Guatemala,  Travel Itinerary

Guatemala: Ultimate 10-day Itinerary

We’ve built this travel guide to cover all the important things we think should be seen in Guatemala. If you don’t have 10 days to explore you can easily break it down into fewer days by just picking what is most important for you to see. However, we recommend spending at least 7 days visiting the most essential parts of Guatemala.

Day 1 - Guatemala City

You will likely arrive in Guatemala City by plane or you may arrive here by bus from El Salvador or Honduras.
 
Take one day to explore this city. Guatemala City offers a glimpse into the vibrant heart of Central America.  As the capital and largest city of Guatemala, this city boasts an interesting historical past. Make sure to see:
 
  • Plaza de la Constitución
  • Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Rosario
  • Mercado Central
  • Museo Popol Vuh

Day 2, 3, 4 - Antigua

Next take a chicken bus or shuttle to Antigua.
 
Antigua has an incredibly scenic surrounding made up of three volcanoes: Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango. You can spend your time hiking up volcanoes and just wondering around the picturesque colourful streets. Take your time to really enjoy Antigua’s beauty

Day 5, 6, 7 - Lake Atitlán

After this take a shuttle to Panajachel and then take a boat across Lake Atitlán.
 
Lake Atitlán is located in the highlands, this stunning volcanic lake is surrounded by picturesque villages. Here you can hike the surrounding volcanoes, kayak on the tranquil lake, or explore the lush trails. The serene ambiance and stunning scenery of Lake Atitlán make it the perfect place to relax.

Day 8, 9 - Flores

From Lake Atitlán you can take a shuttle to Flores.
 
Flores is a picturesque island town, located on Lake Petén Itzá, is a perfect gateway to the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal. Flores is beautiful with cobblestone streets and colourful colonial buildings. The town’s scenic waterfront has stunning views and you can either go on boat rides, go swimming or enjoy the serene sunsets.

Day 10 - Tikkal

From Flores take a day trip to Tikkal with a tour group.
Tikal has awe-inspiring pyramids, temples, and plazas, such as the towering Temple IV and the expansive Great. Exploring Tikal allows you to walk in the footsteps of ancient rulers, experience the serenity of centuries-old structures, and connect with the natural beauty of the jungle.
 
After this head back to Flores and continue your journey onto Belize or head back to Guatemala City and take a plane home.
 

Author

  • Full-time doctor, part-time traveller. I am the kind of traveller who travels on a shoestring and somehow manages to pack two weeks worth of clothes, a tripod and all my books into a little rucksack.