Top Central Highlands Full-day Tours

Lake Atitlan is one of Guatemala’s most popular attractions—and for good reason. Surrounded by volcanoes, the ancient caldera lake is mesmerizing in its beauty, while the villages that line its shores are all unique and fascinating. Perfect for travelers who have limited time, this small-group day tour from Antigua is a great way to squeeze in the highlights of the lake while delving deeper into the colorful local culture.

Spend a day on the shores of Lake Atitlan with this private tour from Antigua. Your driver will pick you up at your hotel and take you through the highlands, with stops at viewpoints along the way. You'll then take a group boat tour from the town of Panajachel to the Mayan villages of San Juan, San Pedro, and Santiago, heading back to Antigua at the end of the day.

This tour is ideal for those looking for a perfect combination of nature, culture, and adventure, all in one day. At the end of the afternoon, we'll return to Antigua with our hearts full of memories and our cameras packed with spectacular photos. * You'll explore some of the picturesque villages surrounding the lake, each with its own unique character, culture, and charm. * You'll experience living Mayan traditions up close, admire local crafts, and enjoy the hospitality of the communities that have called the lake home for generations. * Boat tour of the deepest lake in Central America and time to explore the different towns.

After being picked up by your local driver from your hotel in Antigua, make your way to Panajachel at Lake Atitlán and set off on a scenic boat trip across the peaceful waters. Your bilingual guide will share insights about life in the Guatemalan Highlands as you visit the villages of San Juan La Laguna and Santiago Atitlán. In these traditional Maya communities, learn about local culture and the positive impact of textile and bee farming industries on the region’s economy. In San Juan La Laguna, visit women’s workshops to see traditional dyeing techniques using natural resources such as plants, tree bark, coconut shells, and vegetables to create vibrant colors for woven textiles. You will also experience the chocolate-making process firsthand. Continue to Santiago Atitlán, one of the largest villages, to observe local weaving on backstrap looms and meet the friendly Tz’utujil Maya people, admire the stunning views of the three majestic volcanoes: Atitlán, Tolimán, and San Pedro.

Familiarize yourself with Antigua while visiting Guatemala during this full-day tour that takes you around the city with a guide who shows you spots and tells you stories you may miss if choosing to explore on your own. This Antigua tour includes hotel pickup from Guatemala City and provides lunch during the day.

If you’ve ever wanted to roast marshmallows on lava, this is the tour for you. Besides experiencing this cooking technique, this private tour takes you on a tour of Guatemala City during the day. Visit places like the San Jose Cathedral, National Palace, and have some time for shopping at the central market. When the sun is about to set, hike up to the volcano and see the glowing lava, with your marshmallows.

Swap the bustle of Guatemala City for the serene vistas of Lake Atitlan (Lake Atitlan) on this full-day tour, including hotel pick-up. Admire the trio of volcanoes that stand watch over the lake – Volcan San Pedro, Volcan Atitlan and Volcan Toliman – as you cruise across Lake Atitlan and explore the lakeside villages. Shop for handicrafts and unique souvenirs in lively Panajachel, tuck into a typical Guatemalan lunch at a local restaurant (own expense) and witness the culture and traditions of the Tzutujil people in Santiago de Atitlán.

Journey from Antigua to explore the fascinating market at Chichicastenango plus the archaeological sites of Iximché, on this full-day trip. First head to the ancient Mayan town of Iximché to explore the ruins of ceremonial plazas, temples, ball courts, and more. Then, take time to browse the ceramics and woodcrafts at the famous open-air market of Chichicastenango before visiting the city’s religious structures, Iglesia de Santo Tomas and Calvary Church. Your trip also includes a guide and round-trip transportation from your hotel in Antigua.

Start your trip with pickup from your hotel in Guatemala City or Antigua. Along the way you will enjoy landscapes of the highlands, traditional villages and a stop for breakfast in Tecpán, one of the most emblematic sites of the inter-American route. When you arrive in Panajachel, you will explore the famous Santander Street, full of artisan shops, cafes and lake views. Then, you will (optionally) embark on a boat that will take you to San Juan La Laguna, known for its local art, women weavers cooperatives, Calle de las Sombrillas and Calle de los Hatros, where every corner is full of color and creativity. You will have time to climb the Mirador de San Juan as an option, from where you can appreciate the magnitude of Lake Atitlan and its volcanoes. Afterwards, you will visit San Pedro La Laguna, a vibrant village with lakefront restaurants where you can enjoy lunch (own expense).

Discover the beauty and rich cultural heritage of Lake Atitlan on this full-day lake tour from Antigua or Guatemala City. Your adventure starts with a scenic drive out to the lake, stopping at viewpoints along the way. After breakfast in Panajachel, you’ll jump on a boat over to San Juan la Laguna, swing by San Pedro and Santiago Atitlan, and end the day on a sweet note with a hot chocolate in Tecpan.

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.

Climbing the Pacaya Volcano is a must for many travelers but arriving early is essential and getting there alone can be time-consuming. Skip public transit and save your strength for the hike during this private excursion which includes round-trip transportation. Plus, learn more about the volcano than travelers who tackle the climb alone, thanks to your personal guide.

Antigua Guatemala is a city that once was the capital of Central America. With its cobblestone streets, Catholic churches such as Iglesia de La Merced and convents, unique monuments, and gastronomy, you'll travel back in time to the 15th through the 17th centuries on this all-day guided tour from Guatemala City with hotel pickup included.

Lake Atitlan Private Tour is the best way to explore one of the most breathtaking places Guatemala has to offer. In this tour prepare to be immerse in nature, culture and history, the towns that we’re visiting each has their own uniques and we have to explore it. You will be amazed by what the Lake Atitlan has to offer, the beautiful landscape of three volcanoes surrounded by water, that in its depths lays a Maya city, it’s impossible to miss. This tour also offers you a full experience of the western highlands of Guatemala, starting with a typical breakfast and having the rest of the day immerse in the cultural and mysticism of each town. In this full day tour, which is private and personalized, you can plan your day on different activities or stay more time in some places. The time is yours to manage, we are happy to join you in the ride.

Discover Guatemala’s vibrant culture with a day trip to Chichicastenango, famous for its colorful Mayan market. Start your day with pick-up at the central points of Guatemala City before embarking on a panoramic tour to the market. Enjoy a traditional Guatemalan breakfast and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the market, perfect for shopping and exploring the culture. Enjoy a relaxed lunch before returning to Guatemala City, with valuable information from an expert guide who speaks fluent English or Spanish. - Full day guided tour of Chichicastenango market - Includes private transportation and pick-up from your hotel in Guatemala City or Antigua Explore local crafts, textiles and cuisine - Friendly guide available in English or Spanish for an immersive experience

Discover Guatemala’s two major cities in just one day on a private tour that covers both Antigua and Guatemala City. This tour is ideal if you want to break up your journey from Antigua back to Guatemala City, particularly if you’re flying back from La Aurora International Airport. Plus, you private guide will ensure that you receive undivided attention and enjoy the flexibility to personalize your itinerary and take comfort break on your schedule.

Discover the charm of Antigua Guatemala on this guided day trip. Begin with a scenic pickup from your hotel in Guatemala City before heading to the picturesque town of Antigua. Enjoy stunning views from Cerro de la Cruz and explore the impressive La Merced Church, where you can also access the terrace for a splendid view of the Santa Catalina Arch. Stroll through Central Park, savor local ice cream, and immerse yourself in the lively artisan market. The tour concludes with a visit to the beautiful Las Capuchinas Convent, making it a culturally enriching experience. - Comfortable private transportation included from Guatemala City. - Local guide available in English or Spanish. - Admission to all the aforementioned attractions, including La Merced and the Las Capuchinas Convent. - Explore the artisan market and enjoy free time for lunch and photos.

Take a tour from Guatemala City that showcases the mix of Spanish and Mayan traditions that have influenced this incredible nation. Journey into the Iximche ruins—one of Guatemala’s most famous archeological sites—with a guide for extra insight, and then make your way to the Spanish colonial town of Antigua. Follow your expert guide to all of the highlights without having to navigate, including churches, plazas, and shops.

Your journey starts in total comfort: we will pick you up directly in Antigua Guatemala City. 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, every gesture and every artisanal creation tells 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.

Discover a fantastical world of hobbit houses, amazing nature, panoramic volcano views, and crumbling palaces and churches on this fun-filled day trip to Hobbitenango and Antigua. Combining the natural beauty and inspired architecture of Hobbitenango with the fascinating history and faded grandeur of the old Spanish capital, this private day trip is a great way to maximize your time in Guatemala.

Visit the ancient ruins of Tikal and gain a deeper understanding of Mayan culture and traditions on this day trip from Guatemala City. Take a scenic flight from the nation’ capital and make your way to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed archeological park in the comfort of an air-conditioned bus. Wander the jungle with your expert guide who will provide narration about the site and dine on an included lunch.

Discover the ancient Mayan ruins of Copan on this full-day trip to Honduras from Antigua or Guatemala City. Just across the border, Copan is said to be one of the most beautiful Mayan cities ever built. You’ll join a local Honduran guide as you explore the archaeological site, climbing historic pyramids and exploring historic ball courts, plazas, and monoliths. You’ll also have the chance to explore the tunnels and shrines underneath the acropolis (extra cost).

Visit one of the largest and most important Mayan places in Central America—Tikal—on this all-day tour from the city of Guatemala. After a flight to Flores International Airport, where you meet your tour guide, you will head to the Tikal National Park. Tikal is one of the most important archeological complexes left by the Mayan civilization. It features temples, palaces, and public squares. Remains of dwellings are scattered throughout the surrounding countryside.