All Western Highlands Tours & Excursions in 2026

The villages fringing Lake Atitlan are known for their Indigenous Mayan heritage and artisanal traditions. But without a guide leading the way, it can be hard to push past the surface and journey outside the tourist track. On this small-group excursion, visit both San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlan by boat, watching an exclusive hand-dyed and woven textile demonstration and paying a visit to the Mayan god Maximon.

Discover the Lake Atitlan area on this half-day ATV adventure. First, head to San Antonio Palopo via the road that runs around the lake. There, visit a local ceramic factory to learn about the production process and also stop by a chocolate factory. Following that, travel to the village of Santa Catarina Palopo where you'll be able to learn about and see the weaving of blankets, and other goods. Lastly, head to Playa Blanca en Barrio Jucanya for some photo opps by the water.

During this tour, we will take you to know 3 different towns. You will explore the largest market in Guatemala, will go to the most colorful church, and end the tour by going to a small but lovely town. Each location holds something special that we want to show you and hope you like it as much as we do or even more. The first place to visit will be San Francisco El Alto and its market which is the largest one in Guatemala. Usually, it takes around 6 hours to go through all of it (that is not the case on this tour, we will be there just a fraction of all that time). Then, we will visit the famous church of San Andrés Xecul, an icon of Guatemala and a representation of religious syncretism. In the end, we will visit Salcajá, a small but very charming town with lots of history and beautiful places to visit. This is a tour you don´t want to miss, so reserve your ticket, and we will take you to one of the greatest traveling experiences of them all.

xplore the beauty of Lake Atitlán on this exciting 4-hour ATV tour through San Juan, San Pedro, and San Marcos La Laguna. Ride scenic mountain roads, visit a beautiful nature reserve where you can swim or relax by the lake, and learn about native stingless bees at La Abeja Maya. Enjoy breathtaking views from lookouts above San Pedro, with panoramic scenery of the lake, surrounding volcanoes, and the famous Indian Nose ridge visible in the distance. The tour finishes with a visit to a local chocolate factory and traditional textile artisans, where you’ll discover local flavors and culture. A perfect combination of adventure, nature, culture, and unforgettable views of Lake Atitlán.

This tour takes you to discover three of the most authentic villages of Lake Atitlan: San Juan La Laguna, San Pedro La Laguna and Santiago Atitlan. Guided by a local host, you will live a deep cultural immersion in the rich Tz’utujil Mayan tradition. During the tour, we will stroll through streets full of color and life, admire vibrant murals and traditional markets, and enjoy breathtaking landscapes of the lake and volcanoes surrounding each village. You will know different cooperatives such as textiles, honey and chocolate. indigenous art workshops, We will also visit spiritual and historical sites such as the colonial church of Santiago Apostle and the house of the venerated Maximon. More than a tour, it is a soul and heart experience, perfect for those who seek to connect deeply with local communities and take away unforgettable memories and learning.

Discover the Rostro Maya mountain (known internationally as Indian's Nose), famous for hosting one of the most sublime views and photographs not only of Guatemala, but of all of Latin America. From its summit, you will witness an incomparable panorama: the majestic basin of Lake Atitlan guarded by its three volcanic guardians: San Pedro Volcano, Atitlan Volcano and Tolimán Volcano. On clear days, the show spreads even further, allowing you to see in the distance the imposing Volcano of Fire, Volcano Acatenango and Volcano of Water, located near La Antigua Guatemala. Experience the difference of a small group tour: Each participant receives personalized attention and the best assistance. Our professional guides not only know the routes perfectly, but also have years of experience. They are committed to providing the highest quality service, based on kindness and respect for our customers and the natural environment.

An awesome way to explore around Lake Atitlan, this sunset ATV adventure tour takes you up into the mountains around the caldera lake—formed after a volcanic eruption over 1.8 million years ago—before heading down to the shore for a swim. You’ll visit local villages including San Antonio Palopo, learn about the fascinating culture of the region, watch paragliders soar through the skies, and find the best spot for sunset.

Guatemala is a megadiverse country as well as a multi-ethnic one as we hold more than 22 ethnicities. Guatemala is mostly Mayan, and if you are on the West side of the country, this is not the exception. During your visit to Xela, don´t miss the chance to visit one of the most important spots: Fuentes Georginas, natural hot springs located at the base of Zunil Volcano. Enjoy paradise submerged in hot relaxing water while appreciating the calmness and sweet sounds of nature. Also, visit 2 Mayan towns, learn about their language, traditional clothing, and traditions, and visit their nation-acclaimed vegetables markets. Don´t miss this chance to take a diverse, relaxing, and cultural tour, all in one.

Don't miss the views of the ancestral Mayan trail, which are amazing. It was also used for a long time by the ancient indigenous people of the Kakchiquel ethnic group as a path to reach other towns and is still used as one of the important roads between the villages of Tz' ununa and Jaibalito to Santa Cruz, it was a trade route to sell their local products, currently it is used by tourists for walks and appreciate the beautiful views of Lake Atitlán and its imposing volcanoes Atitlán, Tolimán and San Pedro. On this trail we will have the best views of Lake Atitlán. Learn all the history and walk the ancestral Mayan trail on your own and don't miss this opportunity to live this experience, which is one of the best hikes in Lake Atitlán.

St. Peter's Heart Ride to a Secret Viewpoint During 2 hours of riding walk the streets and experience them from the top of your horse. This walk is your ticket to an authentic adventure that combines the vibrant culture of San Pedro La Laguna with the absolute majesty of Guatemalan nature. We started riding through the colorful cobblestone streets, immersing ourselves in the energy of the Tz'utujil people. Then to the mountain trails, where the landscape is transformed. At every turn, the views of the imposing San Pedro Volcano and the glittering Lake Atitlan become more and more spectacular. The climax of our journey takes us to a hidden viewpoint, a privileged place few know. From this natural balcony, you’ll be breathless in front of one of Guatemala’s greatest views: the giant volcanic Atitlan and Tolimán, the picturesque town of Santiago Atitlán lying on the shore, and the blue waters of the lake stretching to the horizon.

Equal parts natural wonder and cultural landmark, Lake Chicabal is a top attraction for Quetzaltenango (Xela) area visitors. Hiking with a guide is not only the safest way to visit the crater lake—also a Mam Mayan ceremonial site—but also makes for the easiest transportation logistics straight from your Xela hotel.

Find out what’s bubbling in the typical Guatemalan kitchen during this 4-hour cooking class near Lake Atitlan. Spend your session gaining a hands-on understanding of three Guatemalan dishes, discovering the blend of Mayan and Spanish colonial flavors that give this Central American cuisine its unique taste. You’ll finish class by enjoying a tasty lunch of the dishes you prepared, and recipe book to recreate the dishes in the future. Optional upgrades featuring private lessons and visits to the market are also available.

Our collective service is direct and safe. The ferries have departures every day. san pedro-Antigua and vice versa

Experience the mystery and majesty of Lake Chicabál and life in a Mayan Village. Formed within the inactive Chicabal Volcano, this crater lake is considered sacred by the Mam-Mayan people of the region and is surrounded by cloud forests, making it a site of cultural and spiritual significance. It is the most popular visitor destination in the Quetzaltenango area. Descend 600 steps into the caldera and explore the lake's perimeter, learning about the 20 Mayan 'naguals' along the way. After the hike, engage with local culture during a village tour, visit a Mayan home, and learn from a weaving demonstration. This immersive experience is perfect for families and individuals looking to connect with nature and culture in the heart of the western Guatemalan Highlands. 80% of your activity fee supports the programs and clinics of Local Hope/Xela AID that empower local families and communities to be healthy, educated and self-reliant.

Travel stress-free from Panajachel to Guatemala City on our shared shuttle transfer, with a connecting bus in Antigua. We provide hotel-hotel and hotel-airport transfers, with 4 daily departures. Relax in our air-conditioned vehicles for a safe, comfortable, and affordable experience.

An early morning hike is rewarded with stunning views of the sunrise over Lake Atitlan on this hike to Indian Nose from San Pedro La Laguna. See for yourself why this short but challenging hike is one of the most popular in the area as you scramble up to the lookout point. Going with a guide not only ensures that you don’t get lost, but is also recommended for safety reasons.

Explore the charming village of San Juan La Laguna on a guided tour that immerses you in its living culture. Learn about the ancestral art of weaving with natural dyes made by local women, from spinning to loom. Learn about the world of stingless melipone bees and taste three unique types of honey. Visit the Xocolat chocolate factory, where you will discover the importance of cocoa in Mayan culture while enjoying artisan chocolate tastings. Walk through the most iconic streets of the village, such as Calle del Sombrero and Calle de las Umbrillas, perfect for photos and to appreciate the vibrant local art. Best of the tour - Local culture, history and crafts - Fabric with natural dyes with artisans - Tasting of honey and artisan chocolate - Tour of the most emblematic and colorful streets

Travel safely from Panajachel to Guatemala City in a shared standard minivan. Enjoy a comfortable 4-hour journey and the opportunity to meet fellow travelers along the way.

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Panajachel at 3:00 a.m. You will travel with other passengers by shared minivan to Santa Clara La Laguna. Upon arrival, there will be a brief 5-minute stop before starting the hike. Accompanied by a local Spanish-speaking guide, you will hike for approximately 45 minutes to reach the summit of Indian Nose Mountain. From the top, enjoy a spectacular sunrise with panoramic views of Lake Atitlán, surrounded by the San Pedro, Atitlán, and Tolimán volcanoes. You will spend approximately two hours at the summit to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. To keep you warm in the early morning cold, a hot chocolate drink will be provided. After hiking back down to the base, you will return to Panajachel by shared minivan.

The Volcano and Lagoon of Chicabal are a must on your visit to Xela. Go on this easy hike and visit the volcano´s crater full of water, now considered a sacred place for the Mayans. In Guatemala, there are only two volcanoes with a lagoon on their crater, and this is one of them. Many Mayans come to the crater lagoon to practice ceremonies, have direct communication with their ancestors and gods, and be surrounded by nature. Because this is considered a sacred place, it is not permitted to swim in the lagoon, however, you will appreciate up close the Mayan beliefs whether you see a ceremony or not. If you don´t see one, you will not miss the chance to see all the bouquets on the shore, left there by people as offerings or to say thanks for a favor answered. We will coordinate everything for you, so you just enjoy the experience.

Panajachel Wake up with local flavor ✔ Enjoy an authentic Chapin Breakfast, full of Guatemalan tradition and flavor. San Juan La Laguna Immerse yourself in a magical corner of Lake Atitlan, where every street, gesture and handcrafted creation tell a story. ✔ Live a Mayan textile workshop and know the symbolism of each design. ✔ Learn about melipone bees, guardians of natural balance. ✔ Walk along Calle de los Umbreros and Calle de los Hatros, full of art and color. San Pedro La Laguna ✔ Short stop to rest or explore the picturesque Hummingbird Street. Santiago Atitlan Let yourself be wrapped up in the mystique of this town full of living traditions, spirituality and Mayan heritage. ✔ Discover its artisan market, full of color and flavor. ✔ Visit the Church and Convent of Santiago Apostle, symbol of cultural syncretism.

Traveling by mountain bike is a challenging and adventurous way to visit parts of Lake Atitlan that are all too easily overlooked when visiting by boat or car. Follow your guide down rugged mountain paths en route to an epic sunset spot at the Mario Mendez Montenegro Mirador in Godinez—chances are, you’ll be the only people there.

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.