Guatemala 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Antigua

  • Arrival: Fly into La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City. Take a shuttle or taxi to your accommodation in Antigua ( approx. 1 hour, $20-$30).
  • Accommodation: Stay in the historic center of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Things to Do:
    • Explore the colorful streets and colonial architecture of Antigua.
    • Visit the famous Iglesia de La Merced church.
    • Wander through the Mercado de Artesanías (Handicraft Market).
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for cobblestone streets and uneven sidewalks.
    • Try some local street food, like churros or tamales.

Day 2: Antigua

  • Things to Do:
    • Take a guided tour of the nearby Pacaya Volcano (approx. $60-$80).
    • Visit the Museo de Arte Colonial (Colonial Art Museum) to learn about Guatemalan history and art.
    • Relax in one of Antigua’s many cafes or parks.
  • Food: Try some traditional Guatemalan cuisine, like pepián (a hearty stew) or rellenitos (stuffed peppers).
  • Safety: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Day 3: Lake Atitlán

  • Transportation: Take a shuttle or bus from Antigua to Panajachel, Lake Atitlán (approx. 2-3 hours, $10-$20).
  • Accommodation: Stay in one of the many lakeside towns, like San Pedro La Laguna or Santiago Atitlán.
  • Things to Do:
    • Take a boat tour of the lake and surrounding villages.
    • Hike to the top of Cerro Tzankujil for stunning views.
    • Visit a local market or artisan workshop.
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for cooler weather, especially in the evenings.
    • Respect local indigenous communities and their traditions.

Day 4: Chichicastenango

  • Transportation: Take a bus from Lake Atitlán to Chichicastenango (approx. 1-2 hours, $5-$10).
  • Things to Do:
    • Visit the famous Chichicastenango Market, one of the largest in Central America.
    • Explore the town’s historic center and colonial architecture.
    • Try some local specialties, like kak’ik (a spicy turkey soup) or tamales.
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds and chaos at the market.
    • Bargain prices when shopping for souvenirs.

Day 5: Return to Antigua

  • Transportation: Take a bus from Chichicastenango back to Antigua (approx. 2-3 hours, $5-$10).
  • Things to Do:
    • Spend the day shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring any sights you missed earlier.
    • Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of Antigua’s many restaurants.
  • Departure: Take a shuttle or taxi back to La Aurora International Airport (GUA) for your departure flight.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of the US, Canada, and most European countries do not need a visa to enter Guatemala.
  • Check with the Guatemalan embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements.

Transportation

  • Shuttles: Book private shuttles or shared rides through companies like Antigua Shuttle Service or Atitlán Tours.
  • Buses: Use public buses, like Litegua or Fuente del Norte, for a more affordable option.
  • Taxis: Always use licensed taxis and negotiate the price before departing.

Other Tips

  • Language: While many Guatemalans speak some English, learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your experience.
  • Currency: The Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ) is the local currency, although US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings, especially in crowded areas or at night.
  • Respect: Guatemala has a rich cultural heritage; respect local customs, traditions, and the environment.