Personalized trips to Guatemala
for independent travelers

How it works
Chat with specialist icon Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Complete our quick travel quiz
Chat icons Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
Work out the details together
Credit card icon Step 3
Securely book your trip
100% satisfaction guaranteed

Travelers love kimkim

- ., traveled to in

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.

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
View article
Map 2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
2 Weeks in Guatemala - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article
Map 10 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
10 Days in Guatemala - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

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...

read more...
Travel specialist Catherina Tittaferrante
active 2 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 Chris Gwinner
active 54 mins 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 Alex Coronado
active 1 min 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...

Related Destinations

Travelers who visit Guatemala also visit these destinations

Trip Reviews for Guatemala

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

A perfectly balanced and well-organized journey through Guatemala
Guatemala | Dec 20 - Jan 4, 2026

Alexandre
Alexandre M.
Canada | Reviewed on Jan 05, 2026
Our trip to Guatemala was exceptionally well planned and thoughtfully executed. The itinerary struck a perfect balance between culture, nature, and pace, allowing us to experience the country deeply without feeling rushed. Highlights included Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the incredible historical sites, all supported by knowledgeable local guides and smooth logistics throughout the journey. A special thank you to our local specialist, Alex, who was attentive, responsive, and flexible from... Read more

Our trip to Guatemala was exceptionally well planned and thoughtfully executed. The itinerary struck a perfect balance between culture, nature, and pace, allowing us to experience the country deeply without feeling rushed.

Highlights included Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the incredible historical sites, all supported by knowledgeable local guides and smooth logistics throughout the journey.

A special thank you to our local specialist, Alex, who was attentive, responsive, and flexible from the planning stage through the trip itself. Even when small adjustments were needed, everything was handled quickly and professionally, which made the experience stress-free.

Overall, this was a memorable and very well-organized trip, and we would happily use Kimkim again for future travel.

Local specialist: Alex Coronado
Alex
Alex Coronado
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Jan 05, 2026
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful feedback, Alexandre.- It truly means a lot to know that you enjoyed Guatemala and Belize, and felt the trip was well-balanced and stress-free. I’m very glad Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the historical sites left a lasting impression, and that our local guides and logistics helped make the experience smooth. It was a pleasure working with you and Julia from start to finish, and I really appreciate your trust and flexibility along the way. Feedback... Read more

Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful feedback, Alexandre.-

It truly means a lot to know that you enjoyed Guatemala and Belize, and felt the trip was well-balanced and stress-free. I’m very glad Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the historical sites left a lasting impression, and that our local guides and logistics helped make the experience smooth.

It was a pleasure working with you and Julia from start to finish, and I really appreciate your trust and flexibility along the way. Feedback like this is incredibly rewarding.

Wishing Julia a good recovery, many more wonderful adventures ahead on your travels, and I hope our paths cross again in the future.

Warm regards from lovely Antigua,
Alex

Very grateful for finding Columbus Guatamala Travel who planned and incredible trip for us.
Guatemala | Dec 22 - Jan 2, 2026

Stacey
Stacey G.
Australia | Reviewed on Jan 03, 2026
From the beginning the tour operator, Columbus Guatamala Travel, were incredible. From making a WhatsApp Group and giving us information before we even got there, to meeting them all at the office. All the guides were beyond expectation and spoke very good english. A special mention to JJ who spent 3 days with us travelling to Lake Atitlan, who was such a pleasure to have with us and nothing was too much trouble and he was very flexible and helpful.
Following on to El Salvador and...
Read more

From the beginning the tour operator, Columbus Guatamala Travel, were incredible. From making a WhatsApp Group and giving us information before we even got there, to meeting them all at the office. All the guides were beyond expectation and spoke very good english. A special mention to JJ who spent 3 days with us travelling to Lake Atitlan, who was such a pleasure to have with us and nothing was too much trouble and he was very flexible and helpful.
Following on to El Salvador and Nicaragua, Katherine (Columbus Travel) was in the know about everything and kept an eye on everything we did, making sure everything ran smoothly.
Alfredo, who we had for day in San Salvador, was very informative and really good at showing us around.
Gerald, our guide in Nicaragua, was extremely knowledgeable and we learnt a lot and also was very flexible.
Overall we thanks Columbus Guatamala Travel for looking after us.

Local specialist: Catherina Tittaferrante
Catherina
Catherina Tittaferrante
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Jan 03, 2026

My lovely Stacey,

Such a wonderful time we shared, we loved having the opportunity to travel through your pictures and the whole team enjoyed tremendeously your energy, you are amazing friends and we have to say it, you made all the experiences to be amazing, because of your smiles, your open hearts to start and explore. You are the Cherry on the top.

Our hope is for next time to explore Belize and who knows maybe south of Mexico too!
Sending all our love and best wishes!

Fantastic trip to Guatemala.
Guatemala | Dec 19 - Dec 25, 2025

brian
brian w.
Ridgecrest, CA | Reviewed on Dec 31, 2025
Fantastic trip to Guatemala. I wanted to go to three areas of the country: Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and Tikal National Park. I also used Guatemala City to be able to use the airport easily when going to Flores. Everything went really well. There were many different trips within Guatemala that needed to be taken and every time the driver was right on time ready to go when we were ready to go. I even decided to plan the Tikal portion on my own and Catherine was just fine to work with my... Read more

Fantastic trip to Guatemala. I wanted to go to three areas of the country: Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and Tikal National Park. I also used Guatemala City to be able to use the airport easily when going to Flores. Everything went really well. There were many different trips within Guatemala that needed to be taken and every time the driver was right on time ready to go when we were ready to go. I even decided to plan the Tikal portion on my own and Catherine was just fine to work with my desires. My wife and I felt safe and secure the entire trip.

Hotel Reviews
Porta Hotel del Lago
Panajachel, Sololá
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Not sure why they close the pool and weight room at 8 PM
Hotel Posada de Don Rodrigo
Antigua
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
I just didn't like how there really wasn't a way to open a window at night
Activity Reviews
Welcome to Guatemala
Welcome to Guatemala
Guatemala
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Villages Around Lake Atitlán by Boat
Villages Around Lake Atitlán by Boat
Guatemala

I think if I was given the option I would have elected for a private boat tour of the lake.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Catherina Tittaferrante
Catherina
Catherina Tittaferrante
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Jan 05, 2026

My dear Brian & Jenny, such a blast to share with you our passion for Guatemala, we enjoyed so much and we still want Pollo Campero! ajajajaja we missed that dinner but hoping for another opportunity.
Thank you for trusting and choosing us, you have family in Guatemala now on.

Wish to meet up again and keep exploring, also thank you honestly for taking the time to share your review and ranking our team members. They all send hugs.

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.