Guatemala Tour & Travel Packages for Hiking and Trekking | Adventure Tripr

Guatemala Tour Overview

Guatemala is a charming country in Central America that boasts of a harmonious blend of history, culture, craft, and nature. A Guatemala trip has everything from natural wonders like towering volcanoes, stunning lakes, and lush rainforests to historic gems including ancient Mayan ruins, and well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. The vibrant indigenous culture, art, festivals, and diverse cuisine are added bonuses. Whether you're an adventurer or a cultural enthusiast, Guatemala travel packages offer the perfect way to explore this colorful country.

Guatemala Location

The Republic of Guatemala is located in Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north, Belize to the northeast, Honduras to the east, and El Salvador to the southeast. Adventurers can begin their Guatemala trip from Guatemala City, the country’s capital.

Currency Accepted in Guatemala

The official currency of Guatemala is Quetzal (Q*). Although US dollars are widely accepted throughout the country, it is advisable to carry local currency. Major credit cards are also accepted in big cities and at tourist destinations.

Best Places to Visit in Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala: With cobblestone streets, old colonial buildings, churches and convents, and the three volcanoes at the border, Antigua is one of the best attractions to visit on a Guatemala trip.

Tikal National Park: Nestled amid the lush jungles of northern Guatemala, Tikal National Park features the iconic Mayan ruins including pyramids, temples, plazas, and an acropolis. Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a biosphere reserve, the park also offers closer encounters with wildlife.

Lake Atitlán: Perched over a high volcanic crater, Lake Atitlán is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Guatemala. Many villages near the lake can be reached by boat, where visitors can learn about the local culture at the many spiritual centers there.

Semuc Champey: This natural reserve features a series of terraced pools with green or turquoise-colored waters on the top of a 985-foot-long (300 mt) limestone bridge. Semuc Champey is a perfect spot for swimming and photography.

Ixchel Museum of Indigenous Textiles and Clothings: This museum of Mayan costumes displays traditional Guatemalan apparel, jewelry, ceramics, and more. It’s one of the best places to visit in Guatemala City.

Quetzaltenango: Known for the Parque Centroamerica, surrounded by several neoclassical buildings, this second-largest city of Guatemala acts as a base for many Guatemala treks to the nearby mountains.

Chichicastenango Market: Every Thursday and Sunday until 6 pm, Chichicastenango, or simply Chichi hosts one of the largest traditional Mayan markets. The cobblestone streets buzz with local crafts and textile vendors. It’s a great way to discover the indigenous culture and buy souvenirs.

Pacaya Volcano: An adventurers’ favorite, Pacaya Volcano offers a challenging but rewarding hike. Standing at 8,373 feet (2,552 mt), this active volcano takes hikers through rugged terrain. A highlight of this Guatemala trek is roasting marshmallows over the hot volcanic spots.

Best Time to Visit Guatemala

The best time to visit Guatemala is during the dry season (November to April) when the weather is warm and pleasant—perfect for Guatemala adventure tours. During the rainy season, from May to October, the lowlands of Guatemala, including Tikal, become quite humid, making it less ideal for travel, though the landscapes are lush and green. February is the best month to visit Guatemala, as the crowds are smaller compared to December and January, and accommodation is more easily available.

Essential Tips for the Guatemala Tour

• Pack Layers: Guatemala’s weather varies across different regions so bring lightweight layers for warmth in the highlands and cooler clothing for lowlands.

• Stay Hydrated: Hiking a volcano or exploring ancient ruins can be quite exhausting due to the high temperatures around Guatemala. Staying hydrated is essential so bring a refillable water bottle and ensure you drink plenty of water throughout the day.

• Learn Basic Spanish: English is not widely spoken in many Guatemalan villages. Knowing a few key Spanish phrases will help you navigate and interact with locals with ease.

• Book Guided Tours in Advance: Popular Guatemala tour packages, especially for places like Tikal and volcano treks, can fill up quickly. Be sure to book your Guatemala tour itinerary in advance for a smooth trip.

• Travel on a Budget: Guatemala is an affordable destination for budget travelers. Try local meals at comedores for under $5, and if you're traveling with a group, you can save on accommodation by taking advantage of group rates.

• Respect Local Customs: Guatemala is rich in indigenous culture and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting Indigenous villages and ask for permission before taking photos of people.

• Be Mindful of Altitude: If you plan to hike or trek in higher elevations, take time to acclimate to the altitude. Some areas, like the highlands, can lead to altitude sickness for those unprepared.

Guatemala Tour Packages Cost

Depending on your choice of accommodation, activities, and attractions, Guatemala travel packages can cost around ______. At AdventureTripr, a wide range of Guaremala trip packages are available to suit different budgets.

Guatemala Tour Accommodation

Guatemala offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all preferences and budgets. You can select from luxurious hotels, hostels, budget-friendly motels, family-friendly guesthouses, and eco-lodges. For a more rustic experience, you can opt for camping in Tikal National Park.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Question 1. How many days should I spend in Guatemala?

Answer 1. It usually takes at least five days to explore the key attractions in Guatemala. However, if you want to make the most of your Guatemala trip, explore its major attractions and villages, and hike to the top of volcanoes for which we recommend extending your stay to 10 days.

Question 2. Is Guatemala safe for adventure?

Answer 2. Guatemala is generally safe, especially in popular tourist destinations like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal. However, it's important to stay vigilant, stick to designated trails, and follow local safety advice.

Question 3. How to reach Guatemala?

Answer 3. The most common way to reach Guatemala is via direct flights to La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City. You can take flights from major US cities like Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, Houston, New York, and Washington DC. 

Question 4. How to get around in Guatemala?

Answer 4. In Guatemala, many transportation options are available to get around including domestic flights, chicken or local buses, shuttle buses, taxis, and car rentals. One can even take boat trips to explore villages near Lake Atitlán.