If you love heading off the beaten path and chasing wild adventures, this 2 week itinerary Guatemala will be exactly what you need to fuel your wanderlust.

Guatemala may not be at the top of every traveler’s bucket list, but trust me—once you arrive, you’ll never want to leave. From jungle-shrouded Mayan ruins and glittering turquoise pools deep in the rainforest, to sunrise hikes above active volcanoes and the spiritual calm of Lake Atitlán, Guatemala is one of the most rewarding travel destinations in the world.

Whether you have one week, two, or a whole month, Guatemala delivers adventure like nowhere else. This country is wild, soulful, and unforgettable—a perfect destination for solo travellers craving both challenge and connection. I spent almost a month here as a solo female traveler, and it quickly became one of my favourite countries in Central America. It’s safe, affordable, exciting, and offers the kind of experiences that stay with you forever.

Pack your hiking boots, your sense of adventure, and a flexible attitude (transport here runs on Guatemalan time). With this 2 week itinerary Guatemala, you’ll experience the very best the country has to offer—and I promise, you’ll already be dreaming of your return trip before you even leave (I know I was!).

Planning a solo trip to Guatemala? Here's where you'll find:

1. Essential Travel Tips for Guatemala
2. The Ultimate 2 Week Itinerary Guatemala
3. 1 Week Guatemala Itinerary (Alternative)
4. 3–4 Week Guatemala Itinerary
5. Daily Budget for Guatemala
6. Best Things to Do in Guatemala
7. Getting Around Guatemala

Essential Travel Tips for Guatemala

Where is Guatemala?

Guatemala is tucked into the heart of Central America, bordered by Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. With both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, volcanoes, jungles, and colonial towns, it packs a huge amount of diversity into a relatively small country.

Is Guatemala safe for solo travellers?

Yes – Guatemala is one of the safest countries in Central America for travellers. I spent 3+ weeks there solo and never felt unsafe. The locals are incredibly kind, public transport is easy to use, and if you take normal precautions (hide valuables, avoid walking alone late at night, trust your instincts), you’ll be fine. If you're planning a solo trip to Guatemala – be sure to read my guide for solo travel tips.

Best time to visit Guatemala

Guatemala is a year-round destination, but the dry season from November to April is the most comfortable for hiking and exploring. The wet season (May–October) usually just brings a few hours of rain each day—so don’t rule it out.

The Ultimate 2 Week Itinerary Guatemala

This two-week adventure takes you from the northern jungles and ancient Mayan cities all the way to the volcanic highlands and tranquil lakes. It balances adrenaline-fuelled experiences with enough downtime to soak up Guatemala’s beauty.

Days 1–4: Flores & Tikal

Start your adventure in Flores, a colorful island town surrounded by Lake Petén Itzá. It’s the perfect base for exploring the northern jungles.

• Wander the cobbled streets, swim at Jorge’s Rope Swing, and enjoy rooftop cocktails at sunset.
• If you're lucky, there may be a local festa happening – expect crazy fireworks and street parties!
• Take a sunrise tour of Tikal National Park, where howler monkeys echo through the rainforest as the sun rises over 1,000-year-old Mayan temples.
• If you have extra time, visit Yaxhá for sunset or, for the truly adventurous, arrange a multi-day trek to El Mirador, home to one of the largest pyramids in the world.

Read my blog on An epic sunrise at Tikal Mayan Ruins, Guatemala

Days 5–7: Semuc Champey

Next, dive deep into the jungle around Lanquín to reach Semuc Champey, one of Guatemala’s most magical natural wonders.

• Hike to the El Mirador viewpoint for postcard-perfect views over turquoise limestone pools.
• Swim, slide, and float through the cascading pools themselves.
• Join a guided cave tour where you wade through underground rivers by candlelight—an adventure you’ll never forget.

Tip: Stay at Zephyr Lodge for infinity pool views over the jungle and a lively social scene. 

Days 8–9: Antigua

After a long bus ride, settle into Antigua, Guatemala’s most charming colonial city. Stay at Tropicana Hostel for party vibes or Maya Papaya Hostel if you prefer somewhere chilled or are a digital nomad.

• Explore pastel-coloured streets, local markets, and historic ruins.
• Hike up to Cerro de la Cruz for sweeping views of the city backed by volcanoes.
• Spend your evenings at lively bars or salsa dancing with locals.

Days 10–11: Acatenango Volcano Hike

This is the crown jewel of any Guatemala 2 week itinerary. The overnight hike up Volcán Acatenango is tough—but absolutely life-changing.

• Trek through cloud forests to reach base camp at 3,600m.
• Spend the night watching Volcán de Fuego erupt every 15 minutes, lava glowing against the night sky.
• Wake before dawn to summit Acatenango and watch sunrise spill across a sea of clouds and volcanoes.

It’s the kind of experience you’ll talk about for the rest of your life.

Make sure you read my guide on Hiking Acatenango Volcano: Guatemala’s Epic Volcano Trek

Days 12–14: Lake Atitlán

Finish your adventure with a few days on the serene shores of Lake Atitlán.

• Base yourself in San Pedro for backpacker vibes, or San Marcos for yoga, wellness, and spirituality.
• Take boat taxis to explore Mayan villages, colourful markets, and coffee cooperatives.
• Hike to Indian Nose for sunrise or simply relax and let the magic of the lake sink in.

From here, head back to Guatemala City for your flight.

1 Week Guatemala Itinerary (Alternative)

Short on time? You can still experience Guatemala’s highlights in a week:

• Days 1–2: Antigua + one-day volcano hike (Pacaya or Acatenango)
• Days 3–4: Lake Atitlán (yoga, hiking, markets)
• Days 5–7: Fly to Flores for Tikal sunrise tour, then return to Guatemala City

This condensed route covers Guatemala’s must-sees without feeling rushed.

3–4 Week Guatemala Itinerary

If you’ve got longer, lucky you! A 3–4 week Guatemala itinerary allows you to slow down, explore more deeply, and add epic side trips.

• Days 1–4: Flores + Tikal 
• Days 5–10: Multi-day jungle trek to El Mirador
• Days 11–14: Semuc Champey + Lanquín
• Days 15–18: Antigua (city, nightlife, Spanish classes)
• Days 19–21: Acatenango overnight hike + recovery days
• Days 22–28: Lake Atitlán (yoga, hiking, Mayan villages, Chichicastenango market)
• Optional: Extend to the Pacific Coast for surfing in El Paredón, or cross into Belize for a change of pace

This longer route gives you time to truly immerse yourself in Guatemala—its landscapes, culture, and people.

Daily Budget for Guatemala

Guatemala is one of the most affordable destinations in Central America, making it perfect for solo travellers. Here’s what you can expect to spend on average per day:

• Accommodation

  • Hostel dorm: $8–15 USD

  • Private room in guesthouse: $20–40 USD

  • Boutique hotel: $50–100 USD

• Food

  • Local street food meal: $2–4 USD

  • Sit-down restaurant: $5–12 USD

  • Western-style café/restaurant: $10–20 USD

• Transport

  • Chicken buses (local): $1–3 USD per ride

  • Tourist shuttles (between major destinations): $10–25 USD

  • Domestic flight (Guatemala City ↔ Flores): $100–150 USD return

• Activities & Tours

  • Acatenango overnight hike: $70–100 USD (including food, guide, gear)

  • Tikal sunrise tour: $35–45 USD

  • Semuc Champey tour: $20–30 USD

  • Yoga class at Lake Atitlán: $8–12 USD

💸 Backpacker daily budget: $30–40 USD

💸 Mid-range daily budget: $50–80 USD

💸 Comfort/luxury daily budget: $100–150+ USD

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Best Things to Do in Guatemala

Even if you don’t follow the exact itinerary, these are the absolute must-do activities in Guatemala that every traveler should consider:

1. Climb Acatenango Volcano – Sleep under the stars while watching neighboring Volcán de Fuego erupt.
2. Explore Tikal at Sunrise – Ancient Mayan ruins hidden deep in the jungle, best experienced in the golden dawn light.
3. Swim at Semuc Champey – Crystal-clear limestone pools in the middle of the rainforest.
4. Discover Lake Atitlán – Boat-hop between Mayan villages, hike Indian Nose, or relax with yoga in San Marcos.
5. Wander Antigua – A UNESCO World Heritage city of pastel facades, colonial ruins, and vibrant markets.
6. Hike to El Mirador – A 5-day jungle trek to one of the largest Mayan cities ever discovered.
7. Dance at a Guatemalan Festival – From Semana Santa in Antigua to local celebrations in Flores, festivals here are unforgettable.
8. Shop Chichicastenango Market – One of the largest and most colorful markets in Central America.
9. Surf in El Paredón – A black-sand beach perfect for beginners and pros alike.
10. Connect with Mayan Culture – Take a weaving workshop, join a cacao ceremony, or learn about local traditions in San Juan La Laguna.

Getting Around Guatemala

Transportation in Guatemala is part of the adventure, but it can also be one of the trickiest parts of planning your trip. Here’s what you need to know:

• Chicken Buses – The infamous, brightly painted school buses are the cheapest way to get around. Expect to pay $1–3 USD for short rides. They’re crowded, chaotic, and not the most comfortable option, but they’re great if you want a truly local experience.
• Tourist Shuttles – The most common choice for travelers. Shuttles connect all major destinations (Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Semuc Champey, Flores) and usually cost $10–25 USD depending on distance. They’re faster and safer than chicken buses.
• Private Transfers – Ideal if you’re short on time, traveling in a group, or arriving late at night. Prices range from $50–100 USD depending on distance.
• Domestic Flights – The only domestic flight most travelers take is between Guatemala City and Flores (for Tikal). It’s a quick 1-hour flight and saves you a grueling 8–10 hour bus ride. Expect to pay $100–150 USD return.
• Boats on Lake Atitlán – Lanchas (water taxis) run constantly between the villages around Lake Atitlán. A ride usually costs $1–3 USD depending on distance.
• Tuk-Tuks & Local Taxis – In smaller towns like Antigua or Panajachel, tuk-tuks are cheap and convenient. Always agree on the price before hopping in.

✨ Top tip: Guatemala’s roads are mountainous and winding, so journeys take longer than you’d expect. Always give yourself buffer time when planning travel days and be sure to take travel sickness pills if you're prone to motion-sickness.