Guatemala Active

Experience 13 days of thrilling adventure in Guatemala: kayak across the mountain lake of Atitlán, climb Acatenango to watch the Fire Volcano erupt against the night sky, explore the legendary ruins of Tikal, and venture deep into the untouched Petén jungle to a lost Mayan city.

Days
13
Destinations
6
Type of journey
Group
Activities
6

Overview from the travel specialist

Hi, I'm Lennard: This trip is ideal for travellers who want to discover Guatemala's hidden treasures off the beaten track - from exciting jungle hikes in El Mirador to relaxing days in the charming town of Flores.

Highlights

of your Guatemala trip

Kayaking and hiking experience at the stunning Lake Atitlán
Guided city tour through colonial Antigua
Acatenango volcano ascent with views of the active Fuego Volcano
Visit to the legendary Maya site of Tikal
Five-day jungle expedition to El Mirador and La Danta


An active round trip through the treasures of Guatemala

This 13-day adventure takes you to Guatemala's most fascinating natural and cultural highlights. From the cobblestone streets of Antigua and the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the highlands to the remote jungles of the Maya Biosphere Reserve, this tour combines rewarding hikes with unforgettable cultural experiences.

Begin your journey at the scenic Lake Atitlán and in the historic colonial city of Antigua. One of the trip's major highlights is the two-day ascent of Acatenango Volcano, offering unforgettable views of the active Fuego Volcano. In northern Guatemala, you'll explore the colorful island town of Flores and the magnificent Maya ruins of Tikal. The ultimate highlight is a five-day expedition through the jungle to El Mirador, one of the largest and most important Maya cities of the Preclassic period.

Day 1: Guatemala-City – Antigua

Welcome to Guatemala! Upon arrival at Guatemala City Airport, you will be met by your driver and comfortably transferred to your hotel in Antigua. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to relax or explore the surroundings independently.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Antigua, Private transfer to the hotel

Day 2: Lake Atitlán

Today you will enjoy a full-day excursion to the breathtaking Lake Atitlán. After an early drive to Panajachel, a combination of kayaking and hiking awaits along the lake's picturesque shoreline villages. Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding volcanoes and experience the relaxed atmosphere of the indigenous communities living around the lake. In the evening, return to Antigua.

Hike: Easy to moderate, approx. 1.5-2 hrs, approx. 7 km, 220 m ascent and descent, highest point 1,709 m, on paved roads and unpaved trails.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Antigua (Breakfast, Lunch), Transfers, Kayaking tour, Hike, Boat rides

Day 3: Antigua

Together with your guide, discover Antigua's most important sights today. During a guided walking tour, learn about the history of Guatemala's former colonial capital while visiting churches, monasteries, and historic landmarks. In the evening, receive a briefing for tomorrow's volcano ascent.

Walking tour: Easy, approx. 4 hrs, approx. 10 km, no elevation gain/loss, highest point 1,530 m, on paved roads.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Antigua (Breakfast), Guided city tour

Day 4: Acatenango

Today marks the beginning of your Acatenango Volcano ascent. After a transfer to the trailhead, the hike passes through several vegetation zones before reaching the base camp at approximately 3,750 meters. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of Guatemala's volcanic landscapes and highlands. In the evening, relax in the unique atmosphere of the camp high above the clouds and prepare for the summit climb the following morning.

Hike: Challenging, approx. 8 hrs, approx. 6.5 km, 1,250 m ascent, highest point 3,750 m, on unpaved trails.

Services: Overnight stay in a tent at Acatenango Basecamp (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner), Transfer, Guided hike

Day 5: Acatenango – Antigua

Early in the morning, continue the final ascent to the summit of Acatenango. At nearly 4,000 meters, enjoy spectacular 360° panoramic views across the Guatemalan highlands. A particular highlight is the direct view of the active Fuego Volcano, whose regular eruptions create an unforgettable natural spectacle. After spending time at the summit, descend and return to Antigua.

Hike: Challenging, approx. 4 hrs, approx. 10 km, 226 m ascent, 1,556 m descent, highest point 3,976 m, on unpaved trails.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Antigua (Breakfast), Guided hike, Transfer to Antigua

Day 6: Antigua – Flores

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your domestic flight to Flores in northern Guatemala. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walk through the charming island town with its colorful houses and beautiful views of Lake Petén Itzá.

Walking tour: Easy, approx. 3 hrs, approx. 9 km, no elevation gain/loss, highest point 125 m, on paved roads.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Flores (Breakfast), Airport transfer, Domestic flight to Flores, City tour

Day 7: Flores – Tikal – Flores

Today you will visit the famous Tikal National Park. During a guided tour, discover the impressive temples, palaces, and plazas of one of the most important Maya sites in Central America. At the same time, experience the rich wildlife and vegetation of the tropical rainforest before returning to Flores in the afternoon.

Walking tour: Easy, approx. 3 hrs, approx. 7 km, no elevation gain/loss, highest point 350 m.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Flores (Breakfast), Transfers, Guided tour of Tikal

Day 8: Flores

Your five-day expedition to El Mirador begins today. After a transfer to Carmelita, start the first trekking stage through dense Maya jungle to Camp El Nacimiento. Along the way, you may encounter exotic wildlife and gain fascinating insights into the unique ecosystem of the Maya Biosphere Reserve.

Hike: Moderate, approx. 7 hrs, approx. 18 km, no elevation gain/loss, highest point 300 m, on unpaved jungle trails.

Services: Overnight stay in a tent at Camp El Nacimiento (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner), Transfer, Guided jungle trek

Day 9: Flores – El Mirador

Today's expedition takes you deeper into the jungle. After several hours of trekking, arrive at Camp El Mirador near the legendary Maya city. The remote location and enormous scale of this archaeological site make it one of the highlights of the journey.

Hike: Moderate, approx. 8 hrs, approx. 20 km, no elevation gain/loss, highest point 300 m, on unpaved jungle trails.

Services: Overnight stay in a tent at Camp El Mirador (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner), Guided jungle trek

Day 10: El Mirador

Today you will explore the immense ruins of El Mirador in detail. Particularly impressive is the monumental La Danta Pyramid, one of the largest structures of the ancient world. Learn more about the history and significance of this remarkable Maya metropolis during your visit.

Hike: Easy, approx. 7 hrs, approx. 12 km, no elevation gain/loss, highest point 300 m, on unpaved trails.

Services: Overnight stay in a tent at Camp El Mirador (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner), Guided exploration of El Mirador

Day 11: El Mirador – Flores

After breakfast, begin the return trek through the tropical rainforest to Camp El Nacimiento. Enjoy the unique atmosphere of the jungle one last time and keep an eye out for the region's diverse wildlife.

Hike: Moderate, approx. 8 hrs, approx. 20 km, no elevation gain/loss, highest point 300 m, on unpaved jungle trails.

Services: Overnight stay in a tent at Camp El Nacimiento (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner), Guided jungle trek

Day 12: Flores

On the final stage of the expedition, hike back to Carmelita. After lunch, transfer to Flores. The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax and reflect on the experiences of the past days.

Hike: Easy, approx. 7 hrs, approx. 12 km, no elevation gain/loss, highest point 300 m, on unpaved trails.

Services: Overnight stay in a hotel in Flores (Breakfast, Lunch), Guided jungle trek, Transfer to Flores

Optional: Farewell dinner with the group

Day 13: Flores – Guatemala City

Your journey through Guatemala comes to an end with countless unforgettable memories. After a transfer to Flores Airport, take your domestic flight to Guatemala City, where you will connect with your international departure or continue your travels independently.

Services: Private transfer to Flores Airport, Domestic flight to Guatemala City


What is included?

Transfer

Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles

Domestic flights: Guatemala City - Flores and Flores - Guatemala City

Tour guide

Accompanied by qualified, English-speaking guides

Accommodation

Accommodation in carefully selected hotels and comfortable tents as outlined in the itinerary

Meals

Meals as indicated in the itinerary

Entrance fees and activities

All excursions and entrance fees listed in the itinerary.

24/7 availability

We are available around the clock if you have any questions!

Plan your dream holiday

Don't miss the chance to make your dream trip a reality! Contact our experienced travel consultants now and let them inspire and advise you for your trip.

Your travel expert

Exclusive additions

  • International flights
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Optional excursions and services

This might also interest you

Costa Rica Travel

Experience unforgettable Costa Rica holidays - from lush rainforests to beautiful beaches and fascinating wildlife!

Costa Rica holidays

El Salvador Travel

Discover El Salvador holidays - fascinating volcanoes, colonial cities and unspoilt beaches in a country full of surprises!

El Salvador holidays

Colombia Travel

Experience Colombia holidays - from colonial cities and the coffee region to unspoilt beaches and vibrant culture!

Colombia holidays

All important travel information

Visit our travel information page and discover everything you need to know for your upcoming trip to Central America. Here you will find details on the best time to travel, information on time changes and recommendations for important health precautions that you should take before your departure.

We have summarised all the necessary information for you so that your stay in Central America is pleasant and smooth. You can also find out more about local customs, safety advice and tips for an authentic and unforgettable stay.

Travel information Central America