Travel guide · Guatemala
Guatemala: what to see and when to go
Guatemala is the heart of the Maya world: colonial Antigua at the foot of three volcanoes, Lake Atitlán ringed by Maya villages and the temples of Tikal rising out of the jungle. It is one of the best-value countries in Latin America, with colourful markets and hikes up active volcanoes.
What to see and do in Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala
Cobbled streets, baroque ruins and the Santa Catalina arch with the Agua volcano behind it.
Lake Atitlán
A volcanic lake with villages such as San Juan, San Marcos and Santiago, linked by boat.
Tikal
Maya pyramids above the rainforest canopy, with howler monkeys and toucans.
Acatenango
An overnight hike to watch the neighbouring Fuego volcano erupt in the dark.
Chichicastenango market
One of the largest indigenous markets in the Americas, on Thursdays and Sundays.
Best time to go
The most pleasant months: Nov – Mar.
Getting there
| From | Flight time | Return flight |
|---|---|---|
| London | 11 hr, 45 min | ≈ €570 · See flights |
| New York | 4 hr, 45 min | ≈ €290 · See flights |
| Los Angeles | 5 hr | ≈ €300 · See flights |
| Dubai | 18 hr, 45 min | ≈ €740 · See flights |
| Singapore | 23 hr, 15 min | ≈ €840 · See flights |
| Sydney | 17 hr, 45 min | ≈ €710 · See flights |
3 nights from London: ≈ €760 per person, flight and stay included.
Per person. Estimates from distance and local prices; real fares depend on your dates.
Essentials
- Country
- Guatemala
- Currency
- Guatemalan Quetzal
- Good for
- nature · culture · mountains · wild
- How long to stay
- 8–14 days
- Where to stay
- Antigua as a base for the first days, two or three nights by Lake Atitlán, and Flores, on an island in Lake Petén Itzá, for Tikal.Find a place to stay in Guatemala
Plan your trip
Flights, a place to stay and what else you need for Guatemala, one tap each.
- FlightsFrom London · about €570 (opens in a new tab)
- StayHotels and apartments in Guatemala (opens in a new tab)
- Things to doTours, tickets and experiences (opens in a new tab)
- Travel insuranceMedical, luggage and cancellation (opens in a new tab)
- Internet on arrivalData eSIM, no roaming bills (opens in a new tab)
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Frequently asked questions
What's the weather like in Guatemala and when should you go?
The most pleasant months: Nov – Mar. Average highs range from 23° in June to 27° in March.
How many days do you need in Guatemala?
8 to 14 days is enough to see the essentials without rushing.
What does a few days in Guatemala cost?
Accommodation runs at around €60 per person per night. 3 nights from London: ≈ €760 per person, flight and stay included. The flight from London takes about 11 hr, 45 min.
Where should you stay in Guatemala?
Antigua as a base for the first days, two or three nights by Lake Atitlán, and Flores, on an island in Lake Petén Itzá, for Tikal.
