Guatemala 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Itinerary for Exploring Guatemala

Day 1: Antigua Guatemala

Places to Go

  1. Antigua Guatemala: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Don’t miss the Santa Catalina Arch, La Recoleccion Church, and the Central Park.

Activities

  1. Volcano Tour: Visit three volcanoes: Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango. Witness the active Fuego Volcano at night as it lights up the sky with its lava flows.
  2. Chocolate Making Workshop: Learn about the Mayan cacao tradition and make your own chocolate in one of Antigua’s many workshops.

Things to Know

  • Antigua is situated approximately 30 km from Guatemala City, so transportation will be needed.
  • The local currency is the Quetzal (GTQ). US dollars are widely accepted but may not always get you the best exchange rate.
  • Spanish is the official language, but many tours and shops cater to English speakers.

Day 2: Chichicastenango & Lake Atitlán

Places to Go

  1. Chichicastenango: A highland town known for its vibrant market where locals sell traditional textiles, trinkets, and offerings for the Mayan gods.
  2. Lake Atitlán & Surrounding Villages: Spend the afternoon exploring the villages around the picturesque lake, such as Panajachel, San Juan La Laguna, or Santiago Atitlán.

Activities

  1. Mayan Market: Experience the bustling market in Chichicastenango. Purchase traditional textiles, trinkets, and learn about Mayan spiritual practices.
  2. Boat Tour on Lake Atitlán: Take a boat tour around the lake and visit one or more of the surrounding villages. Each village has its unique character and culture.

Things to Know

  • The drive from Antigua to Chichicastenango takes about 3 hours. From there, it’s approximately another 1.5 hours to Lake Atitlán.
  • Many of the boats on Lake Atitlán don’t have fixed prices, so be prepared to negotiate.

Day 3: Tikal & Flores

Places to Go

  1. Tikal National Park: This ancient Mayan city is one of the largest and most important archaeological sites in the Americas.
  2. Flores, Petén: A charming island town located on Lake Petén Itzá, close to Tikal.

Activities

  1. Tour of Tikal: Spend the day exploring Tikal’s temples and palaces. Don’t miss the Grand Plaza, Temple IV, and the famous Temple II (II-3).
  2. Lake Petén Itzá: Take a boat tour around the lake or relax on one of the beaches.

Things to Know

  • Flores is approximately 1 hour from the Tikal Airport. Flights from Guatemala City are available, but it can also be reached by bus (about 6 hours).
  • Mosquito repellent and appropriate clothing for hiking in the jungle are essential.

Day 4: Rio Dulce & Livingston

Places to Go

  1. Rio Dulce: A peaceful town situated at the confluence of the Rio Hondo and Rio Dulce rivers.
  2. Livingston: A Caribbean coastal town known for its vibrant Garifuna culture.

Activities

  1. Boat Tour to Livingston: Take a boat tour down the Rio Dulce and through the narrows (Los Siete Alpes) before reaching Livingston.
  2. Garifuna Cultural Experience: Learn about the unique Garifuna culture in Livingston. Enjoy traditional music, dance, food, and visit local artisans.

Things to Know

  • The drive from Flores to Rio Dulce takes approximately 3 hours. From there, it’s another 2 hours by boat to Livingston.
  • Bring mosquito repellent for the river trip, and remember that Livingston is on the Caribbean coast, so pack accordingly.

Visa Requirements

Citizens of most countries can enter Guatemala without a visa for up to 90 days. Check your country’s specific requirements before traveling.

Transportation

  • Buses are a popular and affordable way to travel within Guatemala, with routes connecting most major cities.
  • Shuttles and private transfers can also be arranged for more convenience.
  • Taxis are available in the larger towns and cities but negotiate prices before starting your journey.