A Wanderlust's 5-Day Itinerary to Antigua, Guatemala

First thing's first, check into your hotel and drop off your bags as you will most likely be arriving early in Guatemala. Grab a late breakfast or early lunch at your hotel's restaurant before starting your day, which will lead you to the iconic streets of Antigua. The best way to introduce yourself to Antigua is via a private walking tour, where you will learn about its architectural wonders, including the cobble-stone streets, markets and ruins. A day strolling through the city will allow you to see its famous landmarks such as the Santa Catalina Arch and La Merced church. Once your tour has ended (usually takes about three hours) make sure to stop by Helados Sarita on your way back to your hotel. Once here, relax and get some rest because your first day in Antigua has not ended just yet.

Up next, an evening street food tour (evening street food tour) will satisfy your appetite for Guatemalan food. You’ll be trying the best búfalos, shucos, chalupas and chocolate from your guides favorite stands and tiny “comedores”. You’ll learn great history and insights into the surrounding neighborhoods of Antigua.

Your second day in Antigua will lead you to Volcan de Pacaya, one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes. A hike up Pacaya is a must for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. In my opinion, the hike is moderate and manageable for all fitness levels. The panoramic views ascending are all worth it. You’ll be able to see the surrounding volcanoes Agua, Fuego and Acatenango. While here, you’ll have great opportunities for pictures as well as roast marshmallows over hot volcanic rocks. The National Park of Volcán de Pacaya y Laguna de Calderas requires that you are accompanied by a tour guide.

Before heading back to Antigua, stop over at Kawilal Hot Springs. Treat yourself to lunch and their thermal-heated waters. A must-try is their thermal circuits, which involve immersing your body for short periods of time in thermal pools of different temperatures, ranging from warm to cold.

Finalize your evening at La Cuevita de Los Urquizu. It is a great restaurant serving typical foods of Guatemala in a family atmosphere.

For day three, make sure you are well rested because on this day you'll be on a daytrip to Lake Atitlán. Lake Atitlán is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. While here, you can kayak, swim or take a boat tour. The lake side villages, like Panajachel, San Marcos La Laguna, and Santiago Atitlan allow visitors to experience the local way of life. Each village reflects the traditions of the indigenous Mayan people, many of which still wear traditional clothing and practice ancient customs. The best way to reach Lake Atitlan is by a private boat tour guide from Antigua.

Start your fourth day in Antigua by visiting Starbucks! Make sure to ask for Guatemalan coffee, even though this shop offers the familiar Starbuck favorites. The traditional building and Spanish colonial design honor the history of Antigua, making it a beautiful place.

Next, make your way to the chicken bus factory, where you will learn about their journey into Guatemala and their very vibrant decorations. Chicken buses are Guatemalan's public transportation. Guatemalans do not call these buses “chicken buses”, but use various names such as camionetas, canasteras or burras. The name chicken bus was given by a foreign tourist who saw locals traveling with vegetables and animals, especially chickens, on the bus. Hence, the name chicken buses.

Finish your day at El Tenedor and enjoy a delicious meal with amazing views of the surrounding area.

On your fifth and final day in Antigua, a visit to the whimsical Hobbitenango is a must. It is a famous for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes, as well as for its focus on sustainability and nature. With hobbit-like houses built into the landscape, zip-lining, archery, yoga and an on-site restaurant, it is the perfect place to start to unwind and end your travels through Guatemala.

End your last day in Antigua at my favorite restaurant- Casa Escobar. Every item on their menu is delicious, but my absolute favorites are the Wagyu Carpaccio and Asado Antigueno.