Two Weeks Discovering Guatemala City & Beyond

From Ancient Maya Ruins to Highland Adventures

Trip Overview

This comprehensive two-week itinerary explores Guatemala City and its stunning surroundings, balancing urban cultural experiences with breathtaking natural escapes. You'll dive into the capital's rich Maya heritage at archaeological sites, explore world-class museums showcasing indigenous textiles and history, and venture to nearby highlands and Lake Atitlán. The pace allows for deep cultural immersion while including adventure activities like hiking and visits to unique attractions. From colonial architecture to botanical gardens, railway museums to whimsical hobbit-themed parks, this journey reveals Guatemala's diverse offerings. You'll experience authentic local cuisine, learn about the country's complex history, and enjoy both bustling city energy and peaceful natural retreats. Perfect for travelers seeking cultural depth combined with outdoor adventure.

Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$60-90 per day
Best Seasons
November through April (dry season), though year-round is possible
Ideal For
First-time visitors to Guatemala, Culture and history enthusiasts, Photography lovers, Adventure seekers, Museum aficionados, Solo travelers and couples

Day-by-Day Itinerary

1

Arrival & Historic Zone Orientation

Guatemala City Center
Settle into Guatemala City with a gentle introduction to the historic zone, exploring iconic landmarks and getting your bearings in the capital.
Morning
Arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive at La Aurora International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in Zona 10 or Zona 1. Take time to rest and acclimate. If you arrive early, take a leisurely walk around your neighborhood to get oriented, exchange currency, and grab essentials from local shops.
2-3 hours $15-25 (airport transfer)
Arrange airport pickup through your hotel for safety and convenience, typically costs $15-25
Lunch
A traditional Guatemalan restaurant near your hotel serving pepián and kak'ik
Traditional Guatemalan Mid-range
Afternoon
Torre del Reformador visit and surrounding area
Visit the Torre del Reformador, Guatemala City's iconic steel tower inspired by the Eiffel Tower. Built in 1935 to honor President Justo Rufino Barrios, this landmark offers excellent photo opportunities. Stroll the surrounding area along Avenida de la Reforma, observing the mix of modern and historic architecture that defines Guatemala City.
2 hours Free (exterior viewing)
Evening
Dinner and early rest
Enjoy dinner at a casual restaurant in Zona 10 (Zona Viva) featuring grilled meats and local specialties, then rest early to recover from travel

Where to Stay Tonight

Zona 10 (Zona Viva) (Mid-range hotel in the entertainment district)

Zona 10 offers safety, dining options, and easy access to museums and attractions you'll visit in coming days

Download the ride-sharing apps Uber or InDriver before arriving - they're safer and more reliable than street taxis in Guatemala City
Day 1 Budget: $65-85
2

Maya Heritage & Textile Traditions

Zona 10 Museums
Immerse yourself in Guatemala's indigenous heritage through two exceptional museums showcasing ancient Maya artifacts and traditional textile artistry.
Morning
Museo Popol Vuh
Explore the Museo Popol Vuh, home to one of Central America's finest collections of pre-Columbian and colonial art. The museum houses exquisite Maya ceramics, stone carvings, and colonial religious art. Named after the sacred Maya text, it provides essential context for understanding Guatemala's indigenous civilizations. The collection includes funerary urns, jade pieces, and ceremonial objects spanning 3,000 years of Maya culture.
2-3 hours $5-8
No advance booking needed; arrive when doors open at 9 AM for a quieter experience
Lunch
A café on the Universidad Francisco Marroquín campus serving sandwiches and fresh salads
International/Café fare Budget
Afternoon
Museo Ixchel del Traje Indígena
Visit the Museo Ixchel del Traje Indígena, dedicated to Guatemala's spectacular indigenous textile traditions. This museum showcases the incredible diversity of huipiles (traditional blouses), ceremonial garments, and weaving techniques from Guatemala's 22 Maya linguistic communities. Learn about the symbolism woven into each pattern and the cultural significance of traditional dress. The collection demonstrates how textiles serve as markers of identity, community, and cosmology.
2 hours $5-8
Evening
Zona Viva exploration and dinner
Explore the restaurants and casual atmosphere of Zona Viva, dining at an upscale restaurant featuring fusion cuisine blending Guatemalan and international flavors

Where to Stay Tonight

Zona 10 (Zona Viva) (Same hotel as Day 1)

Staying put allows you to explore the neighborhood's evening dining and entertainment scene

Both museums are located on the same university campus, making them perfect to visit together; photography policies vary, so ask before taking pictures
Day 2 Budget: $55-75
3

Ancient Maya City Exploration

Kaminaljuyu Archaeological Area
Step back 2,000 years at one of Mesoamerica's most important archaeological sites, then explore Guatemala's natural history collections.
Morning
Kaminaljuyu Archaeological Area
Explore Kaminaljuyu, a major pre-Columbian Maya city that thrived from 1500 BC to 1200 AD. Though surrounded by modern development, the preserved mounds and structures reveal the sophistication of this ancient urban center. Walk among the earthen pyramids and ball court remnants while learning about the site's importance as a trade hub connecting highland and lowland Maya regions. The site offers insight into early Maya urbanism and social complexity.
2-3 hours $3-5
Consider hiring a local guide at the entrance for deeper historical context, typically $10-15
Lunch
A local comedor in Zona 7 serving hearty Guatemalan lunch specials with rice, beans, and stewed meat
Traditional Guatemalan Budget
Afternoon
Museo de Historia Natural USAC
Visit the National Museum of Natural History at the Universidad de San Carlos. This extensive collection covers Guatemala's biodiversity, geology, and paleontology. Explore exhibits on native fauna including jaguars and quetzals, geological formations, and the country's volcanic landscape. The museum provides excellent context for understanding Guatemala's exceptional natural environments, from cloud forests to volcanic highlands.
2 hours $2-4
Evening
Relaxed evening in Zona 10
Enjoy dinner at a steakhouse known for quality beef, followed by drinks at a rooftop bar with city views

Where to Stay Tonight

Zona 10 (Zona Viva) (Same hotel)

Convenient base for tomorrow's activities

Kaminaljuyu is best visited in the morning when light is optimal for photography and temperatures are cooler; wear comfortable walking shoes
Day 3 Budget: $50-70
4

National Art & History Deep Dive

Historic Center
Dedicate today to Guatemala's premier national museums, exploring centuries of artistic achievement and historical narratives.
Morning
MUNAG - Museo Nacional de Arte de Guatemala
Spend the morning at Guatemala's National Museum of Art, housed in a beautiful building in the historic center. The collection spans from colonial religious paintings to contemporary Guatemalan art. Admire works by renowned artists like Carlos Mérida and Efraín Recinos, and trace the evolution of Guatemalan artistic expression. The museum provides crucial insight into how artists have interpreted Guatemala's identity, struggles, and beauty through different historical periods.
2-3 hours $3-5
Lunch
A restaurant in Zona 1's historic center serving traditional chiles rellenos and handmade tortillas
Traditional Guatemalan Budget
Afternoon
National History Museum
Continue to the National History Museum to understand Guatemala's complex past from pre-Columbian times through independence and modern history. Exhibits cover Spanish colonization, the independence movement, liberal reforms, and 20th-century political developments. Artifacts, documents, and displays illuminate the forces that shaped contemporary Guatemala. The museum offers balanced perspectives on difficult historical periods.
2-3 hours $3-5
Evening
Historic center evening stroll and dinner
Walk through the illuminated historic center, visiting the central plaza, then dine at a traditional restaurant featuring live marimba music

Where to Stay Tonight

Zona 10 (Zona Viva) (Same hotel)

Return to your established base

The historic center (Zona 1) requires vigilance with belongings; visit museums during daytime hours and use ride-sharing for transport
Day 4 Budget: $55-75
5

Railways, Relief Maps & Memory

Various City Museums
Explore Guatemala's transportation history, see the country in miniature, and reflect on recent history at powerful memorial sites.
Morning
Museo del Ferrocarril
Begin at the Railway Museum, housed in the old train station. Guatemala once had an extensive railway network connecting the capital to both coasts, and this museum preserves that heritage. Explore vintage locomotives, passenger cars, and exhibits documenting how railways transformed Guatemala's economy and connected remote regions. Photographs and artifacts tell stories of the railway's golden age and its eventual decline.
1.5-2 hours $2-4
Lunch
A casual eatery near Parque Minerva serving grilled chicken and fresh vegetables
Guatemalan/Grilled Budget
Afternoon
Mapa en Relieve de Guatemala and Casa de la Memoria
Visit the Mapa en Relieve, an impressive three-dimensional relief map of Guatemala built in 1905 at 1:10,000 scale. Walk around this unique topographical model to appreciate Guatemala's dramatic geography. Then visit Casa de la Memoria, a moving memorial dedicated to victims of Guatemala's armed conflict. This important site documents human rights abuses and honors those who suffered during the civil war, offering space for reflection and remembrance.
2-3 hours $3-5
Evening
Quiet evening and dinner
Return to Zona 10 for a relaxed dinner at an Italian restaurant, processing the day's emotional experiences

Where to Stay Tonight

Zona 10 (Zona Viva) (Same hotel)

Familiar accommodation after an emotionally heavy day

Casa de la Memoria can be emotionally intense; allow time afterward to decompress before continuing your day
Day 5 Budget: $50-65
6

Nature & Science in the City

Botanical Gardens & Children's Museum
Enjoy a lighter day exploring Guatemala's botanical diversity and engaging with interactive science exhibits.
Morning
Jardín Botánico de Guatemala
Spend a peaceful morning at the Botanical Garden, home to extensive collections of native Guatemalan plants including orchids, bromeliads, and medicinal herbs. Stroll through themed gardens showcasing different ecosystems from cloud forest to dry forest species. The garden serves as both a research institution and tranquil urban oasis. Bird-watching opportunities abound, and informative signage explains the ecological importance of Guatemala's incredible plant diversity.
2-3 hours $3-5
Lunch
A health-focused café near the university serving fresh juices, salads, and vegetarian options
Healthy/Vegetarian Budget
Afternoon
The Children's Museum of Guatemala
Visit The Children's Museum, which offers engaging interactive exhibits on science, technology, and Guatemalan culture. While designed for children, adults will enjoy the hands-on demonstrations of physics principles, optical illusions, and cultural displays. The museum makes learning accessible and fun, covering topics from human anatomy to environmental conservation. It's a refreshing change of pace from traditional museums.
2 hours $4-6
Evening
Shopping and dinner in Zona 10
Browse shops in Zona 10 for handicrafts and textiles, then enjoy dinner at an Asian fusion restaurant

Where to Stay Tonight

Zona 10 (Zona Viva) (Same hotel)

Convenient for tomorrow's early departure

The Botanical Garden is particularly beautiful in morning light; bring insect repellent during rainy season
Day 6 Budget: $55-70
7

Day Trip to Hobbitenango

Hobbitenango (near Antigua)
Escape to a whimsical mountaintop park featuring hobbit houses, adventure activities, and spectacular valley views.
Morning
Journey to Hobbitenango
Depart early for Hobbitenango, located in the mountains above Antigua (about 1.5 hours from Guatemala City). This unique attraction features hobbit-style houses built into the hillside, inspired by Tolkien's Middle Earth. Upon arrival, explore the charming hobbit dwellings, enjoy panoramic views of the Antigua valley and surrounding volcanoes, and photograph the creative architecture. The setting combines fantasy elements with genuine natural beauty.
3-4 hours including travel $25-35 (including transport and entrance)
Arrange private transport or join a tour; entrance typically costs $8-12 per person
Lunch
The on-site restaurant at Hobbitenango serving wood-fired pizzas and international dishes with volcano views
International/Pizza Mid-range
Afternoon
Hobbitenango activities and exploration
Spend the afternoon enjoying Hobbitenango's various activities including the giant hand sculpture (perfect for creative photos), zip-lining through the pine forest, walking trails with valley overlooks, and relaxing in the peaceful mountain environment. The park offers both adventure and tranquility. Visit the small farm animals, explore every hobbit house, and soak in the creative atmosphere before returning to Guatemala City.
3-4 hours Included in morning cost (activities extra $5-15)
Evening
Return to Guatemala City
Arrive back in Guatemala City by evening; enjoy a light dinner at your hotel or nearby casual restaurant

Where to Stay Tonight

Zona 10 (Zona Viva) (Same hotel)

Return to your established base after a full day trip

Hobbitenango can be cool and windy at altitude; bring a light jacket even on sunny days, and wear comfortable shoes for walking trails
Day 7 Budget: $75-100
8

Contemporary Culture & Urban Parks

MUSAC and City Parks
Experience Guatemala's contemporary art scene and enjoy urban green spaces with local families.
Morning
MUSAC (Museum of Contemporary Art)
Explore MUSAC, Guatemala's premier contemporary art museum showcasing cutting-edge work by Guatemalan and Central American artists. The rotating exhibitions feature painting, sculpture, installation art, and multimedia works addressing current social issues, identity, and artistic experimentation. The museum provides insight into how contemporary artists engage with Guatemala's complex present, offering perspectives often absent from historical museums. The space itself is architecturally interesting.
2-3 hours $3-5
Lunch
A trendy café in Zona 10 serving gourmet sandwiches, specialty coffee, and fresh pastries
Café/International Mid-range
Afternoon
Parque Erick Barrondo and local neighborhood exploration
Visit Parque Erick Barrondo, named after Guatemala's Olympic medal-winning race walker. This local park offers a glimpse into everyday Guatemalan life as families gather for recreation. Stroll the paths, observe locals exercising and socializing, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. Explore the surrounding neighborhood, perhaps stopping at local shops or street vendors for snacks like fresh fruit with lime and chili.
2 hours Free
Evening
Zona Viva nightlife
Experience Zona 10's evening energy with dinner at a popular steakhouse, followed by drinks at a lively bar or lounge

Where to Stay Tonight

Zona 10 (Zona Viva) (Same hotel)

Central location for nightlife and dining

MUSAC exhibitions change regularly; check their schedule online to see what's currently showing before visiting
Day 8 Budget: $60-80
9

Lake Atitlán Excursion Begins

Reserva de Uso Múltiple la Cuenca del Lago de Atitlán
Journey to stunning Lake Atitlán, one of the world's most beautiful lakes, surrounded by volcanoes and Maya villages.
Morning
Travel to Lake Atitlán
Depart Guatemala City for Lake Atitlán (approximately 3 hours by shuttle or private transport). The journey takes you through highland scenery with dramatic elevation changes. Upon arrival at Panajachel, the main town on the lake, check into your accommodation and take your first breathtaking views of the lake surrounded by three volcanoes: Atitlán, Tolimán, and San Pedro. The lake sits in a massive volcanic caldera.
4 hours including travel $20-30 (shuttle transport)
Book tourist shuttle in advance through your hotel or online agencies for comfort and reliability
Lunch
A lakeside restaurant in Panajachel serving fresh fish and lake views
Guatemalan/Seafood Mid-range
Afternoon
Reserva de Uso Múltiple la Cuenca del Lago de Atitlán orientation
Spend the afternoon exploring Panajachel and beginning to understand the Reserva de Uso Múltiple la Cuenca del Lago de Atitlán, the protected multiple-use reserve encompassing the lake basin. Walk along the waterfront, browse handicraft markets featuring textiles from surrounding villages, and acclimate to the lake's elevation. Learn about conservation efforts protecting this UNESCO-considered site and its unique ecosystem.
3 hours $10-15 (shopping and snacks)
Evening
Sunset viewing and dinner
Watch the spectacular sunset over the lake from a waterfront restaurant, dining on local specialties

Where to Stay Tonight

Panajachel, Lake Atitlán (Mid-range hotel with lake views)

Panajachel serves as the perfect base for exploring Lake Atitlán's villages and natural beauty

Lake Atitlán sits at 5,125 feet elevation; take it easy your first afternoon if you feel altitude effects
Day 9 Budget: $70-90
10

Lake Atitlán Village Hopping

Lake Atitlán Villages
Explore traditional Maya villages around the lake by boat, experiencing distinct indigenous cultures and stunning landscapes.
Morning
Boat tour to Santiago Atitlán
Take a morning boat across the lake to Santiago Atitlán, the largest lakeside village and home to Tz'utujil Maya people. Explore the vibrant market, visit the church where indigenous and Catholic traditions merge, and learn about traditional textile production. Santiago maintains strong cultural traditions including the worship of Maximón, a folk saint. The village offers authentic cultural immersion away from tourist development.
3-4 hours $15-20 (boat and guide)
Arrange boat transport through your hotel or at the Panajachel dock; consider hiring a local guide in Santiago
Lunch
A simple restaurant in Santiago Atitlán serving traditional lake fish and handmade tortillas
Traditional Maya/Guatemalan Budget
Afternoon
Visit San Juan La Laguna
Continue by boat to San Juan La Laguna, a cooperative-focused village known for natural textile dyeing and women's weaving collectives. Visit workshops where artisans demonstrate traditional backstrap weaving and natural dye extraction from local plants. The village has successfully developed community-based tourism that directly benefits residents. Purchase authentic textiles while supporting local families and learning about sustainable practices.
2-3 hours $10-15 (boat and purchases)
Evening
Return to Panajachel
Return to Panajachel by boat, enjoy dinner at an international restaurant, and relax after a full day of cultural exploration

Where to Stay Tonight

Panajachel, Lake Atitlán (Same hotel)

Convenient base for lake exploration

Boat schedules can be flexible; confirm return times with boat captains and allow buffer time; bring small bills for purchases in villages
Day 10 Budget: $65-85
11

Lake Atitlán Nature & Relaxation

Enjoy the natural beauty of the lake reserve with hiking, swimming, or kayaking, plus time for relaxation.
Morning
Hiking or kayaking in the reserve
Spend the morning actively enjoying the Reserva de Uso Múltiple la Cuenca del Lago de Atitlán. Options include hiking trails offering elevated lake views, kayaking along the shoreline to appreciate the volcanic landscape from water level, or visiting a nature reserve. The lake basin hosts diverse ecosystems from aquatic environments to pine-oak forests. Bird-watching opportunities include grebes, herons, and various highland species.
3-4 hours $15-25 (equipment rental or tour)
Arrange kayak rentals or guided hikes through your hotel or local tour operators
Lunch
A healthy café in Panajachel serving fresh salads, smoothies, and vegetarian options
Healthy/Vegetarian Mid-range
Afternoon
Relaxation and optional spa treatment
Take a slower afternoon to recharge. Consider booking a massage or spa treatment incorporating local traditions, reading by the lake, or exploring Panajachel's quieter streets and gardens. Visit local coffee shops, browse bookstores, or simply enjoy the tranquil lake atmosphere. This downtime balances your active travel schedule and allows for personal reflection and relaxation.
3-4 hours $20-40 (spa treatment optional)
Evening
Farewell to Lake Atitlán
Enjoy a special dinner at an upscale lakeside restaurant, savoring the views one last time before returning to Guatemala City tomorrow

Where to Stay Tonight

Panajachel, Lake Atitlán (Same hotel)

Final night at the lake

Lake Atitlán's weather can change quickly; mornings are typically clearest for views and activities before afternoon clouds roll in
Day 11 Budget: $75-100
12

Return to Capital & Ecological Exploration

Return to Guatemala City and explore the city's ecological park, connecting with nature within urban boundaries.
Morning
Return journey to Guatemala City
Depart Lake Atitlán after breakfast for the return journey to Guatemala City. The three-hour drive takes you back through highland scenery with opportunities to stop at viewpoints. Arrive in the capital by midday, check back into your hotel, and refresh after the journey. Use any remaining morning time to catch up on rest or organize purchases from your lake visit.
4 hours including travel $20-30 (shuttle transport)
Book return shuttle when you arrange outbound transport for better rates
Lunch
A restaurant near your hotel serving international cuisine to ease back into city life
International Mid-range
Afternoon
Parque Ecológico Florencia
Visit Parque Ecológico Florencia, an ecological park offering nature trails, picnic areas, and green space within Guatemala City. The park provides habitat for local wildlife and serves as an environmental education center. Walk the trails through different vegetation zones, observe birds and small mammals, and appreciate efforts to preserve natural areas within urban sprawl. It's a peaceful contrast to the bustling city.
2-3 hours $2-4
Evening
Zona Viva dining and nightlife
Return to Zona 10 for dinner at a favorite restaurant from earlier in your trip, reconnecting with the capital's urban energy

Where to Stay Tonight

Zona 10 (Zona Viva) (Mid-range hotel in entertainment district)

Return to familiar territory for your final days

Parque Ecológico Florencia is best visited in afternoon when local families gather; weekends are more crowded but offer better people-watching
Day 12 Budget: $70-90
13

Final Museums & Textile Heritage

Complete your cultural education with remaining museums and deep dive into Guatemala's textile traditions.
Morning
Museo Casa Del Tejido Antiguo
Visit the Museo Casa Del Tejido Antiguo to deepen your understanding of Guatemala's textile heritage. This specialized museum focuses on antique textiles and traditional weaving techniques, displaying rare pieces that demonstrate the evolution of Maya textile arts. Learn about the symbolic meanings of patterns, regional variations in style, and how textiles encode cultural information. After your Lake Atitlán experience, you'll appreciate these traditions more deeply.
2 hours $4-6
Lunch
A café in Zona 10 serving gourmet sandwiches and specialty coffee for a relaxed meal
Café/International Mid-range
Afternoon
Tanque La Unión and Parque Minerva
Visit Tanque La Unión, a historic water reservoir and local gathering spot, followed by Parque Minerva nearby. These sites offer glimpses into local life away from tourist circuits. Parque Minerva provides green space and recreational areas where Guatemala City residents relax. The area around these sites shows authentic neighborhood character. If time permits, revisit any favorite spots from earlier in your trip.
2-3 hours Free
Evening
Farewell dinner
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at an upscale restaurant in Zona 10, celebrating your two weeks of Guatemalan exploration with excellent food and wine

Where to Stay Tonight

Zona 10 (Zona Viva) (Same hotel)

Final night before departure

Use your last afternoon to purchase any final souvenirs or textiles you've been considering; Zona 10 shops offer quality handicrafts
Day 13 Budget: $70-95
14

Departure Day

Final morning in Guatemala City before airport departure, with time for last-minute activities depending on flight schedule.
Morning
Flexible morning based on flight time
Depending on your departure time, enjoy a leisurely final breakfast at your hotel or visit a nearby café. If time allows, take a last walk around Zona 10, purchase any forgotten souvenirs, or revisit a favorite spot for final photographs. Pack carefully, ensuring textiles and handicrafts are well-protected for travel. Confirm your airport transportation and allow plenty of time for check-in.
2-3 hours $10-20
Arrange airport transport the evening before to avoid morning stress
Lunch
Depending on timing, grab lunch at the airport or enjoy a final meal at a restaurant near your hotel
Flexible Mid-range
Afternoon
Airport departure
Transfer to La Aurora International Airport, allowing at least three hours before international flights. Check in, pass through security, and browse the airport shops for any last-minute Guatemalan coffee or chocolate. Reflect on your two weeks exploring Guatemala City's rich cultural heritage, ancient Maya sites, world-class museums, and the stunning natural beauty of Lake Atitlán. Depart with deeper understanding of Guatemala's complexity and beauty.
Varies $15-25 (airport transfer)
Evening
Departure
Depart Guatemala with memories of incredible experiences and cultural insights

Where to Stay Tonight

N/A (N/A)

Departure day

Guatemala City traffic can be unpredictable; leave extra time for airport transfer, especially during weekday rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM)
Day 14 Budget: $40-60

Practical Information

Getting Around

Within Guatemala City, use Uber or InDriver ride-sharing apps for safe, reliable transport between attractions. These services are affordable (typically $3-8 per ride) and much safer than street taxis. For the Lake Atitlán excursion, book tourist shuttle services in advance through your hotel or reputable agencies. Shuttles cost $20-30 each way and provide comfortable, direct service. Around Lake Atitlán, boats are the primary transport between villages, with regular service from Panajachel. Walking is pleasant in Zona 10 and within individual attractions. Avoid public buses in Guatemala City for safety reasons.

Book Ahead

Book accommodation in both Guatemala City and Lake Atitlán at least 2-3 weeks ahead, especially during high season (December-April and July-August). Reserve shuttle transport to Lake Atitlán in advance for guaranteed seats. Hobbitenango visits don't require advance booking but arranging transport does. Museums and archaeological sites typically don't need advance tickets. Consider booking spa treatments or special dining experiences a few days ahead.

Packing Essentials

Layers for varying temperatures (cool mornings, warm afternoons, chilly evenings at altitude), comfortable walking shoes, rain jacket (especially May-October), sunscreen and hat, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, daypack for excursions, modest clothing for museum visits, light sweater or jacket for air-conditioned spaces, camera, and any prescription medications. Bring cash in small denominations for markets and small vendors.

Total Budget

$900-1,200 for 14 days (excluding international flights)

Customize Your Trip

Budget Version

Reduce costs by staying in hostels ($10-20/night) in Zona 1 or Zona 10, eating primarily at local comedores serving lunch specials ($3-5), using public transportation where safe, and choosing free activities like parks and exterior architectural viewing. Skip Hobbitenango or find shared transport to reduce costs. Prepare some meals if accommodation has kitchen access. Focus on museums with lower entry fees. This approach can reduce daily costs to $35-50. Total budget: $500-700 for 14 days.

Luxury Upgrade

Upgrade to boutique hotels in Zona 10 ($80-150/night) and luxury lake resorts at Atitlán ($120-200/night). Hire private guides for archaeological sites and museums ($40-60 per day). Arrange private transport for all transfers including Lake Atitlán. Dine at Guatemala's finest restaurants featuring innovative cuisine. Book spa treatments, private boat tours, and exclusive experiences. Add helicopter tours over volcanoes or coffee plantation visits. Daily budget increases to $150-250. Total budget: $2,100-3,500 for 14 days.

Family-Friendly

The Children's Museum becomes a highlight for kids. Add more time at Hobbitenango for its playful atmosphere and activities children love. Choose family-friendly hotels with pools in Zona 10. At Lake Atitlán, select accommodations with gardens and swimming areas. Reduce museum time or break visits into shorter segments. Add interactive experiences like textile weaving workshops where children can participate. Focus on outdoor activities at parks and nature reserves. Choose restaurants with diverse menus accommodating picky eaters. Allow more downtime between activities for rest and spontaneous play.

Book Activities for Your Trip

Tours, tickets, and experiences in Guatemala City

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