![San Pedro Volcano (Volcan San Pedro) across Lake Atitlan (Lago de Atitlan) in Guatemalan highlands](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F3nnX6zyvR8BpNwnObNrIZ9%2Ff9f6200ad6c192885df203bfd048cdcc%2Flago-de-atitlan-guatemala-getty.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
The Ultimate Adventure Through Guatemala
Roam around this Central American gem, home to erupting volcanoes, crater lakes, jungles, emerald swim spots and magical Mayan ruins
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with expert, English-speaking local guidesHotels & Camping
7 nights in local hotels, 1 night wild camping, 2 nights glampingMeals
10 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 1 dinnerInternal Flights & Transfers
A short flight from Guatemala City to Flores; all airport and local transfersEquipment & Permits
All camping equipment; bike & helmet for cycling, kayak, paddle & lifevest for kayaking; plus all permits and entry feesSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
…
What's it like?
![San Pedro Volcano (Volcan San Pedro) across Lake Atitlan (Lago de Atitlan) in Guatemalan highlands](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F3nnX6zyvR8BpNwnObNrIZ9%2Ff9f6200ad6c192885df203bfd048cdcc%2Flago-de-atitlan-guatemala-getty.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
![Hikers overlooking Fuego erupting from Acatenango Volcano, Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F558aI4v5JwYhXNaqTWttSR%2Fb69c0960937f3e85c16c3351006931e7%2FAcatenango-fuego-guatemala-staff__1_.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
![Mayan ruins at night time in Tikal National Park, Guatemala.](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F35g34Vgy7Ft5n7XTRp17dB%2F5521611925b3720f74f72905ee7c473e%2Ftikal-night-guatemala-unsplash.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
![People swimming in the pools at Semuc Champey, Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F7kjDUHdJJgbjrZi70XXlYY%2F96b83f80108627e9e60d0aa508071068%2Fsemuc-champey-pools-guatemala.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
![Aerial view over Tikal National Park and the Mayan ruins in Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F2ZfI3HEuJ8Cz4fvGgF9v7t%2Ffd8e68264e9560b3c551988965ff8015%2Ftikal-national-park-getty.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
![Watching the sunrise above the clouds at Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala.](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F42MJ5ZVD7CL2I7x0duNZDR%2Fcab8351eec83b092e6a38ae9d0e2ce87%2Facatenango-volcano-guatemala-staff.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Explore Antigua and its outer valley on foot and by bike and head to shimmering Lago de Atitlan for hikes, kayaking and lakeside chill time
Camp out beneath the stars on Volcan Acatenango overlooking the incredible eruptions of neighbouring Fuego before an epic sunrise summit hike
Grab a dreamy wild swim in the cascade of natural pools at Semuc Champey and explore the lush jungle, caves and rivers around Lanquín
Experience the sprawling Tikal National Park, climbing Temple IV to watch a new day dawn over the ancient Mayan citadel surrounded by dense rainforest
Key Information
Day 1
Beeline straight for Antigua
![Antigua Guatemala, classic colonial town with famous Arco de Santa Catalina and Volcan de Agua behind](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F2EkM70gPYANTShTZI0Aq4f%2Fdd6ce264e7528ebfd91be0a6379f99eb%2Fantigua-guatemala-getty.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Meet your host on arrival at the airport in Guatemala City and be transferred to Antigua, Guatemala's ancient capital flanked beneath the looming Volcán de Agua to the south and the twin peaks of Volcán de Fuego and Acatenango to the west. Settle into your hotel near the centre of town. Depending on your arrival time, you can spend the rest of the day wandering the famous cobbled streets, taking in the colourful architecture and street stalls. In the evening, meet up with your fellow adventures and head to a nearby restaurant to chat about the epic adventure ahead.
Day 2
Cycle the Antigua Valley
![Group of cyclists in the Antigua valley, Guatemala.](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F2ZB6F2VGGPkaDiUhFEpY1C%2F9dc19c1e085203eaba9a223c09a33e36%2Fcycle-antigua-guatemala-host.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Cycling
Hiking
Today you'll explore Antigua and its surrounding area by bike, giving you a glimpse into real Guatemala and local life here in the Almolonga Valley. Pedal through suburban towns and villages, flanked by volcanoes and forested hills punctuated by ancient churches and ruins. Riding to the south, you'll head to the base of Agua Volcano, Antigua's iconic ever-present backdrop. Stop in at a macadamia farm in Valhalla and sample local coffee as you head to the west of Antigua towards the site of the country's former colonial capital, Ciudad Vieja. The old city met a fateful doom in 1541 when the Agua Volcano triggered a devastating mudslide. The city disappeared into the valley between the volcanoes of Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango. Return to Antigua for lunch at Rincon Tipico Antigueño, a classic Guatemalan comedor, to feast on some classic local dishes. Later, after some downtime, you'll head out for a sunset hike up to the Cerro de la Cruz Viewpoint for the best vista over Antigua, with Agua, Acatenango, and Fuego looming in the distance as an amazing first day of the trip winds down.
Day 3
Acatenango Volcano climb and overnight camp (3575m)
![View of Fuego volcano eruption from Acatenango basecamp, Guatemala.](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2Fasset-8072ba08170244529cbd9eda7793a7e9%2Fe6dd6cc5a48947aa5947d92618762e66%2Ffuego-guatemala-staff.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Hiking
Grab a big breakfast in Antigua before driving for an hour to the trailhead at La Soledad. Prepare for a challenging climb up the imposing Acatenango slopes, but the reward at the top will be more than worth the effort! Set off through farmland and small villages, before ascending steeply into a beautiful cloud forest. This is an area of high biodiversity, home to the famous Quetzal bird. You'll soon be greeted with sweeping views of the highlands and neighbouring volcanoes:, the perfect time for a picnic on the volcano's slopes. Continue up through temperate forest until you'll reach your private camp spot at 3750m above sea level. You’ll then enjoy dinner around the campfire and hopefully the show of a lifetime, the continuously erupting Fuego Volcano (just 4km away) belching fumes and lava into the night sky.
Day 4
Summit Acatenango Volcano (3976m) at sunrise
![Sunrise on Acatenango Volcano in Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F2cpDFoMl7eq0cEMc3BfTNR%2F9621d29226b6057d6de924b94c80b0b8%2Facatenango-sunrise-guatemala-customer.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Hiking
Driving
You'll rise early before sunrise to complete the hour-long hike to the top of Acatenango at 3976m. The final stretch to the summit along scree and sand becomes steeper and loose underfoot but once at the top your efforts will be quickly repaid by sweeping 360-degree views of the entire Guatemalan highlands, all the way to the border of Mexico. Next, you’ll descend through several different micro-climates as you lose altitude. Back at the trailhead, you'll jump in the van and head towards Guatemala's glistening Lago de Atitlan. Finish off the day as you roll into Panajachel, and take the boat to your lakeside hotel. After a wild few days, we've picked a super relaxing spot for you to recover at on the lake, with a steam sauna and an amazing wood-fired hot tub overlooking the lake for you to soak away those sore trekker's legs.
*Please note that the summit hike is totally optional. If you feel you aren't up to it, you can spend the morning at the camp which still has incredible views over Fuego and the surrounding highlands.
Day 5
Kayak, hike & chill time at Lake Atitlan
![Relaxing in a hot tub on Lake Atitlan in Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F1UdSTT0VkL9zqwCloaAo90%2Fa7d2acdcb8104cf6b39e77b3d6bbd131%2FCasa-del-Mundo-hot-tub-Atitlan.webp&w=2048&q=50)
Hiking
Kayaking
Wake up to views of the lake and grab a leisurely breakfast before heading out onto the water. Hopping in a kayak you'll paddle westward along the north shore of Lake Atitlán for around two hours. Paddle at a relaxed pace as you pass by villages perched on lakeside cliffs en route to a spot for a swim, or even do some cliff jumping into the lake. Eventually reaching the village of San Marcos La Laguna you'll leave your kayak behind and hit the lakeside hiking trail that meanders between the villages, taking in views of the San Pedro, Tolimán, and Atitlán volcanoes as you go. An hour and a half of easy hiking sees you back at your accommodation - the rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to do as you please. Chill in the hot tub, have some hammock time, more swims and maybe a sundowner before dinner.
Day 6
More lake time before the journey to Tikal
![Boat trip on Lake Atitlan in Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F7L3EITJZGsAm955HGPcAzw%2F4ca7706a4b33585695a36ea6ecd761d6%2Flago-de-atitlan-guatemala-customer.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Hiking
Driving
Lake Atitlán is a beautiful spot, so kick back and soak up this special place before getting back on the road later today. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and then head out to explore the area with a boat ride to other parts of the lake and some short hikes around the neighbouring villages. Back at your base, you'll pack up and take the boat back to Panajachel, where you will hop in the van for roughly three and a half hours to the airport near Guatemala City. You'll be taking a short flight to the north of Guatemala, landing in the city of Flores. From here, you'll drive 90 minutes further north, flanked by ever-deepening jungle as you enter Tikal National Park, one of the major sites of Mayan civilisation hidden within the sprawling Maya Biosphere Reserve that extends into neighbouring Mexico and Belize. Settle into your lodge within the national park itself and grab an early night ahead of an early start in the morning.
Day 7
Tikal National Park at sunrise
![Tikal National Park at sunrise in Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F7BEyhZ9kWECe7rwtJA2GK2%2Fe1e751d61f83c4aa9e3810d3f57d1310%2Ftikal-guatemala-getty.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Hiking
Rise at around 3:30 am to the sounds of the nocturnal jungle, meet your guide, and head off to explore Tikal. You'll walk through trails buried by dense rainforest, home to toucans, parrots, hummingbirds, howler and spider monkeys, and even pumas and jaguars. Tikal's blend of ancient Mayan ruins hidden within a teeming jungle ecosystem makes it one of the most magical Mayan sites to experience. Your guide will lead the way to Temple IV, where you'll climb the steps of the ancient Mayan pyramid to have the best view of one of the most amazing sunrises you will ever see as the Maya jungle wakes up beneath you. After sunrise, you'll explore more of the ruins: Tikal was the capital of one of the most powerful kingdoms of the ancient Maya and boasts the tallest pre-Columbian structures in the Americas. Eventually, your time in the park will be up, and you'll head back to the lodge for a late breakfast and some much-needed Guatemalan coffee before bidding farewell to Tikal as you head to Flores, a vibrant, colourful town nestled on an island in the middle of Lake Petén Itzá. Enjoy some downtime here and head out later to soak up the bustling street food scene, with plenty of bars to grab a beer or cocktail overlooking the lake.
Day 8
Journey to Lanquín
![On the road to Semuc Champey in Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F2sRngWkucDIEcSIKK8Xn3c%2F114caf0e1ce4b9911c851d7a5db3aa1c%2Flanquin-guatemala-getty.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Driving
Road trip time today as you settle in for a journey across northern Guatemala, watching the scenery change as you head into the lush green forested hills of the Alta Verapaz region. Stopping along the route to stretch your legs and grab some lunch near Coban City, you'll continue on as the roads get bumpier and more remote, approaching Lanquín, a small mountain town and your base for the final explorations of the trip. You'll be staying in a glamping area set among the forest. Grab dinner here and relax after a long day on the road.
Day 9
Semuc Champey
![Wild swimming at Semuc Champey in Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2FWHkYVuHmY6TT8MqryvVbQ%2F1c0deec81fa6da091eac61db84eb02b2%2Fsemuc-champey-swimming-getty.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Hiking
Swimming
Driving
Caving
So far, you've seen volcanoes, lakes, jungles, and Mayan ruins, yet Guatemala isn't finished with its wonders just yet. A true hidden gem awaits today as you hop in a 4x4 vehicle for an hour's drive to reach Semuc Champey. This is a truly stunning and otherworldly place, a natural wonder of terraced emerald pools that looks like it's from a video game or CGI movie. You'll stop en route at the Kam’ba Caves, where your guide will lead you by candlelight into underground caverns filled with rivers, waterfalls, and unique rock formations. On to Semuc Champey itself: first, tackle a 45-minute uphill hike to El Mirador, a stunning viewpoint overlooking the terraced pools flanked by steep forested cliff faces below. Hike back down to reach the pools themselves, where you can spend a few hours swimming and relaxing on the smooth rock terraces. One of the best places to snap photos near the terraces is on top of a natural limestone bridge above the water. Head back to your glamping spot in the late afternoon for dinner and sundowners.
Day 10
Lanquin Caves
![A man caving in Lanquín’s famous cave system, Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F2kkMChZYgQDtfbzM6hY0tz%2Fc064cf3551de651c09592fc2c2e6e1a6%2Flanquin-caves-_guatemala-getty.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Caving
Hiking
Driving
Wake up and enjoy a swim before breakfast at one of the pools at the glamping spot. A big Guatemalan breakfast will fuel you up for an underground adventure today as you head into Lanquín’s famous cave system. You'll be joined by a specialist caving guide to lead the way through the subterranean labyrinth of immense caverns and underground lakes to the heart of Alta Verapaz. After a few hours, you'll eventually emerge back into the light and follow the Lanquín River all the way back to your riverside base. Shower up and bid farewell to this part of Guatemala as you make your way back toward the capital. You'll spend the night in a well-located hotel in a nice area of Guatemala City, not far from the airport. Head to one of your host's favourite restaurants for a farewell dinner to toast an epic journey around this amazing country.
Day 11
Goodbye Guatemala!
![Group of hikers watching sunset at the summit of Acatenango, Guatemala.](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F4atn72wfccFFqHbOl1BPuB%2F34e0ac03af1f54f9f32c2184e5e0857e%2FSunset_at_Acatenango_Guatemala._Marta_Marinelli.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Time to say goodbye as your host takes you back to the airport in time for your departure flight. If you are staying on longer in Guatemala your host can arrange a transfer back to Antigua to continue your travels from there.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City (GUA)
Arrive any time on Day 1
Ends
La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City (GUA)
Depart any time on Day 11
Transfers
Your host will meet you on arrival at Guatemala City's La Aurora International Airport and will transfer you to the beautiful town of Antigua where your adventure kicks off. On the last day of the trip, your host will drop you back off at the same airport in time for any onward flights. Transfers between La Aurora International Airport (GUA) and your hotel are provided for any flight arriving on Day 1, and departing on Day 11 of the trip. If you wish to arrive earlier or stay on later, your host can arrange private transfers for an additional cost. See Optional Extras for details.
Travel options
There are direct flights to La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City from many destinations in the US, and via Madrid from Europe.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 3
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 4
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 7
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 8
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 9
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 10
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 11
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
![Typical Guatemalan dish of rice, potatoes and meat.](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F21f2kVh7U11Ary05PIln30%2F1be820306bb0937c507fa519c9bc64c1%2FScreenshot_2024-05-16_at_15.15.59.png&w=2048&q=50)
Traditional Guatemalan food is based on Maya cuisine with Spanish influences. Classic meals usually include corn, beans, chillies, rice, pork, beef, chicken, cheese and tortillas as staple ingredients. Delicious picnic lunches are provided on hiking days. Your host has deliberately not included the evening meals at various parts of this trip as it's great fun to explore the food options in each place. Antigua in particular is a food lover's dream, the street food scene here is worth investing some time and Quetzals in. The camp dinner on Acatenango is a real highlight of the trip. Your guide will prep Guatemalan food on the slopes while you take in the views of the neighbouring, and often erupting, volcanic peaks.
Vegetarians, vegans and most other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for - please make requests known in advance on your passenger info form. Bear in mind that vegetarian and vegan options in Central America can be limited, meaning less variety of ingredients.
What is the accommodation like?
![Pool at Quinta de Las Flores, Antigua](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F5sH8AiTIwyfgpYI1z79VVy%2F7da39b27454486a372941f3a5a01182d%2Fquinta-de-las-flores.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Antigua
Your launchpad for the first two nights of the trip is at Quinta de las Flores, a family run hotel built on the site of an old 17th century public bath. Away from the hustle and bustle yet within walking distance of central Antigua, this is the perfect place to relax and settle into the pace of life in Guatemala. You'll stay in cosy twin-share rooms.
![Basecamp at Acatenango volcano, Guatemala.](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F4JFfXRMJAGBVEgmk0chsKQ%2F4122813766a748e56e9bf36d729b12bb%2FAcatenango_basecamp_Marta_Marinelli.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Volcano Camping
You'll spend a truly memorable night camping on Acatenango Volcano. All of your camping gear is provided: tent, sleeping mat and sleeping bag. Be advised that night time on the volcanoes can be very cold, so do bring warm layers with you. There will be campfires to keep you toasty at dinner time, while stargazing and watching Fuego volcano do its thing.
![](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F1O32aWj2bBl4fFOX09ktrh%2F5599682b74117d5be7592eee87bcf560%2Fcasa-del-mundo3.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Lake Atitlan
At Lake Atitlán, you'll stay at a beautiful lakeside hotel called Casa del Mundo. Built into the cliffs on the fringe of the lake, the property has amazing views across the water toward San Pedro volcano. The hotel has a garden, terrace, bar and restaurant, a private beach area, a steam sauna and an amazing wood-fired hot tub overlooking the lake. You'll stay in twin-share rooms featuring hand-crafted Mayan décor and solar-heated water.
*Please note that Casa del Mundo is our first choice for Lake Atitlan but is subject to availability. In the event that Casa del Mundo is not available, your host will use a similar lakeside hotel of a similar standard. This is likely to be Isla Verde which is an equally beautiful place just down the road.
![Pool at Jungle Lodge Tikal, Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F4jsvLVRShgYutoU2rASNrL%2F60c6e4ac377fad74536623596dae57e8%2F74465721.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Tikal National Park
Jungle Lodge Tikal is located inside of Tikal National Park itself, you'll spend a night here before your sunrise trip into Tikal. The lodge makes for a perfect place to relax and unwind after the long journey from Atitlan, you can soak up the outdoor pools and surrounding lush green jungle.
![Bell tents at Guayaha in the Lanquin area, Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F4H5AG2FtNkzNw5w87hh0SB%2F3dc23d85ac1e6405226928f335f4b2dd%2Fguayaha_naturalhx.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Lanquin & Semuc Champey
Your base to explore the Lanquin and Semuc Champey area will be Guayaha, a beautiful place nestled in amongst the lush green rainforest in this part of Guatemala. You'll stay in yurt-style glamping tents on raised platforms with comfortable beds, fans and outdoor decking space to relax in the mornings. The grounds are a tranquil escape to relax in, with hammocks dotted around and three outdoor swimming pools inspired by the cascading natural pools at nearby Semuc Champey.
![Lake view from Hotel Isla de Flores, Guatemala](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F40WDNt1VfZzscpteO2rund%2F9a71bf540e1d4b83c152f7d4de950c00%2F166671146.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Flores
In beautiful Flores you'll spend a night at Hotel Isla de Flores, full of character with a cool bar for sunset cocktails and lake views from many rooms. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with ensuite bathroom.
![Twin room at Hotel Barcelo, Guatemala City.](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2Fm5us57n7qfgl%2F1L14GuvLwnLF2H6vFDtu3v%2F4877a01b663757c61f5f4e307cc41172%2F107481885.jpg&w=2048&q=50)
Guatemala City
Your final night of the trip is spent at Hotel Barcelo, conveniently located close to La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. There is a nice outdoor pool, bar and cafe area for some final chill time before your adventure ends. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with ensuite bathroom.
Upgrades
All hotel rooms and tents on this trip are based on twin sharing. For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room and tent can be booked for the entirety of the trip (subject to availability). See Optional Extras for prices.
This trip has been rated as Moderate
In general this trip is easy-going and manageable by anyone with an average level of fitness who is capable of hiking, cycling or kayaking for 3-4 hours each day with plenty of rest stops. The exception to this comes on Day 3 and Day 4, when you'll be hiking up Acatenango: you will need to find some extra determination on these days to reach the summit. You've got 1200m of elevation up and down to get through across the two days, and you'll be reaching a maximum altitude of 3976m. Physical exertion at these altitudes can feel much more difficult, especially if ascending too quickly. Your guides will set an appropriate pace and help each individual to complete the treks safely.
The cycling, kayaking and caving activities on this trip can be done by complete beginners with no prior experience.
What if i need to skip an activity?
You can skip most activities on this trip should you feel the desire to. For the Acatenango summit climb, if you have doubts about your fitness you can speak to your guide to discuss alternatives, although in our experience the excitement and collective push to the summit make the summit doable by most people if you can push a little outside your comfort zone.
Note that if you are claustrophobic we recommend skipping the caving experience in Lanquin. The area is a great place to enjoy some downtime and explore the rainforest and rivers at your own pace - your guide will be on hand to offer various suggestions if you choose to skip the caving.
What will I need to carry?
You'll only need to carry a daypack for the majority of this trip. For the Acatenango climb, you'll need a bit more space to carry your water and some clothes, and any other extras you want for the overnight experience. Filtered drinking water is available at the camp spot so you can refill your bottles before and after the hike, and before descending the following day. You won’t need a big backpack, you will be fine with a daypack of approximately 30-35 litres.
When it comes to the weather, there’s not a bad time to visit Guatemala. The country has one of the most accommodating climates in the world, with the tourist board even calling it the 'land of eternal spring' because of the warm days and mild evenings throughout the year. Dry season runs from November to March, during which time the Guatemalan highlands have a great climate for hiking with lows of 10°C and highs of 27°C generally. The rainy season lasts from roughly May to October, with the heaviest rains occurring in September and October. However, since the downpours are typically confined to late afternoons, they are unlikely to disrupt adventures.
Be aware that the night camping on Acatenango will be cold as you are sleeping at around 4000m above sea level. Make sure to pack enough warm layers for this part. Thermals, fleeces or light down jackets will be fine.
We’re still waiting to collect any reviews from other travellers on this trip. However, all our hosts go through an extensive vetting process to ensure that your adventure is awesome.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What's included?
- All camping equipment for the sleepout on Acatenango volcano (tents, sleeping mat and sleeping bag)
- Kayaks, paddles and lifevest for kayaking
- Headtorch and all other gear needed for caving
- Hardtail mountain bike and helmet for cycling on Day 2
What do I need to bring?
Bags
- Soft duffel bag or rucksack (your main travel luggage that gets moved between hotels for you)
- Daypack approx. 30l+ (for your daily activities, including for the overnight camp where you'll be carrying water, food, personal belongings)
- Waterproof liner for daypack
Clothes
- Down jacket (for the night on Acatenango. It won't be needed for any other part of the trip, so ideally one that packs down well)
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Breathable wicking layers
- Fleece jacket or similar
- Thermals (merino is best)
- Warm hat
- Two buffs or neck scarf
- Gloves
- Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
- T-shirts
- Underwear & socks
- Swimwear
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Something to sleep in
- Hiking boots (worn-in)
- Sandals
Other
- Walking poles (optional, only really needed for the Acatenango hike)
- Padlock for left luggage
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Power bank or solar charger
- Spare camera batteries
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel Insurance documents
- Ear plugs
- Insect repellant
- Suncream
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
- Quick-dry towel
- Alcohol hand-gel
- Headtorch or torch
- Reusable water bottle x 1 ltr
- Biodegradable wet-wipes
- Energy bars and snacks
Single room in Antigua
Payable Before Departure
Single room in Antigua
… Per Night
Twin/double room in Antigua
Payable Before Departure
Twin/double room in Antigua
… Per Night
Optional Private Room & Tent Upgrade
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room & Tent Upgrade
… Per Person
Private transfer between Guatemala City and Antigua (each way, per vehicle for 1-3 people)
Payable Before Departure
Private transfer between Guatemala City and Antigua (each way, per vehicle for 1-3 people)
…
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 377kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
This trip visits locations at or above 2500m. At this altitude some people may experience symptoms associated with Altitude Sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Previous experience at high altitude is not necessarily an indicator of future performance. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with altitude, by carefully managing the rate of ascent and the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided. Owing to the nature of this trip, it is essential that your personal travel insurance policy provides cover up to the maximum altitude visited on this trip as well as emergency medical evacuation by helicopter.
This trip visits locations where daytime temperatures can be extremely high during the times of year when this trip operates. High humidity and limited access to shade can also be factors, and warm temperatures can continue into the nighttime, which additionally influence the body’s ability to cool down. Personal care should be taken to keep cool as best possible in the conditions, such as wearing appropriate clothing and proper hydration. Very high temperatures can impair an individual’s physical abilities to perform an activity that they may otherwise be able to do competently at cooler temperatures. People may experience symptoms associated with dehydration and Heat Stroke. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures, by carefully managing the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided.
Tap water in Guatemala is not safe to drink, so you'll need to stick to bottled or filtered water. Each hotel you'll stay in will have filtered water where you can fill up your bottles before each hike. Your host is passionate about reducing single-use plastic waste in Guatemala, so they won't provide plastic bottles of drinking water at any stage.
You'll ride a 'hardtail' - a front suspension mountain bike which is perfectly suited to the mix of roads and light gravel terrain you'll be rolling along on this day of the trip. Your host uses Kona bikes with a variety of models available, the suspension can be locked for a speedier ride when on the flatter road sections. You will be matched with a suitable size of bike depending on your height - please ensure this is filled out on your passenger information form after booking the trip.
Tandem (2-seater) sit-on-top kayaks are used by the local host, while there are also single versions to use depending on group size. For comfort, they come equipped with backrests and padded seats. The weight limit is approximately 120kg per person.
You don't return back to Antigua on this trip, so if you are following the set 11 day itinerary and flying out from Guatemala City on Day 11 then it is not feasible to store any additional luggage at the start of the trip. If you are staying on longer in Guatemala after the trip and intending to return to Antigua then you can leave your excess luggage at the hotel in Antigua if you need to.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion. You'll usually be guided and supported by up to three guides during the trip (your lead guide, plus one or two assistant gear and cooking guides) plus a local driver. We recommend to tip the following amount per person, but you are free to tip more or less and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality - a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
Guides: 35-40 USD per guide total for the trip Driver: 20-25 USD total for the trip
We recommend checking out the country specific information here and also talking to a travel nurse.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.
Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.
We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.
Our team of Adventure Hunters create exclusive adventures with highly vetted, specialist hosts. We only work with independent, local in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
![Private trip](/_next/image/?url=%2Fimages%2Fguides.png&w=2048&q=75)
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DEPARTURE DATES
Thursday 19th December 2024
to Sunday 29th December 2024
![Private trip](/_next/image/?url=%2Fimages%2Fgroups.png&w=640&q=75)