How to Spend a 3-Day Weekend in Guatemala

With a history going back 3,000 years to when Mayan civilization emerged, Guatemala is a country of extraordinary cultural and natural richness. With a privileged geographical location, the country is ripe for the adventurous traveler, as it features a pleasant climate allowing for visits at any time of the year. If you can only manage an extended three-day escape, here is a great itinerary to follow for a memorable trip.

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Day 1

Arrive at La Aurora International Airport, located in the heart of Guatemala City, and grab a quick breakfast at San Martin before your short, 45-minute flight to Peten. Board the shuttle bus or hire a cab to take a ride to the Uaxactun Community, an indigenous community charged with protecting the jungle and ancient Maya ruins, for a traditional lunch of Peten´s local flavors before your transfer to Tikal National Park. Located in Northern Guatemala’s Petén Province, this park is in the heart of the jungle and provides visitors with an extraordinary biodiversity and archaeological experience. See the Main Plaza along with Gran Jaguar Temple before catching the sunset at Temple IV.

After an afternoon of cultural immersion, head to Isla de Flores, a historical charming town on an island in Lake Peten Itza. Walk along the cobbled streets to see pastel-painted houses and grab dinner at La Danta.

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Day 2

Take advantage of the day with an early $15 boat transfer to San Miguel to visit some top tourist attractions including Jorge´s Rope Swing, Viewpoint Rey Canek and Chechenal Beach. With a diving board, cabanas and, of course, rope swings, Jorge´s Rope Swing and the nearby area is an adventurer’s playground. Following your fun-filled morning, depart to Guatemala City and grab lunch at El Adobe Restaurant, then take some time to explore the beauty of Guatemala City. Walk by Plaza de la Constitución and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Make sure to swing by Mercado Central for some unique Guatemalan souvenirs.

Afternoon is calling, and more adventure awaits on the horizon, so take the 90-minute transfer to the Acatenango Volcano. Upon arrival, you actually will shed a bit of your luggage (you can send it to your next destination or have it ready the next morning) and go on a 4×4 to go off-roading to get to the camp. Spend the evening under the stars and watch an amazing Fuego Volcano eruption.

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Day 3

Wake up early and hike to the peak to catch the sun rise over the Agua Volcano to start the day. Spend some time taking in the sites before you head back to La Antigua for a tour of the area. The small city is known for its Spanish Colonial buildings and some of the highlights include a visit to Santa Clara Convent, Santa Catalina Arch, Central Park, La Merced Church and make sure to stop by the National Museum of Art Guatemala–MUNAG.

Take a short drive to La Aurora International Airport to return home.