Guatemala is a captivating country rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, where vibrant landscapes stretch from lush rainforests to towering volcanoes. The stunning Lake Atitlán, surrounded by picturesque villages and dramatic mountains, offers breathtaking views and opportunities for kayaking and hiking. Guatemala’s diverse ecosystems are home to an array of wildlife, including colourful quetzals, playful howler monkeys, and unique species of orchids. The country’s rich tapestry of indigenous cultures adds to its allure, with traditional markets, colourful textiles, and vibrant festivals that invite visitors to engage with local communities. Whether zip-lining through the treetops, hiking scenic trails, or savouring the delicious local cuisine, Guatemala offers a myriad of activities for those seeking adventure and immersion in its enchanting landscapes.

Recommended Tour Dates for You

  • The Wonders of Guatemala 5th – 12th March 2025

    Join 17  like-minded travellers on this immersive Guatemalan adventure  - these group tours are designed to help you form new friendships with like - minded people from all over the world. Not only will you have the best 8 days of your life exploring this incredible country but you’ll leave Guatemala with 17 new friends for life.

    Price Per Person From:

    £724.99

Your Plotpackers experiences, in your words.

Jenna – July 2024

Went on a Plotpackers to Guatemala that was sponsored by influencer @leonie.feliciaa.

I have traveled lots but this was my first time in a foreign country without knowing anybody, and to be honest it was one of the best experiences I have ever had. I built amazing friendships with the group I was with, and left with SO many memories in different parts of Guatemala. This country is so beautiful, but it is the people who made this trip even more amazing. I highly recommend Plotpackers. They are organized, clear with the itinerary and they truly make the trip a great experience!!! :)

Tamz – June 2024

I had no expectations going into this. I hoped that I was going to have a good time, but I wasn’t expecting much.

What I found instead was:

  • a group of what I hope to be lifelong friends
  • life-changing experiences
  • so many inside jokes

To be able to meet a group of 14 people and to get along with all of them is either magic or really good organisation.

Shivani was an amazing guide who created such a great atmosphere that we were all able to focus on getting to know each other. She also answered any questions that we had about anything on the tour or in Guatemala as a whole.

Ellie Obryan – June 2024

Guatemala with Shivani was incredible!! The trip had the perfect balance between planned activities and free time to pick what we wanted to do and Shivani provided recommendations for places to eat and things to do that catered to everyone, including all allergies and dietary requirements. She was super kind and helpful and made the trip stress free. Everyone on the trip was so like minded and I made the best friends <3 This was my second Plot packers trip and I will most definitely be doing more. My experience with plot packers has been nothing but incredible from the customer service and planning before the trip to the once in a life time activities and opportunities in the trips. I couldn’t recommend Plot packers enough❤️it’s perfect for first time solo travelers or if you want to go with friends. You will always feel safe and you will never forget it!!! Thank you plot packers… I will be back <3

Rhys – June 2024

Me and my Girlfriend had such an amazing time on our trip to Guatemala with Shivani as our guide. Was a great group dynamic and we all got on so well. I can definitely see us all meeting up again in our travels.

Shivani was such an amazing guide who wouldn’t hesitate to drop everything and sort whatever problem you had (especially when it came to my girlfriend’s nut allergy). It all ran very smoothly!

As a trip it was so nice to have a mix of activities and free time to spend with the group. Very well planned!

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Frequently Asked Questions

The official currency is the Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ). U.S. dollars are also accepted in some places.
Spanish is the official language. However, there are 22 recognized indigenous languages spoken throughout the country, such as K’iche’, Kaqchikel, and Q’eqchi’. In tourist areas, you can often find English speakers, but learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be very helpful.

Guatemalan cuisine is diverse, featuring dishes like:

  • Tamales: Corn dough filled with meat or vegetables.
  • Pepián: A traditional meat stew.
  • Kak’ik: A spicy turkey soup.
  • Street food like pupusas (stuffed tortillas) is also popular.
The ideal time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period offers pleasant temperatures and minimal rain, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring. However, many people choose to visit outside of those months as it is less busy.
Citizens of many countries, including the U.S., Canada, and most European nations, do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, it’s important to check the specific requirements based on your nationality before travelling.
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the warmer regions, and layers for cooler areas. Include a rain jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. If visiting religious sites, pack modest clothing.
Support local businesses, respect cultural customs, minimise waste, and be mindful of your environmental impact. Engage with local communities in a respectful manner and prioritise eco-friendly options.
Yes, many international mobile plans work in Guatemala, but it’s advisable to check with your carrier for roaming charges. Alternatively, you can purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for better rates and coverage.
Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Stick to bottled or filtered water, and avoid ice in drinks unless you’re sure it’s made from purified water.

Tourist Areas: Popular tourist destinations like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal are generally safe for travellers. These areas often have a significant police presence and are frequented by tourists.

Urban Areas: While many urban areas, including Guatemala City, have neighbourhoods that are safe for visitors, some districts are known for higher crime rates. It’s advisable to stay in well-populated and well-lit areas. If you would like any further information on this, you can always ask your Plotpackers guide!