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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 AtitlĂĄn & Tikal - 8 Days
Best of Guatemala: Antigua, Lake AtitlĂĄn & 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 AtitlĂĄn, 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 Atitlån 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 AtitlĂĄn
Map of Guatemalan Highlands: Antigua, Lake AtitlĂĄn & Tikal - 7 Days
Guatemalan Highlands: Antigua, Lake AtitlĂĄn & 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 Atitlån 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 Atitlån 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 AtitlĂĄn, 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 AtitlĂĄn, 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 RĂ­o 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 Itzå. 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 AtitlĂĄn and visit the Maya villages adorning the shore
Map of Volcanoes, Villages & Vibrant Culture of Guatemala: Lake AtitlĂĄn, Antigua & Central Highlands - 8 Days
Volcanoes, Villages & Vibrant Culture of Guatemala: Lake AtitlĂĄn, Antigua & Central Highlands - 8 Days

This eight-day Guatemalan itinerary blends cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and natural beauty. Begin with a visit to Lake AtitlĂĄn, 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 8 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 13 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 7 hours 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 11 hours 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

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 1000% Recommend — The Best Travel Experience We’ve Ever Had
Guatemala | Nov 15 - Nov 21, 2025

S
Sarah R.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on Nov 24, 2025
We have to echo what all the other reviews are saying
our trip to Guatemala far exceeded our expectations. Truly, in every way imaginable. From the very beginning, Catherina at Columbus Guatemala Travel was incredibly responsive, thoughtful, and intentional with every detail. She asked all the right questions to make sure our itinerary was perfect for us, and she absolutely delivered. The entire planning process felt effortless.
 
On the ground, everything was seamless. Every driver and...
Read more

We have to echo what all the other reviews are saying
our trip to Guatemala far exceeded our expectations. Truly, in every way imaginable. From the very beginning, Catherina at Columbus Guatemala Travel was incredibly responsive, thoughtful, and intentional with every detail. She asked all the right questions to make sure our itinerary was perfect for us, and she absolutely delivered. The entire planning process felt effortless.
 
On the ground, everything was seamless. Every driver and guide was phenomenal — on time, easy to find, friendly, and deeply knowledgeable.
 
We had a full seven-day itinerary — flying to the rainforest one day for Tikal, then exploring the volcanic beauty of Lake Atitlán the next, and finishing in the colonial magic of Antigua. It was full, rich, and truly unforgettable
 yet never rushed. Everything flowed so smoothly that we could just relax and enjoy every moment.
 
Benedicto at Tikal was amazing! We spent most of our time with our guide, JJ, who instantly felt like an old friend from the moment we met him. He is knowledgeable, fun, attentive, and always one step ahead with great recommendations. It was clear he genuinely cared about our comfort and whether we were having a great time. He constantly checked in behind the scenes to make sure everything flowed smoothly. We could feel how much heart and intention went into every moment. And let me say, after experiencing Guatemala’s adventurous driving style, I have never been more grateful to have JJ behind the wheel! I felt safe the entire time and appreciated his calm confidence navigating every twist, turn, and surprise the roads offered.
 
The whole team is amazing. We were genuinely touched by the small surprises, thoughtful gifts, romantic dinner, and all the extra care we never expected. They made us feel celebrated and cared for.
 
One thing that truly stood out is how deeply this company lives its mission and values. Their promise to be “your local compañero - your trusted companion” isn’t just a slogan — it’s something you feel every single day. It’s obvious they created their mission with intention, and they live it with heart. Nothing about it feels like publicity or marketing; it feels real, authentic, and woven into every interaction. We appreciated that more than anything.
 
We absolutely love these people and cannot wait to return with our son. We recommend Columbus Guatemala Travel 1000%.
 
We originally connected through the KimKim platform, which was smooth and easy. For future trips to Guatemala, we will definitely book directly with Columbus Guatemala Travel, because they were outstanding, but we’ll absolutely use KimKim again for other countries (including our upcoming Vietnam trip) in hopes of finding another team as incredible as this one.
 
Hands down, one of the best travel experiences we’ve ever had.

Activity Reviews
Romantic Dinner For Two
Romantic Dinner For Two
Antigua

Food was delicious. View was amazing. The surprise music, flowers, and photos blew our minds ❀❀❀

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Walk Antigua Like a Local
Walk Antigua Like a Local
Antigua
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Pacaya Volcano Hike
Pacaya Volcano Hike
Guatemala

Loved our local guide up the volcano!! He was so friendly! Appreciated that JJ was also there to help interpret when needed.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kayaking in Lake AtitlĂĄn
Kayaking in Lake AtitlĂĄn
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Villages Around Lake AtitlĂĄn by Boat
Villages Around Lake AtitlĂĄn by Boat
Guatemala

JJ was fantastic!! He knew just where to take us to learn and experience the best of the villages.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tikal Mayan Civilization
Tikal Mayan Civilization
Guatemala

Benedicto was amazing!! He was always checking in to make sure we were okay and had great suggestions for food. We appreciated not just his incredible knowledge of Maya history, but also his knowledge of the plants and animals in the region as well.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Catherina Tittaferrante

my guides were mi hombres😀Willie and Garcion...
Guatemala | Nov 2 - Nov 8, 2025

Edward
Edward S.
Switzerland | Reviewed on Nov 09, 2025
my guides were mi hombres😀Willie and Garcion(sp) I loved their company, professionalism, humor and friendship! They were on time every time. Garcion cooked lunch for us twice.... delicious ! He drove on the Guatemalan streets and trails expertly! Willie.... great rider, strong on the up hills sections. Picked trails based on my level of riding! Always concerned about me being bueno! I picked up more español and local culture, really the reason i chose Guatemala!im 100% happy with Kim Kim... Read more

my guides were mi hombres😀Willie and Garcion(sp) I loved their company, professionalism, humor and friendship! They were on time every time. Garcion cooked lunch for us twice.... delicious ! He drove on the Guatemalan streets and trails expertly! Willie.... great rider, strong on the up hills sections. Picked trails based on my level of riding! Always concerned about me being bueno! I picked up more español and local culture, really the reason i chose Guatemala!im 100% happy with Kim Kim Alex, and Old Town Outfitters, my guides and the equipment we used👍😀i ll be back and i want the same team!!!!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Utz Jay
Panajachel, SololĂĄ

very quit and cute

Authenticity & Character
central court with excellent plants
Location
close to the lake and main street
Staff
very helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
very clean and authentic
Camelias Inn
Antigua

breakfast buffet on the roof with a view of Vulcan de fuego!!!

Authenticity & Character
True colonial architecture
Location
close to the center of town
Staff
bilingual and friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
it's difficult to rate a bed your not used to, but i did sleep
Activity Reviews
Atitlan Slickrock MTB Ride
Atitlan Slickrock MTB Ride
Guatemala

last day great ride , tailored to my riding level, the uphills were still killing me

Quality of Experience
at this point i didn't want it to end
Guides, Drivers and Staff
another great picnic in a Guatemalan park
Transport
we drove over some difficult trails
Transfer to Lake Atitlån, Visit the Iximché Ruins
Transfer to Lake Atitlån, Visit the Iximché Ruins
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mayan Traverse MTB Ride
Mayan Traverse MTB Ride
Guatemala

riding followed by ruin tour..... my kinda day very educational! Thank you Melvin

Quality of Experience
it's one of the reasons i picked Guatemala
Food
a true Guatemalan picnic
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Gerson cooked us lunch while i was on the tour!!
Transport
consistently great
Double Down Mountain Bike Tour
Double Down Mountain Bike Tour
Antigua

these were challenging trails for me and my guide helped me enjoy it

Quality of Experience
so scenic
Guides, Drivers and Staff
made it great .... never thought of throwing the towel in, finished the hardest day of trail riding
Transport
no way i'd drive here thank God for gerson!!!
Antigua Walking Tour
Antigua Walking Tour
Guatemala

Danial was my local historian for my tour of two museums. We found liquid refreshments at Cafe Nosa!

Quality of Experience
he's historically enlightening
Guides, Drivers and Staff
they got me there on time for the afternoon tour
Transport
Valley Ride - Bicycle Tour of Antigua's Villages, Farms, and Ruins
Valley Ride - Bicycle Tour of Antigua's Villages, Farms, and Ruins
Antigua

a great warm up ride, we hit a chocolate factory, coffee co op and a macadamian plantation shop

Quality of Experience
my guide was great company over chocolate and bread on the veranda
Guides, Drivers and Staff
lots of local knowledge from both of them
Transport
he's a great driver!!
Local specialist: Alex Coronado
Alex
Alex Coronado
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Nov 10, 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback, Edward! I’m pleased to hear you had such an amazing time with Willy and Gerson. They’ll be thrilled to know you appreciated their company and care. They shared that you were fun, easygoing, and made them feel like they were spending time with a friend It means a lot to us that you connected with the local culture and enjoyed every part of your adventure. We’ll be ready to welcome you back anytime for more MTB or perhaps a nice, easy vacation in... Read more

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback, Edward! I’m pleased to hear you had such an amazing time with Willy and Gerson. They’ll be thrilled to know you appreciated their company and care. They shared that you were fun, easygoing, and made them feel like they were spending time with a friend

It means a lot to us that you connected with the local culture and enjoyed every part of your adventure. We’ll be ready to welcome you back anytime for more MTB or perhaps a nice, easy vacation in Belize, similar team, same spirit! Big hug from Antigua, Edward!

Best regards from the city of the eternal spring,
Alex

Family trip to Guatemala
Guatemala | Aug 4 - Aug 11, 2025

Cortney
Cortney H.
Santa Rosa, CA | Reviewed on Aug 18, 2025
Amazing trip to Belize and Guatemala. Alex was very communicative and helpful during the entire planning process and while we were on the trip. We have been on many trips through kimkim with local companies in different companies. There seemed to be a disconnect with this trip. Typically we have one guide for each region that spends each day with our family (from airport pickup to the last day). This guide gives us local history and lots of information. They typically provide water for our... Read more

Amazing trip to Belize and Guatemala. Alex was very communicative and helpful during the entire planning process and while we were on the trip. We have been on many trips through kimkim with local companies in different companies. There seemed to be a disconnect with this trip. Typically we have one guide for each region that spends each day with our family (from airport pickup to the last day). This guide gives us local history and lots of information. They typically provide water for our family, local snacks and keep an eye on the schedule for stopping to eat (which is important for us as we have five children). This wasn’t the case in Belize or Guatemala. The guides we did have were great! The trip was wonderful but not as seamless as we are used to with kimkim trips.
There was more than one instance where we arrived at a location (ferry, airport, etc) and the driver was no where to be found. Alex took care of things very quickly but there seemed to be a lack of communication or understanding of pick up expectations between Alex and the drivers. I would highly recommend visiting Belize and Guatemala, they are both beautiful countries.

Hotel Review
Porta Hotel Antigua
Antigua Guatemala

I stayed at the Porta Hotel Antigua during my trip, and it was especially good. It brought back nostalgic memories since I had stayed there before many years ago. The experience was as satisfying as I remembered.

Activity Reviews
Day Hike to Pacaya Volcano
Day Hike to Pacaya Volcano
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore Tikal National Park
Explore Tikal National Park
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hol Chan/Shark Ray Alley - from Ramon's Village
Hol Chan/Shark Ray Alley - from Ramon's Village
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Alex Coronado
Alex
Alex Coronado
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Aug 18, 2025
Thank you so much for sharing your detailed feedback and for trusting me with your family trip to Belize and Guatemala. I’m very happy to hear you had a wonderful experience overall and that you found both destinations beautiful. It’s also great to know you enjoyed the guides you met along the way and that I was able to assist whenever needed. That said, I take your comments very seriously. I completely understand how important it is, especially when traveling with children, to have... Read more

Thank you so much for sharing your detailed feedback and for trusting me with your family trip to Belize and Guatemala. I’m very happy to hear you had a wonderful experience overall and that you found both destinations beautiful. It’s also great to know you enjoyed the guides you met along the way and that I was able to assist whenever needed.

That said, I take your comments very seriously. I completely understand how important it is, especially when traveling with children, to have consistency with a dedicated guide in each region. Someone who can provide history and context while also taking care of the small but essential details like water, snacks, and meal breaks makes a big difference. This is something I’ll pay closer attention to when arranging future trips so that expectations are clearer and the experience feels more seamless.

I also acknowledge your concerns about pickups and the occasional disconnect with drivers. While I was glad to step in when needed, my goal is to prevent these situations from happening at all. I am already addressing these points with our trusted partners to strengthen communication and make sure transfers are smooth and stress-free. For logistical and budget reasons, we generally do not assign one guide for an entire trip, but I will be clearer about this distinction going forward so expectations are aligned from the beginning.

Your feedback is invaluable, and I truly appreciate the time you took to share it. It will help me continue to refine and improve the way I coordinate these details for future travelers.

Warm regards,
Alex

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