Guatemala 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Antigua & Pacaya Volcano

  • Morning: Arrival at La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City. After clearing customs, take a shuttle or taxi (approximately $30-$40 USD) to the colonial town of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check into your hotel and freshen up.

  • Afternoon: Explore the cobblestone streets of Antigua. Visit the beautiful Santa Catalina Arch, La Merced Church, and the ruins of several other convents and churches. Don’t miss the colorful market on 5a Avenida Norte.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Guatemalan dinner at one of the local restaurants. Try dishes like Pepian (chicken in pumpkin seed sauce), Chiles Rellenos, or Tamales.

  • Night: Rest for the day as you prepare for the next adventure.

Things to know:

  • Guatemala’s official language is Spanish. English is spoken minimally outside tourist areas.
  • The local currency is Quetzal (GTQ). Major credit cards are accepted in most cities, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  • Tap water is not safe to drink, so stick to bottled water.

Day 2: Pacaya Volcano & Monterrico

  • Morning: Take a tour to climb the active Pacaya Volcano (approximately $15 USD per person). Remember to wear hiking boots and bring warm clothes, as it can get chilly at the summit.

  • Afternoon: After descending the volcano, head to the coastal town of Monterrico (about 2 hours away by car or shuttle). Spend the afternoon relaxing on the black sand beach, exploring the wildlife sanctuary, or taking a horseback ride along the shore.

  • Evening: Dine at one of the seafood restaurants in Monterrico and enjoy the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Day 3: Lake Atitlán & Panajachel

  • Morning: Travel to Lake Atitlán (approximately 3 hours by car or shuttle). Check into your hotel in Panajachel, a town on the lake’s shore.

  • Afternoon: Take a boat tour of the lake (approximately $10 USD per person), visiting the indigenous villages dotting its shores like San Juan, Santiago, and San Pedro.

  • Evening: Browse for souvenirs in Panajachel’s market or take a sunset walk along the lakeside promenade.

Things to know:

  • Guatemala does not require a visa for most travelers from North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia if your stay is 90 days or less. Always check with your country’s embassy for the latest requirements.
  • Taxis are plentiful and affordable in Guatemala. For longer journeys, consider booking a shuttle service.
  • Remember to respect local customs and traditions when traveling throughout Guatemala. Dress modestly and ask permission before taking photos of people or their homes.

Additional Activities:

  • Explore Tikal, one of the most important archaeological sites of the Maya civilization in northern Guatemala.
  • Visit Semuc Champey, a natural pool of turquoise water surrounded by limestone hills.
  • Discover the vibrant city of Flores on Isla de Flores and take a day trip to Tikal from there.