10-Day Guatemala Culture & Adventure Tour

Get ready to embark on a journey focused on conscious travel, adventurous explorations, and cultural learning! This 9-day journey offers a meaningful travel experience, combining adventure and cultural immersion, all while practicing conscious and responsible tourism in the heart of Guatemala.

Tour Highlights

• Engage in conscious travel and community tourism, with a focus on local impact and cultural immersion.

• Explore the historic and vibrant city of Antigua, including a tour of its bustling markets and unique eco-parks.

• Experience the rich traditions of indigenous markets in Chichicastenango and Santiago Atitlán.

• Connect with nature through kayaking, hiking, and visiting sacred sites like Cerro Quemado.

• Relax in the hot springs of Fuentes Georginas and enjoy optional wellness activities.

• Visit impactful community projects and organizations that promote sustainable tourism and support local communities.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Guatemala City – Transfer to Antigua
Welcome to Guatemala! After arriving in Guatemala City, you’ll be greeted and transported to your charming hotel in Antigua.

Day 2: Exploring Antigua
Your day begins with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, setting you up for a day of exploration in Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history and culture. In the morning, you’ll take a guided walking tour of the local market, where you’ll witness vibrant colors and bustling life. Lunch on delectable traditional Guatemalan cuisine. In the afternoon, enjoy a unique tour of Hobbitenango, a whimsical eco-park with stunning views and quirky attractions. The evening is free for you to explore Antigua’s charming cobblestone streets and local dining scene at your leisure.

Day 3: Antigua to Chichicastenango and Santiago Atitlán
After breakfast, you’ll set out early to visit Chichicastenango, famous for its sprawling indigenous market filled with handcrafted goods and traditional textiles. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you browse the stalls and interact with artisans. In the afternoon, you’ll travel to Santiago Atitlán, a picturesque town nestled on the shores of Lake Atitlán. Check into your accommodations at Bambu Santiago, where you’ll enjoy a tranquil evening and a delicious included dinner.

Day 4: Santiago Atitlán - Market Tour, Kayaking, and Waterfall Hike
Start your day with a visit to the local market in Santiago Atitlán, followed by an adventurous morning of kayaking on the serene waters of Lake Atitlán and hiking to a nearby waterfall. The afternoon offers a perfect blend of activity and relaxation, allowing you to connect with the natural beauty of your surroundings. In the evening, you have free time to explore the town or simply unwind at your hotel.

Day 5: Santiago Atitlán to Quetzaltenango (Xela)
Following an early breakfast, you’ll journey to Quetzaltenango, commonly known as Xela, a city known for its vibrant indigenous culture and breathtaking mountain scenery. The day is filled with travel and opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture, setting the stage for deeper community engagement. Settle into your accommodations at 7 Orejas and enjoy a relaxed evening.

Day 6: Xela – Hot Springs and Cultural Exploration
After breakfast, you’ll visit the rejuvenating hot springs of Fuentes Georginas, where you can soak in the warm waters surrounded by lush green hills. A mini-hike is an optional addition for those seeking more adventure. In the afternoon, explore more of Xela’s cultural offerings, with visits to local markets, artisan workshops, and other impactful community projects. Dinner is provided, offering a taste of regional specialties.

Day 7: Xela – Cerro Quemado and Impact Visit
Begin your day with a visit to Cerro Quemado, a sacred volcanic site with panoramic views, where you can learn about its spiritual significance to the local Maya community. The afternoon is free for you to explore Xela on your own or engage in additional community projects.

Day 8: Xela to Antigua – Journey Back
After breakfast, you’ll return to Antigua, making a stop for a local lunch along the way. The journey back offers a chance to reflect on the experiences and connections you’ve made. Upon arrival in Antigua, you’ll have free time to relax or explore the town one last time. Dinner is on your own, allowing you to savor your favorite Guatemalan dishes before your trip concludes.

Day 9: Final Day in Antigua – El Pilar Hike and Departure
On your last day, enjoy a morning hike and swim at El Pilar, a scenic nature reserve near Antigua. A picnic lunch will be provided, allowing you to savor the tranquil beauty of your surroundings. After some final free time to explore or shop for last-minute souvenirs, you’ll return to the hotel to freshen up before your journey to the airport. Reflect on your enriching experience as you travel back home, filled with memories of the beauty, culture, and warmth of Guatemala.

What’s Included

• 9 nights of shared accommodation (in Antigua, Santiago and Xela)

• Amazing vegetarian meals, coffee every morning, and drinking water

• Group shuttle transport during the trip 

• All market tours, hikes and excursions in the itinerary listed above

Not included: airfare, staff tips, additional/optional readings and activities

Cancellation Policy

• The deposit made at the time of booking is non-refundable under any circumstances.

• In the event of a cancellation at least two months before the training start date, the remaining amount (excluding the deposit) may be transferred to another training session at the Bambu. The transfer must be completed within one year of the original date.

• For cancellations within two months of the training start date, no credits or refunds will be issued.

• In exceptional circumstances such as natural disasters, pandemics, or protests, we may consider transferring credits even for cancellations that occur within two months of the training start date.

• Please note that this cancellation policy is final and applies to all bookings.