- 26 September - 4 October 2027
- 8 Nights/ 9 days
- Weather 16 - 29 C
- Fitness - Med 5km per day
- Price Range - $$$
Guatemala: A Land of Vibrant Contrasts
Explore Guatemala’s nature and history on this 9-day tour. Visit Antigua with its colonial charm, the picturesque Lake Atitlan surrounded by volcanoes and Mayan villages, and the Petรฉn region, home to jungles and archaeological sites like Tikal.
Guatemala offers diverse landscapes: rainforests, colonial cities, turquoise lakes, active volcanoes, Mayan villages, and Caribbean coasts. The rich Mayan heritage is evident in national monuments and pre-Columbian temples hidden in jungles. Half of the population is of Indian origin, preserving dialects and customs. Guatemalans are incredibly hospitable, welcoming you with open arms. Experience colourful markets, ancestral traditions, and explore the jungle of Petรฉn to uncover Mayan civilization. Sail Lake Atitlan at sunset and discover the beauty of Guatemala.
Oh the places we'll go ......
Guatemala City, or “Guate” as the locals affectionately call it, is a dynamic blend of ancient history and modern urban energy. As the countryโs capital and largest city, it offers a fascinating contrast between its colonial past and contemporary growth. Wander through historic zones filled with Spanish architecture, bustling markets, and cultural landmarks like the National Palace and Metropolitan Cathedral. Dive into the cityโs vibrant art scene at museums such as the Museo Popol Vuh and the Ixchel Museum of Indigenous Textiles.
Step back in time as you explore the awe-inspiring ruins of Tikal, one of the most significant archaeological sites of the ancient Maya civilisation. Nestled deep within the lush jungles of northern Guatemala, Tikal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its towering temples, grand plazas, and intricate carvings that tell the story of a civilisation at its peak. Discover the secrets of the Maya as your guide leads you through this ancient city, bringing its rich history and culture to life.
San Lucas Tolimรกn is a picturesque town located on the southern shore of Lake Atitlรกn in the Sololรก department of Guatemala. Surrounded by lush mountains and overlooked by the majestic Atitlรกn Volcano, it is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich indigenous culture, primarily of the Kaqchikel Maya. The town thrives on agriculture, with coffee and corn being key crops, and it serves as a gateway for eco-tourism and cultural experiences in the region. Its tranquil atmosphere, traditional markets, and vibrant community life make it a unique destination for those seeking an authentic Guatemalan experience.
Discover the charm of Antigua, Guatemalaโs most enchanting city, known for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture, vibrant culture, and dramatic volcanic backdrop. Once the colonial capital, Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that invites you to stroll through cobblestone streets lined with colorful facades, historic churches, and bustling markets.Whether exploring its fascinating history or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, Antigua offers a captivating blend of the past and present, making it a highlight of your journey.
Trip Highlights
- Guatemala City Tour
- Take a boat ride on Lake Peten Itza
- Visit Tikal National Park
- Explore the archaeological site including the Great Jaguar Temple, Masks Temple, and the Snake Temple
- Visit the Mayan site of Iximchรฉ
- Enjoy the view of Lake Atitlan
- Boat Trip to Mayan Villages on Lake Atitlan
- Visit the syncretic cult of Maximรณn
- Visit San Juan La Laguna for traditional weaving techniques
- Experience Mayan spiritual ceremony at Mount Pascual Abaj
- Explore famous markets in Chichicastenango
- Antigua Half Day Guided Tour
- Visit a coffee farm and have lunch with a local family
- Taste local specialties in Antigua
Book your Guatemala Tour 2027
- Twinshare โ $4175 AUD
- Single Room โ $4745 AUD
*FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED
This tour requires a $500 deposit, followed by two installment payments.
The first installment is due 6 months before the start of the trip.
The second installment is due 75 days prior to departure.
Experience the finest in guided travel with our Escorted Tours, fully led by a certified, English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the journey, sharing their extensive knowledge and passion for the destination.
Inclusions
- 7 nights Accommodation
- Domestic Flights to and from Guatemala City to Flores
- Meals as stated on itinerary
- Airport transfer to and from the hotel
- Private vehicle transport all throughout activities
- Professional Guide as provided throughout itinerary
- Entrance Fees as per itinerary
- Local Tours
- Boat trip to Tzutuhil villages of Lake Atitlan
Exclusions
- International airfares to and from Guatemala
- Travel Insurance (which is compulsory)
- Some Lunches and Dinners
- Personal purchases
- Tipping is for tour guides, drivers and hotel staff - $25AUD per day. To be collected on arrival or beforehand added to your invoice.
Travel Itinerary
Bienvenidos a Guatemala!
Arrive at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, where you will be warmly greeted by your driver and escorted to your hotel. Enjoy a comfortable transfer and settle into your accommodations.
Then meet your local tour guide in the afternoon for aย City Tour Guatemala City –ย Experience a panoramic exploration of the historic centre of Guatemala City. The itinerary includes a visit to the giant relief map, an early twentieth-century technical achievement spanning 1800mยฒ that provides a comprehensive overview of the country and its volcanoes. Additional highlights include guided tours of the Anthropology Museum and the Ixchel Museum, which features indigenous costumes
Meals: None
Accommodation: Hotel Stofella or similar
Flight from Guatemala City to Flores departs at 13:00 and arrives at 14:00.
Grab a snack for lunch at the airport before your flight.
Lake Peten Itza Boat Trip
Upon arrival, meet a local boat operator for a 2-hour tour.
Our first stop is a scenic boat trip on the enchanting Lake Petรฉn Itzรก. Our journey takes us to the intriguing Iguana Island, home to a variety of fascinating wildlife. Observing these creatures in their natural habitat was a highlight of the day.
Next, we ascended to the Mirador del Rey Canek, where views of Flores awaited us.
After the boat tour, transfer to the Jungle Lodge and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Jungle Lodge Tikal or similar
Depart at 4:30 am for Tikal, a notable Mayan city from the 4th century BC to its peak between the 3rd and 9th centuries AD. Arrive in darkness to climb the highest pyramid and experience the jungle waking up with howler monkeys and birds greeting the dawn. As light reveals the pyramids, explore the archaeological site, featuring 3,000 structures including the Great Jaguar Temple, Masks Temple, and the Snake Temple, which stood as the tallest New World building until the 19th century.
Enjoy sightings of wildlife such as spider monkeys, pheasants, coatis, toucans, and parrots. The atmosphere is rich with jungle scents and sounds.
After lunch, transfer to Flores airport for your flight to Guatemala City.
Arrive at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, meet your driver and transfer to Antigua.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Panchoy or similar
Visit the Mayan site of Iximchรฉ, the Kaqchikel Mayas’ capital, who allied with Spanish settlers against the Maya Quichรฉ. The conquistadors founded the first Spanish city here, but it was burned by the Kaqchikels in 1562. Nowadays, shamans and locals sometimes perform Mayan rituals at the site.
Next, we head to Lake Atitlan, a stunning symbol of Guatemala, surrounded by three volcanoes at 1600 meters above sea level. Numerous small villages on its shores are often accessible only by boat, celebrating local festivals and hosting traditional markets. We’ll arrive in Panajachel at the end of the day.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Toliman or similar
This morning, take a boat to explore the Tzutuhil villages of Lake Atitlan. The Tzutuhil people are one of the 21 Mayan groups in Guatemala and reside in a few villages southwest of the lake. In Santiago Atitlan, visit the syncretic cult of Maximรณn, the smoking God of Guatemala, revered and feared by locals who offer cigarettes, alcohol, or money.
Next, head to San Juan La Laguna, where upon entering the town, we wander through and enjoy the street art and murals. Then continue on to the weavers’ cooperative for a demonstration on natural colouring and traditional weaving techniques.
Return to your hotel for a leisurely afternoon in town. Guided Tour is included.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Toliman or similar
We just put today aside for you to relax and enjoy the lakeside vibe.ย
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Toliman or similar
Today, travel 1h30 to Chichicastenango to visit its market. The Kaqchikel Indians come from nearby villages twice a week to sell their goods here. The city becomes a mix of colours and smells. The women wear traditional huipil representing the seasons of the Mayan calendar, and in the centre of the village, shamans purify the church stairs with incense and perform Mayan rituals.
Walk with an English-speaking guide to Mount Pascual Abaj (1h30 round trip), a place known for its stories and legends where many ancestral rites and sacrifices are practised.
Enjoy lunch of local specialities.
Then experience traditional ceremony performed by a Mayan shaman (spiritual purification, protection, and good omens).
In the afternoon, continue your journey towards the city of Antigua. Arrive in the late afternoon and spend the evening in this colonial city.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch (no drinks)
Accommodation: Hotel Panchoy or similar
We thought since we are in such an amazing coffee growing region that we needed to expolore this a bit futer. Coffee has been a major component of the Guatemalan economy since the late 1800s. It is estimated that 100,000 smallholders produce almost half of the national output and depend on the crop for their livelihood. We will enjoy a Coffee tour “from the bean to the cup” After breakfast, we follow a coffee farmer on his plot to discover his work and understand how the precious bean is produced: cultivation, harvesting, roasting, grinding. The visit will end with the tasting of a local coffee at our host’s place. The activity ends with a lunch with a local family!ย
Then after lunch lets explore Antigua! Surrounded by three volcanoes, Antigua has experienced many natural hazards throughout its history, including earthquakes, floods, and volcanic eruptions. Despite these challenges, Antigua is now recognised as one of the most picturesque cities in Guatemala.
This afternoon we take a guided tour of the city, which features over thirty monasteries and convents and a grand cathedral located in the central square. The cobblestone streets connect to the colourful patios of colonial houses. Walk along the arcades of Parque Central, where you can see the volcanoes Fuego, Agua, and Acatenango.
* Note: This is a walking tour of the city with no vehicle provided.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Hotel Panchoy or similar
Check out from the hotel.
Today, meet your driver and transfer to Guatemala City Airport.
Meals: Breakfast
*NOTE: WHEN PLANNING TOURS SO FAR IN ADVANCE YOU CAN EXPECT SOME CHANGES TO THE ITINERARY PLEASE ADJUST YOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR THIS.ย
Accommodation
Guatemala City
Stofella
With an excellent location in the Zona Viva of the City, in the commercial area and only 10 minutes from the airport. Offering a restaurant, Best Western Stofella is located in Guatemala. Free WiFi access is available. Each room here will provide you with a TV and air conditioning. Private bathroom also comes with a shower.
Tikal
Jungle Lodge
Nestled in the heart of Tikalโs lush jungle, Jungle Lodge offers the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Our Standard Rooms are thoughtfully designed with Mayan-inspired dรฉcor, private porches, and modern amenities to ensure a relaxing stay surrounded by nature. Guests can breathe in the fresh jungle air, enjoy the convenience of hot showers and ceiling fans, and unwind after a day of exploration.
Antigua
Hotel Panchoy
The hotel is part of the colonial ruins of the convent built for the order of the cloistered nuns of Santa Catalina, which was founded in 1609 in La Antigua. Located in Antigua Guatemala, 300 meters from the central park, Hotel Panchoy has a garden. Hotel Panchoy has a large rooftop terrace with a 360-degree view of Antigua.
San Lucas Toliman
Hotel Toliman
We are a family-run social enterprise hotel located in Lake Atitlรกn, in the town of San Lucas Tolimรกn, also called “The Hidden Gem of Lake Atitlรกn”, as it is one of the few towns around the lake that has not been spoiled by overtourism. This also means the night life is pretty quiet and you won’t find many choices of bars & restaurants. However, if you’re looking to delve into a slower rhythm of life and get to know life in a traditional Maya Kakchiquel community, you’ve found the right place!
What our Guests have to say about our Tours
Frequently Asked Questions
Arrival and Departure Information
Arrival: All arrivals will be to and from Guatemala International Airport (GUA).
Joining from the Mexico Tour: If you are continuing from the Mexico tour, please book a flight from Cancรบn to Guatemala City for September 26th. Please check the Mexico Webpage under the FAQ “Arrival and Departures” section for our flight suggestion in February 2027. The flight schedule is nto available until then.ย
Departure: ย On your departure day, you will be collected from the hotel in Antigua at 10:00 AM for a group transfer to Guatemala International Airport (GUA).
If you are flying back to Mexico City, we recommend booking a flight departing around 2:00 PM with either Volaris or Aeromexico.
Domestic flights mentioned in your included package have a baggage limit of 22 kilos for checked luggageย 4.5 kg for the hand luggage.
*Any additional luggage will be paid at the airport at the guests expense.ย
- Passport:ย A passport that is valid for at least six months and has at least one blank pageย
- Electronic travel declaration:ย A completed electronic travel declaration form before arrivalย
- Proof of onward travel:ย A round-trip plane ticket or other proof of onward travelย
- Proof of sufficient funds:ย Proof that you have enough funds for your tripย
- Proof of purpose of trip:ย Proof of the purpose of your tripย
- Documents for next destination:ย All documents required for your next destinationย
- Airline confirmation:ย Confirmation from your airline that you will be permitted to board without a visa
On arrival, you will receive a stamp in your passport that acts as a visa for 90 days. This stamp allows you to travel to Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua during this time.ย
- You’ll need to pay an airport and security tax in cash on departure at the airport.
- You’ll also need to pay an exit tax if your plane ticket price doesn’t include it.
Travel via the United Statesย
If you’reย travelling through the US, ensure you meet all current US entry or transit requirements, including if you’re transiting through Hawaii.
This tour requires a $500 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit. Once you have secured your booking, you will receive a welcome email with all the details for the trip.ย
The first installment is due 6 months before the start of the trip.
The second installment is due 75 days prior to departure.
ย
Our rates do not include any kind of travel insurance and each guest must make sure to arrange their own necessary insurance prior arrival. We will do everything possible to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. However, all travel involves some degree of risk we strongly recommend that you take out appropriate travel insurance for your adventure.ย
Your insurance protection should include cover for cancellation, medical, in particular Coronavirus and repatriation expenses, personal injury and accident, death and loss of personal baggage and money and personal liability. Insurance cover offered by credit card companies or reciprocal medical cover agreements are often not comprehensive please check this before travelling. Or contact our preferred Travel Insurance provider CoverMore.
Cancellation Policyย
Read more about our Booking Process and why we have the cancellation policy we doย HERE
- Up to 180 Days Before Tour Start: A $500 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit will be retained.
- From 180 โ 75 Days Before Tour Start: 25% of the tour cost, plus the non-refundable, non-transferable deposit, will be forfeited.
- Fromย 75 โ 45 Days Before Tour Start: 50% of the tour cost, plus the non-refundable, non-transferable deposit, will be forfeited.
- Less Than 45 Days Before Tour Start or No Shows: The entire amount 100% of the tour cost will be retained, as we would have already incurred costs for accommodation, transport, flights, and activities, which cannot be refunded to us.
- After Tour Commencement: No refunds will be issued.
This is whyย travel insuranceย is compulsory. We suggest taking out travel insruance within 2 weeks of booking your tour.ย
CIRCUMSTANCES THAT DO NOT QUALIFY FOR A REFUND
Failure to Read Terms and Conditions
โ Refunds will not be issued if you have not read and understood our Terms and Conditions, Website General Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, or the specific Fine Print for your tour.
Change of Mind
โ Refunds will not be issued if you change your mind after paying your deposit, regardless of the reason.
Cancellation Within 45 Days of Travel Date
โ Refunds will not be issued if you cancel within 45 days of your travel date.
Unmet General Expectations
โ Refunds will not be issued if the tour experience did not meet your general expectations, regardless of the reason.
Inability to Travel Due to Personal Reasons
โ Refunds will not be issued if you are unable to travel due to a medical condition or any other personal reason. Cancellations on medical grounds should be covered by your travel insurer.
No-Show
โ Refunds will not be issued if you fail to show up or the suppliers (airline) decide to cancel your booking.
Please note:ย Dietary requirements must be disclosed at the time of booking the tour. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate dietary restrictions that are shared after booking or during the tour.
If you are unable to consume items such as wheat, tomatoes, onions, garlic, dairy, nuts, or other ingredients, it is crucial to inform us upfront. Late disclosures make it impossible for us to make necessary arrangements, and in many countries, meeting complex dietary needs can be particularly challenging. This could affect your well-being and place undue stress on our guides and hosts as they try to meet these needs.
Thank you for your understanding.
Our tours are designed to provide a rich and immersive experience, which includes walking tours on some days. Participants will encounter uneven footpaths, stairs, and other elements that require good mobility. Therefore, we recommend that women joining our tours have a medium level of fitness. You should be able to walk up to 7km a day to fully enjoy all the activities and explore the beautiful destinations with ease.
To ensure a safe and healthy journey, it’s important to be up-to-date with your vaccinations. We recommend consulting with a healthcare professional or visiting a travel health clinic for personalised advice based on your travel itinerary. For comprehensive information on required and recommended vaccinations, please visit Travel Doctor. They provide expert guidance to help you stay protected while exploring the world.
**Preparation notes for your trip are available in your trip dashboard and can be accessed once you register.
Extend your stay in Central America
Join us on a vibrant journey through Mexico, a land of ancient civilisations, mouthwatering cuisine, and stunning natural beauty. Our Mexico Odyssey invites you to discover why this diverse country belongs on your 2027 travel list. From the bustling heart of Mexico City to the tranquil shores of Playa del Carmen, this 9-day adventure offers an unforgettable mix of cultural exploration, historical immersion, and delicious culinary experiences.
