Perfect 5-day Guatemala itinerary

From atmospheric UNESCO-listed Antigua, to ancient Mayan sites and natural wonders, Guatemala is an incredibly diverse country, with plenty to keep travelers satisfied for months. As a result, if you’re short on time, curating your trip schedule takes some doing, especially if you're pressed for time. With that in mind, the 5 day Guatemala itinerary detailed below will help you make the most of a shorter stay in this glorious land.

Is 5 days enough in Guatemala?

Wondering how many days to spend in Guatemala, and if five days is enough? In all honesty, if you can stay longer than five days, seize the chance!

Loaded with a diversity of attractions — history-drenched colonial cities, epic volcanoes, ancient Mayan ruins, and so much more — you’ll be hard pressed to even touch the surface in five days.

That said, with careful planning — after deciding what you most want to see and do — it is possible to experience a reasonable range of the country in five days, as revealed in the itinerary presented right below.

If, however, you’re lucky enough to have a longer stretch of time in the country, take inspiration from our 7 day Guatemala itinerary, and our suggested 10-day Guatemala itinerary, with all options totally customizable.

Alternatively, if you have a specific duration in mind, or are open to fresh possibilities, talk to a local expert about curating your perfect vacation for any duration. 

Guatemala itinerary 5 days overview

Covering some of the best things to do in Guatemala, here’s an overview of this 5-day Guatemala itinerary.

• Day 1: Arrive in Guatemala City, transfer to Antigua
• Day 2: Explore colonial Antigua
• Day 3: Transfer to Lake Atitlan
• Day 4: Adventure and culture around Lake Atitlan
• Day 5: Hike Pacaya volcano

Not sure when to go? Wise on the best time to go to Guatemala, in terms of how different seasons align with your interests and budget.

Day 1: Arrive in Guatemala, transfer to Antigua

After landing in Guatemala City, transfer to Antigua. Stunningly-sited in a sweeping highland valley, it’s for sure one of the most alluring colonial cities in the Americas.

Think cobblestone streets, pretty pastel-colored buildings, laidback local eateries, and all against a majestic backdrop.

Editor’s tip: while we really rate Antigua, you might want to read up on reasons to stay a while in Guatemala City before you race off. 

Where to stay

The best places to stay in Antigua tend to be located around Parque Central or along the streets just outside the bustling center. 

Being based in either of these locations means you’ll be in walking distance of plenty of attractions, restaurants and bars.

Day 2: Explore colonial Antigua

We suggest staring your discovery of Antigua in Parque Central. Here, in the beating heart of Antigua, surrounded by colonial-era buildings, with a backdrop of the well-restored Antigua Cathedral, you’ll get to soak up local life and history at one fell swoop.

Next, take a stroll to the nearby Palacio de los Capitanes Generales — a fine example of 16th-century architecture if ever there was one — and meander the cobblestone streets to the Santa Catalina Arch.

This iconic yellow arch is a symbol of Antigua, and made all the more impressive by its Volcán Agua backdrop.

Ahead of lunch, culture vultures might want to drop by the Jade Museum to learn about Guatemala’s jade history and craftsmanship, and browse stunning artefacts.

Come the afternoon, take time to visit La Merced Church, with its ornate yellow facade and peaceful courtyard, before heading to the artisan market. Located close to the bus terminal, it’s the perfect place to pick up textiles and ceramics.

Before dusk, head up to the Cerro de la Cruz viewpoint to soak up sun-drenched panoramic views of Antigua and the surrounding volcanoes ahead of dinner.

Day 3: Transfer to Lake Atitlán

Day 3 of this 5 day itinerary will see you transfer from Antique to Lake Atitlán.

Surrounded by volcanoes and steep hills, its astonishingly beautiful, especially as the lake’s deep waters shift through shades of blue, green and grey through the day.

It’s also the perfect place to discover Mayan culture, and enjoy a spot of adventure.

How to get from Antigua to Lake Atitlan

The journey from Antigua to Lake Atitlán takes around 2.5–3.5 hours, depending on your mode of transport.

For example, booking a private shuttle is the fastest and most comfortable option, followed by taking a shared shuttle.

On a budget? There are public buses, but you’ll have to make multiple connections.

Read up on getting around Guatemala.

Where to stay

Panajachel is the main hub around these parts, with easy access to boat tours and restaurants.

Meanwhile, San Marcos La Laguna is better known for its spiritual retreats, and San Pedro La Laguna is something of a hub for backpackers.

After checking in, you should have time check out your chosen village. For example, if you’re in Panajachel, take a stroll along Calle Santander, or simply relax by the lakeshore.

Day 4: Lake Atitlan — culture and adventure 

A satisfying mix of culture, nature and adventure awaits on day 4, kicking off with the former, thanks to a taking a boat tour of villages around the lake. 

For example, Santiago Atitlán is a wonderful place to learn about Tz’utujil Maya culture through local markets and visiting Maximón — the wooden statue of a legend-steeped folk saint whose location is changed during annual holy week processions. 

San Juan La Laguna is another rewarding stop — here you’ll get to visit cooperatives that showcase traditional weaving and natural dye techniques.

The pace ramps up in the afternoon when you can enjoy the likes of kayaking and paddle-boarding the lake, or else go hiking. For breath-taking views, trek the moderate Indian Nose Trail.

Day 5: Hike Pacaya volcano

You’ll need to rise early on day five in order to transfer from Lake Atitlán to Pacaya Volcano — one of Guatemala’s most accessible and active volcanoes.

How to get from Lake Atitlan to Pacaya volcano

Booking a private shuttle (around 3.5 hours) is the quickest and most convenient option as it will give you direct access to Pacaya’s base, or your accommodation.

Meanwhile, taking a more budget-friendly shared shuttle might take four hours, as you’ll most likely make a few stops on the way.

Either way, the route from Lake Atitlan involves driving the CA-1 Highway, onto the village of San Vicente Pacaya — the starting point for Pacaya hikes.

On arrival, check into your accommodation for a one-night stay. Be quick, though — a hike is in store this same afternoon.

Where to stay

To be located close to the trailhead, check out the mid-range Hotel El Refugio de Don Francisco, while Eco Hostal Estancia de Pacaya offers simple, cozy, affordable accommodation close to San Vicente.

Looking to stay in luxurious style on your last night in Guatemala? Take a look at Casa Palopó.

After dropping off your luggage, head to the San Vicente Pacaya trailhead to start your moderate hike.

Winding through lush forests and volcanic ash paths, it takes around two hours to reach the lava fields, where you’ll be rewarded with views of an active crater, and surrounding volcanoes like Agua, Fuego and Acatenango. 

Inspired by the sound of this volcano hike? Here’s how to climb Acatenango volcano.

And with that, this 5-day Guatemala itinerary comes to a thrilling close. If you’re now keen to visit, for peace of mind ahead of planning your trip, read up on safety in Guatemala, and things to know before visiting Guatemala.

Not keen on planning? Contact our local experts about curating your perfect vacation.