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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

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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.

Lake Atitlán
Map of Guatemalan Highlands: Antigua, Lake Atitlán & Tikal - 7 Days
Guatemalan Highlands: Antigua, Lake Atitlán & Tikal - 7 Days

On this weeklong journey through Guatemala, explore major sites in the western highlands and northern rainforests. The trip begins in Antigua with a sightseeing tour followed by a stay on beautiful Lake Atitlán and a visit to an indigenous market dating back thousands of years. Then venture north to discover the ancient Maya city of Iximché and the awe-inspiring pyramid temples at Tikal National Park.

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.

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

Explore nature reserves, like Semuc Champey, on this outdoor-themed tour
Map of Caves, Waterfalls & Maya Culture in Guatemala - 10 Days
Caves, Waterfalls & Maya Culture in Guatemala - 10 Days

Outdoor enthusiasts will love this 10-day trip to Guatemala, which includes guided hikes, kayak rides, and underground excursions. First, head to Río Dulce from the capital, where you'll kayak to Ak'Tenamit, hike to Siete Altares, and cruise to Livingston. Next, explore caves in Candelaria Caves National Park and swim in the terraced pools of Semuc Champey. Finish by discovering more nature reserves like Reserva Ram Tzul and Biotopo del Quetzal before returning to the capital for your flight home.

Float along two Guatemalan rivers (one in a cave) in an inner tube
Map of Active Tour of Guatemala's Natural & Ancient Wonders - 10 Days
Active Tour of Guatemala's Natural & Ancient Wonders - 10 Days

Explore caves, ride an inner tube along an underground river, and swim in natural lagoons on this active tour of Guatemala's natural and cultural sites. Touch down in Guatemala City, then head to Río Dulce for three days exploring the wetlands by kayak. Then, it's on to Flores for a sunrise tour of Tikal National Park and kayaking on Lake Petén Itzá. Discover the Crater Azul and Candelaria Caves National Park before heading to San Agustín Lanquín, your gateway to Semuc Champey's terraced pools.

Cruise across Lake Atitlán and visit the Maya villages adorning the shore
Map of Volcanoes, Villages & Vibrant Culture of Guatemala: Lake Atitlán, Antigua & Central Highlands - 8 Days
Volcanoes, Villages & Vibrant Culture of Guatemala: Lake Atitlán, Antigua & Central Highlands - 8 Days

This eight-day Guatemalan itinerary blends cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and natural beauty. Begin with a visit to Lake Atitlán, where you'll explore Maya villages by boat and kayak and hike along the lake's shores. In Antigua, hike up an active volcano and take a cycling tour of the countryside before journeying to the central highlands to discover the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey and Kam'ba Caves. Finally, explore the natural wonders of Reserva Ram Tzul on your way back to Guatemala City.

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 2 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 1 min 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 Alex Coronado
active 23 mins ago

Alex Coronado

Having grown up and lived my entire life in a place as special as Antigua Guatemala, has allowed me to involve myself in the world of travel and tourist experiences. My family is from this area and...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Guatemala

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Amazing Trip to Tikal and Rio Dulce!
Guatemala | Jan 29 - Feb 2, 2026

Erin
Erin M.
Miami, FL | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2026
My daughter and I had a wonderful time on this trip. We only had 4 nights/5 days in Guatemala and wanted to make the most of this short trip to some fairly remote areas. Our guide Oliver took us to see the Mayan ruins in Tikal (for sunrise) and in Yaxha, and he was wonderful. Fernando was our driver and took us everywhere - he was also amazing! And Daniello was our captain for the day on the Rio Dulce to Livingston. I had a pretty big delay with my flight getting from Atlanta to... Read more

My daughter and I had a wonderful time on this trip. We only had 4 nights/5 days in Guatemala and wanted to make the most of this short trip to some fairly remote areas. Our guide Oliver took us to see the Mayan ruins in Tikal (for sunrise) and in Yaxha, and he was wonderful. Fernando was our driver and took us everywhere - he was also amazing! And Daniello was our captain for the day on the Rio Dulce to Livingston.

I had a pretty big delay with my flight getting from Atlanta to Guatemala City, which meant I had to wait to get a flight into Flores until the next morning. Chris was so helpful in adjusting things for me, and we were able to fit in all of the outings originally planned by making some adjustments. Thank you very much for making this a very special trip for us! I was also delighted to add a lot of new birds to my bird list!

Erin

Activity Review
Sunrise Tour of Tikal National Park
Sunrise Tour of Tikal National Park
Guatemala

Incredibly powerful to watch the sunrise from the Mayan temple and we saw so many cool birds in the jungle after sunrise!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Oliver, Fernando and Daniello were all so wonderful!
Transport
Our driver was always on time and did a great job coordinating everything
Local specialist: Chris Gwinner
Chris
Chris Gwinner
Local specialist in Antigua, Guatemala | Replied on Feb 09, 2026

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review Erin! I'm so glad you and Jessie were able to get to know Northern Guatemala with our local team, even with your initial travel hiccup. Be sure to spread the word to your friends and family, the more people know about our beautiful country the better. Thank you again for your business!

Vinicio was exceptional.
Guatemala | Jan 12 - Jan 17, 2026

P
Pendleton W.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jan 18, 2026
Vinicio was exceptional. Read more

Vinicio was exceptional.

Hotel Review
Porta Hotel Antigua
Antigua Guatemala

Excellent accomodations and good food. Grumpy front desk staff was the only negative.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Be friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Pacaya Sunset hike
Pacaya Sunset hike
Antigua

Incredible views. Great experience overall.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Boat Tour of Lake Atitlán Villages
Boat Tour of Lake Atitlán Villages
Guatemala

Beautiful. The cooperatives felt like a shakedown, though, with disinterested presenters explaining the work and then hovering until a purchase wasade.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
4x4 Acatenango Volcano Camping Tour - Day 1
4x4 Acatenango Volcano Camping Tour - Day 1
Guatemala

Once in a lifetime experience

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Alex Coronado
Alex
Alex Coronado
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Jan 22, 2026
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback. I truly appreciate your comments, Pen. I’m very sorry to hear that your experience at the hotel wasn’t the best. I’ll be passing this information along to the hotel manager and reservations team, as it’s definitely an area where improvements can be made. I completely agree with you, a place as beautiful as that deserves a level of service that truly matches the overall experience. Thank you again for being so open and honest.... Read more

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback. I truly appreciate your comments, Pen.

I’m very sorry to hear that your experience at the hotel wasn’t the best. I’ll be passing this information along to the hotel manager and reservations team, as it’s definitely an area where improvements can be made. I completely agree with you, a place as beautiful as that deserves a level of service that truly matches the overall experience.

Thank you again for being so open and honest. I’ll also be sure to pass along your message to Vinicio; he was genuinely excited to meet you and had nothing but great things to say about you.

Hopefully, our paths cross again. If you ever plan another trip to Belize, I’d be more than happy to help. :)

Wishing you and Valerie a wonderful day.

Best regards from Antigua,
Alex

Amazing Trip!
Guatemala | Jan 12 - Jan 17, 2026

Valerie
Valerie R.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Jan 18, 2026
Our trip was amazing! Our primary guide, Vinicio, was the best guide ever. He was knowledgeable, very friendly, well spoken and made sure we were happy at all times. The entire trip was extremely well planned and organized. Our transportation was always on time and our drivers were professional and courteous. The entire team worked seamlessly together and we're very attuned to the details. I would highly recommend Alex and his group to anyone traveling in the area. Read more

Our trip was amazing! Our primary guide, Vinicio, was the best guide ever. He was knowledgeable, very friendly, well spoken and made sure we were happy at all times. The entire trip was extremely well planned and organized. Our transportation was always on time and our drivers were professional and courteous. The entire team worked seamlessly together and we're very attuned to the details. I would highly recommend Alex and his group to anyone traveling in the area.

Hotel Review
Porta Hotel Antigua
Antigua Guatemala

Beautiful property, wonderful food, clean and comfortable room, great amenities and helpful staff. The front desk personnel were less friendly and professional unfortunately.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Alex Coronado
Alex
Alex Coronado
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Jan 18, 2026
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and generous message, Valerie. It truly means a lot to the team. I’m beyond happy to hear that you had such an amazing trip and that Vinicio made such a positive experience for your visit. He is very passionate about what he does, and your words perfectly reflect the dedication, knowledge, and care he brings to every experience. I will make sure to share your feedback with him and the entire team. We put a lot of hard work... Read more

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and generous message, Valerie. It truly means a lot to the team.

I’m beyond happy to hear that you had such an amazing trip and that Vinicio made such a positive experience for your visit. He is very passionate about what he does, and your words perfectly reflect the dedication, knowledge, and care he brings to every experience. I will make sure to share your feedback with him and the entire team.

We put a lot of hard work into planning each detail, from logistics to guides and transportation, so knowing that everything felt seamless and well-organized is extremely rewarding, and your appreciation truly motivates us to keep raising the bar.

Thank you again for trusting me with your journey and for recommending our team. It was a real pleasure working with you and Pen, and you will always be welcome back in Guatemala.

Until the next adventure, maybe Belize next?

Warm regards from lovely Antigua,
Alex

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