The Best of Guatemala in 15 Days - Semuc Champey + Atilan & More

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival to Guatemala and Transfer-in to your hotel
1 stop
1
La Aurora International Airport
Welcome to Guatemala! From the moment you land at La Aurora International Airport, we will greet you with open arms. Our f irst journey together will be to your comfortable hotel in the vibrant Guatemala City. You'll be amazed by its modern and cosmopolitan character, making it the brightest gem in Central America. Its impressive buildings and business centers not only highlight its progress but also the warm blend of culture and modernity that defines it. Once there, you'll be settled into a specially selected hotel to ensure you enjoy all the comforts.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Iximché Mayan City and Santa Catarina Palopó at Lake Atitlán
2 stops
2
Iximche
After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, we'll embark on an adventure into the natural and cultural splendor of Guatemala. Our first stop is the ancient charm of Iximché, one of the main Mayan cities visited by the Spanish in 1524, and the first capital of the Kingdom of Guatemala. Here, you can walk among ancient pyramids and observe some of the most active ceremonial altars, where contemporary Mayans still perform rituals and offer tributes to their ancestors.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
3
Santa Catarina Palopo
Next, the journey continues to the picturesque village of Santa Catarina Palopó, located around the magical Lake Atitlán. Surrounded by mountains and volcanoes adorned with wildflowers, the lake is not only a visual spectacle but also a unique energy center, according to local Mayan beliefs. In Santa Catarina Palopó, you'll enjoy local crafts, colorful streets, and vibrant Mayan culture.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Chichicastenango Mayan Market
2 stops
4
After breakfast at the hotel, we'll head to Chichicastenango, a town seemingly frozen in time, home to the largest indigenous market in Mesoamerica. At the Church of Santo Tomás, you'll witness a unique blend of Catholicism and Mayan traditions, where ancient rituals are still practiced. We will explore the colorful market, where you can find everything from jewelry to textiles and local crafts, as well as a dazzling array of food and flowers. We'll also visit a workshop for traditional "trajes de moros," rich in color and cultural significance. This experience in Chichicastenango will immerse you in the vibrant heart of indigenous traditions and commerce.
5 hours • Admission ticket free
5
Lake Atitlan
Afterwards, we will transfer to Lake Atitlan to your hotel, so you can rest and continue our adventure the next day.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
San Juan La Laguna
3 stops
6
San Juan la Laguna
Today, we'll immerse ourselves in the charming atmosphere of San Juan La Laguna, a vibrant and tradition-filled village on the shores of the lake. We'll start our day by visiting a cozy artisanal chocolate workshop, where you'll learn all about the process of transforming cacao into delicious chocolate creations, from the seed to the final product. Next, we'll delve into the world of Mayan textiles at a workshop run by talented women. They will share with you the art of weaving on a backstrap loom, demonstrating how they dye cotton using natural methods and explaining the meaning behind the patterns that adorn their traditional garments. Each piece is a work of art that requires days or even weeks of dedication and skill.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
7
San Juan la Laguna
We'll continue our exploration by visiting a natural medicine workshop, where you'll discover the various plants that Mayan communities have used for generations to cure different ailments. This journey through San Juan La Laguna is not only a visual tour of its colorful local life but also a deep immersion into the rich culture and traditions this village has to offer.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
8
Panajachel
Afterwards, we will take a boat transfer to Panajachel to your hotel, so you can rest and continue our adventure the next day.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs and Quetzaltenango
2 stops
9
Fuentes Georginas
After breakfast at the hotel, we will head to the refreshing and mystical hot springs of Fuentes Georginas. Located over 2,500 meters above sea level, these springs not only offer a stunning natural setting and cool climate but also allow you to experience their famous medicinal properties, adding a touch of mysticism to your relaxation experience. On our way, we’ll pass through the lush farming fields that have made the municipalities of Almolonga and Zunil in Quetzaltenango famous. You’ll be amazed by the enormous vegetables that grow in this fertile soil, which is why the area has been dubbed "The Garden of the Americas" by various international media.
6 hours • Admission ticket included
10
Quetzaltenango
Continuing our journey, we will arrive in Quetzaltenango, the second most important city in Guatemala. You will admire its elegant neoclassical architecture that adorns the streets of Xelajú, creating an impressive urban environment that perfectly complements the natural and cultural richness of our day.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 6
Tubing on Río Chixoy
2 stops
11
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we'll invite you to embark on an exciting adventure on the Chixoy River. If you've never tried tubing before, you're in for a unique experience: you'll climb into an inflatable tube and let the river's current carry you along, providing a fun and refreshing way to explore nature. As we progress, you'll be captivated by the towering mountains that surround the river and the beautiful play of colors in the water, which change according to the flow and depth. The river's predominant turquoise green color offers spectacular views at every turn. We’ll also encounter some rapids that will add a touch of adrenaline to our adventure, ensuring fun while you enjoy the stunning natural landscape. This will undoubtedly be a vibrant and memorable way to connect with the nature of Guatemala.
9 hours • Admission ticket free
12
Coban
Afterwards, we will transfer to Coban to your hotel, so you can rest and continue our adventure the next day.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Day 7
Semuc Champey and Kanba Caves
3 stops
13
Semuc Champey
After breakfast at the hotel, we'll take you to the spectacular Semuc Champey National Park in Cobán, a true natural paradise whose name in Q’eqchi’ means "where the river hides." Here, you'll have the chance to see how the Cahabón River disappears beneath a limestone bridge to flow under the famous pools. Refresh your day with a swim in the park's crystal-clear natural pools. Walk along trails that wind through lush vegetation and climb to the viewpoint to enjoy panoramic views of the iconic turquoise pools, a scene straight out of a dream.
5 hours • Admission ticket included
14
Cuevas de K’anba
Later, our adventure continues at the Kanba Caves, a mystical group of caves explored by candlelight. These caves have water flowing through their interiors, adding to the enchanting experience.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
15
Coban
Afterwards, we will transfer to Coban to your hotel, so you can rest and continue our adventure the next day.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 8
Quetzal Sanctuary and Estanzuela Museum
3 stops
16
Reserva Natural Ranchitos del Quetzal (Hospedaje, Restaurante, Tours)
Today, we'll embark on a fascinating journey starting at the Quetzal Sanctuary, known as Rachitos del Quetzal, located in Purulhá, Baja Verapaz. This sanctuary is dedicated to the protection, feeding, and care of the Quetzal, the majestic national bird of Guatemala. Here, you'll have the unique opportunity to observe these elusive and colorful birds up close in their natural habitat, a true delight for nature and bird lovers. We'll depart from your hotel at 6:00 am so we have a high chance of spotting El Quetzal. If we are not in the Quetzal sighting season, we will see other birds and hike through the cloud forest.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
17
Later, we'll continue our cultural and natural exploration by visiting the Estanzuela Museum. This museum will amaze you with its impressive collection of fossils from animals that inhabited Guatemala during the Cenozoic era, including mastodons, giant sloths, and armadillos, among others. Additionally, the museum houses a valuable collection of archaeological objects from the Mayan culture of the region, allowing you to delve into the rich historical and pre-Hispanic heritage of this fascinating country. Get ready for a day full of learning and surprising discoveries.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
18
Then we will transfer you to your hotel in Zacapa so you can rest.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 9
Quiriguá Archaeological Site
2 stops
19
Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua
After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll take you to explore the fascinating ruins of Quiriguá, an archaeological site that bears witness to the splendor of the ancient Mayan civilization. Located in the municipality of Los Amates, in the Izabal region of northeastern Guatemala, these ruins are a true cultural treasure and have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At Quiriguá, you will admire impressive stelae and carved monuments that tell the stories of Mayan kings and historical events, noted for their detail and grandeur. This site not only offers a window into the Mayan past but also invites reflection on the incredible legacy of one of Mesoamerica’s most intriguing cultures. Get ready for a day of discovery and awe at one of Guatemala’s most important archaeological sites.
5 hours • Admission ticket included
20
Then we will transfer you to your hotel in Amatique Bay, the rest of the day will be free for you to enjoy the Guatemalan Caribbean.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 10
Free Day in Amatique Bay
1 stop
21
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Today is dedicated to optional activities of your choice. Option activity: Sendero Las Escobas This charming destination offers two unique trails: one that runs along beautiful waterfalls and another that takes you into the heart of a tropical forest. Both trails connect, forming a circuit that allows you to immerse yourself in an exceptional natural experience. As you progress along these paths, you will have the opportunity to admire the lush vegetation of the tropical forest and the impressive flora and fauna that inhabit it. Additionally, during your journey, you will encounter the refreshing Río Las Escobas, an ideal spot to take a break and enjoy a swim in its crystal-clear waters. Price per person: $ 70.00 You can choose to relax at the white-sand Caribbean beach, enjoy your hotel's amenities, or do this optional activity.
6 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 11
Garífuna Village Livingston and Río Dulce Canyon
3 stops
22
After breakfast at the hotel, we'll head to the picturesque village of Livingston, located on the shores of the Caribbean Sea in Guatemala. This small but significant place is the only one in the country that is home to the Garífuna community, one of the nation's most important ethnic groups. Historically, Livingston also played a crucial role as a commercial port, thanks to its strategic position, offering refuge to sailors during Caribbean storms.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
23
The journey continues with a boat tour through the stunning Río Dulce Canyon. This natural channel will amaze you with its abundant flora and fauna, encompassing aquatic ecosystems, mangroves, and a wide variety of birds. It’s an ideal setting for nature lovers, where the lush greenery of the mangroves and the birds' songs create an immersive experience. Immerse yourself in the natural and cultural beauty of Guatemala's Caribbean region as we explore its fascinating corners.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
24
Then we will transfer you to your hotel in Flores Island so you can rest. It will take us 4 hours to get there.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 12
Tikal Archaeological City
2 stops
25
Tikal National Park
After breakfast at the hotel, get ready to explore Tikal National Park, a true treasure of the ancient Mayan civilization. Imagine gazing over the vast jungle from the top of Temple IV, the Temple of the Two-Headed Serpent, the tallest pyramid in the complex, rising over 65 meters above the green canopy. This is the heart of Tikal, renowned worldwide not only for its impressive architecture but also for being one of the few Mayan settlements that thrived after the collapse of the Preclassic Period. For about 800 years, this city was home to over 60,000 people, ruled by 33 leaders, whose stories and legacies still echo in every stone and temple you see around you. Walk where they walked and feel the pulsating history that makes Tikal a place where you’ll undoubtedly want to linger a little longer to absorb its magical atmosphere.
7 hours • Admission ticket free
26
Then we will transfer you to your hotel in Flores Island so you can rest.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 13
Flight to Guatemala City and Antigua City Tour
2 stops
27
After breakfast at the hotel, we will transfer you to Mundo Maya Airport for a morning flight from Petén to Guatemala City.
3 hours • Admission ticket included
28
Antigua
Upon arrival, we’ll be waiting to take you directly to the charming city of Antigua Guatemala. This colonial city, recognized by UNESCO as a Cultural Heritage of Humanity site, will captivate you with its beauty and historical richness. In Antigua, you’ll enjoy a guided tour that will lead you through its cobblestone streets to the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral and Central Plaza. You'll explore the Palace of the Captains and other historical sites that bear witness to the city’s glorious past. Every corner of Antigua invites you to immerse yourself in its history, culture, and unique architecture.
6 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 14
Free Day in Antigua
1 stop
29
Antigua
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Today is a free day in Antigua Guatemala for optional activities. Optional Experience: 1. Hike Active Pacaya Volcano 2. Acatenango Volcano: Summit Visit in a 4x4 Vehicle in One Day + Meal at the Summit Pacaya Volcano offers an easy hike, perfect for all levels. In 1.5-2 hours, explore petrified lava, feel volcanic heat, and even roast marshmallows on hot rocks. The summit rewards you with stunning views of nearby volcanoes—a thrilling and memorable adventure! Price per person: $ 90.00 *** Experience the thrill of Acatenango Volcano with minimal effort! A 4x4 takes you near the summit, leaving just a 1.5-hour walk. Enjoy a meal with breathtaking views. Best done from September to April. Price per person: $ 650.00 and a minimum of 2 passengers. *** If you do not wish to do either of these two activities, remember that Antigua is a city with much to see and discover. Walk through its streets and enjoy the peace of this little corner of the world.
8 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 15
Panoramic Tour of Guatemala City and Departure to La Aurora International Airport
1 stop
30
Guatemala City
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel. When you're ready, we'll embark on a panoramic tour of Guatemala City, capturing the essence of this vibrant capital before ensuring a smooth transfer to La Aurora International Airport.
5 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Please reserve at least one week in advance due to hotel bookings. For high season (March to June), your reservation will require manual confirmation.
• Bring/wear comfortable shoes and clothes, sun protection and mosquito repellent. Also bring a towel and swimsuit.

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