available in Guatemala
offering Safaris
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Overview
Lucky visitors to Guatemala are treated to one of Central America’s most diverse little countries. Packed full of adventures, scenic gems and a dizzying array of ancient monuments and culture – there are plenty of surprises worth uncovering in the ‘Land of Trees’. This immersive overview serves as a helpful
Guatemala travel guide for travellers seeking both culture and nature in one destination.
Enjoy an intoxicating blend of superb culture and nature, with some rich Guatemalan coffee to keep you buzzing. You’ll explore fascinating Maya ruins, the dizzying heights of Tikal’s pyramids and the charming and lively UNESCO city of Antiqua, with its stunning architecture and cobbled alleyways. For more active pursuits; take a trek through jungles, scale volcanoes, try some white-water rafting or zip line through the cloud forest to get up close to some of the 170-bird species that live here. These experiences highlight some of the most rewarding things to do in Guatemala for adventure and culture lovers alike.
Guatemala may not have as many national parks as other destinations, but it does boast some of the most impressive, due to the stunning landscapes and fascinating ancient monuments. Mostly given to bird watching, you’ll see toucan and quetzal – the national bird, hummingbirds and red-tailed hawk on your Guatemalan adventure. Many travellers also combine this with time around Lake Atitlán, making a
dedicated Lake Atitlan travel guide essential for planning scenic lakeside exploration as part of a wider Guatemala adventure travel experience.
Lake Atitlan National Park is famous for its natural beauty and the colourful Mayan villages that surround it. Three impressive volcanoes loom down over the crater lake, adding to the majestic beauty of the area. Take a boat trip on the lake, stopping to explore the local villages and hike or take a 4×4 drive through the Lake Atitlan region to spot the national bird of Guatemala – the Quetzal, as well as Guatemalan deer mouse and black-handed spider monkeys.
Explore the colourful markets at Chichicastenango, which lie about an hour north of Lake Atitlan and provide a fascinating glimpse into local life as well as the chance to shop for food, textiles and bags.
Ancient Tikal is the most famous of Guatemala’s Maya sites. Known as El Peten, explore the impressive temples which sit within the national park. Hike through the jungle, accompanied by the sound of howler monkeys and tropical birds as you go in search of Tikal’s five elaborate temples. Pacaya Volcano is one of Guatemala’s most accessible volcanoes. Still active, the Volcan de Pacaya is only about 30 minutes from Antigua and the most visited in the country.
FAQ - Safari in Guatemala
- What are the best things to do in Guatemala for first-time visitors?
First-time visitors to Guatemala often focus on iconic experiences like exploring the ancient Maya ruins of Tikal, wandering the cobbled streets of Antigua, and visiting Lake Atitlán. These highlights combine culture, history, and scenery, making them ideal entry points into Guatemala adventure travel. Many travellers also enjoy volcano hikes and local market visits to experience daily Guatemalan life.
- Is Guatemala a good destination for adventure travel?
Yes, Guatemala is one of Central America’s top destinations for adventure travel, offering volcano trekking, jungle hikes, white-water rafting, and zip-lining through cloud forests. The country’s diverse landscapes make it suitable for both beginners and experienced adventure seekers. A well-planned Guatemala travel guide helps balance adventure with cultural exploration.
- What makes Lake Atitlán a must-visit destination in Guatemala?
Lake Atitlán is famous for its dramatic setting, surrounded by volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages. Visitors can enjoy boat trips, village walks, hiking, and wildlife spotting, including the rare quetzal. A dedicated Lake Atitlán travel guide is useful for planning village-to-village travel and choosing the best activities.
- How many days do you need to explore Guatemala properly?
Most travellers spend 7 to 10 days in Guatemala to cover key highlights such as Antigua, Tikal, and Lake Atitlán. This timeframe allows a comfortable mix of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and light adventure. For deeper Guatemala adventure travel, 12–14 days offers a more relaxed pace.
- Is Guatemala safe for tourists?
Guatemala is generally safe for tourists who stick to well-known destinations and follow standard travel precautions. Popular areas like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal are well-policed and accustomed to visitors. Using a trusted Guatemala travel guide and organised tours can further enhance safety and peace of mind.
- When is the best time to visit Guatemala?
The best time to visit Guatemala is during the dry season, from November to April, when weather conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This period is especially popular for exploring Maya ruins and enjoying Lake Atitlán. The green season (May to October) offers fewer crowds and lush landscapes but more rain.
- Are guided tours worth it in Guatemala?
Guided tours are highly recommended in Guatemala, especially for sites like Tikal, volcano hikes, and cultural villages. Local guides provide historical context, safety support, and authentic insights that enhance the experience. For travellers new to the region, guided experiences are often the most efficient way to enjoy Guatemala adventure travel.
Travel Seasons
- Dec-Apr – High Season. The busiest time and highest prices are around the key holidays Christmas, Easter and New Year. Easter in Antigua gets very crowded so book early.
- May-Sep – Low Season. Rainy season with daily afternoon rains, which can make it cool in the highlands and muddy in the jungle. Much less crowded, prices drop.
- Oct-Nov – Shoulder Season. Rains ease up, but hurricane season is in October. It’s a good time to go visit or go hiking in the Highlands with clear skies and mild temperatures.
General Information
- Capital city – Guatemala City
- Currency – Quetzal
- Language – Spanish
- Size – 108,900 km² (42,040 sq miles)
- Population – 16.91 million (2017)
Health & Safety
- Travel insurance is essential for all international travel. Click below to find out more:
- The CDC recommends the following vaccinations for Borneo: hepatitis A and typhoid. Check with your doctor which other vaccinations you might need and make sure your routine vaccinations are all up-to-date.
- Malaria is present in Borneo – get medical advice on which prophylaxis to take.
- There is no risk of yellow fever in Borneo, but proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are traveling from a country with risk of yellow fever (this does not include the US).
- It’s best to stick to bottled drinking water.
Tourist Information
Pros
- Stunning natural beauty
- Remarkable architecture
- Archaeological sites and museums
- Wide range of adrenalin activities
- Superb flora and fauna
Cons
- Check with the Foreign Office about any current volcanic eruptions which may affect travel to Guatemala
Arriving in Guatemala
- The main gateway is the international airport La Aurora in Guatemala City, which was recently modernised. Flights mostly arrive from Central and North America. The second airport is Flores, Petén with flights from close destinations such as Belize, Honduras and Guatemala City.
Getting Around
- Regular domestic flights operate between Guatemala City and Flores only.
- There are several first-class (Pullman) inter-city bus companies which originate or end in Guatemala City. Most tend to leave in the mornings and it’s worth buying a ticket in advance to guarantee a space.
- The Caribbean town of Livingston is only accessible by boat while in Lago de Atitlan fast fibreglass boats whizz between the villages.
Visas
- Regular domestic flights operate between Guatemala City and Flores only.
- There are several first-class (Pullman) inter-city bus companies which originate or end in Guatemala City. Most tend to leave in the mornings and it’s worth buying a ticket in advance to guarantee a space.
- The Caribbean town of Livingston is only accessible by boat while in Lago de Atitlan fast fibreglass boats whizz between the villages.
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Guatemala Safaris
Guatemala Endemic Bird Safari
- 12 Days
Visit Guatemala's best bird watching destinations in the mountain forest of the highlands, humid forest...
- Country:Guatemala,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:12 Days
- Start/end:Start in Guatemala La Aurora International Airport, end in Guatemala La Aurora International Airport
Guatemala Highlands & Mayan World
- 14 Days
This birding expedition will take you through diverse forest in the center highlands, Pacific coast and...
- Country:Guatemala,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:14 Days
- Start/end:Start in Guatemala La Aurora International Airport, end in Guatemala La Aurora International Airport
Glamping Trek
- 8 Days
On this Mayan Community glamping trek enjoy a variety of memorable cultural experiences; hiking to farms...
- Country:Guatemala,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:8 Days
- Start/end:Start/end in Guatemala City
Adventure Journey Guatemala
- 8 Days
This fantastic adventure packs a punch visiting an active volcano, kayaking on a beautiful lake, hiking...
- Country:Guatemala,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:8 Days
- Start/end:Start/end in Start/end in Guatemala City
Must See Guatemala
- 8 Days
This adventure takes in the mesmerising colours and scenic beauty of Guatemala, visiting one of the oldest...
- Country:Guatemala,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:8 Days
- Start/end:Start/end in Guatemala City
The Best of Guatemala
- 8 Days
A wonderful combination of the very best of Guatemala; the fascinating colonial city of Antigua Guatemala,...
- Country:Guatemala,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:8 Days
- Start/end:Start in Guatemala City, end in Guatemala City
Mountains and Rainforest Birding Safari
- 17 Days
This fantastic tour takes you to the very best bird watching destinations in Guatemala, including prime...
- Country:Guatemala,
- Departures:Year Round
- Length:17 Days
- Start/end:Start in Guatemala La Aurora International Airport, end in Guatemala La Aurora International Airport
Partners offering Safaris in Guatemala
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