): Best time to visit. Expect clear skies, warm days, and cooler nights. Rainy Season (May–Oct): Expect afternoon showers, but mornings are often sunny. Lush landscapes and fewer tourists can make this a great time to visit if you’re flexible.
🗣 Language
Spanish is the official language, but many people in tourism speak English, especially in Antigua and Lake Atitlán. Indigenous Mayan languages are also widely spoken in rural areas.
💵 Money
The local currency is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). ATMs are easy to find in cities and tourist towns. Credit cards are widely accepted, but smaller shops and rural villages often prefer cash.
🛂 Visa
U.S., Canadian, EU, and most Latin American citizens can enter Guatemala visa-free for up to 90 days. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.
📱 SIM Card & Apps
You can get a SIM card from Tigo or Claro at the airport or in most towns. Tigo tends to have better coverage around Lake Atitlán.
How to Get There
Guatemala is a well-connected country with several entry points by air and land, making it accessible for most travelers coming from other countries in Central America, North America, and beyond.
✈️ Airport: The main international airport is La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City. Most travelers headed to Antigua or Lake Atitlán fly into this airport. From there, it’s about a 1 to 1.5-hour drive to Antigua and 3.5 to 4 hours to Lake Atitlán, depending on traffic and road conditions.
🚌 Bus/Shuttle: Shared tourist shuttles are a popular option for getting around the country. From the airport, you can book a shuttle directly to Antigua or Lake Atitlán through services like Atitrans, Adrenalina Tours, or local hotels. Prices range from $10–$30 depending on the destination. Long-distance buses like Litegua, Fuente del Norte, and Linea Dorada also connect major cities and towns.
For those arriving from other parts of Central America:
From Honduras: You can take a direct shuttle from Copán Ruinas or buses from San Pedro Sula via Hedman Alas or Casasola Express. The journey to Guatemala City or Antigua takes approximately 5–7 hours.
From El Salvador: Direct shuttles and buses (like Pullmantur or Tica Bus) operate from El Salvador’s capital city, San Salvador to Guatemala City and Antigua. The trip takes about 5–6 hours.
From Belize: Buses and shuttles run between Belize City and Flores or Guatemala City. Travelers visiting Tikal often come through this route.
From Mexico: Daily buses and shuttles connect towns in Mexico like San Cristóbal de las Casas and Tapachula with cities in Guatemala. Crossing via La Mesilla or Ciudad Cuauhtémoc is common for southern Mexico routes.
🚗 Private Driver: Hiring a private driver is another comfortable and safe way to travel, especially great if you’re traveling in a group or want door-to-door service. Rates vary based on distance, but you can expect to pay around $50–$100 for most intercity routes.
🚐 Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore remote areas, but it’s not always necessary unless you’re heading off the beaten path. Roads can be narrow, mountainous, and unpaved in rural regions, so a 4×4 is often recommended. Major rental companies operate at the airport and in major cities.
Getting Around
Shuttles: Shared tourist shuttles are the most popular and convenient way to travel between major destinations like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Flores. Companies like Atitrans or Adrenalina Tours are reliable.
Private Drivers: A good option if you’re traveling with a group or want more flexibility. Your hotel or Spanish school can help you book one.
Uber: Available in Guatemala City and Antigua.
Tuk-tuks: Affordable and abundant in smaller towns like San Pedro and Panajachel.
Local buses (chicken buses): Cheap and adventurous, but can be confusing and crowded for first-time travelers.
Where to Stay in Guatemala
🏨 Antigua Antigua is perfect for digital nomads, language learners, and first-time visitors. I stayed with a local family through Antigueña Spanish Academy, which I highly recommend.
Backpackers: Check out Somos Hostel or Tropicana.
Couples or digital nomads: Good Hotel or Ojala.
Luxury stay: El Convento Boutique Hotel.
🏨 Lake Atitlán Each village around the lake has its own vibe:
Panajachel: Best for first-time visitors and convenience. Great views and easy transport.
San Marcos: Spiritual and wellness-focused. Think yoga retreats and sound baths.
San Juan: Artsy, quiet, and locally owned cooperatives.
San Pedro: Popular with backpackers and budget travelers.
Santa Cruz: Remote and peaceful—great for disconnecting.
Safety Tips for Visiting Guatemala
Guatemala is a beautiful country full of welcoming people, but like many destinations, it’s important to stay aware and take some precautions, especially in urban or rural areas less frequented by tourists.
🟢 Tourist towns like Antigua and Lake Atitlán are considered very safe, especially in the well-traveled parts. Locals are friendly and helpful, and you’ll see other tourists around.
⚠️ In cities like Guatemala City or when traveling overland, avoid traveling after dark, stick to main routes, and book trusted transportation (shuttles or private drivers). Petty theft (pickpocketing or bag snatching) can happen, especially in busy markets or on public buses.
🚖 Use trusted transportation: Stick to registered shuttles, Uber (available in Guatemala City and Antigua), or private drivers recommended by your accommodation.
📵 Don’t flash expensive gear: Keep your phone and camera put away unless you’re actively using them, and avoid walking with flashy jewelry or large bags.
📲 Stay connected: Keep your phone charged and have local emergency numbers handy. Having a SIM card with mobile data is helpful for maps, apps, and contacting your accommodation or driver.
Overall, use common sense and you’ll likely have no problems—Guatemala is a fantastic country to explore.
Local Foods to Try
Guatemalan cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and rich in indigenous and Spanish influences. Here are a few must-try dishes and snacks:
🥣 Pepián – One of Guatemala’s national dishes, this spicy meat stew made with tomatoes, chilies, sesame seeds, and spices is traditionally served with rice and tortillas. You can find chicken or vegetarian versions in many restaurants.
🌽 Tamalitos and Chuchitos – Corn-based tamales wrapped in banana leaves or corn husks. These are a staple in Guatemalan households, and each region has its own take. Chuchitos are typically smaller and firmer.
🥑 Guacamole with tostadas – A popular snack or starter, often topped with fresh tomato salsa and radishes.
🍗 Pollo frito (fried chicken) – Guatemalans do fried chicken incredibly well. You’ll find local chains like Pollo Campero and street-side stands serving crispy, juicy chicken with fries and tortillas.
🍌 Rellenitos – A beloved dessert made with mashed sweet plantains stuffed with sweetened black beans and sometimes chocolate, then fried and dusted with sugar.
🍫 Guatemalan chocolate – Made from local cacao, you can enjoy it in bars, hot chocolate, or visit chocolate-making workshops in Antigua.
And don’t forget the fresh fruit juices, local coffee, and street snacks like grilled corn, pupusas (also common in El Salvador), or tostadas piled high with beans, cheese, and salsa. If you’re plant-based or vegetarian, you’ll find delicious options too—especially in Antigua (check out my full vegan restaurant guide for more!).
Your 10-Day Itinerary for Visiting Guatemala
Day 1: Arrive in Guatemala City
Morning/Afternoon: Fly into La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. The capital is often seen as a transit point, but there’s still much to explore. Especially if you’re interested in local culture and history.
Evening: Settle into your hotel and take a quick walk through Zona 1, where you’ll find the historic Plaza Mayor and National Palace. For dinner, try a local restaurant to sample Guatemalan dishes like pepian or pollo frito.
Stay: Guatemala City (many hotels, ranging from budget to upscale options).
Day 2: Guatemala City to Lake Atitlán
Morning: Have breakfast and hop on a shuttle or take a bus to Lake Atitlán. The journey will take around 3.5 to 4 hours, so sit back and enjoy the scenic views as you travel through the highlands of Guatemala.
Afternoon: Check in to your accommodation near the lake and get settled. If you’re looking for easy transportation and a livelier vibe, Panajachel is a solid base. Prefer something more peaceful and artsy? San Juan La Laguna and San Marcos La Laguna offer a slower pace and more intimate connection with local culture.
After dropping your bags, head out for some kayaking on the lake. Many hotels and hostels offer complimentary kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards or can point you to a place nearby. Gliding across the water with volcano views all around you is one of the most calming ways to shake off the travel day.
Later on, stroll through the local markets, especially in Panajachel or San Juan, where you’ll find colorful textiles, handcrafted goods, and friendly local vendors. It’s a great way to get your first feel for the region’s artistry and daily life.
Evening: Cap off your day with a sunset yoga class at Eagle’s Nest in San Marcos La Laguna. This studio is perched high above the lake and offers a truly breathtaking view while you unwind, stretch, and center yourself after a long day of travel. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or just curious, it’s a magical way to land in the energy of the lake.
For dinner, grab a cozy spot at a local restaurant many focus on nourishing, plant-forward meals using regional ingredients. You’ll find everything from Guatemalan stews to international veggie bowls depending on where you stay.
Day 3: Explore Lake Atitlán
Early Morning:
Kick off your day with a bucket-list-worthy sunrise hike to Indian Nose, also known as La Nariz del Indio. This trail offers one of the most iconic views over Lake Atitlán. You’ll start in the early hours (around 4 AM) with a local guide, departing from San Juan La Laguna. As you ascend, you’ll witness the horizon slowly come alive with color, revealing the lake and its surrounding volcanoes in soft, golden light. It’s a relatively short hike, but the views at the top are unforgettable.
Mid-Morning:
After your hike, take some time to rest, hydrate, and enjoy a nourishing breakfast at your accommodation or at a lakeside café.
Early-Afternoon:
In the early afternoon, head to the southeastern side of the lake to explore two lesser-visited but culturally rich villages:
San Antonio Palopó is known for its vibrant blue-painted buildings and traditional pottery. You can visit a local ceramic workshop to learn how these unique pieces are handcrafted and painted with natural dyes and Mayan motifs. Many families have been keeping this tradition alive for generations.
Santa Catarina Palopó, just a short tuk-tuk ride away, is famous for its weaving cooperatives and striking textile work. Here, women weave intricate huipiles (traditional blouses) and scarves using backstrap looms. Some cooperatives offer weaving demonstrations or short hands-on workshops where you can try it yourself. Beyond the crafts, this village has also undergone a colorful transformation, local houses are painted with geometric designs inspired by Mayan patterns, turning the entire town into a living art piece.
Evening:
After a day full of cultural immersion, unwind with a peaceful dinner at a local restaurant that highlights Guatemalan flavors: fresh corn tortillas, pepián, and handmade tamales.
Want more tips on Lake Atitlán?
Read my full Lake Atitlán Travel Guide for practical info on safety, respecting Indigenous communities, local foods to try, village highlights, and more!
Day 4: Travel to Antigua
Morning: After breakfast, travel to Antigua (about 2.5-3 hours by shuttle or bus). Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage site with cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Afternoon: Once you’ve settled into your hotel or guesthouse, stretch your legs with a free walking tour around the city. It’s the perfect way to get oriented and learn about Antigua’s history from colonial times to its modern-day culture. You’ll pass landmarks like Central Park, the Santa Catalina Arch, and La Merced Church.
After the tour, dive deeper into the past with a visit to Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo. This former convent-turned-museum is home to five small but fascinating museums featuring everything from pre-Columbian artifacts to religious art and contemporary sculpture. It’s one of Antigua’s most unique and serene spaces and definitely worth a slow wander.
Evening: For dinner, head to one of my favorite rooftop restaurants. 27 Adentro is a great spot to soak in the views while enjoying Guatemalan flavors with a twist. Want more options? Check out my full Vegan & Vegetarian Food Guide to Antigua to discover where to treat yourself while in town.
Day 5: Explore Antigua
Morning: Start your day with a half-day trip to Hobbitenango, a whimsical eco-park in the hills above Antigua. It’s full of hobbit houses, mountain views, photo ops, and fresh mountain air. You don’t need to be a Lord of the Rings fan to enjoy it; it’s just a fun and peaceful place to slow down.
Read my full guide to visiting Hobbitenango for tips on how to get there, what to do, and when to go.
Afternoon: Back in Antigua, head out on a coffee tour with Finca Filadelfia, one of the region’s most reputable farms. You’ll walk the grounds, learn about the growing and harvesting process, and of course, enjoy some freshly brewed tastings. It’s a great way to appreciate Guatemala’s rich coffee culture (and maybe pick up some beans to take home).
Evening: Wrap up your day with a cozy dinner at another spot from my Antigua food guide. Whether you’re in the mood for a plant-based feast or some Guatemalan comfort food, I’ve got you covered. Then get to bed early; you’ll want to be well-rested for tomorrow’s Acatenango volcano trek!
Day 6: Acatenango Volcano Hike
Early Morning: Prepare for a day of adventure with the Acatenango volcano hike. Acatenango is a popular trek, known for its stunning views of Fuego Volcano, which erupts regularly. You’ll spend the day hiking to the summit, camping overnight, and waking up to a breathtaking sunrise over the volcanoes.
Night: Camp overnight at the base of Acatenango, and enjoy the incredible sights and sounds of the active Fuego volcano erupting in the distance.
Day 7: Acatenango Summit and Return to Antigua
Morning: Wake up early to witness the sunrise from the summit of Acatenango, offering stunning views of the volcanoes and surrounding landscapes.
Afternoon: After returning to Antigua, it’s time to reward yourself with some serious relaxation. Head to Santa Teresita Hotel & Spa in nearby Amatitlán for a few hours of thermal pools, steam rooms, and a massage if you’re feeling indulgent. It’s a beautiful space to unwind and reset your body.
Evening: make your way to Guatemala City to stay the night in preparation for your early flight to Flores the next morning. I recommend staying in Zona 10 (Zona Viva), it’s one of the safest areas, close to the airport, with great hotel options and restaurants.
Day 8: Travel to Tikal
Morning: Catch a short flight from Guatemala City to Flores, the gateway to Tikal and northern Guatemala’s lush Petén region. It’s about a 1-hour flight, and much more comfortable than the 10-hour overnight bus (unless you enjoy a long road trip!).
Afternoon: Check in to your hotel in Flores and start exploring the charming island town. Walk along the cobblestone streets, admire the colorful buildings, and browse shops selling local crafts. Some great things to do:
Explore San Miguel, just across the lake, for a quieter, more local experience and a hike up to Mirador del Rey Canek for panoramic views.
Walk the full island loop along the lakeside, sunset here is magical.
Rent a kayak or take a short boat tour on Lake Petén Itzá for beautiful views and a peaceful vibe.
Visit ARCAS Rescue Center (by boat) to learn about local wildlife conservation.
Evening: Grab dinner lakeside, try Raices Bar & Grill for Guatemalan dishes with a view or wander to a quiet café for a refreshing juice or licuado. The pace of Flores is slower, perfect for easing into the rhythm of the Petén jungle.
Day 9: Explore Tikal
Morning: Early rise to visit Tikal. This ancient Mayan city is one of the largest and most impressive archaeological sites in Central America. Spend the day exploring the temples, palaces, and pyramids of Tikal, and enjoy a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of the site.
Afternoon: Continue exploring Tikal or visit the nearby Tikal Museum to deepen your knowledge of the Mayan culture.
Evening: Return to Flores and relax after a day full of history and adventure.
Day 10: Return to Guatemala City
Morning: Fly back to Guatemala City and explore any sights you may have missed on your first day.
Afternoon: Take in the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology or visit the Popol Vuh Museum to learn more about Mayan culture.
Evening: Enjoy a final dinner at a local restaurant before heading to the airport for your departure.
