Guatemala 2 Day Itinerary

Guatemala 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Antigua and Surroundings

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Café con Arte, a local favorite in Antigua.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the famous Iglesia de La Merced, a stunning colonial-era church with impressive architecture.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM: Head to Cerro de la Cruz, a hill offering breathtaking views of Antigua and its surroundings. Take a short hike up the hill and enjoy the scenery.
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the vibrant streets of Antigua, discovering colorful buildings, historic landmarks, and lively markets.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at El Fuego, a popular restaurant serving traditional Guatemalan cuisine.
  • 8:00 PM: Take a stroll around the Parque Central, a picturesque park in the heart of Antigua, surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings.

Things to Know

  • Guatemala is a cash-based economy, so have some local currency (Quetzales) handy.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to interact with locals and enhance your experience.
  • Be prepared for variable weather, with sudden rain showers possible in the afternoon.

Transportation

  • Take a shuttle or taxi from the airport to Antigua (approximately 1 hour).
  • Use tuc-tucs (three-wheeled vehicles) or walking to get around Antigua’s historic center.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and EU nations, do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.
  • Check with the Guatemalan embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements.

Day 2: Lake Atitlán and Panajachel

Morning

  • 8:00 AM: Depart Antigua and head to Lake Atitlán, a stunning natural wonder surrounded by three volcanoes (approximately 2.5 hours).
  • 11:00 AM: Take a boat tour of the lake, visiting traditional Mayan villages and enjoying the scenic views.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM: Stop in Panajachel, a charming lakeside town with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Mercado de Artesanías, a local market selling traditional handicrafts and textiles.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at one of Panajachel’s many restaurants, such as La Casa de las Enchiladas.
  • 8:00 PM: Return to Antigua (approximately 2.5 hours) or stay overnight in Panajachel.

Other Things of Interest

  • Visit the ChocoMuseo, a museum dedicated to chocolate and its importance in Guatemalan culture.
  • Take a coffee tour to learn about Guatemala’s famous coffee production.
  • Explore the Pacaya Volcano, an active volcano near Antigua offering stunning views.

Remember to stay safe, respect local customs, and enjoy your time exploring this beautiful country!