7-Day Adventure in Guatemala: Cultural Immersion, Foodie Delights, and Nature Exploration on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: City Exploration in Guatemala City

Guatemala City, Guatemala

8:00AM

Visit National Palace

Start your day by exploring the National Palace, a historical and architectural gem showcasing Guatemalan culture.
Free entry, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercado Central

Head to Mercado Central for a budget-friendly local lunch experience, trying traditional Guatemalan dishes.
£5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Zone 1

Stroll through Zone 1, the historical centre of the city, and immerse yourself in the vibrant street life and colonial architecture.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Pollo Campero

Enjoy dinner at Pollo Campero, a popular fast-food chain known for its delicious fried chicken at affordable prices.
£4, 1 hour

Day 2: Mayan Culture in Guatemala City

Guatemala City, Guatemala

9:00AM

Visit Museo Popol Vuh

Explore Museo Popol Vuh to learn about Mayan art and archaeology, providing insights into Guatemala's rich cultural heritage.
£3, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Rincon Tipico

Indulge in a traditional Guatemalan lunch at Rincon Tipico, offering authentic flavours at affordable prices.
£6, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Kaminaljuyu Ruins

Visit the archaeological site of Kaminaljuyu to witness ancient Mayan ruins and gain a deeper understanding of Mayan civilisation.
£2, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Tacontento

End your day with dinner at Tacontento, a budget-friendly restaurant serving delicious Guatemalan cuisine.
£7, 1 hour

Day 3: Colonial Charm in Antigua

Antigua, Guatemala

9:00AM

Explore Antigua's Central Park

Begin your day by wandering around Antigua's Central Park, surrounded by colonial buildings and vibrant markets.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Comedor Mary

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Comedor Mary, a local eatery offering traditional Guatemalan dishes.
£5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Santa Catalina Arch

Admire the iconic Santa Catalina Arch, a symbol of Antigua, offering picturesque views of the city and surrounding volcanoes.
£2, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Rincon Tipico

Dine at Rincon Tipico for authentic Guatemalan flavours in a cosy setting without breaking the bank.
£6, 1 hour

Day 4: Cultural Immersion in Antigua

Antigua, Guatemala

9:00AM

Visit La Merced Church

Explore the stunning architecture and history of La Merced Church, one of Antigua's most beautiful churches.
£3, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante Sabe Rico

Treat yourself to a delicious and affordable lunch at Restaurante Sabe Rico, known for its local cuisine.
£7, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Chocolate Museum

Discover the history of chocolate in Guatemala at the Chocolate Museum, offering interactive exhibits and tastings.
£4, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Luna de Miel

Enjoy a romantic dinner at Luna de Miel, a charming restaurant serving affordable gourmet dishes.
£8, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Relaxation at Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

9:00AM

Boat Tour of Lake Atitlan

Embark on a scenic boat tour of Lake Atitlan, surrounded by majestic volcanoes and indigenous villages.
£10, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sunset Cafe

Enjoy a lakeside lunch at Sunset Cafe, savouring breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings.
£8, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore San Juan La Laguna

Discover the indigenous culture of San Juan La Laguna, known for its vibrant art scene and traditional weaving.
£3, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Hotel Bambu

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Hotel Bambu, offering a diverse menu with affordable prices.
£9, 1 hour

Day 6: Nature Exploration at Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

9:00AM

Hike to Indian Nose

Embark on a morning hike to the summit of Indian Nose for panoramic views of Lake Atitlan and the surrounding landscapes.
£5, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Sabor Cruceno

Enjoy a hearty lunch at Cafe Sabor Cruceno, a local spot known for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere.
£7, 1 hour

3:00PM

Swim at Playa Publica Jaibalito

Relax and swim at Playa Publica Jaibalito, a serene public beach with crystal-clear waters and stunning views.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Gianni's

Dine at Gianni's, a popular Italian restaurant by the lake offering affordable pasta dishes and a cosy ambiance.
£10, 1 hour

Day 7: Ancient Wonders at Tikal

Tikal, Guatemala

8:00AM

Explore Tikal National Park

Embark on a guided tour of Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive Mayan ruins and wildlife.
£15, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Meson

Enjoy a local meal at El Meson, a restaurant near the park offering affordable dishes to refuel after exploring.
£6, 1 hour

3:00PM

Climb Temple IV

Hike up Temple IV for a panoramic view of the Tikal jungle canopy and ancient ruins, a must-see experience.
£3, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Departure

Catch an evening bus back to Guatemala City or stay overnight near Tikal for a sunrise experience the next day.
Varies, N/A