The Best of guatemala
Let’s immerse ourselves in the heart of Central America on a journey through Guatemala. We'll settle into a cozy, locally-owned apartment in Antigua, where pastel-painted buildings, dramatic volcano backdrops, and cobblestone streets set the stage for a truly authentic experience. With its UNESCO World Heritage charm and coffee-scented air, Antigua is the perfect base for exploring local markets, indulging in Guatemalan cuisine, and wandering at our own pace. We’ll be sure to see the vibrant market stalls of nearby Chichicastenango, where traditional textiles and colorful wares reflect centuries of Mayan craftsmanship.
We’ll visit the lush jungles of northern Guatemala, where we’ll explore the island town of Flores, nestled in the serene Lake Petén Itzá, before setting off for a day at Tikal, one of the most iconic Maya archaeological sites in the world. Towering pyramids rise above the jungle canopy, echoing with the calls of howler monkeys and the whispers of ancient civilizations. Then it’s off to the highlands of Lake Atitlán, a crater lake surrounded by volcanic peaks and dotted with Indigenous villages, each with its own unique character and traditions. Along the way, there’ll be plenty of free time to relax, explore, and uncover Guatemala’s many secrets — how such a richly layered, color-splashed, lava-flowing, jungle-clad country remains so undiscovered is a mystery that only adds to its magic.
not a true group tour
This isn’t your typical group tour — it’s a relaxed, go-with-the-flow adventure shaped by the rhythms of local life. I’ll be living in Guatemala for a month, settling into daily routines like shopping at neighborhood markets, sipping coffee in the town square, discovering local restaurants, joining in traditional festivals, and swaying in a hammock beneath the silhouette of a volcano. Along the way, I’ll be visiting incredible spots like Lake Atitlán, Flores, and Tikal — but the timing of those trips will depend on the interest and availability of the friends who decide to join me.
Whether you come for a week, two, or more, we’ll share in authentic experiences and explore beautiful places. No strict schedule most days, no big tour buses — just real travel, good company, and the magic of Guatemala.
Where will you be & when?
Antigua: October 2nd -October 15th
I’ve rented a great apartment near the heart of the city. Currently, on the dates listed, the loft area with three beds and a private bathroom is available! Renting the loft is $75 a day for one person; for two people it’s $105 per night.
Alternatively, I can coordinate a private apartment or hotel stay for you!
Activity options: ATV tours, weaving classes, cooking classes, coffee and chocolate tours, walking tours of Antigua and day tours departing from town.
I have two people joining for three nights (October 1-4). During this segment of the trip so the loft isn’t available on those dates.
If you’re interested in seeing Flores and Tikal, the ideal dates to do that would be October 11th-14th.
Lake Atitlan: October 15th-22nd
I’ve rented a cute little apartment for five nights in Panajachel. While my apartment will be full, there are others available in the same building! There are also private rooms with private baths available as well. There are beautiful nearby hotels too.
The last two evenings on the lake will be spent at a gorgeous cliffside lodge. They still have rooms available for those who would like to join.
Planned activities: A full day tour of the Guatemalan Highlands and hot springs, a trip to the market town of Chichicastenango, kayaking on the lake, local boat taxis to the indigenous villages along the lakes shore, and exploring the town of Panajachel.
I have one person confirmed to join this section of the trip. Join us!
Antigua: October 22nd - November 2
On the 22nd I will return to my apartment in Antigua. The loft will only be available on these dates for a solo female traveler willing to share a room with another solo traveler. I can easily book a private apartment or hotel for you though! There are three hotels I would highly recommend.
These dates remain very flexible and there are a wealth of activities available.
On November 1st and 2nd we’ll get to take part in the Dia de Muertos celebrations!
Other potential activities: Visit nearby villages, catacomb visit, volcano hike, chocolate workshop, street food tour, horseback riding, and bicycle tours.
I have one person joining me for this section of the trip and another considering joining.
How much will it cost?
That’s totally up to you! The cost of the trip will depend on how much time you’d like to spend in Guatemala and which adventures you want to join me for — whether that’s just a week relaxing in Antigua, a a week exploring Lake Atitlán, or tagging along to the jungle ruins of Tikal. The goal is to create a travel experience that fits our little group. So if you're curious, excited, or even just daydreaming about tropical views and colorful markets, reach out! Let’s chat about what you’d like your time in Guatemala to look like and start planning something fun (and totally un-tour-like).