Guatemala is only about a five hour flight from New York but provides a diverse set of experiences for travelers. On a relatively short trip, I’d recommend visiting both Antigua (only about an hour away from Guatemala City) and Lake Atitlan. In Antigua, visitors will find cobblestone streets and diverse food options (owing to the many expats in the region). Lake Atitlan offers a slow pace and tranquil views of the lake with options for excursions to other local towns. Here is a sample five-day itinerary which includes both towns.
Day 1: Antigua
Morning
After landing at Guatemala City airport, take a taxi directly to Antigua and drop your bags. Start your day by immersing yourself in its rich history. Begin with a visit to the iconic Santa Catalina Arch, a symbol of the city. Capture stunning views of Antigua and its surrounding volcanoes from this historic landmark.
Afternoon
Head to the Antigua Guatemala Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at its stunning architecture and delve into the history within its walls. Next, visit the Casa Santo Domingo Museum, offering a glimpse into Antigua’s colonial past and housing exquisite art and artifacts.
Evening
As the day winds down, indulge in some authentic Guatemalan cuisine. For dinner, I highly recommend La Fonda de la Calle Real. Try their Pepian, a traditional Guatemalan stew, for a taste of local flavors.
Day 2: Antigua
Morning
Get up early and gear up for an adventure! Embark on a hike up Pacaya Volcano. Enjoy breathtaking views of the volcanic landscapes and witness the powerful forces of nature. If you don’t want to hike the whole way, there are typically horses available to help take you up most of the volcano. Some tours, like this one, even offer a volcano-cooked pizza at the top.
Afternoon
After your volcanic adventure, treat yourself to a relaxing afternoon at the Santa Clara Convent. Stroll through its serene courtyards and learn about its historical significance.
Evening
For a memorable dinner experience, visit Rincon Tipico. Feast on delicious Guatemalan dishes while enjoying live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
Day 3: Last Day in Antigua and Transfer to Lake Atitlan
Morning
Explore the colorful markets of Antigua. Visit Mercado de Artesanias, Antigua Mercado, or Mercado del Carmen for unique souvenirs and local crafts. After spending some time looking over souvineers, don’t miss out on trying some delicious street food like elote or fresh fruit (the mango is delicious) from the market stalls.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon in the center of town taking a chocolate-making workshop at ChocoMuseo. Learn about the history of cacao in Guatemala and craft your own chocolate creations.
Evening
End your Antigua experience with a sunset stroll around Parque Central. Admire the illuminated facades of historic buildings as the city comes alive in the evening. Either end the evening by traveling to Lake Atitlan or head there first thing in the morning. Keep in mind, it is about a 3 hour drive.
Day 4: Lake Atitlan
Morning
Start your day by enjoying the views in Lake Atitlan. When you feel like venturing out, try visiting Panajachel, the main town on the shores of the lake. Explore its markets and soak in the breathtaking views.
Afternoon
Take a boat tour to explore some of the charming lakeside villages like San Pedro La Laguna or Santiago Atitlan. Each village has its own unique charm and cultural offerings. There’s lots of great coffee, textiles, chocolate, and honey on offer in the towns so leave some room in your suitcase. I’d recommend spending a few hours here but the experience may be overwhelming
*Evening*
For a delightful lakeside dinner experience, head to Restaurante Shanti Shanti in Panajachel. Savor delicious food while enjoying views of the serene lake.
Day 5: Lake Atitlan
Morning
Start your day with a hike up Indian Nose, a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of Lake Atitlan and its surrounding volcanoes. The sunrise from this spot is truly spectacular!
Afternoon/Evening
Spend your afternoon enjoying the view of the lake. As your trip comes to an end, unwind with a peaceful lakeside dinner at GiGi’s Restaurant in San Marcos La Laguna. Enjoy the tranquil ambiance and delicious cuisine.
Extension Recommendations:
– Extend your stay in Antigua to explore more museums like the Museo Casa del Tejido Antiguo or the Museo del Jade.
– Visit Chichicastenango Market, famous for its vibrant colors and indigenous crafts, held on Thursdays and Sundays.
– Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal for a deeper dive into Guatemala’s history and culture. I highly recommend this tour if you have even one extra day.
– Consider a coffee tour to learn about Guatemala’s rich coffee heritage and taste some of the finest brews.