Guatemala

Its crowning glory, however, is its incredible Mayan cities, whose silent jungle setting only deepens their timeless mystery.

Those lost cities are hidden in the Petén, a remote rainforest region in the north, but the rest of Guatemala is no less dazzling. From the museums of the capital to the bustling markets of the Maya town of Chichicastenango, from colorful textiles to the relaxed coastal rhythms of the Garifuna people in Lívingston, this Central American kingdom is wondrously diverse.

Here are just a few of the jewels in this vibrant land of volcanoes:

Antigua: The former capital of Central America, its colorful colonial houses, earthquake-shattered convents, and international eats are so captivating, many visitors never leave.
Tikal: With its jaw-dropping step pyramids, Tikal was the major Maya power from 200 to 900 A.D. But Guatemala is dotted with dozens of other ruins—some of which have barely been explored.
Lake Atitlán: Once a volcanic crater, this lake is today a place of spectacular beauty. In the market for high-quality handicrafts? Villages of modern-day Mayas line the shores.
Flores: Looking for a bit of Venice in Central America? Flores, the gateway to pre-Columbian ruins in the north, is a colorful island town set in the middle of lovely Lake Petén Itzá.

Discover More of Guatemala’s Unique Experiences

Beyond the highlights, Guatemala offers even more incredible sights to explore.

Semuc Champey: Tucked away in the mountains, this natural wonder features a series of stunning turquoise pools cascading over a natural limestone bridge. It’s the perfect place for a refreshing swim and a scenic hike.
Pacaya Volcano: For the adventurous traveler, hiking this active volcano is an unforgettable experience. You can even roast marshmallows over the heat vents near the summit while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Livingston: This coastal town is a cultural crossroads where you can experience the unique rhythm of the Afro-Caribbean Garifuna people. The journey there, often by boat down the scenic Río Dulce, is a spectacular adventure in itself.

Whether you’re exploring ancient civilizations, hiking through volcanic landscapes, or relaxing by a beautiful lake, Guatemala’s diverse offerings promise an unforgettable journey. What kind of adventure are you most interested in?

Guatemala Custom Trips and Experiences

A Central America Adventure – the Maya Route

This 10-day Maya Route itinerary traces the arc of an ancient civilization through four modern nations—El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, and Belize. Designed by Lost World Adventures for travelers drawn to archaeology, culture, and vivid landscapes, it connects living cities and long-silent temples along the spine of Mesoamerica.

Antigua & Lake Atitlan Guatemala Trip

From your arrival in Guatemala City Airport you will transfer about 45 minutes by car to Antigua. The next day you will explore the city on a private walking tour. Adventurous eaters can sample the local foods offered by street vendors. Next you will travel to beautiful Lake Atitlan with a stop at the Chichicastenango Market en route.

Antigua & Tikal Guatemala Tour Package

Start in the colonial town of Antigua. A suggested Fair Trade Coffee tour will introduce you the small independent coffee growers and the local families who own and operate them. Along with a local guide you will learn all about the complete process. Other optional tours from Antigua include a private walking tour of the city, hiking or mountain biking through the Antigua Valley, visits to the workshops of local artisans.

Experience Central America – El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala and Belize

This journey weaves together the rich cultural tapestry and wild natural beauty of Central America, tracing a route from the Pacific shores of El Salvador through the highlands of Honduras and Guatemala, and onward to the lush jungles and waterways of Belize. Designed for curious travelers who want more than a single destination, the itinerary balances immersive cultural encounters with active adventure, offering a dynamic perspective on the region’s diverse landscapes and traditions.

Flavorful Guatemala Food Tour

The cuisine and culinary traditions of the Ancient Mayans were diverse and extensive. The Mayans were hunters, fishers and used their own gardens to grow their food supply. Their most traditional dishes use a variety of ingredients. Their largest crop production was maize (corn). Cacao, another principle crop, was used in a sacred drink and also as an exchange unit in its grain form. The Spanish colonization brought change to the region.

Guatemala & Honduras Custom Tour

La Antigua, Lake Atitlan, the Honduras rainforest, the beaches and reefs of Roatan. Tours and excursions from Antigua include a walking city tour, coffee plantation visits, mountain biking or hiking the many outlying valleys, climbing Pacaya Volcano.

Guatemala Active Family Getaway

Step into a world where ancient civilizations meet breathtaking landscapes, and every day brings a new story to tell. This immersive journey through Guatemala invites you to explore its vibrant colonial cities, climb active volcanoes, glide across a lake framed by towering peaks, and uncover the mysteries of the Maya deep in the jungle.

Guatemala and Belize Combination Package

Start with two nights in Antigua and a day to wander the streets or explore on a guided tour. In addition to our recommended Antigua excursions you can tour the Antigua Valley on foot or mountain bike, visit local artisan workshops or climb the Pacaya Volcano. Then, transfer by private car to Lake Atitlan where you will spend two nights. On your full day you can kayak, mountain bike, visit lakefront villages and local markets.

Guatemala Highlights Custom Tour Package

From Guatemala City Airport you will transfer to Antigua for three nights. Tours and excursions from this colonial city include a walking city tour, coffee plantation visits, mountain biking or hiking the many outlying valleys, climbing Pacaya Volcano. Next, you will travel to beautiful Lake Atitlan with a stop at the Chichicastenango Market en route.

Guatemala Multi-Sport Adventure

From the moment you arrive and transfer to Antigua, the pace is deliberate: ease into the rhythm of the highlands before stepping onto the slopes of an active volcano. The early days set the tone with a mix of movement and atmosphere, where cobblestone streets, colonial façades, and surrounding volcanoes create a setting that feels both grounded and dramatic.

Guatemala with Copan Ruins Tour

On this extensive circuit of Guatemala and Honduras you will stay in Antigua and on Lake Atitlan, visit the Comalapa and Chichicastenango markets and tour the Mayan ruins of Iximiche, Copan, Quiriguá, Tikal and Yaxha. You will also travel off-the-beaten-path to the village of Rio Dulce and visit the multi-cultural village of Livingston. Start with two nights in colonial Antigua and a full day with a choice of optional excursions.

Highlands & Markets Guatemala Tour Package

After two full days exploring the colonial town of Antigua you will venture off-the-beaten-path with your private guide to remote towns and markets throughout the country. You will stay in the towns of Quetzaltenango and Huehuetenango with day trips to the agricultural towns of Almolonga and Zunil, the thermal springs at Fuentes Georginas, San Andres Xecul, Sacapulas and Aguacatan.

Maya Magic & Mystery Guatemala Tour Package

Along with your private guides you will walk the streets of colonial Antigua, explore the villages of Lake Atitlan, visit the markets of Comalapa and Chichicastenango and tour the Mayan ruin sites of Iximche, Yaxha and Tikal. In addition to our recommended Antigua excursions you can tour the Antigua Valley on foot or mountain bike, visit local artisan workshops or climb the Pacaya Volcano.

Mexico And Guatemala Meso-American Civilizations Tour

Step into the heart of the ancient world on a journey through Mexico and Guatemala, where monumental ruins rise from the jungle and vibrant traditions echo the legacy of the great Meso-American civilizations. This itinerary blends discovery with comfort, weaving together archaeological wonders, rich cultural encounters, and handpicked boutique stays.