10 day itinerary
Guatemala
Personalized with:Budget friendly, backpackers, hostels, not touristic, authentic culture
Itinerary
Guatemala is a treasure trove of culture, history, and stunning landscapes, and it’s perfect for a backpacker’s adventure. Here’s a 10-day itinerary that balances authentic experiences with budget-friendly options. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Guatemala City
- Morning: Arrive in Guatemala City. Check into a budget-friendly hostel like or .
- Afternoon: Explore the historic center. Visit the and . Grab lunch at a local eatery—try some pepian (a traditional stew).
- Evening: Head to for dinner. Check out for some local music or art events.
Day 2: Antigua
- Morning: Take a chicken bus to Antigua (about 1 hour). Check into a hostel like or .
- Afternoon: Wander the cobblestone streets, visit the , and explore the local markets. Don’t miss the for some unique souvenirs.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local comedor (small eatery) and try kak'ik (a traditional turkey soup).
Day 3: Volcano Hike
- Morning: Join a budget-friendly group hike to . It’s a moderate hike and you can roast marshmallows over the volcanic heat!
- Afternoon: Return to Antigua and relax. Grab a coffee at one of the many charming cafes.
- Evening: Explore the nightlife in Antigua. Check out for live music and a laid-back vibe.
Day 4:
- Morning: Take a shuttle to (about 3 hours). Stay in at a hostel like Hostal La Iguana Perdida.
- Afternoon: Explore San Pedro. Hike up to for stunning views of the lake at sunset.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some tacos de pescado (fish tacos) by the lakeside.
Day 5: Explore
- Morning: Take a boat to . Explore the local art scene and visit a weaving cooperative.
- Afternoon: Head to to visit the Maximon shrine and learn about local traditions.
- Evening: Return to San Pedro. Enjoy a quiet evening by the lake, perhaps with a book or some local music.
Day 6: Market
- Morning: Take an early bus to (about 1.5 hours). Explore the famous market, which is vibrant on Thursdays and Sundays.
- Afternoon: Visit the and the surrounding area. Try some local street food—tamales are a must!
- Evening: Return to San Pedro for a relaxing evening.
Day 7: Quetzaltenango (Xela)
- Morning: Travel to Quetzaltenango (Xela) by bus (about 2.5 hours). Check into a hostel like .
- Afternoon: Explore the city. Visit the and the .
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local eatery. Try paches (potato tamales) for a local twist.
Day 8: Hot Springs and Culture
- Morning: Take a trip to , natural hot springs about 30 minutes from Xela. Relax and soak in the warm waters.
- Afternoon: Return to Xela and visit a local coffee farm for a tour and tasting.
- Evening: Check out a local cultural event or live music in Xela.
Day 9: Tikal
- Morning: Travel to (about 8 hours by bus, so start early!). Check into a hostel like .
- Afternoon: Explore the charming island town of . Stroll along the lake and enjoy the sunset.
- Evening: Have dinner at a local restaurant. Try some ceviche for a refreshing treat.
Day 10: Tikal Ruins
- Morning: Take an early bus to (about 1 hour). Spend the day exploring the ancient Mayan ruins. Don’t miss the !
- Afternoon: Continue exploring the park. Keep an eye out for wildlife—monkeys and toucans are common!
- Evening: Return to for your last dinner in Guatemala. Celebrate with a nice meal and reflect on your adventures!
Tips for Your Trip:
- Transportation: Chicken buses are the most budget-friendly way to travel between towns. They’re an experience in themselves!
- Food: Street food is delicious and cheap. Don’t hesitate to try local dishes.
- Culture: Engage with locals, learn a few Spanish phrases, and be respectful of customs and traditions.
This itinerary should give you a fantastic mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation while keeping it budget-friendly. Enjoy your trip to Guatemala! 🌍✈️