10 day itinerary for Guatemala

Itinerary

Guatemala is a treasure trove of adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes. With your focus on a merchandise trip and adventure, I’ve crafted an exciting 10-day itinerary that balances exploration, cultural immersion, and some thrilling activities. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Guatemala City

• Morning: Arrive at La Aurora International Airport. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to the historic center of Guatemala City. Visit the National Palace and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Don’t forget to grab a bite at a local café!
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional dishes like Pepián or Kak'ik.

## Day 2: Antigua Guatemala

• Morning: Travel to Antigua (about 1 hour from Guatemala City). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore the cobblestone streets, visit the Santa Catalina Arch, and check out the local artisan markets for some unique merchandise.
• Evening: Enjoy a sunset view from Cerro de la Cruz, followed by dinner at a rooftop restaurant.

## Day 3: Volcano Hike

• All ## Day: Get ready for an adventure! Hike up Pacaya Volcano. It’s an active volcano, and you might even see some lava! Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the top.
• Evening: Return to Antigua and relax. Treat yourself to a massage or spa treatment to unwind after the hike.

## Day 4: Lake Atitlán

• Morning: Depart for Lake Atitlán (about 2.5 hours). Check into a lakeside hotel.
• Afternoon: Take a boat tour to visit some of the lakeside villages like San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlán. Explore local crafts and textiles.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner with a view of the lake. Try some fresh fish from the lake!

## Day 5: Adventure at Lake Atitlán

• Morning: Go kayaking or paddleboarding on Lake Atitlán. The views of the surrounding volcanoes are breathtaking!
• Afternoon: Visit a coffee plantation for a tour and tasting. Learn about the coffee-making process and pick up some merchandise to take home.
• Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore the nightlife in Panajachel.

## Day 6: Chichicastenango Market

• Morning: Head to Chichicastenango (about 1.5 hours) for the famous market. It’s a vibrant place to shop for textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
• Afternoon: Visit the Santo Tomás Church and the surrounding area. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery.
• Evening: Return to Lake Atitlán for a peaceful evening by the water.

## Day 7: Tikal National Park

• Morning: Travel to Flores (about 6 hours). Check into your hotel and grab a quick lunch.
• Afternoon: Head to Tikal National Park. Explore the ancient Mayan ruins and climb Temple IV for a stunning view of the jungle.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in Flores, a charming island town.

## Day 8: More Tikal Exploration

• Morning: Return to Tikal for a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
• Afternoon: Explore the surrounding jungle. Keep an eye out for wildlife!
• Evening: Return to Flores and enjoy a leisurely dinner.

## Day 9: Semuc Champey

• Morning: Depart for Semuc Champey (about 8 hours). It’s a long drive, but the scenery is beautiful!
• Afternoon: Arrive and check into your accommodation. Take a dip in the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey.
• Evening: Relax and enjoy a quiet evening in nature.

## Day 10: Adventure in Semuc Champey

• Morning: Go tubing or caving in the nearby Lanquín Caves. The adventure is thrilling and the views are stunning!
• Afternoon: Spend more time exploring the pools or hiking in the area.
• Evening: Head back to Guatemala City (about 8 hours) for your departure the next day. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant.

Bonus Tips:

• Merchandise: Don’t forget to haggle at markets! It’s part of the experience.
• Safety: Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Local Cuisine: Try street food for an authentic taste of Guatemala!

This itinerary is packed with adventure, culture, and opportunities to pick up some unique merchandise along the way. Enjoy your trip to Guatemala! 🌍✈️