EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF GUATEMALA WITH LAVA TRAILS PARTNERS:
As travelers, adventurers, and lovers of the outdoors, we’ve had the privilege of exploring places across Guatemala that have left us with more than just a smile. They’ve given us memories that will last a lifetime!
This itinerary brings together the very best of it all, carefully designed so you can simply enjoy the journey. From witnessing an active volcano erupt under a sky full of stars, to discovering hidden cafés in colonial towns, swimming in turquoise jungle pools, exploring ancient Maya temples, and sharing sunsets with travelers from around the world, Guatemala is a destination that rewards those willing to embrace adventure.
By booking with us, you not only gain access to these incredible experiences but also enjoy exclusive discounts at our partner locations. We believe in thinking about our travelers every step of the way, ensuring your trip is both unforgettable and adventurous.
Book with us today and unlock the best of Guatemala with unbeatable savings and experiences tailored just for you!
DAYS 1–3 | ANTIGUA GUATEMALA
Antigua is the perfect place to begin your Guatemala adventure. Surrounded by volcanoes and filled with colorful colonial architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage city combines history, culture, coffee, food, and adventure in one magical destination.
DAY 1
JOIN A FREE WALKING TOUR THROUGH THE COLONIAL STREETS!
Experience the magic of Antigua with a free walking tour led by knowledgeable local guides. They’ll take you through the city’s most important landmarks while sharing fascinating stories about Antigua Guatemala’s history and culture.
Wander through cobblestone streets, admire centuries old churches, and enjoy stunning views of Volcán de Agua, Acatenango, and the ever-erupting Volcán de Fuego!
STOP BY COFFEA FOR AN AUTHENTIC GUATEMALAN COFFEE
Guatemala produces some of the finest coffee in the world, and Coffea is the perfect place to experience it. Take a break from exploring Antigua’s charming streets and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of locally sourced coffee in a cozy atmosphere.
Proudly recognized among the Top 100 Best Coffee Shops in the World, Coffea is a must-visit destination for coffee lovers looking to experience Guatemala’s rich coffee culture!
As a Lava Trails hiker, you’ll receive 15% off coffee and tea.
VISIT CAOBA FARMS AND ESCAPE INTO NATURE
Just outside Antigua lies one of the town’s most beautiful hidden gems. Caoba Farms is a lush sanctuary filled with gardens, butterflies, live music, farm-to-table cuisine, and artisan vendors. Spend an afternoon reconnecting with nature while enjoying fresh organic food.
Lava Trails hikers receive 15% off at the restaurant and Butterfly House.
DAY 2
BOOK A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOSHOOT WITH GABRIELA SAPÓN
Want to leave Guatemala with more than phone photos? Gabriela Sapón is considered one of the best photographers in Guatemala!
Her photography specializes in capturing natural travel moments, couples, and portraits in Antigua’s most beautiful locations.
Whether you’re traveling solo or with a partner,you’ll receive $30 off a one-hour couple or portrait session in Antigua as a Lava Trails hiker.
Make sure to visit her website to learn more about her story and explore her work, and don’t forget to follow her on Instagram @lovestoriesinstillfor more beautiful content and inspiration.
EXPLORE MORE OF GUATEMALA WITH COLUMBUS GUATEMALA TRAVEL
If you’re interested in adding extra adventures before or after your volcano hike, Columbus Guatemala Travel offers well-organized tours throughout Guatemala and neighboring countries.
Lava Trails hikers receive 10% off all tours, including international tours.
END YOUR DAY WITH VOLCANO VIEWS AT KALDI KAPRA
Few experiences compare to enjoying dinner while watching the sun disappear behind Antigua’s volcanoes. VisitKaldi Kapra for delicious food, spectacular views, and one of the city’s most unique mixology experiences.
Lava Trails hikers receive 10% off at both the restaurant and Mixology House.
DAY 3
VISIT LA MERCED CHURCH AND EXPERIENCE LOCAL FLAVORS
No trip to Antigua is complete without a visit to the iconic La Merced Church. Wander through the lively market stalls surrounding the church and sample some of Guatemala’s most beloved street foods, including crispy tostadas, roasted elote, and other local treats.
For an unforgettable end to your afternoon, head up to the church rooftop. A small entrance fee is required, but the panoramic views of Antigua, the surrounding volcanoes, and the golden sunset make it well worth it. It’s one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the city and a perfect spot to soak in the charm of Antigua Guatemala and see the Volcán de Fuego erupt!
JOIN THE ANTIGUA BAR CRAWL AND MEET TRAVELERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD
One of the best parts of backpacking is the people you meet along the way. The Antigua Bar Crawl takes you through some of the city’s most popular nightlife spots and is a fantastic way to connect with fellow travelers.
Lava Trails hikers receive 25Q off their ticket.
DAYS 4–5 | ACATENANGO VOLCANO
HIKE ACATENANGO AND WATCH AN ACTIVE VOLCANO ERUPT WITH LAVA TRAILS!
This is the experience that brings thousands of travelers to Guatemala every year.
Towering at nearly 4,000 meters, Acatenango offers one of the most rewarding hikes in the world, taking you through farmland, cloud forests, and volcanic terrain before reaching Lava Trails’ camp high above the clouds.
Along the way, our experienced English-speaking guides ensure a safe and enjoyable journey, while our small-group approach creates a more personal experience. At camp, relax in our insulated double-wall cabins featuring window walls with views of Volcán de Fuego, enjoy a delicious meal, roast marshmallows around the campfire, and sip a complimentary glass of wine as the sun sets over Guatemala’s volcanic landscape.
As darkness falls, watch the powerful eruptions of Fuego illuminate the night sky from the comfort and warmth of your cabin, one of the few places in the world where you can witness an active volcano erupting from your bed.
The following morning, hike to the summit and experience a breathtaking sunrise above the clouds, creating memories that many travelers describe as the highlight of their entire trip—an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with incredible stories to share long after your travels through Guatemala have come to an end.
DAYS 6–8 | LAKE ATITLÁN
After conquering Acatenango, it’s time to slow down and enjoy one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. While booking your Acatenango hike, reserve your spot on Lava Trails’ exclusive shuttle to Lake Atitlán. It’s the easiest and most comfortable way to continue your Guatemala adventure, taking you directly from the volcano to the shores of the lake without worrying about transportation logistics.
Surrounded by volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages, Lake Atitlán offers the perfect balance of adventure, culture, wellness, and relaxation. From exploring colorful towns and scenic viewpoints to connecting with fellow travelers along the lake’s shores, this is the perfect place to recover after your volcano adventure while continuing to experience the very best of Guatemala.
DAY 6
STAY AT FREE CERVEZA AND MEET FELLOW TRAVELERS
Located directly on the shores of Lake Atitlán at Santa Cruz Town, Free Cerveza is one of the most popular hostels among backpackers in Guatemala. Known for its social atmosphere, stunning lakefront views, family style dinners, and unforgettable sunsets, it’s the perfect place to relax and connect with travelers from around the world.
As a Lava Trails hiker, you’ll receive one extra complimentary beer at check-in.
GO HIKING AND ENJOY OF CLIFF JUMPING
Embark on an exhilarating adventure along the Lower Mayan Trail from Santa Cruz to San Marcos, Atitlan´s mystical village, and experience the thrill of cliff-jumping at Cerro Tzankujil, into the crystal-clear waters of Lago Atitlan. Walk through nature, villages, and breathtaking viewpoints along the way, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of this stunning region. It’s an adventure you won’t forget!
WALK AROUND SAN MARCOS AND RELAX BY THE WATER
Known for its laid-back atmosphere, yoga spaces, lakeside cliffs, and beautiful swimming spots, San Marcos is the perfect place to slow down and recharge.
DAY 7 -8
HIKE INDIAN NOSE FOR SUNRISE
Wake before dawn and hike to one of Guatemala’s most famous viewpoints. Watching the sunrise over Lake Atitlán and its surrounding volcanoes is a breathtaking experience that many travelers consider a highlight of their trip.
EXPLORE THE COLORFUL STREETS OF SAN JUAN
Discover vibrant murals, local weaving cooperatives, coffee farms, and artisan workshops while supporting local communities and experiencing authentic Mayan culture.
TAKE A BOAT ACROSS THE LAKE
One of the best ways to experience Atitlán is by hopping between villages by boat. Each town has its own unique personality, making every stop feel like a completely new destination.
DAYS 9–12 | FLORES & TIKAL
Nestled on the shores of Lake Petén Itzá, Flores is a vibrant island town in Guatemala’s Petén region, known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning sunsets, and proximity to the ancient Maya city of Tikal.
DAY 9
STAY AT LOS AMIGOS HOSTEL AND EXPERIENCE FLORES’ BACKPACKER CULTURE
Located just minutes from the shores of Lake Petén Itzá, Los Amigos Hostel is one of the most iconic backpacker hostels in Guatemala. Known for its unique jungle-inspired design, vibrant social atmosphere, and welcoming community, it’s the perfect base for exploring Flores and Tikal.
Whether you’re relaxing in the lush common areas, meeting fellow travelers, or enjoying one of their lively events, Los Amigos offers an experience that goes far beyond accommodation.
EXPLORE THE ISLAND TOWN OF FLORES
Take time to wander through the colorful streets of Flores, a charming island town connected to the mainland by a short causeway. Filled with waterfront restaurants, local culture, artisan shops, and beautiful lake views, Flores is the perfect place to slow down and soak in the atmosphere before venturing into the jungle.
DAY 10
VISIT TIKAL NATIONAL PARK AT SUNRISE
Few places in the world compare to Tikal. Walk among towering temples rising above the jungle canopy while listening to howler monkeys echo through the forest. Exploring this ancient Maya city is a truly unforgettable experience and a must-do for anyone visiting Guatemala.
SPOT WILDLIFE IN THE JUNGLE
Keep an eye out for toucans, spider monkeys, coatis, parrots, and countless other species that call Tikal National Park home. The combination of wildlife and ancient ruins makes every visit feel like an expedition into another world.
DAY 11
JOIN THE LOS AMIGOS CATAMARAN TOUR
Sail across the beautiful waters of Lake Petén Itzá, enjoy spectacular views, swim, relax, and watch the sunset from the lake.
As a Lava Trails hiker, you’ll receive 20% off the Los Amigos Catamaran Tour.
DAY 12
HAVE BREAKFAST AT MARACUYÁ AND RENT A KAYAK
One of the best ways to experience Lake Petén Itzá is from the water. Rent a kayak from Maracuyá and paddle across the calm waters while enjoying beautiful views of Flores and the surrounding shoreline.
Along the way, make a stop at Jorge’s Rope Swing, a favorite local spot where travelers can swing out over the lake and jump into the refreshing water below. It’s the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and fun, offering a unique way to experience Flores beyond the colorful streets of the island town.
DAYS 13–15 | EL PAREDÓN
End your Guatemala adventure where the mountains meet the Pacific Ocean. El Paredón is Guatemala’s most famous surf town, known for its laid-back atmosphere, beachfront hostels, incredible sunsets, and growing community of travelers from around the world.
Whether you’re catching your first wave, relaxing in a hammock, or enjoying a beach bonfire with new friends, El Paredón is the perfect place to slow down and reflect on an unforgettable adventure through Guatemala.
DAY 13
STAY AT COCORÍ HOSTEL OR AT CARACOLA HOSTEL
COCORÍ HOSTEL
Located directly on the beach, Cocorí offers comfortable accommodations and easy access to everything El Paredón has to offer.
Lava Trails hikers receive 10% off their booking.
CARACOLA HOSTEL
Another fantastic option for travelers seeking comfort and a relaxed atmosphere. Caracola combines modern amenities with beach-town charm.
Lava Trails hikers receive 10% off their booking.
DAY 14 – DAY 15
WATCH AN UNFORGETTABLE PACIFIC SUNSET & JOIN A BEACH BONFIRE
Every evening, travelers gather on the beach to watch the sky explode with color as the sun sinks into the ocean. Share stories, music, and memories with fellow travelers while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere that makes El Paredón so special.
LEARN TO SURF ON GUATEMALA’S PACIFIC COAST
Whether you’ve surfed before or are stepping on a board for the first time, El Paredón is one of the best places in Guatemala to catch waves.
GETTING AROUND GUATEMALA
TRAVEL COMFORTABLY WITH ROAD RUNNERS SHUTTLE
Moving between destinations is easy with Road Runners Shuttle. Their reliable routes connect Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Semuc Champey, Flores, and El Paredón, allowing you to focus on the adventure rather than the logistics.
As a Lava Trails hiker, you’ll receive a one time use 10% off your shuttle booking.
HOW DO I GET THESE DISCOUNTS?
Easy! After booking you Acatenango hike with us, you’ll receive an email from us with all the details of your hike, including a Discounts PDF. Some partner discounts can be redeemed simply by showing your booking confirmation, while others require you to use a special discount link included in the PDF. Be sure to check your booking email and the attached discount information to make the most of your Guatemala adventure! : )
YOUR GUATEMALA BUCKET LIST
✓ Walk the colonial streets of Antigua
✓ Drink authentic Guatemalan coffee
✓ Visit Caoba Farms
✓ Hike Acatenango Volcano
✓ Watch Volcán de Fuego erupt
✓ Explore Lake Atitlán
✓ Hike Indian Nose
✓ Swim in Semuc Champey
✓ Discover the ancient city of Tikal
✓ Sail across Lake Petén Itzá
✓ Learn to surf in El Paredón
✓ Meet travelers from around the world
✓ Experience Guatemala beyond the guidebooks
EXTRA ACTIVITIES TO DO:
✓ Go adventuring at Río Dulce – (Eastern Guatemala / Caribbean Region)
✓ Go to Chichicastenango’s market – (Near Lake Atitlán)
✓ Visit Down Hill Trails at Carmona (Near Antigua City)
✓ Visit Earth Lodge – (Near Antigua City)
✓ Visit Finca El Pilar – (Near Antigua City)
✓ Go on an adventure at Hobbitenango – (Near Antigua City)
✓ Visit Earth Lodge – (Near Antigua City)
Hike with Lava Trails. Travel Smart. Create stories you’ll tell for the rest of your life! : D
EXPLORE GUATEMALA IN 15 DAYS
June 16, 2026
