Guatemala city

GUATEMALA: TREKKING THROUGH VOLCANOES AND ANCIENT SPIRITS

Hiking

What you'll do

From the fiery ridges of volcanoes to ancient cities submerged in the jungle, Guatemala reveals itself as a wild and fascinating land, ready to surprise those with a craving for adventure and discovery. This journey is designed for those who wish to live an authentic experience, walking off the beaten path among Mayan villages suspended in time, vibrant markets, and a lush wilderness that is home to Howler Monkeys, exotic birds, and millennial ruins. We will traverse the Highlands, where the sky seems to touch the peaks of the active Fuego and Acatenango volcanoes, tackling challenging treks rich with emotion to reach breathtaking views. Then, we will immerse ourselves in the mysterious jungle of Petén, the beating heart of the Mayan civilization, where the archaeological temples of El Zotz and Tikal emerge from the luxuriant vegetation, telling stories of a thousand-year-old past. A journey that combines wild nature, ancestral culture, and unique biodiversity for an intense and immersive experience to be lived step by step, letting yourself be carried away by the authentic charm of one of Central America’s most captivating countries.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Antigua's Colonial Charm and Volcano Views

Touch down in Guatemala City by 5 PM and leave the bustle behind as we whisk you away to Antigua. Nestled beneath the watchful gaze of three towering volcanoes, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a masterpiece of colonial charm. Spend your first evening wandering through cobblestone streets lined with vibrant baroque architecture, breathing in the scent of world-class coffee and ancient history. It’s the perfect introduction to the heart and soul of the Maya highlands.

Day 2 – Flores colors and lake views

After breakfast, transfer to Guatemala City airport to take a domestic flight to Santa Elena, followed by a short transfer to our hotel on the colorful peninsula of Flores. Today we will have the opportunity to visit the charming historic center with its colorful houses and cobblestone streets, and take a walk along Lake Petén Itzá.

Day 3 – Jungle Echoes Tikal Bound

In 30 minutes, we’ll arrive at Cruce Dos Aguadas, where we’ll meet our local guides and the horses that will carry our luggage. From here we’ll begin our trek, which over three days will take us to the stunning Mayan archaeological site of Tikal, nestled in the Petén rainforest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The first day of hiking will take us into the heart of Guatemalan nature to the archaeological site of El Zotz, located in San Miguel la Palotada National Park, where our camp will be set up on a lookout point overlooking the jungle so we can admire the sunset. Distance: 20 km (12.4 mi) | Elevation Gain: +250 m (+820 ft), Elevation Loss: -150 m (-492 ft)| Time: 7 hrs

Day 4 – Jungle's Hidden City El Zotz

After breakfast, we’ll visit the “El Zotz" archaeological site, located about 2.5 km from our camp. This archaeological site is almost completely overgrown by the jungle, with monumental stone structures buried and hidden over the centuries by the jungle’s constant encroachment. The area was discovered by archaeologists only in 1978, perfectly camouflaged by the surrounding landscape. Distance: 16 km (9.9 mi) | Elevation Gain: +200 m (+656 ft), Elevation Loss: -150 m (-492 ft) | Time: 5 hrs

Day 5 – Jungle to Mayan City Wonders

Today we have a great day of hiking ahead of us; in fact, we’ll be walking through the heart of Tikal National Park, home to a rich biodiversity that includes animals such as Howler Monkeys and Spider Monkeys, as well as various species of birds, until we reach the archaeological site of Tikal. Walking through the rainforest and finding yourself “suddenly” in front of one of the most important Mayan sites in the world, it’s priceless! Tikal is an ancient Mayan city in the heart of the Petén rainforest and represents one of the most important and evocative archaeological sites in Central America. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it features numerous pyramids, temples, and plazas emerging from the dense jungle. In the afternoon, we’ll transfer by private vehicle to Santa Elena Airport, where we’ll take a domestic flight to Guatemala City. From the airport, a private transfer to the hotel in Antigua. Distance: 15 km (9.3 mi) | Elevation Gain: +100 m (+328 ft), Elevation Loss: -150 m (-492 ft)| Time: 5 hrs

Day 6 – Sunrise over Fuego Volcano

Today begins around 7:00 a.m. with a short drive to our local guide’s home, where we’ll meet his family and enjoy a traditional breakfast prepared especially for us. We’ll start hiking toward Acatenango Volcano in the morning, and in the afternoon, we’ll arrive at base camp. Our accommodations for tonight are the distinctive wooden cabins with a breathtaking view of Fuego Volcano, one of the most spectacular in the world. Distance: 8 km (5.0 mi) | Elevation Gain: +1,250 m (+4,101 ft), Elevation Loss: -150 m (-492 ft) | Time: 3 hrs - Optional Fuego Ridge Distance: 3 km (1.9 mi) | Elevation Gain: +250 m (+820 ft), Elevation Loss: -250 m (-820 ft)

Day 7 – Fuego's Embrace on Acatenango

We continue our trek on Acatenango. In the afternoon, those who wish to do so will have the opportunity to take a short hike of about 3 hours that will bring us even closer to the Fuego volcano. Dinner by the campfire and an overnight stay in cabins. Distance: 8 km (5.0 mi) | Elevation Gain: +350 m (+1,148 ft), Elevation Loss: -1,450 m (-4,757 ft) | Time: 3 hrs

Day 8 – Volcanic Springs to Xela Homestays

After breakfast, we’ll head to Quetzaltenango by private transfer. Quetzaltenango is Guatemala’s second-largest city, also known as Xela, situated in the heart of the mountains and rich in Mayan culture. Here, we’ll have the privilege of staying with local families. After lunch, around 2:00 PM, it’s time to relax at the Fuentes Georginas, located 16 km from Quetzaltenango in the rainforest. The area, immersed in a natural setting that is nothing short of breathtaking, is characterized by intense volcanic activity that heats the water of the springs. Return to Xela around 5:30 PM

Day 9 – Xecam to K'omonoj via coffee country

Starting today, we’ll be on a three-day trek to one of the lakes considered among the most beautiful in the world: Lake Atitlán, whose basin is of volcanic origin and occupies a massive caldera formed by an eruption 84,000 years ago. At 6 a.m., we will be picked up by our host families and taken to the starting point of the trek in Xecam, just 30 minutes from Xela at an elevation of 2,450 meters. The trek begins with an ascent to 3,050 meters, before descending into a wooded area with beautiful coffee plantations. The final part of the day will take us to the village of K’omonoj. Today’s hike features a mixed route through the mountain forest, with splendid views of the Guatemalan highlands and encounters with local communities as we observe the lives of the people in the mountains. We will walk for about 8 hours along trails and spend the night with a friendly family. Distance: 14 km (8.7 mi) | Elevation Gain: +650 m (+2,133 ft), Elevation Loss: -1,500 m (-4,921 ft) | Time: 6 hrs

Day 10 – Kaqchikel Culture and Lake Atitlán Shores

Our trek through nature continues; after about 6 hours of walking, we arrive at the shores of Lake Atitlán in the village of San Clara La Laguna, at an altitude of 2,100 meters, where we will have lunch at a typical Guatemalan eatery. We will be guests of a local Kaqchikel family, an indigenous Maya people who live in the highlands around Lake Atitlán. After lunch, we’ll have time to relax, and those who wish can explore the village. There will be an opportunity to experience a Temazcal, a Mesoamerican ceremonial sauna that is usually performed in a sweat lodge for physical and spiritual purification. Distance: 12 km (7.5 mi) | Elevation Gain: +700 m (+2,297 ft), Elevation Loss: -200 m (-656 ft) | Time: 5 hrs

Day 11 – Mayan Face Sunrise over Lake Atitlán

We’ll wake up early, around 4:00 a.m., to hike for about 45 minutes to the summit known as “El Rostro Maya,” which means “The Mayan Face.” From here, we’ll have a spectacular view of Lake Atitlán as we take in the beauty of the sunrise. The lake, considered one of the most beautiful in the world, is flanked by three volcanoes (Atitlán, Tolimán, and San Pedro) and surrounded by lush green hills. After enjoying the sunrise from the summit, we’ll hike down to the village of San Juan La Laguna (1,560 meters), where we’ll arrive around 10:00 a.m. to enjoy our stay at our charming eco-hotel on the lakefront. You’ll have the option to use kayaks for free to explore the lake on your own. Distance: 8 km (5.0 mi) | Elevation Gain: +100 m (+328 ft), Elevation Loss: -650 m (-2,133 ft) | Time: 2 hrs

Day 12 – Across the Lake to Maya History

Today, after breakfast, we’ll cross Lake Atitlán by boat to reach Panajachel, from where we’ll take private transportation to the capital, Guatemala City. Along the way, we’ll have the chance to visit Iximché, a small archaeological site nestled in the highlands. This was once the capital of the Kaqchikel Maya kingdom, featuring pyramids, temples, palaces, and ball courts. Late in the morning, we arrive in Guatemala City, the country’s most modern city, which offers a mix of colonial architecture, lively markets, and contemporary culture. After checking into our hotel rooms, the afternoon will be free for you to enjoy the city.

Day 13 – Volcanic Spirit Homeward Bound

Savor one last breakfast at the hotel, reflecting on the mist-shrouded peaks and ancient trails that have shaped your journey. When you're ready, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your flight home. You leave Guatemala by 5 PM with the spirit of the volcanoes in your heart and the warmth of its people in your memories. Safe travel!

Important stuff

From the highest peaks to the hidden trails, we've got your back

100% Guaranteed Departures

Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.

Flexible Changes

Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.

Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance

Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

100% Guaranteed Departures: Once you book, your trip is guaranteed to run, allowing you to book your flights with confidence.
Flexible Changes: Want to change your departure date or trip? No problem—enjoy maximum flexibility to make changes up to 60 days before departure.
Comprehensive Insurance & Assistance: Travel with peace of mind. Our insurance package covers accidents and rescue during outdoor activities, medical expenses, and luggage protection, as well as trip cancellations and 24/7 medical assistance from our insurance partner.

see more on How it works

What's included

Accident insurance

Medical and luggage insurance

Travel cancellation insurance

Transport from airport

Transport to airport

Luggage Transport

Certified guide

12 Breakfasts

12 Lunches

10 Dinners

12 Accommodations

Boat transfer on the lake

Domestic flights

Flight

Visa (if applicable)

Everything not mentioned in the “What’s included”

Tips

Expenditure of personal nature

Drinks and beverages during meals

Acatenango Volcano entrance fee

2 dinners in Guatemala City

Accommodations

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Hotel Ciudad Vieja in Guatemala City (Night 1)

Rest and recharge in the comfort of a charming local hotel. After a day of travel and anticipation, enjoy the privacy of a cozy room for two with ensuite facilities, designed to provide the perfect peaceful base before our adventure begins in earnest.

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Hotel Petén in Flores (Night 2)

Settle in and unwind at a welcoming local hotel. After a full day of travel, retreat to a comfortable room for two with ensuite facilities — a quiet haven to rest and recharge ahead of the next day’s adventure.

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Overnight stay in a mobile tented camp (Nights 3–4)

Under a canopy of stars, our mobile tented camp offers the ultimate immersion in the wild. You’ll rest in comfortable double igloo tents, falling asleep to the subtle sounds of the wilderness and waking up to the raw beauty of nature right at your doorstep. The experience is completed by a bathroom set in nature, allowing you to stay fully connected to the surrounding wilderness. Professional, authentic, and unforgettable.

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Hotel Las Camelias Inn in Antigua (Night 5)

Find your calm at a charming local hotel in the heart of Antigua. After the day’s journey, a private room for two with ensuite facilities awaits, offering the ideal spot to recharge before tomorrow’s explorations.

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Traditional, off-grid cabin (Nights 6–7)

Rest beneath the stars in a traditional, off-grid cabin. These cozy, shared quarters feature wooden bunk beds, and the bathrooms are located outside in a separate building shared by the entire base camp. The communal atmosphere is perfect for swapping stories with fellow climbers after a day on the rock. It is simple, authentic living that brings you closer to the rugged beauty of the wilderness.

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Homestay in the village (Nights 8–10)

Experience the heartbeat of local culture with a cozy homestay in the village. You’ll share traditional guest rooms and communal facilities, enjoying authentic hospitality and the warmth of a family atmosphere after a long day in the mountains.

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Posada de Los Volcanes in San Juan La Laguna (Night 11)

Enjoy a well-earned rest at a cozy local hotel on the shores of Lake Atitlán. After a day of travel and discovery, your room for two with ensuite facilities provides a peaceful retreat to unwind before the next chapter of the adventure.

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Hotel in Guatemala City (Night 12)

End the day in comfort at a charming local hotel in Guatemala City. A private room for two with ensuite facilities offers the perfect space to relax and reflect as the journey nears its close.

Guides

Emanuele Grassini

An experienced guide and tireless traveler, Emanuele has visited over 40 countries across the globe. His mission is to lead travelers toward authentic experiences, where encounters with local cultures become opportunities for growth and profound connection. He lived in South America for six months, traveling by hitchhiking and embraced by the generosity of ordinary people, discovering the true essence of slow travel. Asia is his second home: among the temples of Thailand, the markets of Vietnam, and the Himalayan landscapes of Nepal, he developed a deep respect for traditions and the art of slowness. Specialized in adventure travel and high-altitude trekking, he has reached summits over 6,000 meters and remote locations far off the beaten path. Passionate about extreme sports and Muay Thai, which he practices and teaches, Emanuele is always in search of transformative experiences. For him, traveling is an act of deep connection: with places, with people, and with stories. Always with the utmost respect for local communities, the cultures that welcome us, and the traditions that teach us to look at the world with new eyes

Zonzers

Zonzers deals with people who take their outdoor life seriously. Hikers, climbers, skiers, surfers who share adventures with the community around them.

Daniele Pietta