Cities, volcanoes and R&R at the lake. If you only have a week, you can still experience Guatemala! Includes recommendations for:

- Where to stay, eat and play in Antigua
- The best volcano hikes + operators
- The most beautiful hotel on Lake Atitlan

Panajachel, Guatemala

Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Santiago Atitlán, Guatemala

Guatemala: One Week

Thinking about spending some time in Guatemala? Let this guide convince you with an exciting mix of adventure and relaxation. 

Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

Volcan de Acatenango, Guatemala

One Week in Guatemala

Guatemala has an outstanding landscape to be discovered, characterized by its volcanoes, some of them active ones. It's actually in Guatelama where you'll find the most active volcano of Central America, the Volcán de Fuego. 

In this 2-week itinerary you can expect to find nature, adventure, hikes and my best tips after having travelled to this amazing country, so you can avoid mistakes, and enjoy to the fullest of your time in Guatemala. 

This itinerary is designed in a way to see the most attractive icons of the country in 2 weeks in a balanced way, where you'll need energy for the adventurous and physical part of the trip but you'll get to relax in idyllic places, too. 

Don't miss some of my tips written after (EVA'S TIP❗). Same system I use in all my other guides. 

Acatenango Volcano Trailhead, Aldea La Soledad, Guatemala

Volcán de Fuego, Guatemala

Acatenango, Guatemala

Volcán San Pedro, Guatemala

GUATEMALA: 2-week Itinerary

Uncover the Soul-Reviving Beauty of Lake Atitlan, Guatemala – Cradled by majestic volcanoes and embraced by vibrant Mayan communities, this stunning lake emanates a profound sense of spirituality.

My comprehensive map guide is your key to unlocking every facet of this extraordinary journey, providing access to remarkable accommodations and profound insights that will linger long after you've departed.

With my immersive experience of over four months living in this lake town, I'm thrilled to share a wealth of insider tips and tricks that will elevate your experience.

Within this map, you'll discover nearly 100 points of interest, including:

* Places to Eat & Drink -- Vegan or Vegetarian Options
* Spanish Classes
* Lodging Options/Accommodations
* Health and Wellness Classes + Services
* Adventure Ideas
* Mercados/Grocery Stores
* Emergency Services: Police + Hospitals
* + Many More!

Your journey begins here. Anticipate regular updates to keep you well-informed. 

Currency information: (Guatemalan quetzal)

Local language: (Spanish) 

Timezone (Central Standard Time - UTC-6)

With Main Airports: (Guatemala City - GUA). Your journey begins here.

Lake Atitlan: Guatemala's Tranquil Gem for Adventure and Relaxation

Welcome to your ultimate guide to Guatemala, a country brimming with vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history! This guide takes you on a journey through Guatemala’s top destinations, from the ancient ruins of Tikal to the picturesque shores of Lake Atitlán. Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a relaxing getaway, this guide provides all the essential information you need to make the most of your trip.

What You’ll Find Inside:
» Top Destinations & Activities: Discover must-visit spots like Antigua, Río Dulce, and more.
» Detailed Overviews: In-depth information on each destination, including activities, history, and local tips.
» Travel Tips: Essential advice on the best times to visit, transportation options, and cultural etiquette.
» Packing List: Handy tips on what to bring for a comfortable and enjoyable trip.
» Itinerary: My 16-Day Belize and Guatemala Itinerary from my first trip to Guatemala.


Best of Guatemala: Destination Guide

In Guatemala, every day is a new adventure. Picture yourself working from a cozy café in the colonial city of Antigua, surrounded by cobblestone streets and colorful facades. On weekends, you could be hiking up active volcanoes, exploring chaotic local markets, or diving into crystal-clear waters. The country’s diverse landscapes—from rain forests and serene lakes to rugged mountains and black beaches—offer endless opportunities for exploration and inspiration. 

This guide is a 1-month itinerary for digital nomads, taking you from Xela, to Lake Atitlán, to El Paredón, and Antigua where you can hike the volcano Acatenango, then pursue your journey north to Semuc Champey and Flores.

I did this trip in May 2023 and would recommend it to everyone. Just an insight in how I build this guide. It is based on my experience, I was traveling with my partner. We were working from Monday to Thursday and would travel in the weekends. I will add the following sign 🏠, to the places we stayed but I will also add a cheaper option and a more expensive option, that I found either on hostelworld, booking.com or Airbnb with good reviews. 

Legend:

❤️- Highly recommend (the more hearts the more I loved it)

🏠 - The places I stayed

💻 - Restaurant you can work from

💵= Budget 
💵💵 Mid-Budget
💵💵💵High Budget

If you have any question do not hesitate to book a consultancy or send me a DM through instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anywherewithanea/ 

Also, if you book through the links I added I will earn some commission this will not add costs to you but will give me some extra earnings. Thank you in advance and I hope you will enjoy Guatemala as much as I did. 


Semuc Champey, San Agustín Lanquín, Guatemala

Xela, Guatemala

Flores, Guatemala

El Paredon, Guatemala

Guatemala as a Digital Nomad

My guide to backpacking Central America is finally here! This guide is based on hundreds of hours of research, my own 4 month long trip, and some extras that I wasn't able to get to but would still highly recommend based on reviews from trusted friends! This guide serves as an essential list of the best attractions in each country and what not to miss! The route in the guide is laid out North to South, starting in Belize and ending in Panama, but it can also be used in reverse. 

The guide includes information for how to get between locations; however not in great detail as the schedules and prices change frequently and let's be honest, the busses are never on time in Central America! The best way to get between places depends on your timeline and budget of your trip: if you have months to explore, take the local "chicken busses" for a more affordable and immersive experience; if you only have weeks, take the more direct shuttles; and if you're tight on time, take the more direct and upscale coaches. Whichever option you choose, the locals are always willing to help with chicken busses, and shuttle busses and coaches are very easy to book throughout Central America at your hostel, any tour operator, or online. 

Where possible, I included accommodation recommendations for places that I personally stayed at and can vouch for, or know someone who did. In addition, there are links for booking hostels in each region! 

I hope this guide provides some help and inspiration to backpack Central America, it's one of my absolute favourite places on Earth!

Need a custom trip planned for Central America? Reach out, I can help you!

Costa Rica

El Salvador

Belize

Honduras

Central America

Nicaragua

Panama

A Complete Backpacker's Guide to Central America.

🇬🇹 A comprehensive, tried and tested Guatemala itinerary that shows you how to visit Antigua, Atitlán, and Acatenango on that bougie backpacker budget! I'll share my exact itinerary, costs, and lessons learned to help you confidently plan your trip and get the most out of your time in the beautiful country of Guatemala. 

One Week in Guatemala | Solo Backpacker Edition

Guatemala is a very large country where the culture is very strong. In 10 days it is better to concentrate on a small part of the country. Between Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and Chichicastenango you will be immersed in the Guatemalan culture. You will also relax on the beach and if you're between September and November you can even see baby turtles hatching. 
Between volcanic Mayan customs and traditional villages, this trip will be very varied.

Colonial towns, Museums, Gastronomy, Relaxation, Local markets, Volcanoes, Beach.

I consider that accommodations are personal and depend on many criteria, so accommodations are not mentioned in this itinerary. However, transportation with shuttles is indicated. You will find some very good ones on Bookings.

The delivery includes: 
Day-by-day itinerary for 10 days: 
Antigua
Pacaya
Chichicastenango
Panajachel
San Juan de la Laguna
San Marcos 
San Pedro
Paredon
Antigua

San Juan La Laguna, Guatemala

Chichicastenango, Guatemala

Guatemala between traditions and modernity

Le Guatemala est un pays très vaste où la culture est très forte. En 10 jours, il est préférable de se concentrer sur une petite partie du pays. Entre Antigua, le lac Atitlan et Chichicastenango, vous serez immergé dans la culture guatémaltèque. Vous pourrez également vous détendre sur la plage et, si vous êtes entre septembre et novembre, vous pourrez même assister à l'éclosion des bébés tortues. 
Entre les coutumes mayas volcaniques et les villages traditionnels, ce voyage sera très varié.

Villes coloniales, Musées, Gastronomie, Détente, Marchés locaux, Volcans, Plage.

Je considère que l'hébergement est personnel et dépend de nombreux critères, c'est pourquoi l'hébergement n'est pas mentionné dans cet itinéraire. Cependant, le transport avec des navettes est indiqué. Vous retrouverez de très bon hébergement sur Booking.

Le guide comprend :
Un itinéraire de 10 jours, jour par jour : 
Antigua
Pacaya
Chichicastenango
Panajachel
San Juan de la Laguna
San Marcos 
San Pedro
Paredon
Antigua

Lac Atitlán, Guatemala

Guatemala entre traditions et modernité

This is the most well-known lake in Guatemala, maybe even Central America. Lake Atitlan is also the deepest lake in Central America with many cozy, colorful towns along the water. It sits at an altitude of about 1,400 meters which keeps the weather so amazing all year round. This “Land of Eternal Spring” is a stunning place to visit all year round. 

San Pedro La Laguna, Guatemala

San Marcos La Laguna, Guatemala

Atitlán, Guatemala

Lake Atitlan: The next Big Thing!

San Marcos La Laguna

San Marcos La Laguna is a small and serene village nestled on the shores of Lake Atitlán in Guatemala. Known for its tranquil and spiritual atmosphere, it has become a popular destination for those seeking relaxation, self-discovery, and holistic healing. The village offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes, as well as various wellness centers, yoga retreats, meditation workshops, and holistic healing practices. Visitors can enjoy the laid-back ambiance, explore local shops offering artisanal crafts and organic products, or simply unwind in the peaceful natural surroundings.

The best views of the lake are from San Marcos 

If you are looking for relaxing vibes, to do yoga, even for hippie vibes... then you should stay some time in this village.

In addition, from this side of the lake is where you can see the 3 volcanoes surrounding the lake. 

The village is small, but you can find cozy coffees, restaurants... and incredible accommodations specially up in the hill with incredible views over the lake. 

The spiritual and hippie town of the lake, and the place to go if you want to take a yoga class or heal your chakra.  Lots of taro card readings and reiki massages are advertised along the streets of this town, and it has a very relaxing atmosphere.  There's cliff jumping near the dock, and is a popular place to swim.

EN: Visiting San Marcos La Laguna
Spend a few hours in this village to feel the special atmosphere. 


FR : Visitez San Marcos La Laguna
Passez quelques heures dans ce village pour en ressentir l'atmosphère particulière. 

San Marcos La Laguna is a tranquil village nestled on the shores of Lake Atitlán in Guatemala. Most people visit for its vibrant spiritual community and holistic wellness retreats.

This is the boat dock where you will arrive and take off from. About 30-45 Mins to Panajachel (as there are multiple stops on the way).

San Marcos La Laguna

What people say

Mentioned in these guides

About San Marcos La Laguna