This in-depth exploration of Guatemala pairs hikes amid dramatic volcanic peaks, shimmering lakes, and lush rainforest, with the enchanting world of the ancient Maya and their modern-day descendants. The towering pyramids of Tikal rise from jungle trails that echo with the calls of howler monkeys. Village trails lead to meaningful encounters with Maya people who still wear traditional textiles and practice the customs of their ancestors. View the sunrise over calm waters on Lake Atitlan, a volcanic caldera ringed by cone-shaped peaks. Take a cobblestone walk through Antigua's colonial history. Hike the slopes of Pacaya Volcano. Every step reveals the rich diversity of this captivating country. A land of remarkable diversity, Guatemala is the stirring fusion of vast volcanic scenery and meaningful cultural traditions still practiced today.
This in-depth exploration of Guatemala pairs hikes amid dramatic volcanic peaks, shimmering lakes, and lush rainforest, with the enchanting world of the ancient Maya and their modern-day descendants. The towering pyramids of Tikal rise from jungle trails that echo with the calls of howler monkeys. Village trails lead to meaningful encounters with Maya people who still wear traditional textiles and practice the customs of their ancestors. View the sunrise over calm waters on Lake Atitlan, a volcanic caldera ringed by cone-shaped peaks. Take a cobblestone walk through Antigua's colonial history. Hike the slopes of Pacaya Volcano. Every step reveals the rich diversity of this captivating country. A land of remarkable diversity, Guatemala is the stirring fusion of vast volcanic scenery and meaningful cultural traditions still practiced today.
Watch sunrises from Tikal’s tallest temple and an iconic viewpoint over Lake Atitlan
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Hike village to village on a two-day highlands trek and glamp under the stars
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Meet Maya weavers and shamans, learn to cook pepian, and hike an active volcano
Arrive in Guatemala City & Fly to the Peten Rainforest
Day 1
Arrive in Guatemala City by early afternoon and meet in the airport to travel together on the flight to Flores, and the Peten rainforest. A vast tropical jungle where ancient Maya civilization flourished, this region is part of the Maya Biosphere Reserve, established in 1991 to protect the largest remaining American tropical forest north of the Amazon. Transfer to your deluxe boutique hotel nearby. In the early evening, gather with the group for a briefing on the adventure ahead, followed by a welcome dinner.
Accommodation: Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel
Transportation: 1-hour flight, 20-minute private van transfer
Meals: Dinner
Kayak Lake Peten Itza & Journey to Tikal
Day 2
Paddle across the deep blue waters of Lake Peten Itza, gliding along emerald shores of tropical forest dotted with small towns with your guide—an easy introduction to the rhythm and beauty of this special place. Leaving your kayak behind, take a path less traveled, hiking into pristine rainforest and over rolling hills with spectacular views of the lake. Be on the lookout for toucans, macaws, and iguanas. The forest opens onto a hidden cove where you can relax on sandy shores or take a dip in the lake to cool off. Transfer back to Flores Island by motorized boat, then continue to UNESCO-listed Tikal National Park where you’ll stay at the best lodging within its boundaries.
Accommodation: Jungle Lodge
Activity: 1.5 hours kayaking, 2 hours easy hiking
Transportation: 20-minute boat ride, 2-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Climb a Tikal Temple at Sunrise & Explore the Ruins
Day 3
Rise before dawn and walk to the archeological site for a magical experience. Climb to the top of the tallest temple to gaze out over the canopy as the shapes of smaller temples emerge from the morning mist. At first light the jungle awakens with the roars of howler monkeys and calls of tropical birds. Return to the lodge for breakfast and meet up with your guide mid-morning for a more thorough exploration of Tikal’s captivating ruins. As you wander amid the ancient Maya acropolis and ceremonial sites, your guide will unravel the complexities of the Maya civilizations and the architecture of Tikal. After lunch in a rainforest restaurant, your afternoon is free to explore more of the ruins on your own, relax, or take a dip in the pool.
Accommodation: Jungle Lodge
Activity: 6 hours walking on uneven terrain at Tikal
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike Pacaya Active Volcano & Travel to Antigua
Day 4
Take a morning flight to Guatemala City, then travel into the highlands, stopping at Finca El Barretal, a historic coffee estate perched on fertile volcanic slopes. Stretch your legs on a short walk to a hidden waterfall, then savor a farm-fresh BBQ lunch. This afternoon, hike up Pacaya Volcano, one of the country’s most active. Ascend through farmland and pine forest to an exposed ridge for a panoramic vista of its blackened smoking cone, stark lava fields, and the distant volcanoes of Antigua and Lake Atitlan. Before descending, enjoy a well-earned reward as the sun sets—artisan pizza cooked over hot lava! Arrive in Antigua in the early evening.
Note: In compliance with Pacaya National Park safety regulations, the closest guests can get to the volcano's active crater is a little over half a mile, with excellent vantage points from a distance.
Accommodation: Pensativo House Hotel
Activity: 1.5-2 hours/2 miles hiking with 1,500' elevation gain & 1,500' elevation loss
Transportation: 1-hour flight, 4-hour private van transfer, with stops
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Antigua & Cook a Classic Guatemalan Dish
Day 5
Step into the cobbled streets of UNESCO-listed Antigua on a walking tour through one of Latin America’s most captivating colonial cities. Wander past pastel facades, grand plazas, and historic landmarks including the Cathedral of San Jose and La Merced Church, as your guide brings Antigua’s rich history to life. A short hike leads to Cerro de la Cruz, where sweeping views of the city below are framed by majestic Volcan de Agua. Then, learn to cook pepian (pumpkin seed stew) using time-honored Maya techniques. Grind spices, stir rich sauces, and uncover the cultural roots behind this beloved dish, then enjoy your creation for lunch. Your afternoon is free to explore more of Antigua on your own.
Accommodation: Pensativo House Hotel
Activity: 2-hour walking tour with minimal elevation gain/loss, 45 minutes hiking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike Deep into the Lake Atitlan Highlands
Day 6
Begin the first stage of a two-day adventure into Guatemala's enchanting volcanic landscape. After a scenic drive to the trailhead, climb steadily along cloud forest ridgelines alive with chattering birds and tropical plants. Reaching the highlands, the landscape opens to farmers tending terraced fields as they have for generations. After a picnic lunch, descend toward your glamping camp with Lake Atitlan shimmering in the distance. In the afternoon, visit the Kaqchikel Maya communities of Panimaquin and Chuaquenum. Meet artisans at a women's weaving cooperative and learn how intricate textiles are created using natural dyes and backstrap looms, an ancestral craft that remains central to cultural identity. Return to camp and enjoy a dinner prepared by your community hosts.
Accommodation: Maya Community Glamping
Activity: 3 hours/4 miles hiking with 500' elevation gain & 3,150' elevation loss
Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descend to Breathtaking Lake Atitlan
Day 7
Begin your descent through a mosaic of farmland and highland villages, offering a closer look at rural life and the beautiful countryside. On reaching a local coffee farm, discover the art of small-batch production—from planting and harvesting to roasting—and enjoy a tasting of the regional roast. Cross a hanging bridge and climb to a series of spectacular viewpoints overlooking Lake Atitlan and its three volcanoes. Then, transfer down through colorful fields to the village of San Antonio Palopo and board a private boat to cross idyllic Lake Atitlan, arriving at your hotel with time to relax and soak in the beauty of this iconic setting.
Accommodation: Hotel Atitlan
Activity: 4 hours/6 miles hiking with 1,000' elevation gain & 1,990' elevation loss
Transportation: 45-minute private van transfer, 30-minute private boat ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Watch the Sun Rise Over Lake Atitlan
Day 8
Get ready for another magnificent sunrise experience! Expect picture-postcard views of dark volcano silhouettes rising from glimmering Lake Atitlan as sherbert skies are reflected on its surface. Make an early-morning climb to the summit of Rostro Maya (also known as Indian Nose) to catch this iconic view, learning about the mountain’s significance to the Maya people along the way. Descend to San Juan La Laguna, concluding your hike at this Tz’utujil Maya town known for its thriving arts, from murals and galleries to traditional craft workshops. Visit a local textile cooperative to experience traditional weaving firsthand, from spinning cotton to dyeing with natural pigments—you’ll even have a chance to give it a go yourself! At the end of the visit, return to your hotel by boat across Lake Atitlan.
Accommodation: Hotel Atitlan
Activity: 3.5 hours/1 mile hiking with 2,100' elevation gain & 2,100' elevation loss
Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer, 40-minute boat ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Paddle Lake Atitlan & Experience a Maya Ceremony
Day 9
A morning kayak on Lake Atitlan is a spectacular farewell. Depart for Antigua, breaking your journey with a visit to Iximche, an off-the-radar archaeological site. Explore the plazas and palaces of this former Maya capital, and learn about its powerful history, from clan lords to Spanish conquest and the reclaiming of this sacred place for the Maya. Here, take part in a Maya spiritual ceremony led by an aj q'ijab' (daykeeper), connecting the body to the natural elements, offering a meaningful close to your journey through Guatemala’s volcanic landscapes and wild beauty. Continue to Antigua for a festive farewell dinner and celebration of your adventures.
We design immersive active adventures for small groups, allowing access to experiences others can't reach, and we've been sharing the wonders of Latin America with our guests since 1970.
This well-paced 10-day journey explores the stunning volcanic landscapes and rich Maya traditions of this diverse nation with a group capped at 12 adventurers, to make your experience more personal.
The best insight into a country comes from its residents, and we pick experienced local guides who offer a deeper connection with the people and places you encounter along the way.
Accommodation: One night of the trip is in glamping tents with comfortable mattresses, linens, pillows, and a cozy down comforter; a separate toilet and shower vehicle is stationed nearby. This night is in the Lake Atitlan highlands amid traditional Mayan communities.
Dates & Prices
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
Gather your favorite travel companions—family, friends, colleagues, or club—and enjoy an exclusive departure that’s easy to book and completely unforgettable.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Local Tour Guide .
We work with only the most experienced and knowledgeable local guides on our trips. You will be in excellent hands with a fully licensed and accredited local guide who will share their expertise in everything from history and architecture, to culture and traditions, the best local cuisine, activities and crafts, or even shopping. Local guides live, breathe, and love their trips because as locals they are an integral part of their communities. Their connections run deep and pride in their piece of the world is contagious.
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Arrive in Guatemala City by early afternoon and meet in the airport to travel together on the flight to Flores, and the Peten rainforest. A vast tropical jungle where ancient Maya civilization flourished, this region is part of the Maya Biosphere Reserve, established in 1991 to protect the largest remaining American tropical forest north of the Amazon. Transfer to your deluxe boutique hotel nearby. In the early evening, gather with the group for a briefing on the adventure ahead, followed by a welcome dinner.
Paddle across the deep blue waters of Lake Peten Itza, gliding along emerald shores of tropical forest dotted with small towns with your guide—an easy introduction to the rhythm and beauty of this special place. Leaving your kayak behind, take a path less traveled, hiking into pristine rainforest and over rolling hills with spectacular views of the lake. Be on the lookout for toucans, macaws, and iguanas. The forest opens onto a hidden cove where you can relax on sandy shores or take a dip in the lake to cool off. Transfer back to Flores Island by motorized boat, then continue to UNESCO-listed Tikal National Park where you’ll stay at the best lodging within its boundaries.
Rise before dawn and walk to the archeological site for a magical experience. Climb to the top of the tallest temple to gaze out over the canopy as the shapes of smaller temples emerge from the morning mist. At first light the jungle awakens with the roars of howler monkeys and calls of tropical birds. Return to the lodge for breakfast and meet up with your guide mid-morning for a more thorough exploration of Tikal’s captivating ruins. As you wander amid the ancient Maya acropolis and ceremonial sites, your guide will unravel the complexities of the Maya civilizations and the architecture of Tikal. After lunch in a rainforest restaurant, your afternoon is free to explore more of the ruins on your own, relax, or take a dip in the pool.
Take a morning flight to Guatemala City, then travel into the highlands, stopping at Finca El Barretal, a historic coffee estate perched on fertile volcanic slopes. Stretch your legs on a short walk to a hidden waterfall, then savor a farm-fresh BBQ lunch. This afternoon, hike up Pacaya Volcano, one of the country’s most active. Ascend through farmland and pine forest to an exposed ridge for a panoramic vista of its blackened smoking cone, stark lava fields, and the distant volcanoes of Antigua and Lake Atitlan. Before descending, enjoy a well-earned reward as the sun sets—artisan pizza cooked over hot lava! Arrive in Antigua in the early evening.
Note: In compliance with Pacaya National Park safety regulations, the closest guests can get to the volcano\'s active crater is a little over half a mile, with excellent vantage points from a distance.
Step into the cobbled streets of UNESCO-listed Antigua on a walking tour through one of Latin America’s most captivating colonial cities. Wander past pastel facades, grand plazas, and historic landmarks including the Cathedral of San Jose and La Merced Church, as your guide brings Antigua’s rich history to life. A short hike leads to Cerro de la Cruz, where sweeping views of the city below are framed by majestic Volcan de Agua. Then, learn to cook pepian (pumpkin seed stew) using time-honored Maya techniques. Grind spices, stir rich sauces, and uncover the cultural roots behind this beloved dish, then enjoy your creation for lunch. Your afternoon is free to explore more of Antigua on your own.
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Begin the first stage of a two-day adventure into Guatemala\'s enchanting volcanic landscape. After a scenic drive to the trailhead, climb steadily along cloud forest ridgelines alive with chattering birds and tropical plants. Reaching the highlands, the landscape opens to farmers tending terraced fields as they have for generations. After a picnic lunch, descend toward your glamping camp with Lake Atitlan shimmering in the distance. In the afternoon, visit the Kaqchikel Maya communities of Panimaquin and Chuaquenum. Meet artisans at a women\'s weaving cooperative and learn how intricate textiles are created using natural dyes and backstrap looms, an ancestral craft that remains central to cultural identity. Return to camp and enjoy a dinner prepared by your community hosts.
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Begin your descent through a mosaic of farmland and highland villages, offering a closer look at rural life and the beautiful countryside. On reaching a local coffee farm, discover the art of small-batch production—from planting and harvesting to roasting—and enjoy a tasting of the regional roast. Cross a hanging bridge and climb to a series of spectacular viewpoints overlooking Lake Atitlan and its three volcanoes. Then, transfer down through colorful fields to the village of San Antonio Palopo and board a private boat to cross idyllic Lake Atitlan, arriving at your hotel with time to relax and soak in the beauty of this iconic setting.
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Get ready for another magnificent sunrise experience! Expect picture-postcard views of dark volcano silhouettes rising from glimmering Lake Atitlan as sherbert skies are reflected on its surface. Make an early-morning climb to the summit of Rostro Maya (also known as Indian Nose) to catch this iconic view, learning about the mountain’s significance to the Maya people along the way. Descend to San Juan La Laguna, concluding your hike at this Tz’utujil Maya town known for its thriving arts, from murals and galleries to traditional craft workshops. Visit a local textile cooperative to experience traditional weaving firsthand, from spinning cotton to dyeing with natural pigments—you’ll even have a chance to give it a go yourself! At the end of the visit, return to your hotel by boat across Lake Atitlan.
A morning kayak on Lake Atitlan is a spectacular farewell. Depart for Antigua, breaking your journey with a visit to Iximche, an off-the-radar archaeological site. Explore the plazas and palaces of this former Maya capital, and learn about its powerful history, from clan lords to Spanish conquest and the reclaiming of this sacred place for the Maya. Here, take part in a Maya spiritual ceremony led by an aj q\'ijab\' (daykeeper), connecting the body to the natural elements, offering a meaningful close to your journey through Guatemala’s volcanic landscapes and wild beauty. Continue to Antigua for a festive farewell dinner and celebration of your adventures.
After breakfast, there will be a group transfer to La Aura International Airport in Guatemala City for your outbound flight.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. Hiking 2-4 hours on most days, covering as much as 5 miles, and generally 1,000' to 2,000' elevation gain or loss (one day with 3,150' elevation loss - vehicle support available). You'll be at altitudes of up to 8,000' in the Lake Atitlan and Antigua regions. There are two short kayaking experiences on calm waters at Lake Peten Itza and Lake Atitlan. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
1.5 hours kayaking, 2 hours easy hiking
Day 3
6 hours walking on uneven terrain at Tikal
Day 4
1.5-2 hours/2 miles hiking with 1,500' elevation gain & 1,500' elevation loss
Day 5
2-hour walking tour with minimal elevation gain/loss, 45 minutes hiking
Day 6
3 hours/4 miles hiking with 500' elevation gain & 3,150' elevation loss
Day 7
4 hours/6 miles hiking with 1,000' elevation gain & 1,990' elevation loss
Day 8
3.5 hours/1 mile hiking with 2,100' elevation gain & 2,100' elevation loss
Day 9
1-hour kayaking, 1.5 hours moderate walking
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
Perfectly located small hotels inside Tikal National Park, in the heart of colonial Antigua, and on the shores of Lake Atitlan, and a special night hosted by a local community at a deluxe tented camp in the highlands.
Overlooking a quiet lagoon of Lake Peten Itza, Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel is set on a 300-acre nature reserve in the Peten rainforest. Spacious bungalows sit directly over the water on the lagoon and feature a private deck with Jacuzzi that looks out on Monkey Island. Others are at a higher vantage point between the trees in the rainforest. The infinity pool and onsite spa offer more opportunities for relaxation.
Set within the lush rainforest of Tikal National Park, Jungle Lodge offers a comfortable stay steps from ancient ruins, and we've secured coveted Junior Suites with air conditioning for our guests. Bungalow-style accommodations are surrounded by tropical trees alive with birds and monkeys. After a day exploring temples, unwind by the inviting pool or gather at the open-air bar for a refreshing drink. The on-site restaurant serves hearty local and international dishes, creating a relaxed, immersive base in the heart of the jungle.
Housed in a colonial era presidential residence, the Pensativo House Hotel retains much of its past with a historic cobbled courtyard, beamed ceilings, and an arched, open-air dining room. It also offers modern comfort in well-sized rooms with luxe bedding and whirlpool tubs. With classic architecture, warm hospitality, and a prime location near Antigua's landmarks, it's an inviting retreat after a day of exploration.
Right on the shores of Lake Atitlan with a view of the San Pedro, Toliman, and Atitlan volcanoes, this one-time coffee plantation is now Hotel Atitlan, set in lush gardens full of birds and butterflies. Each room at Hotel Atitlan boasts a private balcony overlooking the grounds and lake, hacienda-style design, and Guatemalan textiles. Watch the sunset poolside, relax in the Jacuzzi, and enjoy local flavors in the lakeside restaurant.
Hosted by a highland community, immerse yourself in Maya tradition. Your comfortable glamping site is set up before you arrive—each canvas tent holds two queen-size inflatable mattresses with linens, pillows, and down comforters as well as a bedside table. Meals are cooked by the local community and hot water bottles keep you cozy at night. A mobile toilet and hot shower vehicle covers the essentials while in camp.
Weather
Nov to Apr offers sunny days, clear skies. The lowlands around Tikal have a tropical climate year-round, while the central highlands are cooler, particularly at night.
Mar
Apr
Nov
Dec
Antigua
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Antigua
79
56
80
59
74
57
74
55
Guatemala City
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Guatemala City
80
57
81
60
75
58
75
56
FAQs
Who will meet me at the airport?
You will be met by a MT Sobek representative upon arrival at the airport in Guatemala City and check in together as a group for the flight to Flores. Guests should arrive at La Aura International Airport in Guatemala City (GUA) by 2:00 pm on Day 1, in order to connect to the 4:10 pm departure of the group flight from Guatemala City to Flores.
What is the Maya community glamping like?
You'll spend one night in high quality canvas tents measuring 10 feet x 14 feet floor area and 6 feet high. Inside you'll find two inflatable Queen mattresses, linens, goose-down comforters, pillows, hot-water bottles, and a shared bedside table. The location in the highlands above Lake Atitlan is a magical place to sleep under the stars! There is a mobile bathroom unit with toilet facilities on one side and hot showers on the other, as well as a dining area and comfortable outdoor chairs.
Is it safe to hike an active volcano?
Our guide team closely monitors government reports of volcanic and seismic activity at Pacaya Volcano, and the group will not hike the volcano if conditions are unsafe.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18 but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.