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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.

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 historic 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.

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.

Sunset over 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 sojourn to Guatemala. Pamper yourself in luxury hotels and see famous sights from above as you travel by helicopter to some of Guatemala's best attractions. Among other highlights, you'll bask in the serene beauty of Lake Atitlán, discover the charming colonial city of Antigua, and participate in a Maya ceremonial ritual.

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.

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

Delve into the endless natural beauty and rich cultures of Guatemala and Honduras on this two-week getaway. Discover Maya ruins, towering volcanoes, and historic cities on outdoor adventures and cultural tours. You'll stroll the cobbled streets of colonial Antigua, kayak on stunning Lake Atitlán, browse the artisan markets in Indigenous towns, and hike up the ancient pyramids at Tikal and Copán.

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

Sail across sparkling Lake Atitlán
Map of Explore Belize & Guatemala: Beaches, Maya Ruins, Caves & Lakes - 14 Days
Explore Belize & Guatemala: Beaches, Maya Ruins, Caves & Lakes - 14 Days

Discover the best of Belize and Guatemala on this extensive two-week tour. Begin in Belize, where you'll explore ancient Maya ruins and sprawling sacrificial cave systems. In Guatemala, you'll soak up the local culture with a traditional cooking class and a trip to Lake Atitlán's villages and Chichicastenango Market. End with a beach escape to the white sands of Caye Caulker and Caye Ambergris for snorkeling adventures on the Belize Barrier Reef.

See the best of Guatemala and Belize in just over two weeks on this comprehensive tour
Map of Best of Guatemala & Belize - 15 Days
Best of Guatemala & Belize - 15 Days

This 15-day adventure will take you to the most impressive, historic, and awe-inspiring sites in Guatemala and Belize. Start by exploring the historic centers of Guatemala City and Antigua before heading north to hike up the famous Maya pyramids at Tikal. Then hop the border for cultural tours in Belize and continue to Ambergris Caye, where you'll have time to relax, snorkel, and dive to your heart's content.

Take the family on a bike ride in Guatemala's Almolonga Valley
Map of 2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Guatemala, you can take the family to visit at least three destinations. First-timers can hit the highlights through cultural, outdoor, and culinary experiences in Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Flores. El Paredon offers animal encounters, including horseback riding and a visit to a turtle conservation. Active, outdoorsy families can go camping in Acatenango, and those keen on a multicountry trip can experience the markets, hiking, and ruins in Guatemala and then go snorkeling and sunbathing in Belize.

Guatemala Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map 7 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
7 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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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 3 hours 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...

read more...
Travel specialist Chris Gwinner
active 3 hours 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...

read more...
Travel specialist Catherina Tittaferrante
active 39 mins 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 Matt Hartell
active 5 days ago

Matt Hartell

I love travel and experiencing new and different cultures. Not only do I love active travel but also sharing my 25 years of travel knowledge in Guatemala to help others create their own tailored...

read more...

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Why travelers love kimkim

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Trip Reviews for Guatemala

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Thank you Catherine and Columbus Guatemala Travel
Guatemala | Mar 5 - Mar 13, 2024

Wade
Wade B.
Charlotte, NC | Reviewed on Mar 14, 2024
Catherina and the Columbus Guatemala Travel team were not only extremely helpful and informative, but kind and welcoming. They checked up on myself and my fellow traveler on a daily basis to ensure we got where we needed to be, and be there on time. The activities that were booked for us were also outstanding, with the Acatenango hike being the highlight. Each driver and guide for all activities were terrific. Furthermore, Guatemala is a beautiful country with friendly people and amazing... Read more

Catherina and the Columbus Guatemala Travel team were not only extremely helpful and informative, but kind and welcoming. They checked up on myself and my fellow traveler on a daily basis to ensure we got where we needed to be, and be there on time. The activities that were booked for us were also outstanding, with the Acatenango hike being the highlight. Each driver and guide for all activities were terrific. Furthermore, Guatemala is a beautiful country with friendly people and amazing culture. Antigua quickly became one of my favorite cities I’ve ever visited. Overall, the Kim Kim and Columbus Travel team, along with the local guides all did their part in making an amazing trip. So far, I’m 2 for 2 with great booking experiences on Kim Kim.

Activity Reviews
Villages Around Lake Atitlán by Boat
Villages Around Lake Atitlán by Boat
Guatemala

Great guides and the like is beautiful. Lots of amazing history and culture to see. San Juan is an awesome little village.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bike Through Villages Of Itzapa And Calderas.
Bike Through Villages Of Itzapa And Calderas.
Antigua

Although I genuinely enjoyed this activity, I would be lying if I didn’t admit how difficult this activity is. Being in the military and an active gym goer, I figured this activity would be a breeze but I was very wrong. This was still very fun and the guide, Willy, was amazing and helpful. However, I wouldn’t suggest this activity to anybody that isn’t used to mountain biking, EXTREME cardiovascular activity, or at least high altitudes.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Acatenango overnight
Acatenango overnight
Guatemala

My favorite part of the trip. Albeit quite challenging, it was well worth it. Between the volcanic eruptions and the sunset and sunrise views are some of the most spectacular things I’ve ever witnessed.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Catherina Tittaferrante
Catherina
Catherina Tittaferrante
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Mar 20, 2024

My dear Wade,

The entire team has really enjoyed sharing with you, we wish the best in the universe so that you continue discovering the world around us with that adventurous soul that inspires us.

We definitely take the recommendation and we have put notes to identify the level of difficulty in the outdoor activities.

Our biggest passion is to make your time memorable so we are excited and pleased to know we made our mission a reality.

Choose the next destination and we will always improve our activities, keep in mind you have our friendship from now on.

5-star fun and adventures in Belize and Guatemala.
Guatemala | Feb 17 - Feb 24, 2024

Robin
Robin R.
Hayward, CA | Reviewed on Mar 04, 2024
Alex did an exceptional job creating our Guatemala and Belize itinerary. He was very responsive, had great suggestions, was patient and polite throughout the process. Our trip started with pick up from the airport. The driver patiently waited a couple of hours for two different flights to arrive so our whole party could depart together. We spent the first 3 nights in San Ignacio. It was a great introduction to Belize and Guatemala - with a clean, safe hotel, amazing food, and really fun (and... Read more

Alex did an exceptional job creating our Guatemala and Belize itinerary. He was very responsive, had great suggestions, was patient and polite throughout the process. Our trip started with pick up from the airport. The driver patiently waited a couple of hours for two different flights to arrive so our whole party could depart together. We spent the first 3 nights in San Ignacio. It was a great introduction to Belize and Guatemala - with a clean, safe hotel, amazing food, and really fun (and informative) trips to two different Mayan ruins.

I really enjoyed the water tubing excursion we took while transitioning from interior Belize to the coast in the middle of our trip. We had the same drive as before - and he was friendly, punctual, and ensured a safe delivery.

On the coast, we stayed in San Pedro. The scenery is like a postcard. Alex selected an ideal snorkeling excursion that totally made our trip.

Overall, I cannot wait to return to Belize and Guatemala and will definitely enlist Alex's help to plan our next adventure.

Activity Reviews
Explore Tikal National Park
Explore Tikal National Park
San Ignacio

William (I think), the guide was friendly and knowledgeable. He paced the tour so a range of fitness levels could learn, explore, and adventure. I really enjoyed walking to each structure, checking out nature, and glimpsing a few fun animals. It was an active but not exhausting day - the perfect amount of time. Also, the restaurant we went to for lunch at the end was fantastic!!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
On time, safe, polite.
Horse Riding Tour of the Xunantunich Maya Ruins
Horse Riding Tour of the Xunantunich Maya Ruins
San Ignacio

I really appreciated the knowledge of the tour operators at St. Leonards tours. And, the gentleman who rode horses with us was outstanding - he stopped to check in on everyone, kept conversation going, and ensured a safe ride.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transfer from San Ignacio to Belize City with Cave Tubing Tour en Route
Transfer from San Ignacio to Belize City with Cave Tubing Tour en Route
Guatemala

Derrick, our driver, was so nice and helpful. He waited with our belongings the whole time we were tubing. Tubing was wonderful - perfect temperature (air and water), right amount of time, our guide was great and I especially liked just floating outside of the tube to look at the trees, etc. The lunch, on premise, was delicious!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half day Snorkel tour at the Marine Reserve from Caribe Resort
Half day Snorkel tour at the Marine Reserve from Caribe Resort
Guatemala

This was a perfect adventure. The boat transport was fun, our captain/dive leader was funny, the water was ideal. We say plenty of fish and sea life.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Alex Coronado
Alex
Alex Coronado
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Mar 05, 2024

It was our pleasure Rovin and thank you again for your patience and positive energy while creating your personalize trip to Belize and Guatemala! Our team and partners had a great time with you and we hope to see you again in the future maybe to explore more in Guatemala, especially my hometown Antigua Guatemala.

If you have a chance to spread the word about Belize and Guatemala with your friends and family, the more people know the better!

Thank you!

Ten Days in Guatemala
Guatemala | Feb 21 - Mar 1, 2024

B
Bruce H.
Santa Fe, NM | Reviewed on Mar 03, 2024
My wife and I had a great ten day trip in Guatemala. We told kimkim the kinds of things we were interested in and wanted to do (Antigua, hiking, shopping, markets, maybe a cooking class, Tikal, Lake Atitlan), and they put us in touch with Matt at Old Town Outfitters in Antigua, who helped us come up with an ideal itinerary, using local guides and drivers. We especially enjoyed our four days with guide Lucas, whose skill and knowledge and patience and joy of life and spirit of adventure... Read more

My wife and I had a great ten day trip in Guatemala. We told kimkim the kinds of things we were interested in and wanted to do (Antigua, hiking, shopping, markets, maybe a cooking class, Tikal, Lake Atitlan), and they put us in touch with Matt at Old Town Outfitters in Antigua, who helped us come up with an ideal itinerary, using local guides and drivers. We especially enjoyed our four days with guide Lucas, whose skill and knowledge and patience and joy of life and spirit of adventure captivated us. Matt was responsive to our questions and needs, and added a last-minute coffee tour that was one of the highlights. He choreographed all the details of the trip - transportation, local guides, plane tickets to Tikal, and lodging, and everything worked out perfectly. So much easier than trying to figure it all out ourselves!

Local specialist: Matt Hartell