Guatemala Highlands: Culture and Markets

Arrive at Guatemala City Airport, meet your guide outside the terminal, and transfer to your hotel. Settle in and explore the cobblestone streets, vibrant plazas, or nearby cafés at your leisure.

This morning, visit a community of small, independent coffee producers working to promote environmentally responsible farming in Guatemala. Join them in seasonal, hands-on activities like harvesting, washing, drying, or sorting beans. You may also help roast the beans over an open fire, grind them by hand, and sample the fresh brew. Expect some time outdoors, so light sun protection and comfortable shoes are recommended. Return to Antigua for lunch at your leisure.

In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of Antigua’s historic center. Visit restored colonial facades and the dramatic ruins of churches and palaces that reflect the city’s layered past. Gain insight into the city’s architectural legacy and its setting beneath the imposing Volcano Agua.

Enjoy breakfast at your leisure before meeting your guide for the day’s journey.

Head to Lake Atitlán and explore the Atitlán Nature Reserve, a lush introduction to the region’s dramatic natural beauty. Walk forest trails lined with hanging bridges, visit the butterfly geodome, watch for monkeys in the canopy, and relax at a secluded lakeside beach. Sturdy walking shoes and light sun protection are recommended for your time outdoors.

After a short drive to Panajachel, board a private boat across the lake to the vibrant village of San Juan La Laguna. Spend the evening with a local family for an authentic homestay experience.

Begin the day with breakfast shared with the host family, then take a guided walk through San Juan La Laguna. Visit a local women’s textile cooperative to observe traditional hand-weaving and natural dye techniques. Depending on availability, visit artists’ studios or join a hands-on painting session. Conclude with a relaxing traditional Mayan sauna.

Board a boat to Santiago, a Tz'utujil Maya village known for its vibrant street life and cultural heritage. Walk through markets and galleries lined with colorful artwork and handmade crafts. Visit the shrine of Maximón, where locals bring offerings to this iconic folk deity.

Return to San Juan La Laguna by boat for the evening.

This morning, meet your guide and set off toward the western highlands by car. Along the way, stop in Almolonga, a town famed for its fertile volcanic soil and impressive produce, where some of the largest vegetables in the region are grown. Walk through local streets and markets to get a glimpse of daily agricultural life. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended during your visit.

From here, travel onward to Quetzaltenango (also known as Xela) and check into your hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring independently.

Today, head out with your guide to explore the thriving Maya traditions of Guatemala’s western highlands. Visit Zunil, a K’iche’ Maya town known for its volcanic backdrop and deep-rooted traditions. Stop at a local textile cooperative where over 500 women produce intricate weavings. Depending on timing, you may also take part in a hands-on weaving lesson. Sun protection and comfortable walking shoes are recommended throughout the day.

Continue to Cantel to visit Guatemala’s only glassblowing workshop. Watch artisans shape recycled glass into handcrafted pieces. Return to Quetzaltenango by late afternoon.

Travel to San Francisco El Alto, known as Guatemala’s garment district. Walk through the bustling Friday market, where vendors crowd the plaza with handwoven sweaters, socks, scarves, and textiles brought in from across the region. Next, head to San Andrés Xecul and see its iconic yellow church, where bold Catholic and Maya imagery merge in a vivid display of local belief and artistry.

Return to Quetzaltenango in the evening and unwind.

Start the day with a relaxed breakfast before traveling to Salcajá, where you visit Ermita de la Concepción, the first church built in Central America. Walk through the town to see how locals produce Caldo de Frutas, a traditional fermented fruit drink made in homes across the community.

Travel onward to Chichicastenango, a highland town rich in Maya and Catholic heritage, also known for its famous market. Upon arrival, settle in and take the rest of the day to relax or explore the town’s quiet corners at your own pace.

Begin the day at Chichicastenango’s renowned market, where vendors from surrounding villages gather to sell textiles, fresh produce, and flowers. Walk through the vibrant stalls and visit the nearby cemetery, known for its brightly painted tombs and tranquil setting.

In the early afternoon, head back to Antigua, Guatemala’s well-preserved colonial gem. Upon arrival, take time to relax or head out for a quiet evening stroll through the historic center. Enjoy your last evening meal in Guatemala before your return home tomorrow. 

Enjoy breakfast in Guatemala City before transferring to the airport for your flight home or on to your next destination!