Signature Guatemala: Mountains, Markets and Mayan ruins
12 days from £3,200
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
Most flights arrive in the evening and it’s just a 15-minute drive from the airport to your hotel in Guatemala City.
You see plenty of traditional Mayan themes throughout Guatemala, but this refreshing little boutique-style hotel in the capital, Guatemala City, is uncompromisingly contemporary. With just 11 guest rooms and two suites it offers a comprehensive service, and excellent attention to detail. There are high-end bathroom amenities, top quality bedlinen, and, for a special treat, in-room spa services.
There is a tranquil central courtyard where you can take breakfast or relax and a restaurant serving lunch and dinner – you can also receive your meals in your room. The hotel is situated in the central Zona Rosa district where there are many other eating options, shopping and entertainment.
Departing in the morning, it’s just an hour’s flight to Flores in the Petén lowlands of northern Guatemala. Flores is set on a tiny island on Lake Petén Itzá. Its easy pace and dignified atmosphere is embodied in its genteel cobbled streets and ageing, red roofed houses, rising up a hill presided over by a twin-domed cathedral.
Flores has a rich legacy. The area where Flores now stands was originally the the capital of the Itza Maya whose descendants inhabit the forests and tropical lowlands. Although today’s workaday city has spread well beyond the island to the shores of the lake, Flores island retains its picturesque charm and a boat tour is the ideal way to appreciate it from a distance.
The tropical warmth of northern Guatemala may come as a welcome surprise if you’re arriving from wintry climes. Relaxing in one of the hotels or cafés on the lakeshore is a great way to unwind after the journey.
This tranquil jungle lodge is located on a private nature reserve on the shores of shady Petenchel and Monifata lakes. Villa Milla is ten minutes’ drive from Flores and 45 minutes from the majestic Mayan site of Tikal.
The lodge has bright rooms within octagonal blocks or cabins, each with air-con, ceiling fan, private bathroom and small balcony. In keeping with the tranquil atmosphere, there are no TVs.
The hotel is surrounded by beautiful, tropical gardens and benefits from magnificent lake views. Facilities include an attractive swimming pool, thatched restaurant and a bar overlooking the lake, which is home to crocodiles so strictly no swimming allowed.
There are over 10km of well-marked trails to explore and the lodge also has its own deer enclosure. Mountain bikes and horses can be hired.
It’s just over an hour’s drive from Flores to the vast Mayan archaeological site at Tikal. Tikal was one of the largest and most important Mayan city states, reaching its peak around AD800 prior to its mysterious demise. The pyramids and temples seem frozen in time, but you’re brought back to the present by the roar of curious howler monkeys and lithe spider monkeys as they swing through the trees; and by flashes of colour as toucans and parrots take flight.
Tikal’s rainforest setting combined with the majesty of its structures is magical. Steep-stepped and vertiginous temples emerge high above the rainforest canopy; the views over the site from one of these ancient skyscrapers are unforgettable. Explore the jungle trails and palace complexes with your guide, staying on until dusk for the chance of one of Tikal’s famously atmospheric sunsets before returning to Flores in the evening.
This tranquil jungle lodge is located on a private nature reserve on the shores of shady Petenchel and Monifata lakes. Villa Milla is ten minutes’ drive from Flores and 45 minutes from the majestic Mayan site of Tikal.
The lodge has bright rooms within octagonal blocks or cabins, each with air-con, ceiling fan, private bathroom and small balcony. In keeping with the tranquil atmosphere, there are no TVs.
The hotel is surrounded by beautiful, tropical gardens and benefits from magnificent lake views. Facilities include an attractive swimming pool, thatched restaurant and a bar overlooking the lake, which is home to crocodiles so strictly no swimming allowed.
There are over 10km of well-marked trails to explore and the lodge also has its own deer enclosure. Mountain bikes and horses can be hired.
Fly back to Guatemala City after breakfast and transfer to the country’s former capital, Antigua, a 1-2 hour drive from the airport. With a springlike climate (altitude 1,500m) and genteel atmosphere, Antigua is a masterpiece of the Spanish colonial grid system with cobbled streets, overhanging tiled roofs and a beautiful, leafy central plaza. There’s an abundance of huge ruined churches, convents and monasteries, testament to a time when Antigua was the country’s capital and its main religious centre.
It’s a welcoming place to relax and unwind, browse the boutiques and art galleries, and sample the menus on offer in some of the county’s best restaurants. It seems that every doorway opens onto a fragrant tiled courtyard with a gurgling fountain or a café inviting you to linger.
There are many pretty Spanish colonial-style hotels in Antigua, and this is one of the most evocative. Situated in a refurbished residence from the colonial era, it has cosy, exquisitely decorated guest-rooms of varying size, set around little patios with terraces and balconies dripping with tropical vegetation. Antiques are dotted round the property which also features exposed brickwork, wicker chairs and open fires which come together in a kind of upmarket rustic chic.
There’s a roof terrace on which to relax and enjoy the sun and views over the city from a lounger, massage and babysitting services on request and a restaurant opposite owned by the hotel . Part of its appeal is its location, as it is close to the city’s iconic arch, as well as the main square and the principal attractions.
Antigua’s photogenic backdrop of smouldering volcanoes bears witness to the city’s destruction a volcanic eruption in 1773. Exploring on foot with a local guide reveals the story behind this small city’s very high density of historic buildings which earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1979.
There will be free time to continue your own wanderings. Alternatively we can pre-arrange an optional excursion to a community coffee plantation or weaving project depending on your interests.
There are many pretty Spanish colonial-style hotels in Antigua, and this is one of the most evocative. Situated in a refurbished residence from the colonial era, it has cosy, exquisitely decorated guest-rooms of varying size, set around little patios with terraces and balconies dripping with tropical vegetation. Antiques are dotted round the property which also features exposed brickwork, wicker chairs and open fires which come together in a kind of upmarket rustic chic.
There’s a roof terrace on which to relax and enjoy the sun and views over the city from a lounger, massage and babysitting services on request and a restaurant opposite owned by the hotel . Part of its appeal is its location, as it is close to the city’s iconic arch, as well as the main square and the principal attractions.
The journey to Quetzaltenango is a scenic 4-5 hour drive along the winding Panamerican highway which traverses the country. Around 2 hours into the journey, turn off the highway towards Iximché. This an archaeological site which dates back to the Mayan pre-conquest era and which nestles unassumingly amidst the rural communities and farmland which typifies Guatemala’s fertile western highlands. Mostly overlooked by overseas visitors, Iximché is considered a hidden gem by those with a deeper interest in Maya history.
Quetzaltenango is the second largest city in Guatemala. In the heart of the Sierra Madre at 2,330m, it looks out over the surrounding volcanoes and enjoys a spring-like climate of warm days and cool nights. This workaday city has plenty of authentic character, and is an ideal base from which to explore the traditional highland towns in its orbit.
The ability to cultivate crops, especially vegetables in the fertile Quetzaltenango basin means that the area has been populated by the Maya for centuries. Visit the bustling San Francisco El Alto market (Friday is market day). This is a rough and ready, off-the-beaten track experience, and as you amble around you can find anything from textiles and coffee beans through to the more unusual produce such as ducks and piglets. It is where the locals from the neighbouring villages gather to buy, sell and trade their products. It is the largest market in Central America and interestingly has largely stuck to its Mayan roots and traditional methods.
Zunil and Almolonga are also typical vibrant market towns, where women dressed in traditional tunics (huipils) gather to trade in all manner of crops, including carrots and leafy green vegetables. You’ll pass through these villages with time to stop and look around both villages which shelter at the foot of spectacular volcanoes. Although their market days do not coincide with San Francisco El Alto, there’s usually plenty of activity and local colour whichever day you visit.
Travel along the winding highway towards Lake Atitlán, a 3 hour journey across the Mayan highlands. The landscapes here are dominated by racing-green and tawny volcanoes and compact farming villages. The final dramatic descent to lakeshore is a succession of wonderful views.
Lake Atitlán is one of the most captivating in the world and its beauty has been eulogised by poets and travellers. On a still sunny day, the closely forested volcanic cones are reflected in cobalt waters. For many visitors this is Guatemala at its best.
Traditional villages and indigenous agricultural settlements skirt its fertile shores, each with its own character and identity, its own dialect and often a unique costume still worn by the proud inhabitants.
Designed along the lines of a colonial-style hacienda, Hotel Atitlan was the first major hotel to open on the shores of Guatemala’s iconic highland lake. Its original appeal still shines through more than half a century later.
At dawn and dusk, when the dramatic skies above Lake Atitlan are reflected in the glassy sheen of its waters, the incomparable setting of Hotel Atitlan is beyond words. Whether you’re relaxing on your own balcony or terrace, by the infinity pool or amidst the glorious sub-tropical gardens, you are just a stone’s throw from some of the finest views of the lake’s three volcanoes. Whilst it is no longer luxurious by today’s standards, this well-established hotel brims with typically understated Guatemalan charm, reflected throughout in its 60 or so guest rooms, general décor and service. The bar and well-regarded restaurant are a delight to come back to after a day out exploring the lakeshore towns and markets. Meanwhile, the buzzing little resort of Panajachel – the lake’s original backpacker hangout – is just a short cab ride away if you fancy a change of scene.
Today is at leisure to relax and enjoy the lake or take a stroll around the main resort of Panajachel which became a backpacker haunt generations ago and retains a bohemian feel.
Or, take an optional excursion to Chichicastenango. In this misty mountain town the symbols and practices of Catholicism sit side by side or even amalgamate with esoteric Mayan religious ceremonies, centred round the simple, whitewashed façade of the church. On Thursdays and Sundays there is a vast, bustling market, and you can wander the labyrinthine streets. Here are textiles, clothes and tapestries of striking colour and extraordinary intricacy, as well as extravagant hand-carved masks and good-quality leather goods. Local farmers both barter and sell an array of fruit and vegetables from the surrounding villages. Continue to Quetzaltenango, Guatemala’s second city which has subdued provincial air.
Designed along the lines of a colonial-style hacienda, Hotel Atitlan was the first major hotel to open on the shores of Guatemala’s iconic highland lake. Its original appeal still shines through more than half a century later.
At dawn and dusk, when the dramatic skies above Lake Atitlan are reflected in the glassy sheen of its waters, the incomparable setting of Hotel Atitlan is beyond words. Whether you’re relaxing on your own balcony or terrace, by the infinity pool or amidst the glorious sub-tropical gardens, you are just a stone’s throw from some of the finest views of the lake’s three volcanoes. Whilst it is no longer luxurious by today’s standards, this well-established hotel brims with typically understated Guatemalan charm, reflected throughout in its 60 or so guest rooms, general décor and service. The bar and well-regarded restaurant are a delight to come back to after a day out exploring the lakeshore towns and markets. Meanwhile, the buzzing little resort of Panajachel – the lake’s original backpacker hangout – is just a short cab ride away if you fancy a change of scene.
Take a motor launch across the lake to Santiago de Atitlán. Cruising over the calm and silent morning waters, you’ll have wonderful views of the various shoreline hamlets and pocket-sized cultivated fields alongside some grand houses, and beyond to the gently sloping bottle-green volcanoes that encircle the water. You are greeted as you alight at Santiago by enthusiastic children, and the town is an excellent place to buy brilliantly coloured textiles.
The children may also offer to guide you to the current resting place of the smoking, drinking, be-hatted and roguish local idol, Maximón, who is moved to a different house each year, and looked after by a diligent entourage. He’s certainly not politically correct but he will help you with your problems in exchange for a suitable financial donation.
After time at leisure to explore, bargain with the traders and admire the costumes you will again be transported by boat to another village, San Antonio Palopó, about 10km from Panajachel. It lies in a natural amphitheatre formed by the mountains behind it. Ascending the hill from the dock, you reach the village consisting of narrow streets of adobe houses with roofs of thatch or corrugated tin, and a fine 16th century church. The village inhabitants are known for their colourful costumes and headdresses.
Designed along the lines of a colonial-style hacienda, Hotel Atitlan was the first major hotel to open on the shores of Guatemala’s iconic highland lake. Its original appeal still shines through more than half a century later.
At dawn and dusk, when the dramatic skies above Lake Atitlan are reflected in the glassy sheen of its waters, the incomparable setting of Hotel Atitlan is beyond words. Whether you’re relaxing on your own balcony or terrace, by the infinity pool or amidst the glorious sub-tropical gardens, you are just a stone’s throw from some of the finest views of the lake’s three volcanoes. Whilst it is no longer luxurious by today’s standards, this well-established hotel brims with typically understated Guatemalan charm, reflected throughout in its 60 or so guest rooms, general décor and service. The bar and well-regarded restaurant are a delight to come back to after a day out exploring the lakeshore towns and markets. Meanwhile, the buzzing little resort of Panajachel – the lake’s original backpacker hangout – is just a short cab ride away if you fancy a change of scene.
Take a final look at the view before the transfer to Antigua, a 3 hour drive back across the highlands. Free time to spend the afternoon exploring or doing some final shopping. Antigua’s upscale boutiques have some of Guatemala’s finest quality goods.
There are many pretty Spanish colonial-style hotels in Antigua, and this is one of the most evocative. Situated in a refurbished residence from the colonial era, it has cosy, exquisitely decorated guest-rooms of varying size, set around little patios with terraces and balconies dripping with tropical vegetation. Antiques are dotted round the property which also features exposed brickwork, wicker chairs and open fires which come together in a kind of upmarket rustic chic.
There’s a roof terrace on which to relax and enjoy the sun and views over the city from a lounger, massage and babysitting services on request and a restaurant opposite owned by the hotel . Part of its appeal is its location, as it is close to the city’s iconic arch, as well as the main square and the principal attractions.
UK clients arrive home the following day.
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Guatemala - Antigua and the highlands
Once one of Spanish America’s greatest cities, Antigua is now a beautifully preserved colonial gem of cobbled streets, shady plazas and pastel-coloured façades. Surrounded by three volcanoes and within easy reach of the Highlands’ vibrant markets and traditional villages, Antigua Guatemala holidays offer one of Central America’s most captivating introductions to the country.
Guatemala - Lake Atitlan and villages
Lake Atitlán holidays showcase one of the world’s most captivating lakes, where volcanic peaks rise above shimmering waters and traditional Maya communities preserve centuries-old customs and distinctive dress. Combining spectacular scenery, indigenous culture and a relaxed pace of life, it offers one of Guatemala’s most memorable travel experiences.
Guatemala, with its strong Mayan identity, brims with culture and tradition. Observing day-to-day life in this exotic and colourful Central American country is a fascinating experience, whether exploring its more famous highlights or going a little off the beaten track. Our Signature Guatemala holiday contrasts the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal in the Petén rainforests with a glimpse of how the Maya live today, visiting the modern Mayan markets and communities which thrive to this day in the highlands west of Guatemala City.
You will explore the vast complex of temples at Tikal, perhaps Central America’s most atmospheric ruined Mayan city, its haunting pyramids shrouded in exotic bird and monkey-filled jungle. Explore arty, volcano-framed Antigua, one of the continent’s most beautiful Spanish colonial cities, and a wonderfully relaxing base for a couple of days. Move into the western highlands, the heartland of the Maya to this day, where tradition and ritual survives in the vibrant market towns and villages of the Quetzaltenango basin. Experience the Friday market at San Francisco El Alto, among the largest and most authentic in the country, where the Maya arrive from surrounding communities to trade and barter. Finally it’s time to unwind in the spiritual surroundings of Lake Atitlán, fringed by volcanoes, visiting traditional villages, each with their unique dress code of handcrafted, intricate textiles.
Our holiday is timed to begin on a Saturday in order to coincide with market days in the highlands, which fall on specific days of the week. However, our Travel Experts know Guatemala well and can tweak or extended the itinerary according to your wishes and interests.
Sally Dodge
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- Summary of Nights
12 days, 11 nights: Guatemala City 1; Flores 2; Antigua 2; Quetzaltenango 2; Lake Atitlán 3; Antigua 1
- Accommodation
We use a mix of hotel styles in the mid-range and upper mid-range category, choosing accommodation we think offers the best combination of value, comfort, location and local character. Properties will vary in heritage from modern to traditional-style countryside properties.
- Transport
2 flights (longest 1hr); 4 scenic road journeys (longest 3hrs).
- Meals
Breakfast daily
- Guides
Our local, trusted and carefully selected partners understand the expectations of our customers very well, and their staff and guides are consistently singled out for praise by clients on their return. On this holiday, you will be joined by different guides for each activity and or region, ensuring you benefit from specialised expertise and knowledge, often from someone local to the area.
- Optional Excursions
As well as any included activities, this Private Journey includes some free time for optional excursions. As optional excursions are often subject to availability, we recommend you discuss and arrange them with your Travel Expert as early as possible before you depart.
- When is the best time to visit Guatemala?
The best weather conditions in the upland areas are during the dry season Dec – May. It can be cold in the highlands in winter, while the jungle areas are hot and humid all year round. Culture lovers may opt to spend Easter in Antigua.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What is the official language of Guatemala?
The official language spoken in Guatemala is Spanish and indigenous indian languages mainly derived from Maya.
- What is the official currency of Guatemala?
The official currency in Guatemala is Quetzal. Notes can be withdrawn using a UK credit or debit card from the many ATMs. There’s at least one in most main towns. You may have ask your bank to authorise withdrawals before you leave the UK and each transaction is limited to about £100.
- What is the time difference between the UK and Guatemala?
The time difference between the UK and Guatemala is GMT-6 hours.
- Do I need a visa for Guatemala?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application. - What vaccinations do I need for Guatemala?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- Which other countries combine well with Guatemala?
A visit to neighbouring Belize, where there are luxury eco-lodges, superb diving and snorkelling all embraced in British Caribbean cultural heritage; Copán, the ruined Mayan City of northern Honduras with its intricate carvings, accessible from Guatemala by road.
- What are the festivals, cultural and sporting events in Guatemala?
Semana Santa, Easter. Celebrations throughout the country; especially impressive in Antigua.
Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, 1-2 Nov. Celebrated throughout the country.
Traditional fiestas: There are many festivals in Guatemala from giant kite flying near Antigua to wild horse racing in remote Todo Los Santos.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Explore the most impressive of all Mayan sites with a knowledgeable guide to bring the ruins to life.
Take a guided walk around the colonial city of Antigua, the country’s former capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit a coffee farm.
Take part in timeless scenes of rural life at an authentic Mayan market.
Hunt for souvenirs at a colourful Mayan market and visit the mystical church of Santo Tomás.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
Secluded and tranquil lakeside lodge with stylish modern décor and decked relaxation areas overlooking the lagoon.
La Inmaculada is a contemporary boutique-style hotel in Guatemala City’s vibrant Zona Rosa district.
Papagaio
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