Guatemala 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Guatemala Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on exploring Mayan history and culture, with a mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural immersion.

Day 1: Arrive in Antigua, Guatemala

  • Morning: Fly into La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City.

  • Things to know:

    • You’ll likely need a taxi from the airport to your hotel in Antigua. Pre-arrange transportation or use a reputable taxi service for safety and convenience.

  • Afternoon:

    • Check into your hotel in Antigua.
    • Things to do: Explore the cobblestone streets of Antigua, visit the Parque Central, climb Cerro de la Cruz for panoramic views (a great way to start acclimating!), or take a cooking class to learn about Guatemalan cuisine.

Day 2-3: Mayan Ruins & Antigua Charm

  • Morning: Visit the majestic Tikal, one of the most important and impressive Mayan archaeological sites in Guatemala.

  • Things to do: Explore the temples, pyramids, and palaces of this ancient city, marvel at the intricate carvings, and climb the Temple IV pyramid for breathtaking jungle vistas.

  • Afternoon: Explore other highlights in Antigua:

    • Museums & Archives: Immerse yourself in Guatemalan history by visiting a museum or two. The Museo de Arte Colonial (Museum of Colonial Art) is a popular choice to learn about the colonial past, while Casa Santa Domingo and the ChocoMuseo are great for exploring historical architecture and cultural artifacts.
    • Coffee Tasting: Experience the rich flavors of Guatemalan coffee with a tasting session at a local cafe or plantation.

  • Things to note:

    • Antigua is a popular tourist destination. Book accommodations in advance, especially if you’re travelling during peak season.
    • Climbing ancient Mayan ruins: Many tourists visit Antigua to experience the thrill of climbing ancient structures and exploring the history.

  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Guatemalan dishes like pepián (a flavorful stew) or kak’ik (a spicy chicken soup) in the city.

Day 4-5: Explore Guatemala City & Lake Atitlán

  • Day 4:

    • Travel to the ancient Mayan city of Iximché, a fascinating archaeological site with stunning views.
    • Things to do: Wander through the Museo Nacional de Arqueología y Etnología (MNAE), which houses an impressive collection of Mayan artifacts and offers insights into the rich history and culture of the region.

  • Day 5:

  • Morning: Visit the Mercado Central for a vibrant experience of local life. Explore the stalls filled with fresh produce, colorful textiles, and handcrafted goods.

  • Afternoon: Travel to the stunning Antigua Coffee Farm and take a tour of their coffee plantation. Learn about the process of growing, harvesting, and roasting coffee beans while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Day 6-7: Experience the Culture & Nature of Guatemala

  • Day 6: Explore the vibrant culture of Chichicastenango market.

  • Morning (Day 6): Visit a local artisan cooperative in Lake Atitlán and learn about the traditions of weaving, pottery, and woodcarving.

  • Things to do:

    • Day 7: Take a cooking class focused on Guatemalan cuisine.

    • Explore the breathtaking Lake Atitlán, visiting indigenous villages around its shores.

    • Day 7: Enjoy a boat trip across the lake, stopping at the colorful and bustling markets in Panajachel or San Pedro La Laguna.

Things to know for all travelers:

  • Visa Requirements: Check if you need a visa to enter Guatemala based on your nationality. Many nationalities can enter Guatemala without a visa for up to 90 days, but some may require a tourist card.

  • Health & Safety:

    • Drink bottled water and avoid consuming tap water or ice made from it.
    • It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.
    • Be aware of potential health risks like traveler’s diarrhea (avoiding raw fruits and vegetables, drinking only bottled water).
    • Consult a doctor about necessary vaccinations and medications for your trip.
    • Vaccinations: Consider getting typhoid, hepatitis A, and travelers’ diarrhea vaccinations before your trip.

  • Transportation: Guatemala City is well-connected to other cities in the country by bus and private shuttles.

  • Currency: The official currency of Guatemala is the quetzal (GTQ), but US dollars are widely accepted.

  • Language: Spanish is the primary language spoken in Guatemala.

Days 6 & 7: Antigua’s Charm & History

  • Day 6: Visit a local coffee plantation and learn about the traditional process of growing and harvesting coffee. Enjoy a tasting session of fresh coffee and witness the rich history of coffee cultivation in the region.
  • Things to do:
    • Explore the local markets for a taste of traditional Guatemalan commerce and culture.

Day 7: Explore the city’s colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and historical landmarks.

Tips:

  • Currency: The official currency is the Quetzal (GTQ), but US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Language: While Spanish is the official language, you’ll find many locals speak indigenous languages like Kaqchikel or Spanish with a strong local accent. Learning some basic Spanish phrases will be helpful, especially for interactions in smaller towns.

Things to consider:

  • Altitude: Be prepared for the heat and humidity at lower elevations.

  • Food & Drink: Always drink bottled water and avoid ice made from tap water.

  • Altitude sickness: If you’re travelling to Antigua, it’s a good idea to be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness.

Things to do:

  • Coffee Tasting: Indulge in a delicious cup of coffee from a local roaster and learn about the different flavors and varieties.

  • Altitude & Travel Sickness: If you experience any symptoms, such as headaches or nausea, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for advice on treatment and prevention.

Things to do:

  • Travel with an appropriate amount of cash: Credit cards are not always accepted, especially for smaller purchases.

  • Carry small denominations: US dollars are often used for larger purchases like tours, but you’ll want smaller bills for local markets and vendors.

  • Quetzaltenango Market: Explore the vibrant and bustling market scene in Antigua.

  • Bargaining: Remember that bargaining is expected in most Guatemalan markets.