Antigua stole my heart. This charming little town has character – a rich history evident in its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. This itinerary is ideal for a short getaway, but it can easily be extended to include adventures like exploring the natural wonders of Semuc Champey or diving into the ancient Mayan city of Tikal. For those short on time, Antigua offers the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation.
Total Days: 5 Days | Accommodations: Hotels and a hiking base camp cabin | Transportation: Walking, shuttle buses and ferry boats | Traveled: With a friend | Type of Trip: Focus on landmarks, views, and food | Highlights: Colonial architecture, volcano hike, lakeside villages
DAY 1
At a glimpse: Exploring the town of Antigua
Travel agenda: Presuming you arrived in Guatemala City the night before, skip the jet lag and hail a cab or Uber straight to your Antigua hotel. This way, you can catch some sleep and wake up refreshed for an authentic Guatemalan breakfast, likely offered at your hotel.
Once you’re ready to explore, start with a visit to the Parque Central, the heart of the city. From there, visit the Antigua Guatemala Cathedral. Construction began in 1543, but the cathedral has been plagued by earthquakes throughout its history. The most devastating one in 1773 left it in ruins and only a portion was ever rebuilt. Next, Palacio de los Capitanes Generales was once the seat of Spanish power in Central America, housing the Captain General and royal court, and is one of the oldest continuously functioning governmental buildings.
Work up an appetite for lunch with a scenic 20-minute walk to Caoba Farms Restaurant. This gem offers a true farm-to-table experience in a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends. Savor fresh, local ingredients and soak up the vibrant ambiance.
Energized by lunch, walk to the iconic Santa Catalina Arch, the arch was used as a ceremonial entrance for nuns, and is a must-have photo op for any Antigua visitor. Continue your cultural exploration at La Merced Church, known for its baroque facade. From here, don’t miss the Artisan Market, a treasure trove of souvenirs and locally crafted goods. After a successful shopping spree, recharge with a refreshing beer at Antigua Brewing Company, a local favorite.
From there, stop by the grocery store La Bodegona for snacks and water for the hike the following day, before heading to the pre-hike meeting, likely at 4:45pm. Then its time for a food tour! Opt for the Street Food Evening Tour in Antigua for a true look into the f&b scene. Sample authentic street food, discover hidden gems, and gain a deeper appreciation for Guatemalan cuisine.
Head back to the hotel and get a good night’s sleep!
DAY 2
At a glimpse: Hiking Acatenango Volcano
Travel agenda: It’s an early start with a 6:30am regroup. Head to breakfast with the crew and then its an hour drive to the trailhead. Begin your ascent of Acatenango Volcano. The hike typically takes 5-7 hours, first passing through farm land, then lush forests and rocky terrain.
A packed lunch will provided by the tour company during the hike. After your epic ascent, you’ll finally reach basecamp, about 1-2 hours from lunch depending on your pace. Here, you can unwind, relax in the stunning surroundings, and soak in the panoramic vistas of the surrounding volcanoes.
Before nightfall, you’ll have a short break to rest and recharge. Then, for the truly adventurous, comes the optional hike to Volcán de Fuego. This challenging yet rewarding climb takes approximately four hours round trip (1.5 hours up, one hour exploring the crater rim, and 1.5 hours back). The incredible reward? Witnessing the fiery eruptions of Fuego up close against the dramatic night sky.
Whether you choose to summit Fuego or relax at basecamp, the clear night skies at this altitude offer spectacular stargazing opportunities. With a little luck, you might even witness the Milky Way in all its glory. A hot dinner is provided after and then its time to climb into the cozy cabins.
DAY 3
At a glimpse: Descending Acatenango and R&R in Antigua
Travel agenda: Hope you got some sleep! You will either be woken up for an optional early hike to the summit for a stunning sunrise view between 3am-4am, or “later” between 5am-6am for the sunrise at camp. The sunrise hike takes 2-3 hours, and just 45-minutes to get down. Breakfast is available once back at camp. Then it’s time to pack up and hit the trails.
The descent will include a few breaks, but not nearly as many as there were on the hike up. With a steady pace, it can be completed in 2-2.5 hours. Then return poles and head back to town around midday.
Once back in town, check into your hotel — highly recommend one with a pool this time. Enjoy lunch at hotel and then an afternoon of good showers and R&R. Dinner should be at Clios. If you’re not exhausted, Cafe No Se is the local-approved spot for cocktails.
DAY 4
At a glance: Travel to Lake Atitlán and Explore Panajachel
Travel agenda: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Artista, an amazing little spot in Antigua known for its vibrant atmosphere and delectable treats. Enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Guatemalan coffee and a typical breakfast dish.
Once satiated, board a comfortable shuttle bus for the scenic 3-hour journey from Antigua to Panajachel, the gateway to the majestic Lake Atitlán. As you wind your way through the Guatemalan countryside, keep your eyes peeled for breathtaking views of rolling hills and charming villages.
Tip: If you’re schedule doesn’t align with the shuttles, Ubers will take your to the Lake at a reasonable rate.
Enjoy lunch at Humaya Restaurante, a wonderful restaurant in Panajachel. Walk along the main street, Calle Santander, and visit the local shops and markets. Walk along the piers to get a feel for the town. Grab a beverage at one of the outdoor vendors along the way.
As the sun begins to set, head to Circus, a restaurant known for its lively atmosphere and unique, quirky vibes. While the food might not be the highlight, it’s a great place to meet fellow travelers and enjoy a fun evening out with live music.
DAY 5
At a glance: Village hopping, local culture and nature at Lake Atitlán Villages
Travel agenda: First stop, San Juan. This vibrant village is known for its Instagram-worthy charm. Wander through the colorful streets adorned with street art and quaint shops. Immerse yourself in the local culture and grab a cup of authentic Guatemalan coffee – a true treat for coffee aficionados!
Tip: San Juan is a haven for textile enthusiasts. Look out for locally woven clothing, bags, and handicrafts showcasing vibrant patterns and intricate designs. Bargaining is expected at the markets, so don’t be afraid to put your haggling skills to the test!
For a quick and colorful ride, hop on a tuk tuk for the 10-minute journey to San Pedro. This energetic village offers a taste of lakeside life, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and adventure activities.
Indulge in a delicious lunch at Sababa, a popular spot known for its delectable international cuisine and stunning lake views. Savor fresh, local ingredients and unwind in the vibrant atmosphere.
After lunch, board a public ferry for a scenic journey across the lake. Embrace the cool breeze and admire the breathtaking panorama of volcanic peaks reflected on the water’s surface.
Disembark at San Marcos, a village known for its connection to nature. Enjoy a peaceful walk through lush surroundings, taking a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Treat yourself to a well-deserved massage at Two Seasons Masaje. Indulge in relaxation and unwind after your day of exploration. San Marcos is known for its wellness scene, offering a variety of massage techniques and treatments.After your massage, quench your thirst with a refreshing fresh juice from a local vendor. A variety of tropical fruits are available, offering a healthy and delicious way to rehydrate.
Take a final ferry ride back to Panajachel, the bustling hub of Lake Atitlán. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps grab a bite to eat or do some last-minute souvenir shopping before your departure.
Catch the last 4:00 PM shuttle from Panajachel to the airport, ensuring you arrive with ample time for your flight.
