Guatemala 7 Day Itinerary

November 25, 2024

7-Day Itinerary for Exploring Guatemala

Arrive at La Aurora International Airport (GUA). Be prepared for customs and immigration procedures. Visa requirements: Citizens from the US, Canada, and most European countries do not need a visa for stays under 90 days. Check your country’s specific requirements.
Transfer to Antigua (approximately 1-hour drive). Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its beautifully preserved Spanish colonial buildings.
Afternoon: Explore Antigua on foot, visit the Central Park, Santa Catalina Arch, La Merced Church, and the Ruins of San Francisco.
Evening: Enjoy traditional Guatemalan cuisine in one of the local restaurants.

Morning: Visit the Pacaya Volcano for a hike and marshmallow roasting at the volcanic crater. Remember to bring warm clothing and sturdy shoes.
Afternoon: Relax in one of the nearby hot springs or visit the beautiful, colorful market of Chichicastenango (on Tuesdays and Thursdays).
Evening: Return to Antigua for a well-deserved rest.

Morning: Take a shuttle or private transfer to Panajachel, the gateway to Lake Atitlán (approximately 1.5 hours).
Afternoon: Embark on a boat tour of the lake, visiting villages like Santa Cruz, San Juan, and San Pedro. Explore the local culture, markets, and handicrafts.
Evening: Savor dinner at one of the lakeside restaurants while enjoying the stunning sunset over the lake.

Morning: Visit the Mayan ruins of Tikal, a full-day trip that can be organized with a tour agency in Panajachel. The ruins are not in Guatemala but in neighboring Petén department, so it requires an early start and overnight stay there. Alternatively, explore local villages on your own.
Afternoon: Relax at the lake or participate in activities such as kayaking, bird-watching, or yoga classes.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Mayan performance or learn about the art of weaving in one of the local communities.

Morning: Transfer to Semuc Champey, a stunning natural wonder consisting of a series of pools and limestone formations (approximately 6-hour drive). Overnight in Lanquín or nearby.
Afternoon: Explore the pools and hike up to El Mirador for breathtaking views. Swimming is permitted, but be aware of strong currents.
Evening: Visit the Bat Cave (Grutas de Lanquín) to observe thousands of bats leaving the cave at dusk.

Morning: Return to Guatemala City or travel to Flores, a small town near Tikal National Park (approximately 3-hour drive from Semuc Champey).
Afternoon: Visit the famous Mayan ruins of Tikal. Explore the massive temples, plazas, and acropolis within the dense jungle.
Evening: Return to Flores for a relaxed evening and sample some Yucatecan cuisine.

Morning: Transfer to La Aurora International Airport (GUA) for your flight home or continue your journey in Guatemala.