Explore the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site of Antigua where we will wander its cobblestone streets, and dive into Guatemala’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Then we will head over to the tranquil Lake Atitlan where you can feel the magic of the lake and explore local Mayan towns.

Come join us in Guatemala 🇬🇹

Explore the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site of Antigua, wander its cobblestone streets, and dive into Guatemala’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Taste your way through incredible local cuisine, and if you’re feeling adventurous, hike an active volcano for views you’ll never forget.

We’ll share a very special experience cooking alongside one of the most warm and welcoming Mayan women — a powerful community leader who has transformed her life and supported single mothers in her village through the love of food, culture, and friendship.

Then we journey to breathtaking Lake Atitlán, where tranquil waters meet dramatic volcano views. We’ll explore charming lakeside villages, learn about Mayan traditions and daily life, and take part in a traditional scarf-making class with local Mayan women — preserving culture while directly supporting community cooperatives.

Giving back is at the heart of Wonderlust Adventure. During our journey, we will also support a local organization, ensuring our visit contributes in a meaningful and sustainable way to the communities who welcome us.

This isn’t just a trip — it’s connection, culture, impact, and intentional travel.

Who’s ready to experience Guatemala with Wonderlust Adventure? 

Antigua & Lake Atitlán January 2027

Day 1: Arrival in Antigua, Guatemala

Welcome to Guatemala

Arrive in Guatemala City and transfer to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Antigua. Settle into our beautiful accommodations surrounded by colonial architecture and world class views.

You will be met at the airport upon arrival.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a welcome dinner to meet your fellow travelers, set intentions for the journey ahead, and enjoy your first taste of Guatemalan cuisine catered specifically for the group from a local establishment.

Overnight in Antigua

Day 2: Exploring Antigua (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

History, Culture & Color

Brunch breakfast at a local establishment .

After breakfast we will explore Antigua’s cobblestone streets on a guided walking tour, by a local and seasoned tour guide discovering its rich colonial history, vibrant markets, historic churches, and hidden courtyards.

Enjoy free time in the afternoon + evening to wander, shop for handmade textiles, relax at a café, or soak in the charm of this timeless city.

Meals:

Breakfast/brunch included

Lunch and dinner on your own

Overnight in Antigua

Day 3: Pacaya Volcano Hike > return.

Fire, Earth & Transformation

This morning, we’ll head out early for a guided hike up Pacaya Volcano (optional) , one of Guatemala’s most active and accessible volcanoes. This moderate hike takes us across ancient lava fields with sweeping views of surrounding volcanoes and valleys.

Hike departure around 6:00am- return about 2:00pm > Lake Atitlan.

Along the way, our local guides will share stories about the land, the volcano’s history, and its powerful symbolism in Mayan culture. At the top, we’ll experience the raw energy of the earth—an unforgettable and grounding moment.

Afternoon you will have time to explore or relax Antigua and enjoy dinner on your own.

This hike is NOT required and if you don't feel fit or feel that you want to attend, we can arrange to meet in the town after our return (half day hike).

Breakfast + lunch : Included (see below)

Breakfast (basic) : Packed night before (if attending Pacaya volcano hike)

Lunch upon return together

Dinner: Explore on your own ( recommendations provided)

Caoba Farms tour + breakfast

Tour the working organic farm and their on-site restaurant and market where you can shop.

We will then eat breakfast from a range of items that are made from scratch and a myriad of various fresh produce from the farm.

Free afternoon or coffee tour.

Optional : Coffee tour of De la gente which is up the slopes of Agua volcano to a coffee plantation.

The farmer will share all about growing the coffee and the way they do it in Guatemala.

Free time to explore in the afternoon before group dinner.

Meal included: Breakfast + dinner

Lake Atitlán is a large volcanic lake in the Guatemalan highlands, often considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. It sits about 1,560 meters (5,120 feet) above sea level and is surrounded by steep green hills and three volcanoes: Volcán Atitlán, Volcán Tolimán, and Volcán San Pedro.

The lake was formed inside a massive volcanic caldera created by an eruption tens of thousands of years ago. Today it’s not only a destination but home to many Indigenous Maya communities, especially the Tz’utujil and Kaqchikel peoples.

Popular towns around the lake each have a different vibe:

• Panajachel — main transportation hub, markets, restaurants, hotels- this is where we will launch off from on our boat over to our first location. Waters can be rough pending the weather, so keep this in mind.

• San Pedro La Laguna — backpacker scene, nightlife, Spanish schools

• San Marcos La Laguna — yoga, wellness, meditation, expat community

• Santa Cruz La Laguna — quieter, nature-focused, great lake views

• Santiago Atitlán — strong Indigenous culture and traditional weaving

• Jaibalito — tiny lakeside village accessible mainly by boat

Things to do while we are here in addition to our schedule:

• Boat-hop between villages by public lancha (water taxi)

• Hike volcanoes

• Kayak or paddleboard on the lake

• Visit coffee farms and markets

• Take yoga or Spanish classes

• Watch sunrise over the volcanoes

• Explore Maya culture and textiles

Artistry & Ancestral Knowledge

Make a scarf at a local Mayan womens cooperative.

The scarf making class gives back to the local women of the village and you will learn how to make amazing art like that of the ones you see in local shops.

You get to take a little piece of Guatemala home with you.

You have the opportunity to shop at the womens cooperative which supports the women in the local village(s) along with making your own scarf using the traditional Mayan artistry that the local village tribe members will teach you.

You’ll be guided through the process of creating a scarf using traditional techniques, colors, and patterns—each with symbolic meaning passed down through generations.

This hands-on experience offers a deeper understanding of Mayan culture, creativity, and the power of women supporting women.

The afternoon is free for rest, lake time, or exploring nearby villages.

Overnight at Lake Atitlán

Starting the day with a relaxing morning and break from all the exploration.

Leisurely breakfast + relaxation or take the morning to go explore.

Volunteer with a local not for profit or local organization and the rest of the day is free to enjoy at your leisure.

More information may be forthcoming for this day.

Explore CHICHiChichicastenango — usually called “Chichi” by travelers — is a highland Maya town in Guatemala famous for its enormous traditional market, Indigenous culture, textiles, and religious traditions that blend Catholicism with ancient Maya beliefs.

It’s about 2–3 hours from Antigua Guatemala or Lake Atitlán, making it a popular day trip.

The main attraction is the market, especially on Thursdays and Sundays, when vendors from surrounding villages fill the streets with:

• Handwoven textiles

• Masks and wood carvings

• Pottery

• Flowers

• Traditional clothing

• Food and spices

• Souvenirs and handicrafts

At the center of town is Santo Tomás Church, built in the 1500s on top of a Maya temple platform. It’s one of the most fascinating religious sites in Guatemala because Maya spiritual practices still happen there today:

• Shamans burn incense and candles on the church steps

• Rituals and prayers happen inside alongside Catholic worship

• The 18 steps leading up the church are said to represent the Maya calendar months

Nearby is Pascual Abaj, a hilltop Maya ceremonial site where local spiritual ceremonies are still performed.

The town is also historically important because the sacred Maya text known as the Popol Vuh was preserved in this region.

A few tips if you visit:

• Go on Thursday or Sunday for the full market experience.

• Bargaining is expected in many stalls, but usually done politely.

• Mornings are less crowded and cooler.

• Bring cash; many vendors don’t take cards.

• Be respectful when photographing ceremonies or local people.

Food, Story & Community

Today we step into the heart of Guatemalan tradition.

We’ll spend the day learning to cook traditional Mayan dishes with the guru of Lake Atitlan—recipes that are prepared only once a year for special celebrations and ceremonies. This experience is led by a local Mayan woman whose work has transformed her life and community. Through her business, she employs and supports other women, many of whom are single mothers.

Together, we’ll shop for the food in a local market which supports locals, then prepare the meal, hear her story, and share a beautiful feast, connecting through food, culture, and conversation.

Overnight at Lake Atitlán

Last day and final farewell of the adventure of a lifetime.

Breakfast will be at the house or grab and go pending flight times. To be discussed prior to the last day.

Schedule(s) will determine this.

Head to the boat launch in Pana and then head to GUA (Guatemala city) for your departure.

If you choose to stay to hike Acatenango volcano, which is optional we can discuss extension of the trip.

Option to hike the Acatenango volcano.

This is a very early wake up + pick up to head to hike the volcano. Option to also take a 4x4 jeep to the summit, which you will then hike the remainder of the trail for 45 minutes to get to your camp. You then stay overnight at camp. The weather is cold, so if you want to add this to your itinerary we can discuss.

I have done the 4x4 hike and bringing a good jacket for the cold weather is ideal, along with the proper clothing. Outfitters do provide some items, but the quality of the clothing may be different than what you may be used to.

Hiking this volcano isn't for the faint of heart. It is a very rigorous hike at a very steep incline. It is the most magical experience we have experienced, but the easier route is in a truck. If you are able to you are welcome to hike the volcano and experience the magic of the hike, camp and to test the limits.

Cost varies pending who will attend these extra days, to be discussed and may be added on prior to the hike. (HIKE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE CURRENT PRICE)