Premium Guatemala Tour
| Duration | 9 Days / 8 Nights |
| Tour Focus | Ancient Maya Pyramidal Ruins, Colonial Architecture, Local Artisan Workshops, Scenic Highlands & Jungle Immersion |
| Group Exclusivity | 100% Private (Your Group Only) |
| Key Hubs | Antigua (3 nights), Lake Atitlán (2 nights), Tikal National Park (2 nights) & Guatemala City (1 night) |
| Lodging & Meals | Hand-Picked Boutique Accommodations (8 Nights) & Curated Dining (8 Breakfasts & 8 Dinners) |
| Included Perks & Activities | All Ground & Domestic Flight Transportation, Dedicated Guide & Driver, Historic & Cultural Sites (Antigua, Tikal National Park Ruins), Scenic Viewpoint Hike, Artisan Workshops (Jade, Coffee Farm, Tribal Weaving, Chocolate), and Professional Photography Package |
Frequently Asked Questions
Citizens of the United States, Canada, the UK, Europe, Australia, and many other nations do not need a visa to enter Guatemala for stays up to 90 days. All you need is a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date. Gardner Tours provides pre-trip arrival guidance, seamless airport pickup, and 24/7 support so your journey begins completely stress-free.
Yes! Regions featured in this tour—such as Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal National Park—are welcoming, well-established tourist destinations visited safely by thousands each year. Travelling on a 100% private tour with a dedicated host and professional driver ensures you move through the country comfortably and confidently, away from unfamiliar areas, while enjoying round-the-clock local support.
Absolutely! Having hosted travelers from over 25 countries, we welcome guests from all over the globe who want a rich, authentic journey through Guatemala. Our private chauffeured transfers, hand-picked accommodations, internal flights, and dedicated bilingual local hosts ensure a seamless, stress-free experience from arrival to departure.
This 9-day / 8-night premium journey encompasses Guatemala's top highlights from colonial highlands to ancient jungle ruins:
- Accommodations & Transport: 3 nights in Antigua, 2 nights at Lake Atitlán, 2 nights in Tikal National Park, and 1 night in Guatemala City (hand-picked accommodations), private ground transport, airport pick-up/drop-off, and roundtrip domestic flights to/from Tikal.
- Meals: Daily breakfasts (8) and curated dinners (8) included.
- Highlands & Lake Highlights: Antigua Walking Tour, Hill of the Cross viewpoint, Jade Artisan Workshop, Coffee Farm Tour, Antigua Market Tour, Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Experience, Tribal Weaving Experience, and a scenic hike with incredible views.
- Jungle & Ruins Highlights: Guided Tikal Mayan Ruins Tour deep within Tikal National Park.
- Extras: Dedicated guide, professional photography package, detailed itinerary packet, seasonal packing list, and 24/7 emergency support.
This itinerary is rated as easy to moderate and designed to be accessible for travelers of most fitness levels. Activities include walking along uneven cobblestone streets in Antigua, exploring Mayan pyramid structures in Tikal, and enjoying a light, scenic hike along Lake Atitlán.
The Lake Atitlán hike is roughly 1.25 miles (2 km) across varied terrain—including stone paths, bamboo bridges, and lakeside trails—with a gentle elevation change of about 250 feet (76 meters) spread gradually throughout. Because this is a 100% private tour, the daily pace is completely adapted to your comfort level.
Every trip we host is 100% private and built around your group. You won’t be shuffled around in a large bus with strangers—instead, you’ll travel alongside your own dedicated guide and private driver, enjoying a relaxed, personal exploration of Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal National Park at your own pace.
Guatemala is known as the Land of Eternal Spring, featuring comfortable highland temperatures year-round (70°F–80°F / 21°C–27°C) and warm, tropical weather in Tikal. The dry season (November to April) brings sunny days ideal for outdoor exploration. The green season (May to October) brings lush landscapes and brief afternoon showers, offering quieter sights and great travel conditions.
Absolutely! While this 9-day plan offers our most complete mix of history, culture, and nature, every detail can be customized to your preferences. Whether you want to add an Acatenango volcano hike, extend your stay at Lake Atitlán, or customize your meal preferences, visit our Custom Design page or give us a call to craft your ultimate Guatemalan getaway.
Yes! Guatemalan specialty coffee, handwoven Mayan textiles, artisan chocolate, and genuine jade jewelry make fantastic souvenirs and gifts. Standard agricultural import rules apply to food products (roasted coffee beans and commercially packaged chocolate are generally allowed in checked or carry-on luggage). We recommend checking your home country's customs regulations prior to travel for duty-free allowance limits.
Have more questions? Visit our Guatemala FAQs
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Tour Information
Description
Tour Overview
Uncover living, breathing Mayan culture on this comprehensive 9-day private Premium Guatemala Tour. Spanning the UNESCO colonial city of Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the towering jungle pyramids of Tikal National Park—the epicenter of ancient Maya civilization—this fully hosted 8-night private expedition delivers the ultimate Guatemalan journey.
From the moment you arrive, your dedicated professional guide and private driver accompany you every step of the way, managing all internal travel and logistics so you can enjoy an effortless, deeply enriching adventure.
What Makes This Journey Unforgettable
- Ancient Maya Civilizations at Tikal: Venture deep into the rainforests of Tikal National Park to explore ancient Maya temples, climbing iconic pyramids and learning the fascinating history of this ancient world power.
- Colonial Heritage & Historic Antigua: Stroll vibrant cobblestone streets and historic plazas in Antigua, discovering hidden courtyards and centuries of history alongside your guide and local hosts.
- Craft Coffee & Mayan Chocolate Masterclass: Indulge your senses with hands-on tastings and private tours highlighting world-class Guatemalan craft coffee and traditional Mayan chocolate craftsmanship.
- Lake Atitlán & Village Visits: Cruise across breathtaking Lake Atitlán to visit lakeside indigenous communities, connecting personally with local weavers, artists, and families.
- Boutique Accommodations & Curated Dining: Experience hand-picked private boutique accommodations and fine local dining throughout your entire journey across Guatemala.
- Professional Photography Package: Relax and stay fully present in every moment while your private guide candidly captures your journey in the background—hardly noticed. After your tour, you’ll receive a beautifully curated gallery of professionally edited photos to remember your trip forever.
Itinerary Highlights at a Glance
- Antigua (3 Nights): Three nights centered in historic Antigua, exploring colonial architecture, local markets, craft coffee, and vibrant culture.
- Lake Atitlán (2 Nights): Two nights nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Atitlán, surrounded by majestic volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages.
- Tikal National Park (2 Nights): Two nights inside the heart of the Petén jungle, exploring ancient ruins and wildlife.
- Guatemala City (1 Night): One seamless final night in the nation's capital for convenient departure logistics.
Experience Guatemala Hosted by Gardner Tours
Discover the ancient history, warm hospitality, and awe-inspiring landscapes of Guatemala—all wrapped in effortless private travel and Gardner Tours' signature hosted care.
Ready to explore the epicenter of the Maya world? Select your travel dates above and book your private tour today!
Itinerary
Day One: Arrival & Antigua
Based upon the time your flight arrives at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, your professional guide will be waiting for you at your final customs exit. Following a quick meet and greet, you will ride to Antigua, get settled into your private accommodations. After a time of acclimation and rest from a long travel day, you will be taken to one of our favorite restaurants in the city to experience their mouth-watering cuisine and the incredible ambience that they offer! If you choose, your guide will drop you off at your accommodations after dinner. If you desire to explore the nightlife of Antigua, you will be free to do so.
Day Two: Guatemalan History & Culture
At the pre-arranged time that you choose, your professional guide will take you to the best viewpoint, overlooking the city of Antigua. After a short walk down, you will begin your day with an Antigua Walking Tour where you will receive a completely comprehensive education on Guatemalan culture, history, folklore, and much more on this two hour tour. You will be walked through Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, led by a professional guide, to learn of and visit some of the city’s colonial architecture, churches, ruins, cuisine, rich textiles, local people groups, personalities and so much more. Each step will take you deeper into the secrets of this ancient city, helping you to discover and understand the complexities of Guatemalan society via its history, customs, culture, and a number of other things that may leave you scratching your head.
After lunch at the restaurant of your choice, you will be transported just outside of town to meet one of the most experienced jade artisans in Guatemala. You will be welcomed into the home of he and his family to learn all about his trade, jade, its history in Guatemalan culture, and then you will spend time choosing, shaping, and polishing a stone that is yours to keep. What you may find most amazing about this experience is the time with their family, learning their stories and connecting with one another as you work.
Following your Jade Workshop, you will be returned to your accommodations to rest and freshen up before dinner at a restaurant that offers an artistic and tasty interpretation on international cuisine from a prized chef. Oh, and their desserts may leave you drooling with a curiosity that beckons you to your own kitchen, trying to make one for yourself. After dinner, your guide will drop you off at your accommodations if you so choose. If you desire to further explore the nightlife of Antigua, you will be free to do so.
Day Three: Colonial Antigua & Local Trade
Day three will be the grand finale of your relaxing time in Antigua with a Guatemala Coffee Farm Tour, time to explore the best local artisan markets, and dinner at our favorite restaurant in Antigua!
Following your breakfast, you will be transported to a local Guatemalan coffee farm to experience a day in the life of a local Guatemalan coffee farmer. After a short hike up Volcán Agua to explore and learn about the coffee fields, you will be invited into the farmer's house to experience and utilize the machinery used to process coffee. The best part comes at the end when you get to roast coffee in the traditional Guatemalan way, over the fire, and share a fresh cup of coffee with the farmer and their family.
After lunch at the restaurant of your choice, you will be guided to the most famous artisan markets in Antigua to satisfy your appetite for souvenirs and gifts. And believe us when we tell you, Antigua has a great variety of high quality souvenirs for everyone alike!
Just before dinner, you will take time to freshen up to experience our favorite culinary establishment in the city, one that offers dishes that might leave you drooling for more. The chef is a self-made genius in the kitchen who has published a number of books. Just wait, you won’t leave disappointed. Following dinner, you may want to explore Antigua's nightlife, but if not, your guide will escort you to your accommodations.
Day Four: Farewell Antigua, Hello Lake Atitlán!
After breakfast, you will take off on a three hour ride to Lake Atitlán. Upon arrival, you will have a chance to relax and enjoy a nice lunch. From there, you will be transported to get settled into your lake-side accommodations. Depending on the location of your accommodations, you may eat lunch at a restaurant of your choice either before or after arriving at your accommodations.
You will then have the opportunity to either rest a bit and get acclimated to the relaxing pace of Lake Atitlán or you may want to walk down and dip your toes in the crystal clear blue waters of Central America’s deepest lake. Lake Atitlán is also renowned as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world that is surrounded by a number of different cultures of Maya.
After your low-key afternoon, you will then take time to clean up before being transported to the highest rated restaurant in Panajachel that offers top-notch service and a delightful selection of authentic cuisine. After dinner, your guide will ensure that you are transported safely back to your accommodations. If you desire to explore the nightlife, you will be free to do so.
Day Five: Breathtaking Views & Tribal Experiences
At the arranged time you choose, your professional guide will meet you to begin your day with an easy and relaxing hike that offers some of the best views of Lake Atitlán. You will first be transported to your beginning location in a boat taxi (if necessary), then you will be free to take your leisurely hike at your own pace, stopping for as many photos or awe-struck moments as you please. It’s guaranteed that you will love it!
Following your hike, you will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at a special place overlooking the water. This is the perfect time to kick your feet back and soak it all in, as you will be on top of the world.
After your relaxing lunch, you will take a short boat taxi to a nearby town to experience the entire craft process of tribal weaving and will learn about its significance in the local Maya cultures. You might even get to help dye the threads in their natural ways or finish a piece with the local Maya. One thing we guarantee is that you will see tribal weaving at its most pure and pride-filled form.
To finish your evening in the most immaculate style, after cleaning up, you will be taken just off the water, high into a mountain town to a place that has been claimed by many as the restaurant with “the best view and the most creative and tasty food in Guatemala.” What's better is that this restaurant employs students from an acclaimed culinary school and all its proceeds go to support the local community. There you will experience an in-depth education and hands-on experience with one of Guatemala’s proudest creations: chocolate. You will learn about its origin and history while you are making your own bar of chocolate, starting from the bean, with your very own private chef. All the while, you will be looking out from the most beautiful viewpoint of Lake Atitlán. After you spoil your dinner with chocolate, you will take a seat and experience their fine dining at the same restaurant, what we claim is the best tasting cause in Guatemala. One thing guaranteed is that you will leave with a full stomach and a happy heart.
Day Six: Onward to the Epicenter of Mayan Civilization
After a relaxing morning, at an arranged time, your professional guide will ensure that you are checked out of your accommodations and transported at the proper time to your taxi where you will journey down through the highlands of western Guatemala to La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City for a one hour afternoon flight to Flores, the nearest city to your accommodations in the Tikal National Park.
Directly from the Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores, you will be transported to your accommodations in the park. Depending on your time of arrival and check-in at your accommodations, you might have time to explore the surrounding rainforest or kick back and relax at the pool or bar.
To complete your day in the right fashion, you will dine at your hotel’s fine restaurant that provides a romantic atmosphere and a wonderful selection of mouth-watering international cuisine. You might even want to stay a little longer, just to cherish the sheer beauty of the atmosphere and enjoy the amenities they have to offer. When ready, you may simply retire for the night by walking just a few steps away to your private residence on the property.
Day Seven: Explore the Mayan World of Tikal
Depending on your choice, you will either rise early to experience the jaw-dropping sunrise tour of the Tikal Mayan Ruins or you will sleep as normal to explore the ruins on a day tour. On this awe-inspiring tour, your certified guide will walk you through the Tikal National Park to explore and reveal its many mysteries. You will climb temples, learn about the fine details of the Mayan, and have time to satisfy the appetite of your own curiosity as your guide gives you ample amounts of time to explore on your own.
Following your tour, you will be free to grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, relax, or explore more as you please. Who knows, you might even be visited by some of the rainforest’s intriguing wildlife! But whatever you do, this is the time to soak it all in and enjoy yourself.
For dinner, you will once again dine at your hotel’s fine restaurant that offers a romantic atmosphere and a wonderful selection of mouth-watering international cuisine. After you have enjoyed your evening of dining, you may retire for the night if you choose.
Day Eight: Tikal to Guatemala City
Depending on the time of your flight’s departure, you might have the opportunity to sleep in and enjoy your last morning in Tikal National Park. At the proper time, you will be transported to the Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores to catch your one hour flight to Guatemala City.
Upon arrival in Guatemala City, you will be transported to your hand-picked accommodations within the city. After your check-in, if time allows, you may explore the surrounding area or sit back and soak in your final afternoon in Guatemala.
Just before dinner, you may take the time to clean up and put on your best to complete your tour in prime fashion. You will be transported to a favorite restaurant in the city to savor your ultimate evening in-country. Following your evening, you will be transported to your accommodations to finish the evening as you desire. If you choose to explore Guatemala City’s nightlife, your guide will accompany you until you return to your accommodations.
Day Nine: Final Taste & Departure
Depending on the time of your flight’s departure, you might have the opportunity to relax and enjoy your last few hours in Guatemala City. If so, you will have time to kick back and enjoy your last morning in Guatemala before being picked up by your private taxi and escorted directly to the La Aurora International Airport. You will be dropped off three to four hours prior to your departure for an ample amount of time to purchase any last-minute souvenirs, check your bags, go through security and customs, and arrive at your gate for a safe flight home.
Included & Not Included
Included
- Professional Guide*
- Hand-Picked Accommodations*
- Three Nights in Antigua
- Two Nights at Lake Atitlán
- Two Nights in Tikal National Park
- One Night in Guatemala City
- Breakfasts (8) & Dinners (8)
- Airport Pick-up / Drop-off
- All Transportation
- Viewpoint at the Hill of the Cross*
- Antigua Walking Tour
- Jade Artisan Workshop
- Coffee Farm Tour*
- Antigua Market Tour
- Leisurely Hike with Incredible Views*
- Tribal Weaving Experience
- Bean to Bar Chocolate Experience
- Flight to/from Tikal
- Tikal Mayan Ruins Tour*
- Professional Photography + Photos
- Detailed Itinerary & Tour Packet
- Seasonal Packing List
- Emergency Support
Not Included
- International Airfare
- Lunch
- Alcoholic Drinks
- Tips (Guide, Drivers, etc)
More Information
* See the What to Expect tab for details on starred items.
What to Expect
WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR TOUR
On this Premium Guatemala Tour, you will begin and end at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. You can expect your complete itinerary from transportation, accommodations, private tours/experiences and meals to be previously arranged and paid for by your guide. You will be accompanied the entire tour by a Gardner Tours professional guide, educated on Guatemala’s colorful culture and history, its coffee, etc. All we require of you is to simply enjoy yourself! In the event that something changes or doesn’t go exactly as planned, please be patient and courteous, as it is our guarantee that our guides will handle any challenges with timely grace to ensure that you are taken care of and that you get the authentic Guatemalan experience you desire.
Your Tour Guide
Each of our guides are well versed and able to answer almost any question you may have for them! You will have complete freedom to take your tour at the pace you please, deciding to sit and enjoy the view as long as you desire, asking the coffee farmer as many questions as you want, or simply enjoying your dinner just a little longer than normal. Your guide will give you time and space to enjoy your lunch each day as you like (with or without them). They meet you at the arranged time each morning to begin your day and will drop you off at your accommodations each night. They will serve you along the way and ensure that you are well taken care of during your entire stay.
Premium Guatemala Tour Accommodations
Your accommodations will be at hand-picked, authorized Guatemalan BnBs or hotels that are equipped with air-conditioners (unless accommodated in certain hotels like the Jungle Lodge in Tikal where they are eco-friendly, yet adequate fans are provided) as well as private bathrooms with hot water. Each of our accommodation partners provide private rooms and can occupy up to two persons per room with the occasional exception. If you desire to share a room with your travel companion, or desire three or more persons per room, please specify in the details of your booking.
The Hill of the Cross
The Hill of the Cross provides arguably the best view of Colonial Antigua possible, but we can’t guarantee you that there won’t be thick clouds. Throughout most of the year, the mornings are when the sky is clear, showing you the entirety of the city and Volcán Agua in the distance. Don’t worry, your guide will keep their eyes on the weather to ensure that you get the best view at the right time.
Guatemalan Coffee Harvest
Coffee harvest in Guatemala is during the dry season, from October to March. If you book in these months, you might even get to help in harvest! However, if you happen to book from April to September, know that you might see barren coffee plants, but it is our guarantee that you will experience the same education and coffee experience as if you were visiting in-season. You might not get to witness the acts of harvest, but you will definitely encounter the world’s greatest coffee culture at work.
Leisurely Hike on Lake Atitlán
One morning on your tour, you will get the chance to take a leisurely hike along the waters of Lake Atitlán. The hike will be about 1.25 miles / 2 kilometers of different terrain from rocks to bamboo bridges and wooden sidewalks all the way to grassy knolls by the water. The elevation change will be approximately 250 feet / 76 meters, but not all at once. Remember, this is a leisure hike with a difficulty of easy to moderate and you are free to take it at your own pace. More than anything, we want you to enjoy the breathtaking views as you get out and about.
Tikal National Park
The Mayan Ruins in Tikal National Park are absolutely jaw-dropping and unforgettable. In fact, it is the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Central America that holds both natural and cultural classifications. No matter what tour you choose, the sunrise tour or the day tour, know there is a short 20 minute moderate hike at the beginning of the tour that can not be avoided. Please be aware that, depending on what season you book in, it might be much more humid and hot with more bugs. To prepare properly, we recommend bringing water, a light rain jacket, bug spray, sunscreen, and snacks. No matter the season, with the help of your guide, the mysteries of the Mayans will intrigue you and bring your imagination to life as you explore the epicenter of the Mayan civilization.
Our Guarantee To You
Gardner Tours is committed to delivering you the most hospitable and entertaining tours offered in Guatemala! If you have questions or would like to adjust this tour in any way, feel free to contact us and we will gladly accommodate your desires.
Map & Location
Tour Overview
Uncover living, breathing Mayan culture on this comprehensive 9-day private Premium Guatemala Tour. Spanning the UNESCO colonial city of Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and the towering jungle pyramids of Tikal National Park—the epicenter of ancient Maya civilization—this fully hosted 8-night private expedition delivers the ultimate Guatemalan journey.
From the moment you arrive, your dedicated professional guide and private driver accompany you every step of the way, managing all internal travel and logistics so you can enjoy an effortless, deeply enriching adventure.
What Makes This Journey Unforgettable
- Ancient Maya Civilizations at Tikal: Venture deep into the rainforests of Tikal National Park to explore ancient Maya temples, climbing iconic pyramids and learning the fascinating history of this ancient world power.
- Colonial Heritage & Historic Antigua: Stroll vibrant cobblestone streets and historic plazas in Antigua, discovering hidden courtyards and centuries of history alongside your guide and local hosts.
- Craft Coffee & Mayan Chocolate Masterclass: Indulge your senses with hands-on tastings and private tours highlighting world-class Guatemalan craft coffee and traditional Mayan chocolate craftsmanship.
- Lake Atitlán & Village Visits: Cruise across breathtaking Lake Atitlán to visit lakeside indigenous communities, connecting personally with local weavers, artists, and families.
- Boutique Accommodations & Curated Dining: Experience hand-picked private boutique accommodations and fine local dining throughout your entire journey across Guatemala.
- Professional Photography Package: Relax and stay fully present in every moment while your private guide candidly captures your journey in the background—hardly noticed. After your tour, you’ll receive a beautifully curated gallery of professionally edited photos to remember your trip forever.
Itinerary Highlights at a Glance
- Antigua (3 Nights): Three nights centered in historic Antigua, exploring colonial architecture, local markets, craft coffee, and vibrant culture.
- Lake Atitlán (2 Nights): Two nights nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Atitlán, surrounded by majestic volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages.
- Tikal National Park (2 Nights): Two nights inside the heart of the Petén jungle, exploring ancient ruins and wildlife.
- Guatemala City (1 Night): One seamless final night in the nation's capital for convenient departure logistics.
Experience Guatemala Hosted by Gardner Tours
Discover the ancient history, warm hospitality, and awe-inspiring landscapes of Guatemala—all wrapped in effortless private travel and Gardner Tours' signature hosted care.
Ready to explore the epicenter of the Maya world? Select your travel dates above and book your private tour today!
Day One: Arrival & Antigua
Based upon the time your flight arrives at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, your professional guide will be waiting for you at your final customs exit. Following a quick meet and greet, you will ride to Antigua, get settled into your private accommodations. After a time of acclimation and rest from a long travel day, you will be taken to one of our favorite restaurants in the city to experience their mouth-watering cuisine and the incredible ambience that they offer! If you choose, your guide will drop you off at your accommodations after dinner. If you desire to explore the nightlife of Antigua, you will be free to do so.
Day Two: Guatemalan History & Culture
At the pre-arranged time that you choose, your professional guide will take you to the best viewpoint, overlooking the city of Antigua. After a short walk down, you will begin your day with an Antigua Walking Tour where you will receive a completely comprehensive education on Guatemalan culture, history, folklore, and much more on this two hour tour. You will be walked through Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, led by a professional guide, to learn of and visit some of the city’s colonial architecture, churches, ruins, cuisine, rich textiles, local people groups, personalities and so much more. Each step will take you deeper into the secrets of this ancient city, helping you to discover and understand the complexities of Guatemalan society via its history, customs, culture, and a number of other things that may leave you scratching your head.
After lunch at the restaurant of your choice, you will be transported just outside of town to meet one of the most experienced jade artisans in Guatemala. You will be welcomed into the home of he and his family to learn all about his trade, jade, its history in Guatemalan culture, and then you will spend time choosing, shaping, and polishing a stone that is yours to keep. What you may find most amazing about this experience is the time with their family, learning their stories and connecting with one another as you work.
Following your Jade Workshop, you will be returned to your accommodations to rest and freshen up before dinner at a restaurant that offers an artistic and tasty interpretation on international cuisine from a prized chef. Oh, and their desserts may leave you drooling with a curiosity that beckons you to your own kitchen, trying to make one for yourself. After dinner, your guide will drop you off at your accommodations if you so choose. If you desire to further explore the nightlife of Antigua, you will be free to do so.
Day Three: Colonial Antigua & Local Trade
Day three will be the grand finale of your relaxing time in Antigua with a Guatemala Coffee Farm Tour, time to explore the best local artisan markets, and dinner at our favorite restaurant in Antigua!
Following your breakfast, you will be transported to a local Guatemalan coffee farm to experience a day in the life of a local Guatemalan coffee farmer. After a short hike up Volcán Agua to explore and learn about the coffee fields, you will be invited into the farmer's house to experience and utilize the machinery used to process coffee. The best part comes at the end when you get to roast coffee in the traditional Guatemalan way, over the fire, and share a fresh cup of coffee with the farmer and their family.
After lunch at the restaurant of your choice, you will be guided to the most famous artisan markets in Antigua to satisfy your appetite for souvenirs and gifts. And believe us when we tell you, Antigua has a great variety of high quality souvenirs for everyone alike!
Just before dinner, you will take time to freshen up to experience our favorite culinary establishment in the city, one that offers dishes that might leave you drooling for more. The chef is a self-made genius in the kitchen who has published a number of books. Just wait, you won’t leave disappointed. Following dinner, you may want to explore Antigua's nightlife, but if not, your guide will escort you to your accommodations.
Day Four: Farewell Antigua, Hello Lake Atitlán!
After breakfast, you will take off on a three hour ride to Lake Atitlán. Upon arrival, you will have a chance to relax and enjoy a nice lunch. From there, you will be transported to get settled into your lake-side accommodations. Depending on the location of your accommodations, you may eat lunch at a restaurant of your choice either before or after arriving at your accommodations.
You will then have the opportunity to either rest a bit and get acclimated to the relaxing pace of Lake Atitlán or you may want to walk down and dip your toes in the crystal clear blue waters of Central America’s deepest lake. Lake Atitlán is also renowned as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world that is surrounded by a number of different cultures of Maya.
After your low-key afternoon, you will then take time to clean up before being transported to the highest rated restaurant in Panajachel that offers top-notch service and a delightful selection of authentic cuisine. After dinner, your guide will ensure that you are transported safely back to your accommodations. If you desire to explore the nightlife, you will be free to do so.
Day Five: Breathtaking Views & Tribal Experiences
At the arranged time you choose, your professional guide will meet you to begin your day with an easy and relaxing hike that offers some of the best views of Lake Atitlán. You will first be transported to your beginning location in a boat taxi (if necessary), then you will be free to take your leisurely hike at your own pace, stopping for as many photos or awe-struck moments as you please. It’s guaranteed that you will love it!
Following your hike, you will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at a special place overlooking the water. This is the perfect time to kick your feet back and soak it all in, as you will be on top of the world.
After your relaxing lunch, you will take a short boat taxi to a nearby town to experience the entire craft process of tribal weaving and will learn about its significance in the local Maya cultures. You might even get to help dye the threads in their natural ways or finish a piece with the local Maya. One thing we guarantee is that you will see tribal weaving at its most pure and pride-filled form.
To finish your evening in the most immaculate style, after cleaning up, you will be taken just off the water, high into a mountain town to a place that has been claimed by many as the restaurant with “the best view and the most creative and tasty food in Guatemala.” What's better is that this restaurant employs students from an acclaimed culinary school and all its proceeds go to support the local community. There you will experience an in-depth education and hands-on experience with one of Guatemala’s proudest creations: chocolate. You will learn about its origin and history while you are making your own bar of chocolate, starting from the bean, with your very own private chef. All the while, you will be looking out from the most beautiful viewpoint of Lake Atitlán. After you spoil your dinner with chocolate, you will take a seat and experience their fine dining at the same restaurant, what we claim is the best tasting cause in Guatemala. One thing guaranteed is that you will leave with a full stomach and a happy heart.
Day Six: Onward to the Epicenter of Mayan Civilization
After a relaxing morning, at an arranged time, your professional guide will ensure that you are checked out of your accommodations and transported at the proper time to your taxi where you will journey down through the highlands of western Guatemala to La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City for a one hour afternoon flight to Flores, the nearest city to your accommodations in the Tikal National Park.
Directly from the Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores, you will be transported to your accommodations in the park. Depending on your time of arrival and check-in at your accommodations, you might have time to explore the surrounding rainforest or kick back and relax at the pool or bar.
To complete your day in the right fashion, you will dine at your hotel’s fine restaurant that provides a romantic atmosphere and a wonderful selection of mouth-watering international cuisine. You might even want to stay a little longer, just to cherish the sheer beauty of the atmosphere and enjoy the amenities they have to offer. When ready, you may simply retire for the night by walking just a few steps away to your private residence on the property.
Day Seven: Explore the Mayan World of Tikal
Depending on your choice, you will either rise early to experience the jaw-dropping sunrise tour of the Tikal Mayan Ruins or you will sleep as normal to explore the ruins on a day tour. On this awe-inspiring tour, your certified guide will walk you through the Tikal National Park to explore and reveal its many mysteries. You will climb temples, learn about the fine details of the Mayan, and have time to satisfy the appetite of your own curiosity as your guide gives you ample amounts of time to explore on your own.
Following your tour, you will be free to grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, relax, or explore more as you please. Who knows, you might even be visited by some of the rainforest’s intriguing wildlife! But whatever you do, this is the time to soak it all in and enjoy yourself.
For dinner, you will once again dine at your hotel’s fine restaurant that offers a romantic atmosphere and a wonderful selection of mouth-watering international cuisine. After you have enjoyed your evening of dining, you may retire for the night if you choose.
Day Eight: Tikal to Guatemala City
Depending on the time of your flight’s departure, you might have the opportunity to sleep in and enjoy your last morning in Tikal National Park. At the proper time, you will be transported to the Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores to catch your one hour flight to Guatemala City.
Upon arrival in Guatemala City, you will be transported to your hand-picked accommodations within the city. After your check-in, if time allows, you may explore the surrounding area or sit back and soak in your final afternoon in Guatemala.
Just before dinner, you may take the time to clean up and put on your best to complete your tour in prime fashion. You will be transported to a favorite restaurant in the city to savor your ultimate evening in-country. Following your evening, you will be transported to your accommodations to finish the evening as you desire. If you choose to explore Guatemala City’s nightlife, your guide will accompany you until you return to your accommodations.
Day Nine: Final Taste & Departure
Depending on the time of your flight’s departure, you might have the opportunity to relax and enjoy your last few hours in Guatemala City. If so, you will have time to kick back and enjoy your last morning in Guatemala before being picked up by your private taxi and escorted directly to the La Aurora International Airport. You will be dropped off three to four hours prior to your departure for an ample amount of time to purchase any last-minute souvenirs, check your bags, go through security and customs, and arrive at your gate for a safe flight home.
Included
- Professional Guide*
- Hand-Picked Accommodations*
- Three Nights in Antigua
- Two Nights at Lake Atitlán
- Two Nights in Tikal National Park
- One Night in Guatemala City
- Breakfasts (8) & Dinners (8)
- Airport Pick-up / Drop-off
- All Transportation
- Viewpoint at the Hill of the Cross*
- Antigua Walking Tour
- Jade Artisan Workshop
- Coffee Farm Tour*
- Antigua Market Tour
- Leisurely Hike with Incredible Views*
- Tribal Weaving Experience
- Bean to Bar Chocolate Experience
- Flight to/from Tikal
- Tikal Mayan Ruins Tour*
- Professional Photography + Photos
- Detailed Itinerary & Tour Packet
- Seasonal Packing List
- Emergency Support
Not Included
- International Airfare
- Lunch
- Alcoholic Drinks
- Tips (Guide, Drivers, etc)
More Information
* See the What to Expect tab for details on starred items.
WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR TOUR
On this Premium Guatemala Tour, you will begin and end at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. You can expect your complete itinerary from transportation, accommodations, private tours/experiences and meals to be previously arranged and paid for by your guide. You will be accompanied the entire tour by a Gardner Tours professional guide, educated on Guatemala’s colorful culture and history, its coffee, etc. All we require of you is to simply enjoy yourself! In the event that something changes or doesn’t go exactly as planned, please be patient and courteous, as it is our guarantee that our guides will handle any challenges with timely grace to ensure that you are taken care of and that you get the authentic Guatemalan experience you desire.
Your Tour Guide
Each of our guides are well versed and able to answer almost any question you may have for them! You will have complete freedom to take your tour at the pace you please, deciding to sit and enjoy the view as long as you desire, asking the coffee farmer as many questions as you want, or simply enjoying your dinner just a little longer than normal. Your guide will give you time and space to enjoy your lunch each day as you like (with or without them). They meet you at the arranged time each morning to begin your day and will drop you off at your accommodations each night. They will serve you along the way and ensure that you are well taken care of during your entire stay.
Premium Guatemala Tour Accommodations
Your accommodations will be at hand-picked, authorized Guatemalan BnBs or hotels that are equipped with air-conditioners (unless accommodated in certain hotels like the Jungle Lodge in Tikal where they are eco-friendly, yet adequate fans are provided) as well as private bathrooms with hot water. Each of our accommodation partners provide private rooms and can occupy up to two persons per room with the occasional exception. If you desire to share a room with your travel companion, or desire three or more persons per room, please specify in the details of your booking.
The Hill of the Cross
The Hill of the Cross provides arguably the best view of Colonial Antigua possible, but we can’t guarantee you that there won’t be thick clouds. Throughout most of the year, the mornings are when the sky is clear, showing you the entirety of the city and Volcán Agua in the distance. Don’t worry, your guide will keep their eyes on the weather to ensure that you get the best view at the right time.
Guatemalan Coffee Harvest
Coffee harvest in Guatemala is during the dry season, from October to March. If you book in these months, you might even get to help in harvest! However, if you happen to book from April to September, know that you might see barren coffee plants, but it is our guarantee that you will experience the same education and coffee experience as if you were visiting in-season. You might not get to witness the acts of harvest, but you will definitely encounter the world’s greatest coffee culture at work.
Leisurely Hike on Lake Atitlán
One morning on your tour, you will get the chance to take a leisurely hike along the waters of Lake Atitlán. The hike will be about 1.25 miles / 2 kilometers of different terrain from rocks to bamboo bridges and wooden sidewalks all the way to grassy knolls by the water. The elevation change will be approximately 250 feet / 76 meters, but not all at once. Remember, this is a leisure hike with a difficulty of easy to moderate and you are free to take it at your own pace. More than anything, we want you to enjoy the breathtaking views as you get out and about.
Tikal National Park
The Mayan Ruins in Tikal National Park are absolutely jaw-dropping and unforgettable. In fact, it is the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Central America that holds both natural and cultural classifications. No matter what tour you choose, the sunrise tour or the day tour, know there is a short 20 minute moderate hike at the beginning of the tour that can not be avoided. Please be aware that, depending on what season you book in, it might be much more humid and hot with more bugs. To prepare properly, we recommend bringing water, a light rain jacket, bug spray, sunscreen, and snacks. No matter the season, with the help of your guide, the mysteries of the Mayans will intrigue you and bring your imagination to life as you explore the epicenter of the Mayan civilization.
Our Guarantee To You
Gardner Tours is committed to delivering you the most hospitable and entertaining tours offered in Guatemala! If you have questions or would like to adjust this tour in any way, feel free to contact us and we will gladly accommodate your desires.
Preparation
After booking, you will receive an email with a detailed itinerary and tour packet. Those documents will guide you through the entire process of preparation (purchasing flights, visas, packing list, etc), what your arrival will look like, the details of your tour (duration), and how your departure will be handled.
Our team is committed to serve you with the utmost hospitality, so we are honored to serve you and ensure that you are prepared in the most comfortable way that suits you.
Be assured that if you need help, we will be here to personally guide each step of the way.
Arrival
Based upon the time your flight arrives at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, your Gardner Tours Professional Guide will be waiting for you at your final customs exit.
Following a quick meet and greet, you will make your way to Antigua in a privately arranged taxi, get settled into your BnB, then kick your tour off with a bang!
It won't take long before you're kicking back and enjoying a uniquely memorable vacation!
Duration
Your Gardner Tours Professional Guide will accompany you the entire way, guiding you through all nine days of your tour. That includes three nights in astounding Antigua, two nights at the breathtaking Lake Atitlán, two nights in Tikal National Park, and one night in Guatemala City.
You will have complete freedom to take your tour at the pace you please, deciding to sit and enjoy the view as long as you desire, asking the coffee farmer as many questions as you want, or simply enjoying your dinner just a little longer than normal. Your guide will serve you along the way and ensure that you are well taken care of during your entire stay.
Gardner Tours is committed to delivering you the most hospitable and entertaining tours offered in Guatemala!
Departure
Depending on the departure time of your flight, you might have the opportunity to relax and enjoy your last few hours in Guatemala. If so, you will have time to purchase any last-minute souvenirs from local artisans and/or take those photos that you may have missed.
At an appointed time, you will be picked up by your private transport, escorted directly to La Aurora International Airport, and dropped off three hours prior to your departure for an ample amount of time to purchase any last-minute souvenirs, check your bags, go through security and customs, and arrive at your gate for a safe flight home.
Your guide will accompany you all the way until the end.
Visit the Epicenter of the Mayan World
On our Premium Guatemala Tours, you will uncover the alive-and-well Mayan culture in the UNESCO colonial city of Antigua, explore the epicenter of Mayan civilization in Tikal National Park, and bask at one of the most culturally historic lakes in the world, Lake Atitlán.
Throughout your visit, you will find a number of different creative forms of how the Mayan people express themselves in modern day, from their unique jewelry to their high quality and colorful textiles.
You will have ample opportunity to engage with and learn directly from a quiet yet proud people. It is guaranteed that you will walk away with a profound appreciation for Guatemalan and Mayan culture.
Chocolate, Coffee, and Creativity
Whether you're learning how to make Mayan chocolate from its original source, sipping some of the world’s most premium coffee, or simply taken aback at the incredible creativity and expression of Guatemalans as expressed in everything they do, each day presents a number of opportunities to enjoy something new!
From the handmade jade jewelry to the minute details found in each woven fabric, those delightful surprises often inspire comments like, “I can’t believe the high quality and amount of detail they put into each piece!” and “These are the things that make me remember why I love traveling so much!”
It is our honor to deliver you with the most hospitable experiences, to ensure that you truly unwind and enjoy yourself like never before on this Premium Guatemala Tour.
A Perfect Private Experience for Your Group
Traveling with Gardner Tours means that you travel in private, no strangers! Each and every tour is tailored to you and your travel desires and needs. You will only travel with the people in your booking, allowing you to have the most amazing and memorable time possible in the setting that you choose with us!
There's nothing like traveling in your own private group and it is our honor to ensure that your time with us is world-class.
After all, we are a hospitality company!