Guatemala In Style

Suggested Itinerary

Overview

Perhaps one of the most culturally rich destinations in Central America, Guatemala is a land filled with outstanding natural beauty, a strong national identity and a rich mix of indigenous cultures. This remarkable journey not only takes you into the heart of this fascinating world of Mayan tradition, by way of two of the country’s most bewitching treasures, but in addition offers a truly unique experience that will get you off the beaten path and right to the core of the country’...

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TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

  • Escape the crowds and trek through the spectacular volcanic landscapes of the Antigua Valley
  • Combine nature with luxury as you relax in your exclusive glamping setting in the heart of the highlands
  • Discover the World Heritage delights of colonial Antigua
  • Boat to the different communities around the spectacular waters of Lake Atitlán
  • Enjoy a traditional cooking lesson and dinner with a local Guatemalan family
  • Experience the real Mundo Maya (Mayan World) with community visits and unforgettable encounters

Suggested Itinerary

This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.

EXPAND ALL ITINERARY DAYS
COLLAPSE ALL ITINERARY DAYS

Day 1 GUATEMALA CITY - ANTIGUA

Day 1 GUATEMALA CITY - ANTIGUA

On arrival in Guatemala City you will be met at the airport by your driver and then transferred on to the charming city of Antigua. Set in a beautiful valley and surrounded by volcanic peaks, Antigua has been described as one of the finest colonial cities left in the Americas. Dating back to the early part of the 16th century, this World Heritage gem is blessed with a stunning collection of beautifully preserved colonial buildings that have survived centuries of earthquakes, floods and the relentless onset of progress.

Posada Del Angel

Day 2 ANTIGUA - ACATENANGO VOLCANO

Day 2 ANTIGUA - ACATENANGO VOLCANO

Departing Antigua this morning you'll begin with a short transfer to the town of San Andrés Itzapa, home to the shrine of San Simón, a Mayan deity who legend dictates arose during the Spanish conquest to protect the people. From here it is just a short drive on to the trailhead, from where you begin ascending up into the lush Guatemalan cloud forest, a stunning start to this great adventure. The powerful presence of the Acatenango Volcano, at just under 4,000m above sea level, the highest in the Antigua Valley, looms large as you begin the descent towards the first camp. A warm fire, delicious dinner and a cosy bed all await you at this very special spot.

Approx. 4-6hrs walking, total distance 7.0mi/11.3km. Highest point 8664ft/2,641m. 1000ft/300m ascent, 1400ft/430m descent.

Guatemala Glamping
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 FUEGO CAMP

Day 3 FUEGO CAMP

Waking to panoramic views and the rich aromas of Guatemalan coffee, the day begins with an invigorating 300 metre ascent, towards the protected forests that line the route into the fertile La Vega River Valley. Descending through rich farmland, you'll then cross the river by way of a hanging bridge before facing another challenging climb up through a landscape blanketed in pine forests and coffee farms. Arriving at camp late this afternoon there will be time to freshen up, rest and enjoy the front-row views across to the active Fuego Volcano. Once around the campfire, a local women's group will then show you how to make traditional Guatemalan blue corn tortillas by hand, which you can enjoy with another delicious dinner.
Approx. 8hrs walking, total distance 8.1mi/13km. Highest point 7813ft/2382m. 2430ft/740m ascent, 1880ft/575m descent.

Guatemala Glamping
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 FUEGO CAMP

Day 4 FUEGO CAMP

Set against a backdrop of some of the finest scenery Guatemala has to offer, today's trekking takes you to the highest point of your journey, a lofty 2,755 metres above sea level. Following the ridgeline, the panoramic views from up here take in vast, dense cloud forests and no fewer than six volcanic peaks. A long and gradual descent past terraced farmland then brings you to the next camp, where a visit to a local Mayan women's co-operative affords an opportunity to watch traditional weavers at work.

Approx. 8hrs walking, total distance 9.3mi/15km. Highest point 9007ft/2745m. 1195ft/364m ascent, 1000ft/305m descent.

Guatemala Glamping
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 AGUA CAMP

Day 5 AGUA CAMP

Your final day's trekking begins with a 760-metre descent into the La Madre Vieja River Valley, weaving a way through a captivating patchwork of rich farmland and small traditional villages. On arrival in the valley, you'll then visit a local coffee finca to learn about the production methods used and, of course, sample some of the finished produce. Crossing the river from here, the trail then ascends up to the rim of Lake Atitlán before dropping down to the lakeside village of San Antonio Palopó.

Approx. 6hrs walking, total distance 8.5mi/13,7km. Highest point 8212ft/ 1450ft/442m ascent, 3073ft/937m descent.

Guatemala Glamping
Breakfast, Lunch

Day 6 LAKE ATITLAN

Day 6 LAKE ATITLAN

The emerald waters of Lake Atitlán occupy the heart of a vast volcanic crater. Central America's deepest and most spectacular lake, from its heart rise the peaks of three volcanoes and along its shoreline indigenous settlements dot the landscape. The German explorer and naturalist, Alexander von Humboldt once called it "the most beautiful lake in the world" and after the challenges of the past few days, today has been set aside to relax and enjoy this exquisite setting at your leisure.

Villa Santa Catarina
Breakfast

Day 7 LAKE ATITLAN - SAN JUAN LA LAGUNA - ANTIGUA

Day 7 LAKE ATITLAN - SAN JUAN LA LAGUNA - ANTIGUA

A private boat trip today takes you to the southern shore of the lake, to visit the community of San Juan La Laguna. Here you will have an opportunity to visit some of the different co-operatives that have been set up to cultivate and conserve the traditions and crafts of the T'zutujil Mayan culture. After the tour, drive straight on to the picturesque city of Antigua.

Posada Del Angel
Breakfast

Day 8 ANTIGUA

Day 8 ANTIGUA

Today begins with a morning tour of Antigua's historic heart. A half-day walking tour of the city's colonial treasures takes in the impressive reminders of its Spanish past, including the secret passageways that permeate the crumbling interiors of its churches and convents. After a wander through the city's lively central park, you'll then be driven on to the nearby town of San Miguel Escobar. Here you meet your local culinary guide for an afternoon's cooking class before sitting down to your meal for lunch. Return to Antigua for the evening.

Posada Del Angel Antigua
Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9 ANTIGUA

Day 9 ANTIGUA

A enjoy a final day in Guatemala at leisure to explore the town at a relaxed pace. Discover the cute boutique stores and independent restaurants and cafés. If you’re feeling up to it, take the short but rigorous hike up Cerro de la Cruz for gorgeous panoramic views of the town and the encircling volcanoes.

Posada Del Angel
Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10 ANTIGUA - GUATEMALA CITY

Day 10 ANTIGUA - GUATEMALA CITY

Depending on the departure time of your flight, you may have a bit of leisure time in the morning before transferring back to the international airport in the capital for your onward journey home.

Breakfast

SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION

Hotel Rating

Ultra
The best of the best, the ultimate in luxury
Luxury
Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium
Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places

Hotel Rating

Ultra
The best of the best, the ultimate in luxury
Luxury
Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium
Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places

Hotel Rating

Ultra
The best of the best, the ultimate in luxury
Luxury
Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium
Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places

Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.

GUIDELINE PRICE & WHAT’S INCLUDED

10 days from £3,375

MEALS

As specified in the itinerary, sampling some of the country's finest cuisine.

TRANSPORT

Private air-conditioned vehicles with experienced, dedicated drivers.

ENTRANCE FEES

Tours and admission fees, including tickets specified in the itinerary.

EXPERT TEAM

Licensed English-speaking guides and a support team available 24/7.

ACCOMMODATION

As specified in the itinerary, using some of our favourite local properties.

WILD MILES

This tour will earn you 10908 Wild Miles

ACCOMMODATION

Ultra
The best of the best, the ultimate in luxury
Luxury
Outstanding service and facilities, giving you the 5* experience
Premium
Excellent standards offering a higher-end experience
Superior
Good quality service and overall comfort
Simple
No frills, basic accommodation, but often in the most exciting of places

Wild Miles Club

When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:

Blue More than 10,000 points 2.5% discount
Bronze More than 30,000 points 5% discount
Silver More than 45,000 points 7.5% discount
Gold More than 60,000 points 10% discount

This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.

Positive Impact of this Trip

Tree
Ten trees are planted per passenger on this trip
Community
Supports Wild Frontiers Foundation community projects
Wind Turbine
A contribution to renewable energy projects

WHEN TO GO

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Our team of experts have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you plan your adventure of a lifetime.

WHY WILD FRONTIERS?

Meet the expert, Richard

Richard is our Latin America expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.

Speak to Richard by calling
1(833) 200-4640

Guatemala’s sublime natural beauty, pales in comparison to its cultural wealth. With more than 21 languages spoken in a country one fifth the size of France, Guatemala’s diversity is incredible.

OTHER ITINERARIES IN GUATEMALA