Guatemala
Our Guatemala Private Expedition is a fully customizable journey that immerses you in the ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes of one of Central America’s most fascinating countries. From the colonial charm of UNESCO-listed Antigua to the breathtaking temples of Tikal, Yaxhá, and Uaxactún, this itinerary offers an unparalleled exploration of Guatemala’s Mayan legacy.
Cruise the turquoise waters of Lake Atitlán, visit traditional highland villages, and experience spiritual rituals that blend ancient beliefs with Catholic traditions. Enjoy exclusive access to archaeological sites guided by renowned experts, including Francisco Estrada Belli, one of the leading Mayan archaeologists in the world.
Whether you’re passionate about archaeology, culture, or adventure, your private expedition is tailored to your travel style, available dates, and special interests. Relax in boutique hotels, luxury jungle lodges, and handpicked accommodations that reflect the charm and diversity of Guatemala. This is the most complete and exclusive Guatemala experience available today—crafted just for you.
Highlights of the Guatemala Expedition
- Colonial Charm of Antigua: Explore the cobblestone streets of this UNESCO gem, with baroque architecture, colorful markets, and vibrant local culture.
- Immersive Cultural Experiences: Join an intimate cooking class with local families, learning traditional Guatemalan recipes and culinary customs.
- Majestic Lake Atitlán & Highland Villages: Discover one of the world’s most beautiful lakes, framed by volcanoes and home to traditional Mayan villages like San Juan La Laguna and Santiago.
- Chichicastenango Market: Visit the largest and most colorful indigenous market in Central America, where Mayan traditions, textiles, and ceremonies come alive.
- Exploring the Mayan World: Walk among the ancient temples of Tikal, Yaxhá, and Uaxactún with expert guides who reveal the mysteries of the Mayan civilization.
- Tikal Sunrise Experience: Witness the sunrise from Temple IV at Tikal, as the jungle awakens with the calls of howler monkeys and tropical birds.
- Boutique Accommodations in Stunning Locations: Stay at handpicked boutique hotels and jungle lodges that combine comfort, charm, and exceptional locations.
- Expert-Led Expedition: Travel with renowned archaeologist Francisco Estrada Belli for exclusive insights into Guatemala’s ancient past.
“Discover Guatemala’s rich heritage, from the vibrant Chichicastenango Market to the majestic Tikal ruins, with breathtaking volcanic landscapes and local encounters that will stay with you forever.”
– Jefrey H.
QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions, please let us know. We are here to help you!
Itinerary in Brief
This is a detailed Guatemala expedition itinerary crafted for previous New Paths Expeditions travelers. To prepare the ideal experience for you, please get in touch with our destination specialist.
Welcome to Guatemala & Transfer to Antigua
Upon your arrival at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, you will be met by your New Paths Expeditions private representative. After a warm welcome, you will enjoy a comfortable, scenic transfer to Antigua Guatemala, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (approximately 1-hour drive).
Antigua is one of the most beautifully preserved colonial cities in the Americas. Wander its cobblestone streets, lined with baroque architecture, vibrant facades, and historic landmarks, all framed by the imposing volcanoes of Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango. This charming city offers a unique blend of Guatemalan culture, colonial history, and breathtaking scenery.
Spend the rest of the day relaxing at your boutique hotel, acclimating to your new surroundings, and preparing for the extraordinary journey ahead.
Overnight at El Convento Boutique Hotel.
Antigua Walking Tour & Community Cooking Class
After breakfast, set out on a privately guided walking tour of Antigua Guatemala, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Central America’s most enchanting colonial cities. Wander its cobblestone streets, exploring some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Palacio de los Capitanes, City Hall, El Portal, and the San Francisco Church and its historic ruins. Along the way, your expert NPE guide will share stories about Guatemala’s colonial history, Mayan heritage, and contemporary life.
For lunch, enjoy an authentic Guatemalan meal at a carefully selected local restaurant, known for its traditional flavors and farm-to-table cuisine.
In the afternoon, travel to San Miguel Escobar, a charming highland village outside Antigua. Here, you will be welcomed into the home of a local Guatemalan family for an exclusive hands-on cooking class. Learn traditional techniques passed down through generations as you prepare a delicious regional dish. Afterward, sit down with your hosts and enjoy the meal you’ve created, gaining a deeper connection to Guatemalan culture and culinary traditions.
Overnight at El Convento Boutique Hotel. (B, L, D)
Pacaya Volcano Hike
After breakfast, embark on a privately guided hike to Pacaya Volcano, one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes. Rising to 2,552 meters (8,373 feet), Pacaya has been continuously active since 1965, offering a surreal landscape of hardened black lava fields, smoking fumaroles, and panoramic views of the Guatemalan Highlands.
Your adventure begins with a scenic one-hour drive to Pacaya National Park, followed by a moderate 2-mile hike from the trailhead at San Francisco de Sales. Walk through farmlands and pine forests, gradually ascending into the volcanic terrain. Along the way, you’ll witness the stark beauty of the volcanic moonscape, and at the summit, you’ll have the unique opportunity to roast marshmallows over natural steam vents—a favorite experience for many travelers.
Afterward, enjoy a private picnic lunch with breathtaking views of the crater and surrounding landscapes. Later, descend and return to Antigua Guatemala for a well-earned afternoon at leisure.
In the evening, savor dinner at a carefully selected local restaurant, featuring traditional Guatemalan cuisine.
Overnight at El Convento Boutique Hotel. (B, L, D)
Iximche Visit & Transfer to Lake Atitlan
After breakfast, begin your private journey to Lake Atitlán, often regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, surrounded by towering volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages (approx. 3-hour drive).
En route, stop for an expert-guided tour of Iximche Archaeological Site, the ancient capital of the Kaqchikel Maya Kingdom. Founded in 1470, Iximche was a significant ceremonial center until its abandonment in 1524 during the early years of Spanish conquest. Explore its ceremonial plazas, ball courts, and pyramidal temples, gaining insight into its historic and spiritual importance to modern Maya communities.
Afterward, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing through the picturesque Guatemalan Highlands to Lake Atitlán. Upon arrival, check into your lakefront hotel, where you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the volcano-ringed waters.
Relax and unwind at your leisure before dinner is served at your lodge.
Overnight at Hotel Atitlán. (B, L, D)
San Juan & Santiago Village Visit
Start your morning with a private kayaking adventure on the tranquil waters of Lake Atitlán, paddling for approximately 45 minutes along scenic peninsulas. Enjoy spectacular views of the lake’s three iconic volcanoes—Atitlán, San Pedro, and Tolimán—rising majestically from the shoreline.
After kayaking, board a private boat and visit the vibrant village of San Juan La Laguna, renowned for its colorful murals, indigenous art galleries, and traditional Maya weaving cooperatives. Meet local artisans who masterfully create textiles using natural dyes and time-honored techniques passed down through generations.
Continue by boat to Santiago Atitlán, one of the lake’s most traditional Tzutujil Maya communities. Here, visit the famous shrine of Maximón, a revered folk deity who embodies a fascinating blend of Maya and Catholic beliefs. Learn about the rich cultural heritage and spiritual practices that remain central to daily life in Santiago.
After an immersive cultural day, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning by boat to your hotel for a relaxing evening overlooking Lake Atitlán.
Overnight at Hotel Atitlán. (B, L, D)
Chichicastenango Market & Transfer to Guatemala
City
After breakfast, depart Lake Atitlán for Guatemala City (approx. 4-hour drive). Along the way, visit Chichicastenango, home to the most colorful and vibrant indigenous market in Central America.
Held on Thursdays and Sundays, this legendary market attracts Mayan vendors from all over Guatemala, including the K’iche’, Mam, Ixil, and Kaqchikel communities. Wander through rows of stalls offering handwoven textiles, ceremonial masks, pottery, and traditional wooden carvings. Experience the lively atmosphere of bartering and the vibrant cultural traditions still practiced today.
During your visit, explore Santo Tomás Church, where Mayan shamans often perform rituals on the steps, blending Catholic and ancient Mayan beliefs. This spiritual fusion makes Chichicastenango a profound cultural experience.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then continue your journey to Guatemala City. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and unwind before savoring a delicious dinner at one of the city’s finest restaurants.
Overnight at Hyatt Centric. (B, L, D)
Flight to Flores, boat tour & Santa Barbara Museum Visit
After breakfast, transfer to Guatemala City Airport for your domestic flight to Flores, gateway to the Mayan lowlands of Petén.
Upon arrival, your private driver will take you to the luxurious Las Lagunas Lodge, nestled in the heart of the Petén rainforest, for check-in and a short rest.
Later, meet your archaeologist guide, Francisco Estrada Belli, one of the world’s leading experts in Mayan civilization, who will accompany you throughout the next phase of your journey.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before embarking on a private boat tour across the turquoise waters of Lake Petén Itzá. Take in the breathtaking scenery as you cruise toward Santa Bárbara Island, home to a unique archaeological museum floating atop the lake.
This remarkable museum houses more than 5,700 Mayan artifacts, ranging from the Preclassic to the Late Classic periods. As you explore, gain exclusive insights into the daily life, rituals, and artistic achievements of ancient Mayan culture.
Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening, surrounded by the pristine rainforest of Petén.
Overnight at Las Lagunas Luxury Lodge. (B, L, D)
Yaxha full day tour
After breakfast, meet Francisco Estrada Belli, your expert archaeologist guide, for a private transfer to Yaxhá, one of Guatemala’s most spectacular yet lesser-visited Mayan archaeological sites.
Located deep in the northeastern Petén jungle, Yaxhá was once a major ceremonial center of the Mayan civilization. Unlike more frequented sites, Yaxhá offers an authentic and immersive experience, blending ancient ruins with stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Walk among more than 500 ancient structures, including 40 stelae, 13 altars, and 9 impressive pyramids. Climb Temple 216, one of Yaxhá’s tallest pyramids, for sweeping views over the lush jungle canopy and the shimmering Yaxhá and Sacnab lakes—a perfect setting for photography and birdwatching.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on-site, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the rainforest. After a day of exploration and discovery, return to Las Lagunas Luxury Lodge for an evening of relaxation.
Overnight at Las Lagunas Luxury Lodge. (B, L, D)
Tikal Sunrise & full day tour
Rise before dawn for a once-in-a-lifetime Tikal sunrise experience. A short drive takes you to Tikal National Park, where you’ll walk through the jungle, guided by the sounds of howler monkeys and exotic birds.
Climb Temple IV, the tallest structure in Tikal, to witness the sun rise above the misty canopy—a breathtaking view over this ancient Mayan city.
Afterward, enjoy breakfast on-site before exploring Tikal’s monumental plazas, temples, and ceremonial complexes, guided by renowned archaeologist Francisco Estrada Belli and your NPE local guide. Learn about the city’s fascinating history, architecture, and the mysteries surrounding the Mayan civilization.
Along the way, watch for wildlife like scarlet macaws, toucans, and monkeys.
Enjoy lunch in the jungle, then return to Las Lagunas Luxury Lodge for an afternoon at leisure.
This evening, a traditional marimba performance accompanies your dinner—an authentic cultural finale to an extraordinary day.
Overnight at Las Lagunas Luxury Lodge. (B, L, D)
Flight to Guatemala City & Popol Vuh museum Visit
After breakfast, transfer to Flores Airport for your flight back to Guatemala City, where your private driver will meet you on arrival.
Enjoy an early lunch before visiting the renowned Popol Vuh Museum, home to one of Guatemala’s best collections of pre-Columbian artifacts. Explore intricately carved stone sculptures, pottery, incense burners, and ceremonial urns, guided by your expert, who offers insights into the Maya civilization’s art, beliefs, and daily life.
After the visit, transfer to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Overnight at Hyatt Centric. (B, L, D)
Day 11
Fly Back Home
After breakfast, transfer to Guatemala City Airport for your international flight home. If you are joining the Belize Extension, your adventure continues!
We wish you safe travels and look forward to welcoming you on another New Paths Expeditions journey.
Overnight: N/A (B)
Belice Extension
Transfer to Belize
This morning, transfer to the Belize border. After crossing on your own, you’ll be met on the Belizean side by your new driver for a private transfer to your hotel (approx. 2 hours).
Your NPE Senior Local Guide will accompany you throughout the extension, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.
Overnight at Cassia Hill Resort, Belize. (B)
Xunantunich & Cahal Pech
After breakfast, visit Xunantunich, one of Belize’s most iconic Mayan sites. Explore its impressive plazas and climb El Castillo, rising 130 feet for panoramic views over the Mopan River Valley. Admire its famous stucco friezes and carved masks.
Continue to Cahal Pech, an ancient royal palace complex dating back to 1000 BC. Walk through its seven plazas and over 30 structures, including temples, ball courts, and altars. Learn about its history at the on-site museum, featuring jade ornaments, obsidian blades, and artifacts from a ruler’s tomb.
Overnight at Cassia Hill Resort, Belize. (B, L)
Transfers to Belize City & Flight to San Pedro
After breakfast, transfer to Belize City (approx. 2 hours). From there, take a short flight to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye. Upon arrival, a hotel representative will greet you at the airstrip and assist with your luggage. Your hotel is just five minutes away, so you can settle in and relax by the Caribbean Sea.
Overnight at Sunbreeze. (B)
Transfers to Belize City & Flight to San Pedro
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. Explore the charming town of San Pedro, relax on the white sand beaches, or take an optional snorkeling or diving excursion to discover the vibrant marine life of the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world.
Overnight at Sunbreeze. (B)
Fly Home
Lodgings
El Convento
Located in the heart of the historic yet vibrant city of La Antigua, inscribed by Unesco as Cultural World Heritage since 1979, El Convento Boutique Hotel is a door to a majestic experience, inside and out, with its contemporary colonial architecture and premises and world-class services, surrounded by the spectacle of a diverse community that throbs with activity in 300-year-old churches, plazas, and markets.
Hotel Atitlan
Hotel Atitlán has the best views of the lake. A property with fantastic gardens, birds, and a great place to stay when visiting the lake. Each room has a unique personality that is reflected in the decor of hand-woven fabrics, hand-crafted furniture, paintings, and other decorations from the many indigenous villages in the region. The floors are made of traditional tile and covered by hand-made area rugs.
Hyatt Centric
Located just minutes away from the airport, this modern hotel offers 138 rooms and suites, each complete with floor-to-ceiling views of Guatemala City or our atrium. The hotel is decorated with Guatemalan pieces and textiles in a chic style. Hyatt also has a pool, rooftop bar, restaurant, meeting spaces, and more.
Villa Caribe
Located in Livingston, a colorful fishing town where the Caribbean Sea meets with Rio Dulce and home to the Garifunas, a culture rich in African traditions, is Villa Caribe. Its 47 bedrooms are surrounded by gardens and beautiful views toward the Caribbean Sea and Rio Dulce. Enjoy a white sand oasis covered in rich tropical vegetation.
Jungle Lodge
The Jungle Lodge Hotel was established in 1956 by Mr. Antonio Ortiz Contreras (the one who discovered the temple of the inscriptions in 1951), just a 10-minute walk from the ceremonial center of Tikal. It has a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, gift shops, Wi-Fi connections, and conference rooms. It has been under constant renovation in order to adjust to modern standards of comfort and hospitality.
Cassia Hill Resort Belize
Cassia Hill is a full-service Belize Resort conveniently located just minutes out of San Ignacio Town, yet far enough to still enjoy a true jungle experience. Its proximity to most tourist attractions makes Cassia Hill Resort the perfect base to experience all the adventures this area offers.
Sunbreeze
SunBreeze Hotel is located in the town of San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. This beautiful hotel has a U-shaped Spanish design with Caribbean elements. It’s surrounded by tropical gardens, and an incredible beach just steps away from your room. SunBreeze hotel offers 43 spacious air-conditioned bedrooms, an onsite restaurant, a pool, and complimentary morning coffee.
When to go
The dry season, from November to April, is the ideal time to visit Guatemala. However, with temperatures ranging from 72°F to 90°F, the nation enjoys a comfortable environment that encourages travel all year long.
Even during the rainy season (May to October), the main tourist regions only see a few hours of daily precipitation.
The days are gorgeous and warm in the highlands, but the nights are chilly. Around Tikal, the lowlands are typically warm all year round (79°F to 90°F), with humidity rising in May.
We advise against traveling in September and October if you plan to visit Belize’s beaches. During that period, the rain there will be more disruptive and less enjoyable for activities like snorkel, diving, etc.
QUESTIONS?
If you have any questions, please let us know. We are here to help you!
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