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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.

Streets of Caye Caulker Village, Belize
Map of Cultural Highlights of Belize & Guatemala - 7 Days
Cultural Highlights of Belize & Guatemala - 7 Days

Discover the culture and ancient Maya history of Belize and Guatemala while also packing in the fun. It kicks off on Belize's stunning coral island Caye Caulker, where you'll go snorkeling in crystalline waters and swim with sharks. Head inland to explore the ancient Maya ruins of Xunantunich on horseback, then cross into Guatemala to visit the pyramid temples at Tikal National Park. End with a tour of the historic colonial city of Antigua and visits to indigenous villages on the shores of Lake Atitlán.

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 Catherina Tittaferrante
active 5 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 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...

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Travel specialist Chris Gwinner
active 4 days 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...

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Travel specialist Alex Coronado
active 49 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...

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Trip Reviews for Guatemala

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Quatamala and Belize trip
Guatemala | Jun 30 - Jul 6, 2026

Bobbi
Bobbi C.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jul 07, 2026
We first visited Roatan for a daughters wedding, than planned an 8 day Quatamala and Belize trip thru Company Kimkim. They used Columbus Quatmala Travel and all was amazing. We had special tour guides and drivers that were extemely knowledgeable and prompt. For most of Quatmala, we had Roberto (Lake Atitlian..visited villages around the lake, etc.) & Antiqua) , who had so much energy, personality knowledge, passion, flexiable, intuitive and just fun! He was definitely our favorite. Then... Read more

We first visited Roatan for a daughters wedding, than planned an 8 day Quatamala and Belize trip thru Company Kimkim. They used Columbus Quatmala Travel and all was amazing. We had special tour guides and drivers that were extemely knowledgeable and prompt. For most of Quatmala, we had Roberto (Lake Atitlian..visited villages around the lake, etc.) & Antiqua) , who had so much energy, personality knowledge, passion, flexiable, intuitive and just fun! He was definitely our favorite. Then we had Carlos who took us on a 5 hours tour of Tikal National Park Mayan Ruins. Another fantastic tour... but he was a little more serious, still very knowlegble & focused. Johnathan was a driver who drove us to the Belize border, but shared a lot of knowledge on the way. We met Renee at border, who toured us thru Xunantunich Mayan ruins... A very happy, knowlegeable, flexible guy. Also shared much knowledge while driving. We enjoyed him as well. Carmeron picked us up at Hopkins hotel and drove us to Belize airport. Again he shared a lot of knowledge as he drove us for two hours.
I cannot say enough good things to describe both companies, Kimkim and Columbus Quatmala Travel. Both were unbelievably responsive and flexible! We gave them an idea of our preferences. They asked questions to ensure we were happy with their suggestions all along the way. Very communitive. They planned the trip from the moment we stepped off the plane in Quatamala til when getting on the plane home in Belize. Every hotel was amazing! Every tour was over the top! Every guide was truly fantastic. We can't thank this group enough! We will definitely being using them again to plan our next year's trip. They are a real find!!!!! sidenote: there were many highlights on this trip, but one that is a favorite is the snorkeling trip we took with Med and Richie D at the Jaquar Reef Hotel in Hopkins (Almond beach). Real local guys...they were a total BLAST! While snorkeling the Barrier Reef, they caught 4 lobster & 3 fish. They cleaned them and gave us 2 lobsters and a mango they just picked off the tree. Brought them back to our hotel chef and he mades us the most amazing meal with a mango sauce and rice. TO DIE FOR. The whole snorkeling experience was a once-in-a-life-time experence from the time picked up and dropped off. Almost 5 hours (supposed to be 4). An amazing trip to be sure! Wouldn't have changed any of these experiences. Thanks to all of you, for your patience, sharing of knowledge and of yourselves. Words aren't enough... God Bless!

Hotel Reviews
Almond Beach Resort Belize
Hopkins

Loved, loved, loved this place. Views, pools, great bars, close to Hopkings w/lots of option to do things or do nothing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Centrally located... could ride a bike or ATV or kayak right from the property... Close to the town and lots of close activites available. Wish we could have stayed here longer.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Villa Maya
Flores

One restaurant there had 2 medium tv's. TV's are not usally a thing for us, but we were trying to watch the World Cup through out our vacation. The lake, the people, the room was very nice. Would definitely go back. A beautiful jungle property!!! Only one night, which isn't enough. Would have loved to hike around a little. Beautiful property.

Authenticity & Character
Location
It is very remote... so you have to like that w/one restaurant. With that said, we loved the jungle and surrounding area. Beautiful
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ciel-Luxe Hotel
Antigua Guatemala

The hotel was located only a block from main square. Could walk anywere to eat or explore. People were very nice. The first room they showed us was close to entrance w/no air conditioning. That would NOT have worked. They quickly moved us to a better room which was great. We were there for only 3 days and 2 nights. The first night was great, but water wasn't on next morning. Was not on again the next morning and we were leaving. We were told several times it would be on soon. We could not take showers or ? They did bring in a quart of water to use for brusthing teeth and washing face. Again, very nice.. well meaning. Quaint hotel w/good food and attentiveness. Not sure what happened with water... :-(

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Atitlán
Panajachel

Gardens, food, people, pool, views... amazing

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Esteban Tittaferrante

Good trip
Guatemala | May 20 - May 28, 2026

B
Brittany N.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jun 11, 2026
Everything was good even with the tour guide and the shuttle . Everything was planned good and the timing . I would book again Read more

Everything was good even with the tour guide and the shuttle . Everything was planned good and the timing . I would book again

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Casa Palopo
Panajachel

Amazing view and food and the people are nice

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casona De La Isla
Flores

The hotel was nice , but the chairs by the pool were broken

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Karen González
Karen
Karen González
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Jun 11, 2026
Britany, It was truly a pleasure meeting you and your sister. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback with us—it means a lot and helps us continue improving our guests' experiences.
I will make sure to inform the hotel about the broken chairs. I'm also happy to hear that you enjoyed the activities, tours, transportation, and had the opportunity to get to know our wonderful guides along the way.
I sincerely hope to welcome you back to Guatemala in the near future.... Read more

Britany, It was truly a pleasure meeting you and your sister. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback with us—it means a lot and helps us continue improving our guests' experiences.
I will make sure to inform the hotel about the broken chairs. I'm also happy to hear that you enjoyed the activities, tours, transportation, and had the opportunity to get to know our wonderful guides along the way.

I sincerely hope to welcome you back to Guatemala in the near future. Whenever you're ready to return, I’ll be here and happy to assist you in planning another memorable adventure.

Karen

Hospitality, kindness and patience.
Guatemala | May 20 - May 28, 2026

Sammi
Sammi N.
Albany, NY, USA | Reviewed on Jun 04, 2026
Had a great time with everyone that I met, from the following :
Juli - our guide
Don Manuel - our driver
El Mono (Erwin) - Pacaya guide
Fernando and Oliverio!!!!
Karen worked with me and my sister about what we wanted to do and was very accommodating. I like change my trip itinerary like probably 5 to 6 different times but she was very patient and I told her what my budget was and she worked with me. She provided pretty much everything for me and spoke with me on WhatsApp to make sure...
Read more

Had a great time with everyone that I met, from the following :
Juli - our guide
Don Manuel - our driver
El Mono (Erwin) - Pacaya guide
Fernando and Oliverio!!!!
Karen worked with me and my sister about what we wanted to do and was very accommodating. I like change my trip itinerary like probably 5 to 6 different times but she was very patient and I told her what my budget was and she worked with me. She provided pretty much everything for me and spoke with me on WhatsApp to make sure that I had what I needed. From making sure that I made it safely to the next destination and to make sure that my driver was around.
I would highly recommend Karen and her team at Old Town. I am going to definitely book another mini trip with her for the volcano hike the big one Fuego.

Hotel Review
Hotel Casa Palopo
Panajachel

This place is like magical and majestic. You come here and you just feel like you're in some type of movie or dream. If everyone here is very nice and very hospitable.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Explore Tikal National Park
Explore Tikal National Park
Guatemala

Oliver!!!!!!! What can I not say about this guy? He was very funny and he knows everything about the of history of TIKAL and the whole entire region. Very knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Karen González
Karen
Karen González
Local specialist in Antigua Guatemala | Replied on Jun 04, 2026

Sammi,

It was truly wonderful getting to know you and your sister! during your time in Guatemala. I honestly hope that the next time you visit, we can share an adventure together and hike one of our beautiful volcanoes! Acatenango is in the bucket list.

Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review and for your kind words. Your feedback is greatly appreciated it to us and inspires our team to continue creating memorable and meaningful experiences for our travelers. Until next time, my friend.

Hasta la próxima, amiga.

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