Itinerary for 9 day trip to Guatemala

Guatemala is a stunning country with a rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and plenty of adventure waiting for you. Here’s a fun and adventurous 9-day itinerary tailored just for you, keeping in mind your interests and constraints. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Guatemala City

Morning: Arrive at . Once you’ve settled in, head to your hotel in the area, known for its vibrant atmosphere and safety.

Afternoon: Explore the historic center of Guatemala City. Visit the and the . Don’t forget to grab a bite at a local café!

Evening: Check out the nightlife in or . There are some great bars and restaurants that are LGBT-friendly. Try “La Casa de la Cerveza” for a local brew!

Day 2:

Morning: Take a shuttle to Antigua (about 1 hour). This charming colonial city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Check into a cozy hostel or boutique hotel.

Afternoon: Explore the cobblestone streets, visit the iconic , and check out the local artisan markets.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the volcanoes. “Sky” is a great option! Afterward, stroll through the lively streets and maybe catch some live music.

Day 3: Volcano Hike

All Day: Get ready for an adventure! Book a guided hike to . It’s a moderately challenging hike, and you’ll get to see lava flows and stunning views. Don’t forget to bring marshmallows to roast over the hot spots!

Evening: Return to Antigua and treat yourself to a well-deserved dinner. Try “Café Sky” for some delicious local cuisine.

Day 4:

Morning: Head to (about 2.5 hours by shuttle). Check into a lakeside hotel in or , both known for their welcoming vibe.

Afternoon: Explore the town, visit local shops, and take a dip in the lake. You can also rent a kayak for some fun on the water!

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. “” in has a great atmosphere and is LGBT-friendly.

Day 5: Adventure at

All Day: Go for an adventure! Consider hiking up to for a sunrise view (it’s an early start, but totally worth it!). Alternatively, you can go zip-lining or take a boat tour to visit other villages around the lake, like .

Evening: Relax with a sunset view over the lake. Grab dinner at “D’Noz” for some tasty international dishes.

Day 6:

Morning: Take a day trip to Chichicastenango (about 1.5 hours). The market is vibrant and colorful, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs and experiencing local culture.

Afternoon: Explore the market, visit the , and enjoy some local food. Try the “pepian” stew!

Evening: Return to and unwind. Enjoy a quiet evening by the lake, perhaps with a good book or some journaling about your adventures.

Day 7:

Morning: Travel to (about 8 hours by shuttle, so an early start is key!). Check into a hotel in , a charming island town.

Afternoon: Explore and relax by the lake.

Evening: Get a good night’s sleep because tomorrow is a big day!

Day 8: Tikal Ruins

All Day: Take a guided tour of , one of the most impressive Mayan ruins. Climb the temples, explore the jungle, and keep an eye out for wildlife!

Evening: Return to and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. “” is a great spot with a lovely atmosphere.

Day 9: Return to Guatemala City

Morning: Head back to Guatemala City (about 8 hours). You can take a shuttle or a domestic flight if you prefer.

Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to visit the or grab some last-minute souvenirs.

Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant in the city. “” is a great choice for traditional Guatemalan cuisine.

Departure

Head to the airport for your flight home, filled with amazing memories and stories to share!

I hope this itinerary excites you! Guatemala is a beautiful country with so much to offer, and I’m sure you’ll have an incredible time exploring it solo. Safe travels, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌍✨