Discover Guatemala | Bespoke Holidays
This immersive journey explores the rich heritage and extraordinary landscapes of Guatemala, from the cobbled colonial streets of Antigua to the tranquil shores of Lake Atitlán and the magnificent ancient Maya cities hidden within the rainforest. Discover colourful highland markets, living Maya traditions, spectacular archaeological sites and the laid-back charm of Guatemala’s Caribbean coast. Combining authentic cultural encounters with jungle adventures, turquoise natural pools and abundant wildlife, this journey offers a deeper insight into one of Central America’s most captivating destinations.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our Guatemala Bespoke Holidays for further tailor-made travel ideas.
Itinerary Highlights
- Colonial Cities & Highland Culture: Explore Antigua’s cobbled streets, Santa Catalina Arch and historic churches; discover Chichicastenango’s colourful Maya market and the living traditions of Santiago de Atitlán.
- Ancient Maya Kingdoms: Uncover the archaeological wonders of Iximché, Copán, Quiriguá, Yaxhá and Tikal, with monumental temples, intricate stone carvings and fascinating insights into Guatemala’s ancient civilisations.
- Caribbean Coast & Jungle Rivers: Cruise through the spectacular Río Dulce Canyon, discover the vibrant Garifuna culture of Livingston, swim in the emerald pools of Siete Altares and unwind on the white sands of Playa Blanca.
- Natural Wonders & Wildlife: Discover the turquoise limestone pools of Semuc Champey, explore the magnificent Candelaria Caves and venture into the misty cloud forests of the Quetzal Biotope in search of Guatemala’s iconic national bird.
Practical Details
- Title: Guatemala Discovery
- Price: From £3,970 per person (based on 2 people sharing)
- Duration: 16 Days / 15 Nights
- Best Time to Visit: November to April. This itinerary is ideal during Guatemala’s dry season, when clearer skies and pleasant conditions are perfect for exploring colonial cities and enjoying the spectacular landscapes of Lake Atitlán and the highlands. The Caribbean coast and tropical rainforest offer year-round natural beauty, although showers are possible.
- Transport: Private air-conditioned vehicle with a dedicated Earth Trip Specialist chauffeur-guide.
Key Regions Visited
Antigua & the Colonial Highlands
Lake Atitlán & the Maya Highlands
Copán & Ancient Maya Ruins
Río Dulce & the Caribbean Coast
Flores, Yaxhá & Tikal National Park
Semuc Champey & the Verapaz Highlands
Guatemala City & Surrounding Archaeological Sites
The Best Time To Visit
November to April, during Guatemala’s dry season.
In general, the best time to visit Guatemala is from November to April, when the dry season brings sunny days and ideal conditions for exploring ancient Maya ruins, colonial cities and scenic highlands.
Enquire TodayRegions You’ll Visit
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Our Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Guatemala
Your adventure begins as you depart from your home airport for your flight into Guatemala City. On arrival you will be welcomed by your representative and transferred to your hotel in Antigua with a travel time of approximately one hour.
Location: Antigua | Hotel: Porta Antigua | Room: Deluxe | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 2: City Visit and Leisure Time
Visit to the beautiful Colonial city of Antigua Guatemala for a morning walking tour, beginning at the Casa Santo Domingo hotel and Museum which was a convent of the Dominican Order, followed by a visit through the main streets and monuments of Antigua.
Antigua is one of the Central Americas’ most enchanting colonial cities. In its day this was one of the great cities of the Spanish empire, serving as the administrative centre for all of Central America and Mexican Chiapas. The beauty of the city itself is the main attraction, particularly its remarkable wealth of colonial buildings – churches, monasteries, and grand family homes – that provide an idea of the city’s former status. You’ll find the ambience unhurried and enjoyable, with a sociable bar scene and superb choice of restaurants.
At the end of the tour, the return to Guatemala City begins.
Location: Antigua | Hotel: Porta Antigua | Room: Deluxe | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 3: Chichicastenango Market & Lake Atitlan
Today you will discover the one of the largest and famous markets in central America, Chichicastenango Market. This lively maze of stalls bursts with handwoven textiles, intricate ceramics, fragrant fresh produce, and time-honoured natural remedies. For centuries – long before the Spanish arrived – Maya communities have journeyed from across the region to trade, celebrate, and connect in “Chichi.” Today, visitors can wander through this historic marketplace and witness traditions that have endured for generations, all while supporting local artisans whose craftsmanship is among the finest in Guatemala. Whether you’re searching for unforgettable souvenirs or hoping to immerse yourself in authentic Maya culture, Chichicastenango Market offers a truly one-of-a-kind travel experience. (Only on Thursday & Sunday)
Afterwards you will travel to Lake Atitlan visiting Santo Tomás Church, a 16th-century Catholic church layered with centuries of Maya tradition. Rising at the top of its famous 18 steps, each representing a month in the ancient Maya calendar, the church is a living example of how indigenous belief and Catholic ritual blend seamlessly in the highlands. Afterwards you will visit a Mayan Ceremonial site, tucked into the hills overlooking the town, Pascual Abaj is one of the few pre-Columbian Maya altars still in active use where you can watch contemporary Maya priests conduct fire ceremonies, honour ancestors, and practice rituals that have survived for centuries.
This day of historic discovery will wrap up with visting the Chichicastenango Cemetery, of the most photogenic cemeteries in the world. Often celebrated for its brightly painted tombs, each colour symbolizes the lineage, status, or spiritual beliefs of the families who rest there. Amid its rainbow of mausoleums, you may also witness traditional Maya ceremonies, offerings, or healers performing rituals that connect the living and the departed. The cemetery is both visually stunning and deeply meaningful, and an unforgettable insight into Mayan Culture.
Location: Panajachel | Hotel: Hotel Atitlan | Room: Garden view | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 4: Lake Atitlan
In the morning you will board your ‘lancha’, or boat, and travel across the lake to Santiago de Atitlán where you will disembark. Lake Atitlan is surrounded by majestic volcanic peaks and vibrant Maya villages, and is one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Central America, encircled by steep hills and volcanoes, stretching 18 km long and 12 km wide, and plunging to depths of over 320 meters. There may be stops to pick up other passengers en route before you arrive at this colourful, lively lakeside village.
During the walking tour you will visit the church at Santiago de Atitlán, a fascinating building famed for its mix of traditional Mayan influence and rich Catholic history. You will stop at the local produce and craft market and also have the opportunity to meet Maximon – a Mayan deity with a face carved from wood who lives with a local family in the community and moves every year. He drinks alcohol, smokes cigarettes and you may see the local Shaman performing rituals with members of the village who have problems to solve. Your guide will also talk about the history and suffering this community endured during the massacres in the 1980s.
Lunch is included at a local restaurant, and you will return to your hotel when you are ready to leave.
Location: Panajachel | Hotel: Hotel Atitlan | Room: Garden view | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 5: Lake Atitlan → Guatemala City
Today you will travel to Guatemala City. Along the way, you will visit Iximché
Archaeological site, which is nestled in the highlands of Chimaltenango. Built in the late 1400s, Iximché is a fascinating archaeological site that once stood as the capital of the Kaqchikel Maya Kingdom, and later became the first Spanish capital of Guatemala in 1524. Today, Iximché is a peaceful national park where visitors can stroll among ancient plazas, temples, and ball courts surrounded by pine forests. The site offers a unique glimpse into Maya history and culture, with ceremonial areas still used for traditional rituals.
Location: Guatemala City | Hotel: La Inmaculada | Room: Café Bourbon | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 6: Guatemala City → Copan
Today you will travel to Copan in Honduras at a travel time of approximately four hours, and spend the rest of your day at leisure.
Location: Copan | Hotel: Marina Copan | Room: Café Bourbon | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 7: Copan
Today you will explore the picturesque town of Copán Ruinas and one of the world’s most spectacular Mayan archaeological sites. This fascinating site includes more than 4,500 structures with most of the focus placed on the “Principal Group”, consisting of several plazas and temples built on various levels and adorned with intricate hieroglyphic patterns and stelaes. The site rests in a remarkably lush valley, which is home to an impressive array of wildlife including monkeys, guacamayas (large parrots), macaws, sloths, and peccaries.
Location: Copan | Hotel: Marina Copan | Room: Café Bourbon | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 8: Copan → Livingston
Today you will return to Guatemala, and on your journey visit Quirigua in the lush Motagua Valley at Quiriguá Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for the tallest carved stelae in the Maya world. The artistry here is spectacular, housing legendary zoomorphs; intricately carved boulders resembling jaguars, crocodiles, and other sacred beings.
Then, you will continue by boat towards Livingston, a Caribbean-influenced coastal town accessible only by water, arriving at the laid-back river town of Río Dulce. Known for its lively Garifuna culture, reggae-infused rhythms, and Afro-Caribbean flavours, Livingston feels like a world apart from the highlands.
Location: Livingston | Hotel: Villa Caribe | Room: Bungalow | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 9: Livingston & The White Sands of Playa Blanca
Today you will explore emerald jungle pools of Siete Altares, a serene collection of seven cascading freshwater pools tucked deep in the tropical forest. Follow a short nature trail as birdsong fills the air and sunlight filters through the canopy. At the end, cool off with a refreshing swim in the crystal clear, emerald waters, a true hidden gem known for its peaceful atmosphere and untouched beauty.
Continue on to Playa Blanca, Guatemala’s dreamiest white-sand beach. This secluded beach is one of the few true white-sand beaches in Guatemala and feels wonderfully remote. Spend your time here relaxing in a hammock, enjoying a fresh coconut, or taking a dip in the warm sea. It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the Caribbean sunshine.
Afterwards you will travel back to your hotel.
Location: Livingston | Hotel: Villa Caribe | Room: Bungalow | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 10: Livingston → Flores
In the morning enjoy a boat ride to Río Dulce Canyon. You will embark on one of Guatemala’s most breath taking river journeys as you cruise through the majestic Río Dulce Canyon. Towering limestone cliffs rise dramatically on both sides, draped in emerald-green jungle and alive with the sounds of tropical birds. Herons and egrets glide just above the water while vines,
orchids, and bromeliads cling to the rock faces, creating a paradise of pure natural beauty. As your boat sails along the calm, jade-coloured river, hidden hot springs, quiet coves, and jungle-shaded inlets reveal themselves along the way.
On arrival in Rio Dulce you will be visiting Ak’ Tenamit is a meaningful way to practice responsible travel in Guatemala’s Caribbean region. By supporting this Q’eqchi’ Maya–led cooperative, travellers directly contribute to local education, healthcare, sustainable farming, and community-driven economic opportunities. Every purchase and every visit help empower Indigenous families while preserving traditional knowledge and strengthening cultural resilience. Travelling responsibly here means engaging with respect, learning from the community, and ensuring your presence leaves a positive, lasting impact on the people who call the Río Dulce home.
You will then continue your journey into Flores.
Location: Flores | Hotel: Villa Maya | Room: Standard | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 11: Maya city of Yaxhá
Today explore the enchanting Maya city of Yaxhá, a peaceful archaeological site surrounded by pristine rainforest and overlooking a stunning lagoon. Walk through ancient plazas, temples, and causeways while spotting wildlife like howler monkeys and tropical birds. Climb Temple 216 for panoramic views, especially unforgettable at sunset, and enjoy one of Guatemala’s most serene and atmospheric Maya experiences.
Then, enjoy your afternoon at leisure or explore Flores by foot.
Location: Flores | Hotel: Villa Maya | Room: Standard room | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 12: Tikal National Park
Today, visit Tikal National Park (includes entrance fees to the site + Morley museum), a 576 square kilometres protected area that is on the edge of the much larger Reserve de la Biósfera Maya. Whether you can spare as little as a morning or as long as a week, it’s always worth the trip.
Dawn and dusk are the best times to spot wildlife, with birds and monkeys becoming more active in the surrounding forest. Toucans call from the trees, howler monkeys can be heard in the distance, and parakeets fly overhead. As night falls, bats emerge, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a grey fox crossing one of the plazas.
Location: Flores | Hotel: Villa Maya | Room: Standard room | Board: Breakfast, Lunch in Tikal
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 13: Flores → Coban
Today you will travel to Coban. Along the way, you will visit the fantastic limestone caves of Candelaria, one of Central America’s largest cave systems, composed of seven separate caves interconnected by the Río Candelaria. The caves are spread across 14 miles (22 km) and have ceilings that reach as high as 200 feet (60 m)! Rich in Maya mythology, the caves were once part of the Xibalba passage, the sacred route to the underworld, and today offer a rare chance to step inside a landscape steeped in both history and adventure. You will be able to walk along illuminated pathways, hear the echoes of the underground river, and marvel at the sheer scale and beauty of this hidden world.
Location: Coban | Hotel: Paniste | Room: Standard | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 14: Champney National Park
Today you will visit Champey National Park, one of Guatemala’s most beautiful natural wonders, and home to a spectacular collection of turquoise limestone pools, surrounded by lush, mountainous jungle. These are formed by a natural limestone bridge – beneath which the Cahabón River flows underground – while above, a chain of calm, crystal-clear pools invites visitors to swim, relax, and take in the stunning scenery. Follow jungle trails alive with birdsong to reach the El Mirador viewpoint, where sweeping panoramic views reveal the cascading pools and stunning views.
Location: Coban | Hotel: Paniste | Room: Standard | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 15: Coban & Biotopo del Quetzal Nature Reserve → Guatemala City
Early in the morning you will visit the misty cloud forests of Biotopo del Quetzal Nature Reserve, one of Guatemala’s most enchanting protected areas and known for the Resplendent Quetzal, Guatemala’s national bird.
Situated in the lush mountains of Alta Verapaz, this reserve offers cool mountain air, dense moss-covered trees, and an atmosphere filled with birdsong and drifting fog. Well maintained trails wind through the forest, revealing orchids, bromeliads, giant ferns, and cascading streams around every corner.
The highlight of any visit is the chance to spot the Resplendent Quetzal in its natural habitat. Known for its emerald feathers and flowing tail, the quetzal is often seen feeding on wild avocado trees in the early morning or late afternoon. Even without a sighting, the reserve’s biodiversity creates an unforgettable experience. Beyond it’s beauty, Biotopo del Quetzal is a living example of Guatemala’s commitment to conservation. Visitors play a vital role in protecting fragile cloud-forest ecosystems while enjoying one of the most serene natural environments in the country.
Location: Guatemala City | Hotel: La Maculada | Room: Café Bourbon | Board: Breakfast
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Day 16: Guatemala City → Airport → Departure
Enjoy the morning at you leisure before you’re transferred for your flight back home.
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Departure: Your private chauffeur-guide will transfer you to the airport in time for your flight home, ensuring a seamless end to your Guatemalan adventure.
- Board Includes:
- Breakfast
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Included:
- Private transportation in fully air conditioned vehicle
- Accommodation as per itinerary
- Admission fees to all mention attractions
- English speaking guide as per itinerary
- Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
- Airport meet & greet in all airports
Not Included:
- Gratuities for services and guides
- Expenses of personal nature
- Anything else not listed in the itinerary
- Optional excursions
- Local accommodation taxes
- Personal & medical insurances
- Border crossing fees
- Flights are not included in the tour price, but we are happy to help you find the best and most suitable flight connections for your trip.
Tailor Your Tour - Potential Highlights
- Explore the magnificent Maya temples of Tikal National Park
- Discover the colourful markets and living traditions of Chichicastenango
- Cruise across the spectacular waters of Lake Atitlán
- Experience the Caribbean culture and beaches of Livingston
- Swim in the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey
Designed for Your Rhythm: Truly Tailor-Made
While this 16-day journey offers a perfect balance of discovery and relaxation, we understand that “paradise” is personal. At Earth Trip, we specialize in bespoke travel:
-
Extend Your Stay: If you prefer a more leisurely journey, this tour can easily be made longer. We can add a “rest day” at each location, allowing you to spend one day exploring and the next simply soaking in the atmosphere of your boutique retreat.
-
Your Choice of Sanctuary: Every accommodation can be tailored to your preferences, from elegant colonial boutique hotels and lakeside retreats to jungle lodges.
-
Activity Customization: Every activity is flexible. If you’d rather swap a bicycle tour for a spa morning, or a mountain hike for a private cooking class, our specialists will make it happen.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can we stay longer in each location than the itinerary suggests? Absolutely! We highly recommend staying an extra day at each hotel if you prefer a “slow travel” experience. This allows you to balance a day of sightseeing with a full day of relaxation by the pool or beach without feeling rushed.
2. Can I choose my own hotels instead of the ones recommended? Yes. Every hotel in our itineraries is a recommendation based on our first-hand expertise, but the choice is ultimately yours. If you have a specific hotel in mind or a preferred style (e.g., modern luxury vs. traditional heritage), we will adjust the plan and price accordingly.
3. Is every activity on this tour private? Yes. Your transport is via a private air-conditioned vehicle with a dedicated chauffeur-guide. This means we can start the day when you like, stop for photos whenever you see something beautiful, and tailor every excursion to your interests.
4. What if we want to change an activity once we are already in Guatemala? Flexibility is at the core of what we do. While some activities (like train tickets or specific permits) need to be booked in advance, your private guide is there to adapt to your mood. If you wake up and decide you’d rather relax than hike, we simply adjust the day’s plan.
5. Are your tours eco-friendly and socially responsible? We are deeply committed to Responsible Travel, we ensure that your visit has a positive impact on the environment and the local people.
Unsure Where To Start?
Connect with a specialist to craft your journey.
Our travel specialists are seasoned explorers with deep local insights. Whether it’s uncovering hidden gems or planning immersive cultural experiences, we design trips that go beyond the ordinary. Get in touch today!
Request A Video Meeting
Speak to our Guatemala travel expert today
Jeremy Snelling - Travel Specialist
Tailor Your Tour - Potential Highlights
- Explore the magnificent Maya temples of Tikal National Park
- Discover the colourful markets and living traditions of Chichicastenango
- Cruise across the spectacular waters of Lake Atitlán
- Experience the Caribbean culture and beaches of Livingston
- Swim in the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey
Designed for Your Rhythm: Truly Tailor-Made
While this 16-day journey offers a perfect balance of discovery and relaxation, we understand that “paradise” is personal. At Earth Trip, we specialize in bespoke travel:
-
Extend Your Stay: If you prefer a more leisurely journey, this tour can easily be made longer. We can add a “rest day” at each location, allowing you to spend one day exploring and the next simply soaking in the atmosphere of your boutique retreat.
-
Your Choice of Sanctuary: Every accommodation can be tailored to your preferences, from elegant colonial boutique hotels and lakeside retreats to jungle lodges.
-
Activity Customization: Every activity is flexible. If you’d rather swap a bicycle tour for a spa morning, or a mountain hike for a private cooking class, our specialists will make it happen.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can we stay longer in each location than the itinerary suggests? Absolutely! We highly recommend staying an extra day at each hotel if you prefer a “slow travel” experience. This allows you to balance a day of sightseeing with a full day of relaxation by the pool or beach without feeling rushed.
2. Can I choose my own hotels instead of the ones recommended? Yes. Every hotel in our itineraries is a recommendation based on our first-hand expertise, but the choice is ultimately yours. If you have a specific hotel in mind or a preferred style (e.g., modern luxury vs. traditional heritage), we will adjust the plan and price accordingly.
3. Is every activity on this tour private? Yes. Your transport is via a private air-conditioned vehicle with a dedicated chauffeur-guide. This means we can start the day when you like, stop for photos whenever you see something beautiful, and tailor every excursion to your interests.
4. What if we want to change an activity once we are already in Guatemala? Flexibility is at the core of what we do. While some activities (like train tickets or specific permits) need to be booked in advance, your private guide is there to adapt to your mood. If you wake up and decide you’d rather relax than hike, we simply adjust the day’s plan.
5. Are your tours eco-friendly and socially responsible? We are deeply committed to Responsible Travel, we ensure that your visit has a positive impact on the environment and the local people.
Guatemala Discovery
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