7-Day Adventure in Guatemala: Antigua, Volcano Hikes, Hot Springs & Lake Atitlan

Day 1: Explore Antigua

Antigua, Guatemala on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Condesa

Enjoy a delicious local Guatemalan breakfast with coffee at this charming café known for its cozy atmosphere and fresh ingredients.

GTQ40, 1h

9:30am

Walking tour of Antigua

Take a self-guided or affordable group walking tour to explore Antigua’s cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and famous landmarks like Santa Catalina Arch.

GTQ50, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at La Fonda de la Calle Real

Taste traditional Guatemalan dishes such as Pepian or Kak'ik soup at this popular, budget-friendly restaurant near the town center.

GTQ60, 1h

2:30pm

Visit the Antigua Market

Browse the vibrant local market offering handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce, perfect for souvenirs or snacks.

Free, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Central Park and explore nearby cafes

Enjoy coffee or fresh juice at nearby cafés while watching the lively local scene around the main plaza.

GTQ30, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Rincon Tipico

Savor authentic Guatemalan cuisine in a relaxed, affordable setting known for generous portions and local flavor.

GTQ70, 1.5h

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Day 2: Antigua Museums & Cooking Class

Antigua, Guatemala on May 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Fernando’s Kaffee

Start your day with excellent artisan coffee and light pastries at this local favorite.

GTQ35, 1h

9:00am

Visit Museo Casa Santo Domingo

Explore this fascinating museum housed in a former monastery, with art, historic ruins, and religious artifacts.

GTQ60, 2h

11:30am

Guatemalan cooking class

Join a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Guatemalan meals, often including a market visit for fresh ingredients. Classes usually last about 3 hours.

GTQ200, 3h

3:00pm

Free afternoon to explore or rest

Relax, stroll independent shops, or visit local coffee shops on your own schedule.

Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Cafe Sky

Dine on the rooftop terrace to enjoy spectacular views and affordable international cuisine.

GTQ80, 1.5h

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Day 3: Travel & Volcano Hike

Pacaya Volcano Area, Guatemala on May 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or local bakery

Eat a quick, simple breakfast to fuel up for the hike ahead.

GTQ30, 30m

8:00am

Travel to Pacaya Volcano

Take a shuttle or public transport (~1.5 hours) from Antigua to Pacaya Volcano base where hiking tours start.

GTQ30, 1h30m

10:00am

Guided hike up Pacaya Volcano

Join a guided hike (approx 3-4 hours ascent and descent) to see lava flows, volcano landscapes, and incredible views. Book a budget tour that includes equipment and guide.

USD25, 5h

3:00pm

Overnight camping near Pacaya

Camp with your guided group near the volcano to experience a night under the stars, with simple facilities. Pre-arrange overnight camping with a tour operator.

USD20, overnight

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Day 4: Hot Springs & Travel to Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan Area, Guatemala on May 27, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at campsite

Simple breakfast prepared or brought from Antigua, enjoy the fresh mountain air before descending.

Included in tour, 30m

8:00am

Descend Pacaya Volcano

Complete the second half of your hike back down to the base, allowing enough time for transport onwards.

Included in tour, 3h

12:00pm

Visit Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs

Enjoy relaxation time soaking in natural hot springs in the mountains near Lake Atitlan, open daily from 8am-7pm.

GTQ45, 2h

3:00pm

Travel to Panajachel, Lake Atitlan

Take a shuttle from the hot springs to Panajachel town by the lake (approx 1.5 hours).

GTQ60, 1h30m

5:00pm

Check-in and relax at budget accommodation

Settle into affordable lodging with lake views or close to town center to prepare for the next days.

USD35, rest

6:30pm

Dinner at Cafe Loco

Enjoy tasty, affordable meals in a laid-back atmosphere popular with travelers.

GTQ60, 1.5h

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Day 5: Lake Atitlan Villages

Lake Atitlan, Guatemala on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Atitlan

Start your day with lakeside views and a hearty breakfast including eggs, fresh fruit, and coffee.

GTQ40, 1h

9:30am

Boat tour of Lake Atitlan villages

Take a shared boat tour to visit several traditional villages like San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlan, experiencing local art and culture.

GTQ50, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at La Terraza in San Pedro

Enjoy affordable, tasty meals on the lake with incredible views.

GTQ60, 1h

3:30pm

Explore Panajachel’s markets and shops

Shop for traditional textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs at the bustling local market.

Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Sunset Café

Relax with international and local flavors alongside beautiful sunset lake views.

GTQ70, 1.5h

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Day 6: Hiking & Relaxing Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan, Guatemala on May 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Fuel up with a light and quick breakfast before hiking.

GTQ35, 30m

8:30am

Hike Indian Nose

Take a challenging but rewarding hike to Indian Nose, famous for stunning panoramic sunrise views over the lake and volcanoes. The hike takes about 3 hours round trip.

GTQ30 (guide recommended), 4h