2 Weeks in Guatemala: Itinerary for Adventurers
Experience the ultimate 2 week Guatemala itinerary for adventurers. Explore volcanoes, jungles, and Mayan ruins at Tikal and Yaxha, the colonial city of Antigua, and beautiful Lake Atitlan.
Tucked between Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador Guatemala is a gem in Central America! Guatemala is easy to fall in love with; it’s beautiful, colorful, filled with ancient history, and offers a multitude of adventures for nature lovers. In this 2 week Guatemala itinerary, you’ll hike, kayak, and explore Mayan ruins at Yaxha and Tikal National Park.
2 Week Guatemala Itinerary:
After going round and round with different itinerary routes, this is how I planned our trip to Guatemala. You may choose to cherry pick destinations based on your interests or strictly follow this itinerary…either way I hope you book the trip and experience all Guatemala has to offer!
Day 1: Arrive in Guatemala City & Travel to Flores Island (Isla de Flores)
The first day of this Guatemala itinerary is a total travel day. Not ideal, but in order to maximize time, I recommend arriving at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City and booking a same day flight to Flores if possible.
Personally, I did not want to spend time in Guatemala City and therefore chose to make it a long travel day and continue onward to Flores. Flores is a great first stop and is the gateway to the ancient ruins of Tikal and Yaxha.
I recommend an early morning or midday flight arrival in Guatemala City so you have time to connect to Flores. If that’s not possible, you may consider spending a night in Guatemala City.
Travel To Flores Island
Transportation Options
Domestic Flight: Avianca and TAG Airlines fly nonstop between Guatemala City and Flores (Mundo Maya International Airport). It’s a quick and easy flight, approximately 1 hour.
From the airport, it takes approximately 10 minutes to drive to Flores Island.
Bus Option: If you prefer ground transport, there are overnight buses (coach and luxury options) available, which take about 9-10 hours. If you are a good sleeper, this option will save you money but personally, I find it hard to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the day after overnight transportation.
Car Rental in Flores
Flores is a launching point for visiting the Guatemalan jungle and we wanted to rent a car to have the freedom to explore on our own. On average, you can rent a standard car for $20-30/USD per day.
It’s not necessary to rent a car, there are plenty of options for transport but it made sense for us. The rental process was easy, all of the major car rental companies have counters within the airport terminal. We picked up our car upon arrival and drove 10 minutes to our hotel on Flores Island.
Where to Stay in Flores Island
Flores Island is on Lake Petén Itzá, and is known for its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. I loved strolling around the charming town and colorful streets!
Accommodations range from hostels, to guesthouses, to boutique hotels with pools and lake views. I recommend either Hotel Isla de Flores or Hotel Casona de La Isla.
Day 2: Explore Flores Island – Gateway to Guatemala’s Ancient Ruins
Most people visiting Tikal National Park stay in Flores as a base for their exploration. However, Flores and the surrounding area offer a variety of activities and experiences that make it a destination in its own right.
Here are the Best Things to Do for One Day in Flores:
🌺 Explore the Island of Flores on foot
🌺 Take a Boat Tour on Lake Petén Itzá
🌺 Eat at a Lakefront Restaurant
🌺 Jorge’s Rope Swing
🌺 Enjoy Sunset Views
For the full itinerary, click here 🌺
Day 3: Yaxha National Park – An Off the Beaten Path Mayan Gem
Deep in the dense jungles of northern Guatemala and perched between two lakes, Yaxha National Park offers an unforgettable blend of history, adventure, and nature.
Less crowded and smaller than its famous neighbor Tikal, Yaxha provides visitors with a peaceful atmosphere and stunning views from ancient temple tops over the Yaxha Lagoon.
How to Get to Yaxha National Park
Getting to Yaxha National Park is an adventure in itself, beginning from the town of Flores, Guatemala. The park is located east of Flores, and the drive takes roughly 1.5 hours. After turning off the main highway, you will continue on a long bumpy dirt road until you arrive at the visitor’s center.
To reach Yaxha, you have a few options:
Private Transport or Rental Car
Renting a car or hiring a private driver from Flores allows flexibility and convenience, particularly if you want to explore the park at your own pace. From our experience, this was an easy option to travel to Yaxha.
Guided Tour
Many travelers choose a guided day tour from Flores to Yaxha. These tours usually include transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide who provides valuable context on Yaxha’s history and significance.
Tours can often be booked through hotels or local tour operators. If you want to relax and travel hassle free, this is the way to go.
Public Transportation
Unfortunately, there is not a direct bus route from Flores to Yaxha. This option would require a bus and a taxi to get to Yaxha, which is less convenient and requires more time and planning.
If you are on the fence, just rent a car and travel independently! I found cars for rent as low as $25/day at Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores.
Things to See & Do at Yaxha National Park
Yaxha is less visited than its famous neighbor, Tikal National Park…but it’s just as beautiful! If you want less crowds then add Yaxha to your itinerary.
A significant Mayan city in its own right, Yaxha is home to over 500 structures, including temples, plazas, and causeways that connect the ruins across the landscape. From wildlife encounters to tranquil lakeside views, a day in Yaxha is sure to be memorable!
Here are the Best Things to Do in Yaxha:
📍Explore Yaxha’s Ruins and Plazas
📍Astronomical Complex
📍Palace Ball Court
📍Climb Temple 216 for Lake and Jungle Views
📍Visit the Nearby Topoxté Island
📍Look for Wildlife in the Jungle
Tips and Things to Know for Visiting Yaxha National Park
Entrance Fee & Hours
Yaxha costs 80 Quetzals (Q) entry fee for foreigners. The site is open from 8:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m. daily.
Plan for a Full Day
Exploring Yaxha can take at least three hours, and more time allows for a relaxed pace. Plus a lengthy drive to and from and you’ve got yourself a full day trip.
Remember to bring plenty of water, snacks, insect repellent, and sun protection. And last but not least, grab a park map at the entrance.
Hire a Guide for Context
Hiring a guide to visit Yaxha is not necessary, but local guides can share insights on Maya history and cultural significance, which enhances the experience. If you plan to visit Topoxté Island make sure to hire a guide ahead of time.
There are plenty of tour operators in Flores where you can book a guided tour for Yaxha, Topoxté Island, or both.
Respect the Environment
Yaxha is a protected area with fragile ecosystems. As always, be mindful of your impact, stick to trails, and avoid leaving any waste behind.
Where to Stay Near Yaxha National Park
Due to its remote location, there are limited accommodation options near Yaxha. It’s totally feasible to make Flores your home base when visiting the parks if you have a car to travel back and forth.
We stayed in Flores the day prior to visiting Yaxha at Hotel Casona de La Isla and booked a hotel in Tikal National Park (Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal) for the night after visiting Yaxha. This made the most sense for us because we planned to visit Tikal the following day.
We loved the Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal. It’s a beautiful jungle ecolodge within Tikal National Park. It’s approximately a 1.5 hour drive from Yaxha to the hotel, which is about the same travel time from Yaxha back to Flores Island.
🇬🇹 Before You Choose Which Ruins to Visit 👉🏼 Compare Tikal & Yaxha
Day 4: Explore the Mystical Mayan Ruins of Tikal National Park
Visiting Tikal National Park was a highlight of my trip to Guatemala! As one of the most significant Maya archaeological sites in the world, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts towering temples, sprawling plazas, and ancient ruins dating back over a thousand years.
Need to Know:
Tikal National Park is open from 6:00am to 5:00pm.
Adult tickets (foreigners) = 150 Q (approximately $20 USD) and children under 12 are free.
Tickets purchased after 3:00pm are also valid for the next day.
How to Get to Tikal National Park
Despite being deep in the jungle of northern Guatemala, getting to Tikal is relatively easy. There is only one road leading to the park making it nearly impossible to get lost.
The most common route is from Flores (the closest city to Tikal), about an hour and 15 minutes away. From Flores, you can take a shuttle bus, tour, private taxi, or rental car to the park entrance.
From Guatemala City, it’s a short one hour flight into Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores and then you must travel one hour and 15 minutes into the park.
Alternatively, if you are driving to Tikal from Yaxha like we did, it takes approximately 1.5 hours and only requires two right turns…super easy!
If you’re coming from Belize, you will cross the border at Melchor de Mencos and continue to Tikal by shuttle or car.
Things to See at Tikal National Park
The impressive ruins scattered throughout the dense jungle set the scene for a fun day exploring, climbing pyramids, and connecting with nature.
Here are the Best Things to See in Tikal:
📍Temple IV
📍The Grand Plaza – The Heart of Tikal
📍Temple V
📍The Lost World (Mundo Perdido)
📍Look for Wildlife in the Jungle
Tips for Visiting Tikal National Park
Arrive Early for the Best Experience
Tikal is most magical in the early morning when the jungle is alive with the sounds of howler monkeys and tropical birds. The park opens at 6:00 am, but if you want a truly unforgettable experience, consider booking a sunrise tour.
Wear Comfortable Clothing and Shoes
Exploring Tikal involves a lot of walking and occasional stairs if you choose to climb the temples. The jungle can be humid so light and breathable clothing are a must since you will be outside all day.
Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks
There are limited food and drink options inside the park, so bring a reusable water bottle and snacks to keep you energized. If you don’t have your own, make sure to buy supplies in Flores before heading to Tikal.
Pack Insect Repellent and Sunscreen
Tikal is located in the middle of a dense jungle, meaning mosquitoes—especially in the rainy season. Apply bug spray with DEET and wear long sleeves if you’re particularly sensitive. Also, don’t forget sunscreen, as parts of the park are exposed to the sun.
Personally, we didn’t have any issues with bugs when we visited in March but I suppose we were lucky!
Hire a Guide for a Deeper Experience
While it’s possible to explore Tikal on your own, hiring a local guide is highly recommended for an enriched experience. Many tours can be booked in advance from Flores or at the park entrance.
We opted to explore without a guide and loved the ability to go at our own pace however, we missed out on historical insights and stories that a guide would have provided.
Prepare for Limited Cell Service
Tikal is a remote jungle site, and cell service is unreliable at best. Download any maps or information you need ahead of time and grab a site map at the park entrance.
Respect the Ruins and Wildlife
Tikal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important part of Maya history. Be respectful when exploring the ruins. Avoid climbing restricted areas, don’t touch ancient carvings, and never leave trash behind.
Also, keep a respectful distance from wildlife—this is their home, and observing them from afar ensures both their safety and yours.
Consider Staying Overnight Nearby
My best advice is to consider staying overnight at one of the lodges near the park entrance. This allows you to visit during the cooler early morning and evening hours without rushing back to Flores the same day.
Where to Stay Near Tikal National Park
Jungle Lodges Near Tikal (Closest to the Park Entrance)
If you want to be as close as possible to the ruins, staying at one of the jungle lodges near the park entrance is the best option. These lodges offer a unique experience surrounded by nature and are all within walking distance of Tikal.
🌿 Jungle Lodge Tikal – This eco-hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, a pool, and an on-site restaurant. It’s only a few minutes from the park entrance, making it ideal for getting an early start in the park. We loved our stay here!
🌿 Hotel Jaguar Inn Tikal – A more budget-friendly option with simple bungalows, tents & camping just a 10 minute walk to the ruins.
🌿 Hotel Tikal Inn – Another great choice with comfortable rooms, a pool, and sunrise/sunset tours.
Flores (Budget-Friendly & More Amenities)
If you prefer more dining options, nightlife, and budget-friendly stays, Flores is the best place to base yourself. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Tikal, and there are plenty of shuttle services running daily.
I recommend either Hotel Isla de Flores or Hotel Casona de La Isla.
El Remate (A Quiet Lakeside Alternative)
For those who want to stay in nature but avoid the higher prices of jungle lodges, El Remate is a great option. This small town sits on the shores of Lake Petén Itzá, about halfway between Flores and Tikal (45 minute drive).
Can’t decide between Tikal or Yaxha? 👉🏼 Click here to compare
Day 5-8: Explore Antigua – Volcano Hikes, Cafes, and Colonial Charm
Our next destination, Antigua, is a charming colonial city with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and stunning volcano views.
Once the capital of Guatemala, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is now a favorite among adventure seekers, photographers, coffee lovers and foodies. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a sunny courtyard, exploring centuries-old ruins, or hiking up a volcano at sunrise, Antigua has so much to offer. I could have easily stayed a few extra days here!
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the coffee is AMAZING!
How to Get to Antigua
From Guatemala City:
Antigua is located about 25 miles from Guatemala City, and the drive usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. The most convenient way to get there from Guatemala City is by shuttle, private transfer, or Uber/taxi from La Aurora International Airport.
Shared shuttles are widely available and can be booked in advance or at the airport. You might even check with your accommodation to see if they offer airport transportation. If you’re arriving late at night, a private transfer is the safest and most comfortable option.
We booked an Uber from the airport and found it to be easy and very affordable to get to Antigua.
From Flores (Tikal and Yaxha National Park):
To get to Antigua from Flores, you have two main options: by bus or by plane.
The overnight luxury buses (like Linea Dorada or ADN) offer a comfortable, budget-friendly option and take around 10–11 hours, arriving in Guatemala City early the next morning. From there, it’s another 1-1.5 hours to Antigua by Uber/taxi or a shuttle.
If you prefer to fly as we did, you can book a short domestic flight from Flores (Mundo Maya International Airport) to Guatemala City, which takes about 1 hour, and then travel onward to Antigua by Uber/taxi or a shuttle.
Things to Do in Antigua
Here are the best things to do in Antigua for those who love adventure, hiking, coffee, and culture:
🌋 Hike the Pacaya Volcano
🌋 Overnight Acatenango Volcano Trek
🌋 Explore Antigua’s Historic Ruins and Churches
🌋 Wander Through and Shop the Colorful Markets
🌋 Sip Your Way Through Antigua’s Cafe Scene
🌋 Take a Coffee Farm Tour
🌋 Visit the Cerro de la Cruz (Cross on the Hill) Viewpoint
🌋 Check out Hobbitenango
🌋 Stroll through Parque Central
🌋 Visit a Rooftop Cafe for a view
Read my full blog post about The Best Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala 🌋
Where to Stay in Antigua
Antigua is filled with dreamy boutique hotels; lush gardens, colonial buildings with courtyards, and rooftops with volcano views which make your stay in Antigua a memorable experience.
You can easily find a plethora of hotels in Antigua with excellent ratings for under $100/per night and upscale hotels for around $200/night.
We stayed at Meson Panza Verde Hotel and loved it. Our room was unique with a small private courtyard, there was an amazing onsite restaurant, and we loved hanging out on the rooftop terrace.
The central historic center is generally a good place to base yourself however, Antigua is somewhat small and most hotels are clustered in walkable areas.
If you want an experience closer to nature, check out the Earth Lodge; it’s a treehouse resort on 14 acres of land tucked in the hills above Antigua. They offer daily yoga classes, hiking, Shaman led Mayan ceremonies, ATV tours, a Mayan Temazcal sauna and ice bath, and farm-to-table food.
You can even visit the Earth Lodge on a day pass and enjoy all of the wellness amenities and unplug from the city. This is definitely on my list of things to do next time I travel to Antigua!
Day 9-13: Discover Lake Atitlan (Lago de Atitlán) – Kayaking, Cliff Jumping, and Village Hopping
Next up, we are traveling to one of the most beautiful lakes I have ever seen, Lake Atitlan! Framed by lush mountains, three volcanoes, and colorful Mayan villages, Lake Atitlan holds a special place in my heart. For the Indigenous Maya communities, the lake isn’t just a natural wonder but a place of deep spiritual and cultural significance.
It’s the perfect place to unwind at the end of the trip and reconnect with nature. Whether you want to lean into relaxation and wellness or stay active exploring, Lake Atitlan will not disappoint.
How to Get to Lake Atitlan
The most common way to reach Lake Atitlan is from either Antigua or Guatemala City. I must warn you, the drive is scenic and beautiful BUT the roads are winding and hilly. If you are prone to motion sickness, come prepared. I was definitely not expecting it.
From Antigua, the drive takes about 2.5 to 3 hours. Out of convenience, we booked an Uber which was comfortable and surprisingly very well priced for the long drive. Alternatively, there are tourist shuttles, buses, and minivan options.
From Guatemala City, the journey is a bit longer (around 3.5 to 4 hours) and it’s best to arrange a private transfer or shuttle, especially if you’re arriving at the airport.
How to Get Around Lake Atitlan by Boat from Panajachel
Most travelers arrive in Panajachel, the main gateway town on the lake. This is where you can catch a boat or water taxi (lancha) to reach the other lakeside villages.
To travel across Lake Atitlan from Panajachel, head to the main public dock near the waterfront, you can’t miss it. From there, the water taxis depart frequently to the other lakeside villages, including San Pedro, San Marcos, Santa Cruz, San Juan, and Santiago Atitlan.
The water taxis don’t run on a strict schedule, they leave once there are enough passengers, usually every 20–30 minutes throughout the day. Simply go to the dock, tell the boat crew your destination, and pay the fare when you board or disembark.
If you’re traveling early in the morning or after dark, it’s best to arrange a private boat in advance through your hotel or accommodation from the nearest dock.
Fair warning…the boat ride can be very choppy and the benches on the boat will not absorb the bounce. Needless to say, after a near bout of car sickness from the car ride to the lake followed by a choppy boat ride I was feeling a bit scrambled by the time we arrived at our destination.
You will need a water taxi or tuk tuk to travel between villages across the lake but once you get there, the villages are mostly walkable in our experience. However, there is always a tuk tuk around for hire if you need a ride.
Things to Do in Lake Atitlan
Here is a list of the best things to do in Lake Atitlan:
🇬🇹 Explore the Villages Around Lake Atitlan: Day trip around the lake by boat checking out the different village vibes. My favorite is San Marcos!
🇬🇹 Hike to Indian Nose for Sunrise Views: There’s no better view of the sunrise over the lake and the distant volcanoes erupting. Absolutely worth the early wake up call!
🇬🇹 Unwind with a Temazcal (Mayan Sauna): Treat yourself to wellness and relaxation.
🇬🇹 Kayak or Paddleboard Across the Lake : Rent a kayak or paddle board in the lakeside towns around Lake Atitlán. Luckily, our accommodation offered kayaks for free!
🇬🇹 Visit Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve: This is the spot to cliff jump in San Marcos.
🇬🇹 Hike San Pedro Volcano: A challenging 5 mile round trip hike to summit with 360 degree views.
🇬🇹 Take a Yoga or Meditation Class: Recharge and refresh in a beautiful environment.
🇬🇹 Shop for Handcrafted Textiles and Art: The perfect souvenir or gift to bring home.
🇬🇹 Take a Scenic Boat Tour: The best way to check out the lake and all of the villages.
If you want to know more, check out my blog where I cover this list in greater detail ✨
Where to Stay in Lake Atitlan
Lake Atitlan has a wide range of accommodations. There are 11 villages and towns surrounding Lake Atitlan each with its own vibe, culture, and charm.
Consider if you want a luxury experience, somewhere lively with the opportunity to mingle with other travelers, or something that feels like a nature retreat.
Here are a few of the most popular places to stay on the lake:
- San Marcos La Laguna – Ideal for wellness retreats and peaceful escapes.
- San Pedro – Popular with backpackers, offering budget options and a social scene.
- Santa Cruz – Quiet, perfect for off-the-grid stays and stunning lake views.
- San Juan – Artistic and culturally rich.
- Panajachel – Main transport hub and gateway to the lake with the largest variety of hotels, restaurants, transportation, and offers the most convenience and amenities.
Whether you’re after luxury, eco-lodges, or budget hostels, there’s something for every traveler around the lake. Make sure to check out Airbnb as well. We stayed in two different Airbnbs in the San Marcos area and absolutely loved it.
A few of my favorite recommendations for Lake Atitlan:
✨ Find or bring a hammock.
✨ Shop in the local markets to support local communities.
✨ Try something new, like a meditation class or cacao ceremony.
✨ Extend your stay 😂 just kidding…but not really.
✨ Get up early to watch the early morning volcano eruption.
Day 14: Travel Back to Guatemala City Airport and Fly Home
All good things must come to an end. Our journey from Lake Atitlan back to the airport required a tuk tuk ride to the boat dock, followed by a boat ride across the lake to the main dock located in Panajachel and finally, a shuttle to the airport.
Plan for extra time to accommodate all of the steps. You may even consider spending the night near the airport depending on your flight time.
Frequently Asked Questions about Traveling to Guatemala
Is Guatemala safe?
Yes, Guatemala is generally safe for travelers, especially in popular areas like Lake Atitlan, Antigua, and Tikal. These regions are generally well-trodden, have a strong tourism infrastructure, and are considered relatively safe.
That said, Guatemala does face issues like poverty, petty crime, and occasional political unrest, so it’s important to stay alert and take common-sense safety measures.
Is 2 weeks enough in Guatemala?
Yes, two weeks is a great amount of time to explore Guatemala’s highlights without feeling rushed. You can easily visit Antigua, Lake Atitlan, Tikal, and perhaps add in destinations like Semuc Champey or Lanquín for nature and adventure.
Within two weeks, you’ll have time to experience a mix of culture, history, outdoor activities, and relaxation—while still leaving room for spontaneous discoveries.
When is the best time to go to Guatemala?
The best time to visit Guatemala is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period offers the most sunshine and clear skies—perfect for exploring ruins, hiking volcanoes, and enjoying lake views.
However, the wet season (May to October) has its perks too, with lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Rain usually falls in the afternoon, leaving mornings clear for adventure. If you’re planning to visit highland regions like Lake Atitlan or Antigua, both seasons are manageable with the right packing and planning.
After two weeks in Guatemala it became one of my favorite countries! For a relatively small country, I was very impressed with what it offered in terms of experiences, natural beauty, and rich culture.
It was so easy to spend two weeks in Guatemala, there’s no shortage of activities or beautiful places. This itinerary will hopefully give you a solid start to planning an epic adventure!
✨ I highly recommend combining a trip to Guatemala with neighboring Belize! With nonstop and frequent flights between the two countries, it’s an easy way to extend your trip and see so many incredible sites.
✨ Lastly, if you are traveling onward to South America, here are all my recommendations for Peru – one of my other favorite countries! 🇵🇪
If you want to extend your trip in Guatemala, consider adding these places to your itinerary:
- Semuc Champey
- Sitio Arqueológico Iximche
- Quetzaltenango (Xela)
- Chichicastenango Market
- Biotopo del Quetzal
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