Guatemala
Guatemala offers a striking mix of landscapes, ancient ruins, and colonial architecture that draw curious travellers from around the world. The UNESCO-listed city of Antigua is a standout, with its cobbled streets and pastel-hued buildings backed by dramatic volcanoes. Its well-preserved Baroque churches, convents, and lively central plaza reflect centuries of Spanish influence, while the nearby Pacaya Volcano invites hikers to walk across recent lava flows. In the north, the vast ruins of Tikal—one of the most impressive Mayan archaeological sites—are surrounded by rainforest and home to howler monkeys and tropical birds, creating a powerful atmosphere of ancient grandeur and natural beauty.
For those drawn to the outdoors, Guatemala’s landscapes are both varied and dramatic. Lake Atitlán, ringed by volcanic peaks and traditional Mayan villages, is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat trips. Each lakeside town has its own character, from the vibrant markets of Panajachel to the tranquil, yoga-focused retreat of San Marcos. Travellers can also explore cloud forests, caves, and waterfalls in destinations such as Semuc Champey or take on treks through the highlands for spectacular views and a deeper connection with the rural culture. Active pursuits such as ziplining, white-water rafting, and mountain biking are increasingly accessible across the country.
The food scene in Guatemala is rooted in indigenous traditions, with hearty, maize-based dishes and a generous use of beans, chillies, and fresh herbs. Street stalls and small eateries offer local staples like pepian (a rich, spiced meat stew) and tamales steamed in banana leaves. Markets burst with colour and flavour, where travellers can try fresh tropical fruits or sample regional treats like chiles rellenos. Guatemala’s cultural calendar is also lively, with traditional music, dance, and vibrant religious festivals, especially during Holy Week in Antigua. Whether you’re exploring Maya ruins, admiring colonial architecture, or immersing yourself in highland culture, Guatemala offers depth, diversity, and a strong sense of place.
Highlights of Guatemala
Suggested Itineraries
Classic Guatemala and Belize
13 day holiday
Ambergris Caye, Cayo District, Tikal, Lake Atitlan, Antigua
This 13-night journey offers a rich exploration of Guatemala and Belize, revealing the depth and diversity of two of Central America’s most captivating countries. The first half of the trip centres around Guatemala, where you’ll explore the charming colonial city of Antigua, the serene beauty of Lake Atitlán, and the bustling markets of Chichicastenango. The highlight is a full-day tour of the ancient Mayan city of Tikal, where temples rise above jungle canopies teeming with wildlife. Throughout, you’ll witness traditional culture, from Mayan textiles to music and ritual, all set against dramatic volcanic backdrops and lush landscapes.
Crossing into Belize, the second half of the adventure takes you through the jungle-clad highlands of the Cayo District, where caves, waterfalls and Mayan ruins await. From here, travel to the idyllic beaches of Ambergris Caye, where turquoise waters and coral reefs provide the perfect setting to snorkel, dive or simply unwind. A stay at Portofino Beach Resort offers a peaceful base with easy access to spectacular marine life at Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley. With a balance of culture, nature and beach, this itinerary blends exploration and relaxation across two distinct yet complementary countries.
The Mayan World
14 day holiday
Chichen Itza, Merida, Palenque, Tikal, Rio Dulce, Copan, Antigua
This immersive 13-day journey through Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico begins in the colonial town of Antigua, Guatemala. After exploring its cobbled streets and baroque architecture, you cross into Honduras to visit the remarkable ruins of Copán, known for their intricate carvings and hieroglyphs. From there, the route weaves back into Guatemala through the vibrant Caribbean town of Livingston, accessible only by boat, and onto the spectacular Mayan city of Tikal, hidden deep in the rainforest. Along the way, you visit remote archaeological sites like Quiriguá and enjoy a scenic cruise along the Rio Dulce, stopping to learn about local education projects and observe traditional life along the riverbanks.
The adventure continues across the border into Mexico, where you journey through jungle landscapes to explore the lesser-visited but extraordinary Mayan sites of Bonampak and Yaxchilan before arriving at Palenque. From here, you fly to Mérida, a colonial gem in the Yucatán Peninsula, known for its cultural flair and excellent cuisine. Day trips include visits to Uxmal and Kabah, famous for their ornate temple façades and dedication to the rain god Chaac. The tour concludes at the iconic ruins of Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, before heading to Cancun for the flight home—or optionally extending your stay on the region’s beautiful beaches.
Journey Through Central America
17 day holiday
Antigua, Chichicastenango, Lake Atitlan, Guatemala, Managua, Granada, Arenal, El Castillo, Monteverde, Panama City
This varied journey across Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Guatemala offers an engaging blend of natural wonders, wildlife encounters, cultural experiences and historical highlights. Starting in Panama City, you’ll explore the iconic Panama Canal and the UNESCO-listed colonial Old Quarter before taking to the water for a partial canal transit. From there, it’s on to Costa Rica’s cloud forests and volcanic landscapes – walk among the misty canopy in Monteverde and cross Lake Arenal to discover the dramatic volcano and soothing hot springs. Entering Nicaragua by river, you’ll visit the riverside town of El Castillo, explore lush rainforest reserves and experience the colonial charm of Granada, nestled by Lake Nicaragua.
Your adventure continues in Guatemala with a flight to the atmospheric town of Antigua, framed by volcanoes and rich in Spanish colonial architecture. You’ll uncover the cultural history of the region with visits to churches, coffee farms, and museums. At Lake Atitlán, surrounded by dramatic volcanic scenery, you’ll experience Mayan village life and traditional crafts, before heading to the vibrant market of Chichicastenango. The journey ends with a return to Guatemala City, with the option to extend your travels to include further sites such as Tikal or Copán.
Highlights of Guatemala
10 day holiday
Guatemala City, Tikal, Rio Dulce, Livingston, Antigua, Quirigua, Lake Atitlan
This ten-night tour offers an immersive introduction to the highlands and Mayan heritage of Guatemala. Start in the charming colonial city of Antigua, where you’ll explore its cobbled streets, churches, and stunning volcanic backdrop. Visit the Azotea coffee farm and the Maya Traditions Museum, then head to the scenic Lake Atitlan, known for its picturesque Mayan villages. A boat ride across the lake brings you to San Juan la Laguna and Santiago, where you’ll discover traditional crafts and learn about the local T’zutujil Maya spiritual practices. The tour continues with a visit to the famous Chichicastenango market before returning to Antigua.
Next, travel to the Caribbean town of Livingston, known for its vibrant Garifuna culture, and enjoy a tranquil boat journey along the Rio Dulce, spotting wildlife and learning about local communities. Visit the archaeological site of Quirigua and its impressive stelae carvings, before heading to Tikal. The magnificent ruins of Tikal, shrouded in jungle, are a highlight, where you can climb pyramids and enjoy the rich history of the site. Conclude the tour with a night in Guatemala City before returning home, or extend your trip to explore Belize.
Grand Tour of Guatemala
13 day holiday
Antigua, Quetzaltenango, Lake Atitlan, Coban, Tikal, El Peten
This 13-day tour begins with your arrival in Guatemala City, followed by a transfer to Antigua, a historic colonial town surrounded by volcanoes. You’ll spend the next few days exploring Antigua’s stunning architecture, vibrant streets, and the nearby volcanic landscapes. A free day allows for optional activities like a chocolate-making tour or a hike up a volcano before journeying through picturesque villages to the Western Highlands, with a stop at Chichicastenango market. After reaching Lake Atitlán, enjoy scenic boat rides to explore the indigenous communities surrounding the lake before returning to Antigua.
The tour continues with visits to Cobán in the Verapaz region, known for its limestone caves and abundant birdlife, including a guided exploration of the Ram Tzul reserve. A full-day trip to the Semuc Champey pools and nearby caves follows. The final leg of your journey takes you to Tikal in the El Petén region, where you’ll explore the impressive Mayan ruins amidst the jungle. After a private tour of Tikal, you’ll return to Flores for your flight back to Guatemala City, then catch your international connection home.
Classic Guatemala
10 day holiday
Antigua, Guatemala City, Lake Atitlan, Flores, Tikal
This 10-day journey begins with your arrival in Guatemala City, where you’ll be transferred to Antigua, a charming UNESCO World Heritage city. Spend the first few days exploring Antigua with a private walking tour, followed by a free day to enjoy optional activities like coffee and chocolate tours or a volcano hike. The next stop is Lake Atitlán, a stunning destination surrounded by volcanoes. After a scenic transfer, you’ll take a boat tour around the lake to visit its unique villages, experiencing local life and a Mayan ritual. You will also have a day to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
The tour then takes you to Flores, the gateway to the Tikal ruins. After a flight from Guatemala City, you’ll stay at a lakeside resort before taking a private tour of Tikal’s impressive Mayan ruins, nestled in the jungle and teeming with wildlife. The adventure concludes with a transfer back to Flores for your return flight to Guatemala City, where you will connect to your international flight home, completing your journey.
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