Top Western Highlands Day Trips - page 2

Immerse yourself in the fascinating culture of Quetzaltenango, and then the soothing hot waters of Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs, on this 10-hour day trip. Start with an exploration of the historic architecture and top attractions of Quetzaltenango, Guatemala’s second-largest city. Then soak away your aches and cares in the therapeutic geothermal waters of Fuentes Georginas, where you can relax and rejuvenate in a series of outdoor pools of varying temperatures. Your trip also includes a guide and round-trip hotel transport.

Embark on an adventurous day hike up the Toliman Volcano, known for its majestic peaks, lush forests, and an imploded crater. Commencing from the Santiago Atitlán market, the trail leads through maize plantations and into the tropical rainforest, providing a comprehensive and challenging experience. Discover the region's ecosystems and their vital contributions to local subsistence. Note: this tour is recommended for those with a strong fitness level.

Walk the Face of the Earth on the Sacred Path of the Sun: Author & lecturer Vincent Stanzione has opened his mountain home in an exclusive arrangement to offer an amazing experience. This experience will enable you to enter the Maya world in truly authentic ways. It allows visitors to learn about the Maya Civilization by entering the Maya World of the Present Day. Let us take you to places nobody but the Maya ever go while learning all you can from a researcher and writer who is hungry to share the world he has made his home. Guiding enables those of us who have attained a great deal of knowledge to share it with others in a direct way. So take a walk with Vincent along the flowery paths during this fascinating day in the highlands, high above Lake Atitlan. Learn about the Maya and the Mesoamerican traditions, their cosmo-magical thinking, their calendar, the way of living in the world, their myths and their deep sense of being the descendants of divine ancestors.

Travel from Panajachel to Solola where you'll visit colorful markets filled with the exquisite handmade textiles Guatemala is known for. Then meet a group of local women and learn the traditional art of weaving while you watch them at work. Next, you'll enjoy a savory meal of classic Guatemalan flavors before rounding out the day with panoramic views from San Jorge La Laguna.

Step back in time to the ancient world of the Maya during this 6-hour exploration of the Iximche ruins near Lake Atitlan. Explore this 1,000-year-old city’s wealth of ball courts, pyramid-temples, royal palaces and the on-site museum. You’ll also learn about the history of this iconic archaeological site up through the Spanish colonial era, and discover details about the Mayan calendar, astrological studies and the attitudes of the present day Mayan people towards their ancestors. Your trip includes entrance fees, a guide and a choice between shared and private round-trip hotel transport.

Enjoy a more personal and authentic hiking experience with a certified local guide who was born and raised in the Lake Atitlán area. Along the trail, you will learn about the volcano's geology, local wildlife, and Maya culture while hiking at a comfortable pace with plenty of photo opportunities. Unlike large group tours, we focus on safety, personalized attention, and creating a memorable adventure from start to finish.

Visit three Mayan villages around Lake Atitlan—Santiago Atitlan, San Juan la Laguna, and Panajachel—on this guided all-day tour from San Pedro La Laguna. Witness the lifestyle of the Mayan people, learn their techniques for making and dyeing textiles, and experience the local way of life as you wander the bustling markets.

Live an authentic experience in one of Guatemala’s most iconic cultural destinations. Explore the mystical St. Thomas Church, where Mayan rituals and Catholic traditions merge, and visit the colorful cemetery, full of symbolism and tradition. Tour the famous market, one of the largest in Central America, surrounded by textiles, crafts and living culture. It ends with a visit to a mulberry shop, where you will know the art and meaning of traditional masks. A unique experience to connect with the essence of Guatemala.

The giant of the lake, with its stunning view of the lake and surrounding areas, offers a great experience for those who want to feel challenged and rewarded at the same time. Summit the peak and see nothing else but volcanic rock and amazing 360 vistas of the region. The perfect place to learn about the birth of Lake Atitlán, a violent history of volcanic eruptions dating back to 11 million years ago. Gaze at the starry night as it blends with the towns’ lights and sparks peace and joy.

Embark on a transformative journey into the heart of Guatemala's natural wonders with our Wellness Tour in Xela. Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and indulge in a day of serenity, self-discovery, and well-being. Engage in guided activities amidst lush landscapes, choosing from the enchanting Totonicapán Magical Forest, the warmth of Quetzaltenango's Coffee Farms, or the extraordinary adventure of Chicabal Volcano and Lagoon. Experience the therapeutic benefits of guided meditation, yoga, and stretching amidst the tranquility of nature. Select your ideal escape: Totonicapán Magical Forest or Quetzaltenango's Coffee Farms at the same price, or opt for the extraordinary Chicabal Volcano and Lagoon for a slightly different rate. Customize your Wellness Tour experience at the time of booking. To ensure your experience is seamless and extraordinary, kindly make your reservation at least 72 hours in advance. We look forward to crafting a memorable journey just for you. Thank you!

Visit an archeological site + one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Guatemala and a small town, all in one day with the best company by your side. Our first stop will be the archeological site of Zaculeu, known for its restored ruins. This place belonged to the Mam Mayan kingdom but was conquered by the Spanish and their allies in 1525 after an intense war. Then we will visit El Mirador Juan Dieguez Olaverri. Get amazed by all the beauty surrounding this place. This is one of the highest points in Guatemala and has some of the best views. There is an abandoned country house in the mountain, and it is a great stop for a picture, as well as the views of the entire valley. Lastly, don´t miss the chance to visit a small town in between Zaculeu and El Mirador Juan Dieguez Olaverri, it is a picturesque town that you will definitely like. This is the perfect circuit if you´re looking to do different activities in one day.

Live an Adventure in Time in Iximché! Immerse yourself in the history of Iximché, the last capital of the Mayan Kaqchiquel Kingdom, which flourished before colonization. Explore its towering pyramids, walk the sacred ballgame courts and discover the secrets of an empire that endures among its ruins full of mysticism. In the site museum, we will connect with the legacy of this great civilization through its relics and histories. This experience is suitable for all ages, ideal for families, youth and adults looking to delve into the historical and cultural richness of Guatemala. OPTIONAL: After exploring the ruins, we will head to the Finca El Rincón Suizo, a natural paradise where you can: Live with animals: horses, ponies, goats, sheep and more. Enjoy a delicious local lunch in the restaurant of the estate, with authentic flavors of the region. Don’t stay out: Book now and live a day full of history, nature and gastronomy!