This 10-day family itinerary is designed for curious young travelers and parents who want a balance of fun, culture, and relaxation. From roasting marshmallows on an active volcano, to hands-on art workshops at Lake Atitlán, to spotting monkeys and toucans among the ancient temples of Tikal, every day brings safe, exciting experiences your children will never forget.
We specialize in creating authentic, immersive adventures that support local communities and let your family experience the real Guatemala—at your own pace.
Ready to plan your family’s adventure?
***Customize your itinerary however you like! Just give us a heads up about any changes you want to make before you book. We're here to help you plan the perfect trip!
Experience comfort and convenience at its finest as you settle into carefully selected high-end and luxury hotels during your trip. Our team has scoured the area to find hotels with prime locations, cozy accommodations, exceptional service, and modern amenities, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Transfers will be in a registered and authorized vehicle by the Guatemalan Institute of Tourism and transportation authorities. Our drivers are highly experienced and speak Spanish. When you travel by private transfers, there will be flexibility for stops and schedules.
Embark on your adventure with confidence, knowing that our team of specialized local guides will be there to take care of you throughout your activities. Our guides have extensive knowledge of the local culture, history, and geography, ensuring that you have an authentic and immersive experience. Please note that while some of our guides are English-speakers, others may speak primarily in Spanish or local indigenous languages. However, we can arrange for an English-speaking translator at an additional cost to ensure that language barriers do not hinder your experience. Each guide is passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for their country, providing you with a unique perspective and insider insights that you won't find in any guidebook. So, sit back, relax, and let our expert guides lead the way as you explore the beauty and wonder of Guatemala.
Indulge in the rich and vibrant flavors of traditional Guatemalan cuisine and freshly prepared meals throughout your journey. Our team will provide you with a curated list of our favorite food and drink spots in each destination you visit, ensuring that you don't miss out on any culinary delights. Moreover, during tours that include meals, you'll have the chance to taste home-cooked food prepared by community projects, local operators, or associations. You'll get to experience the authentic taste of Guatemalan culture and support the local community at the same time. We understand that dietary restrictions can be a challenge, but don't worry - we've got you covered! Simply notify us in advance, and our team will accommodate your needs, ensuring that you can savor every bite without any worries.
BOOKING AGREEMENT FOR MULTI-DAY TOURS AND PACKAGES
A booking is only effective and confirmed once a deposit has been paid by the customer/traveler. Once we collect your deposit or initial payment, we will proceed to confirm all offered services with our local partners and suppliers.
For group bookings, we will make an initial temporary hold on hotels; this reservation will have a deadline to confirm room blocks with an initial down payment, respecting the dates defined by the hotels. In the case of FIT (Foreign Independent Travel) bookings, we will only make room blocks and proceed to reserving hotels once we collect a deposit or initial installment payment as a guarantee. All hotels mentioned in trip proposals are subject to dates and availability. If by any chance we need to change hotels once you’ve booked, we will notify you in advance and will choose an accommodation option that is the same category and pricing.
Once we confirm your booking with the deposit or installment payment, we proceed to securing all offered services. In the case of FIT travelers (Foreign Independent Travel), all payment installments must be completed 15 days prior to the arrival date in Guatemala or Mexico. In the case of groups, all payment installments must be completed 30 days prior to the arrival date in Guatemala or Mexico. Ten days prior to arrival, we will share the detailed travel program and pre-departure recommendations.
THIRD-PARTY SERVICES AND LIABILITY DISCLAIMER
We act as an intermediary between travelers and independent service providers, including but not limited to transportation companies, accommodation providers, local guides, activity operators, and other third-party vendors. While we take all reasonable measures to ensure the quality, safety, and reliability of these services, we do not own, operate, control, or manage these third parties.
By booking an experience with us, you acknowledge and agree that:
Limited Liability: Etnica is not responsible for any loss, damage, injury, delay, accident, or irregularity caused by third-party providers. Any issues arising from their services must be resolved directly with the respective provider.
Service Changes & Cancellations: Third-party providers may modify, cancel, or adjust services due to unforeseen circumstances, including but not limited to weather conditions, operational issues, or safety concerns. Etnica is not liable for any resulting inconvenience, additional costs, or compensation claims.
Assumption of Risk: Certain experiences involve inherent risks, including but not limited to physical activities, natural hazards, and variable local conditions. By participating, you assume full responsibility for any associated risks and agree that Etnica is not liable for injuries, damages, or losses incurred during these activities.
Provider Terms & Conditions: Each third-party provider has its own terms, conditions, and liability policies. By using their services, you agree to comply with their specific regulations and policies.
We strongly recommend that all travelers obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances.
TRAVEL INSURANCE, SAFETY, AND DAMAGES
Each traveler/customer is responsible for acquiring valid travel insurance that will provide coverage for medical emergencies and any incidents during their travels. We are not responsible for international travel delays, missing luggage, or cancellations.
Be advised we do not operate overnight ground transfers or conduct long ground transfers during nighttime.
High-risk activities such as active volcano hikes, paragliding, and other active adventures may require you to sign a liability waiver. If this is not signed, we cannot be responsible for your participation in such activities, and it will be your responsibility to book them.
The hotels and accommodation services used during your trip have established evacuation plans and safety procedures, which we will adhere to while using their facilities. These establishments also manage their own internal rules regarding the use of their facilities and amenities. Damage to the room, linens, furniture, and equipment may incur an extra charge by the lodging establishments. Covering any damage costs is the sole responsibility of the traveler. This will also apply to damages to any equipment used during tours and transportation vehicles.
ENTRY TO GUATEMALA,BELIZE AND MEXICO
Check the validity of your personal travel documents and whether you require a visa for visiting Guatemala, Belize or Mexico. If this is the case, each traveler/customer is responsible for acquiring a valid travel visa before booking a trip and making a payment. We do not provide invitation letters or any documentation for such procedures.
Guatemalan, Belizean or Mexican authorities may require upon entry:
A copy of your itinerary (printed or digital)
The trip payment receipt (printed or digital)
CANCELLATIONS
To cancel a package for which you have made a booking, please email us at hola@etnicatravel.com stating your order reference and “Cancellation” in the email title. You may telephone us to discuss your desire to cancel the package, but cancellation will only be effective when we have received written confirmation from the person who purchased the package. An email to us stating that you desire to cancel a package is an irrevocable notice, and you cannot subsequently change your mind, even if we have not yet acknowledged the cancellation in writing.
If you cancel your tour:
We will apply the airline’s cancellation policy to any flights in your package and reimburse your ground arrangements in accordance with the penalty timeline.
For cancellation of ground-only arrangements:
(a) 90 days or more prior to the stated departure date, we will retain an administrative fee of $100 per traveler and reimburse the remaining amount.
(b) Between 30 and 89 days prior to the stated departure date, we will retain 50% of the total booking cost and reimburse the remaining amount.
(c) Less than 30 days prior to departure, we will retain 100% of the price paid by you for the package.
If we cancel a package due to terrorism, natural disasters, political instability, or other external events, you may choose between (i) applying the amounts paid towards an alternative trip or (ii) receiving a full refund. We are not responsible for incidental expenses such as visas, vaccinations, or non-refundable flights.
AMENDMENTS TO BOOKED PACKAGES
If you wish to change the date, route, services, or itinerary:
(a) $100 per traveler if done at least 90 days prior to departure, subject to availability.
(b) $300 per traveler if done between 30 and 89 days prior to departure, subject to availability.
No amendments or name changes are permitted within 29 days of departure. Changes requested during the trip that incur additional expenses are the client's responsibility.
ALL CUSTOMERS ARE REQUIRED TO AGREE WITH THESE POLICIES UPON BOOKING.
Single / double room depending on package booked. Some hotels may include breakfast in the room rate.
Unique experiences available daily. See the day-by-day itinerary for recommended tours and additional options available.
Local specialized guides will accompany you during activities. Please note that some guides may not speak English, and an additional cost will apply if an English-speaking translator is required.
Shuttles and taxis arranged to get you to/from the airport.
Private/shared shuttles will take you between destinations.
Entrance fee for Pacaya and Tikal.
Roundtrip GUA-FRS. Includes one 10lb personal item and one 10lb piece of checked luggage.
Included meals are noted in the itinerary: B= Breakfast, BB=Box Breakfast, L= Lunch, BL= Boxed Lunch, D= Dinner
Real time itinerary available on an app. Includes recommendations for every destination, maps and direct chat with our team.
In country assistance in English during the whole trip.
Book your flights to/from La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City.
Prepare in case of any medical emergency, international flight issues or situation where you may require coverage and assistance.
Tell us if you wish to include any of the suggested optional activities.
Drinks are not included during meals on day trips and tours.
We'll give you the pointers for moving like a local in the Lake Atitlan public boats. If you want a private boat let us know in advance.
Ask about our tipping guidelines so you can consider this in your travel budget.
Welcome to Guatemala! Your private transfer from Guatemala City Airport will take you to the charming colonial city of Antigua Guatemala (approx. 1.5 to 2 hours). Enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the town and trying some local cuisine. Exciting adventures await you tomorrow!
Stroll through Antigua’s colorful alleys and hidden courtyards as you discover the city’s rich history. This day includes a fun hands-on experience where kids and adults alike can roll up their sleeves and learn age-old family recipes. Your expert guide in local gastronomy will meet you at your hotel, and together you'll make your way to Antigua's central market. As you explore the vibrant stalls, you'll learn all about the aromas, flavors, and local production—navigating the market just like a true local! Along the way, you'll gather everything needed for an interactive cooking workshop, where you’ll learn how to prepare three traditional Guatemalan dishes. From handmade tortillas, tamales to the iconic dish of "pepian". After enjoying the incredible lunch you just prepared you will head back to your hotel to enjoy a free evening.
What's included:
English-speaking interpreter
materials for class
step-by-step cooking class with local host
guided tour of the market
lunch
*You can swap this activity for a dulces tipicos (traditional candies workshop)
Live the ultimate adventure when you hike Pacaya volcano, one of the three active volcanoes in Guatemala. This hands-on tour is suitable for hikers of different ages and expertise. It will bring you up close to petrified lava trails, volcanic rock formations and incredible panoramic views of the surroundings. As you hike, you'll witness the effects of constant volcanic activity, and if the conditions are favorable get clear skies for overlooking the other volcanoes in the area. Visit the Lava store for a memorable souvenir and enjoy roasting marshmallows in one of the rock ovens. Once the excursion is over, you'll return to Antigua, feeling exhilarated and accomplished after conquering an active volcano.
What's included:
roundtrip transportation to / from Antigua to Pacaya Volcano National Park
mandatory national park guide
specialized English-speaking guide
entrance fees
lunch
Spend a slow paced morning exploring Antigua's cobblestone streets, markets and colonial ruins and monuments. Make your way to Lake Atitlan via ground transfer and enjoy an afternoon relaxing at the hotel gardens or choose an optional activity.
Optional activities:
Guided visit of Iximche cultural monument and Mayan ruins
Hike in a nature reserve outside Antigua
Embark on a boat ride across the waters of Lake Atitlan to the captivating town of San Juan la Laguna. Surrounded by primitive art, beautiful textiles and majestic views, San Juan will give you a warm welcome and the opportunity to interact and learn the way of life. Here your family will meet local weavers and try a natural tie-dye workshop, a colorful, creative experience using plants and other organic fibers. Top it off with a one of a kind souvenir to take home. Keep exploring this colorful town before taking the boat back to your hotel.
What's included:
private roundtrip boat transfer from hotel to San Juan la Laguna
English-speaking specialized guide
materials for workshop with local hosts
final piece to take with you
Optional activity: Visit to Kaqasiiwaan viewpoint, you can arrange this with your guide that day.
Go on an exhilarating zip-lining adventure in a nature reserve and soar over the forest canopy surrounded by volcano views. You will then travel back to Guatemala City, from where you’ll take a short flight to the Maya Biosphere Reserve in the northern part of the country. The drive will be approximately 4 hours long and the flight is 1 hour. Once you land at Mundo Maya Airport, you'll head to Tikal National Park for the an evening deep in the Guatemalan jungles.
What's included:
Entrance fee to extreme ziplining circuit in Lake Atitlan Nature Reserve
Round trip flight from GUA to FRS, includes one personal accessory in cabin and one 20 lb piece of luggage in storage per person.
Begin your day with the sounds of howler monkeys as you get ready for an excursion to explore the ancient Maya kingdom of Tikal. Being one of the most important sites for the Maya civilization, Tikal was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for both its cultural and natural significance. Kids will feel like explorers as they climb ancient temples, listen for howler monkeys, and spot toucans in the treetops. After a unique expedition, you will enjoy lunch inside the national park followed by a free afternoon to unwind.
What's included:
English-speaking specialized guide
General entrance fees
Lunch (drinks not included)
After days of adventure, it’s time for some coastal relaxation. Make your way back to Mundo Maya airport and hop on a 1 hour flight back to Guatemala City. You will continue your travels via ground transfer to El Paredón, a laid-back surf town on the Pacific, perfect for families to slow down, enjoy the beach, and soak up the sunset.
Enjoy a full day by the ocean. Build sandcastles or try paddleboarding and kayaking along El Paredon’s calm mangrove channels. For a unique experience, you can visit the turtle sanctuary, where your family can learn about conservation efforts and connect with Guatemala’s coastal wildlife. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the beach at your own pace.
Savor one last cup of exceptional Guatemalan coffee and bid farewell to this beautiful country as you transfer by shuttle to the airport for your departure flight. The drive to the airport will be from 3 to 4 hours. We're so happy you chose to explore Guatemala with us and we hope you had an unforgettable trip! Don't be a stranger and come back to visit us again soon!
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