One Week Itinerary in Guatemala: Antigua & Lake Atitlan

Planning a trip to Guatemala and wondering how to spend your time? This 7 day Guatemala itinerary is perfect if you want a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. With one week in Guatemala, you can explore the charming colonial town of Antigua, hike an active volcano, and unwind by the calm shores of Lake Atitlan.

I’ve done this exact itinerary and would do it again in a heartbeat. If you’re thinking “is 1 week in Guatemala enough?”—yes, but only if you plan it right. This guide will walk you through how to see the best of Guatemala in one week.

Why Spend One Week in Guatemala?

A 1 week Guatemala itinerary gives you just enough time to dive into two of the country’s most iconic regions—Antigua and Lake Atitlán—with the unforgettable Acatenango Volcano hike in between. It’s an itinerary that balances city vibes and culture with jungle landscapes, volcanos, and lake vibes.

I’d recommend starting in Antigua, since it’s just an hour from Guatemala City airport. It’s also at a lower elevation than Acatenango, which gives you a little time to adjust before your volcano hike.

Antigua is great for foodies, architecture lovers, and those wanting a city base with natural wonders just outside. Lake Atitlan is peaceful, scenic, and the ultimate place to unwind after the tough Acatenango hike.

Guatemala One Week Itinerary Overview

• Days 1–2: Explore Antigua
• Days 3–4: Acatenango Volcano Hike + Transfer to Lake Atitlán
• Days 5–7: Chill, boat hop, and unwind by the lake

How to Get to Antigua and Lake Atitlan

After your Acatenango hike or time in Antigua, you’ll transfer to Lake Atitlan (2-3 hours). Most tours or hotels can arrange the shuttle for you.

Once you arrive in Panajachel, take a lancha (boat taxi) to your village. Boats run frequently and cost about 25–35 quetzales (~$3–$5 USD).

Where to Stay in Antigua and Lake Atitlan

We stayed in San Pedro and loved the balance of nature, food, and accessibility.

Not sure where to stay? Check out our Lake Atitlán town guide

Top Things to Do in Guatemala

Full One Week Guatemala Itinerary

Now that you’re prepped, here’s the full Guatemala itinerary (7 days), with details for each day.

Day 1: Arrive in Antigua

After flying into Guatemala City, head straight to Antigua. The easiest way is by Uber or taxi—there are plenty lined up outside La Aurora Airport. We booked a private transfer on Viator the first time and honestly paid about $80 more than we did using a taxi the second time around.

Where to stay: We loved Ojala Hotel. It’s central, cozy, and has great coffee and courtyard vibes.

Once you’ve checked in, explore the city on a self-guided walking tour. Wander the cobblestone streets, grab a rooftop drink at Antigua Brewing Company with volcano views.

Day 2: Explore Antigua

Today’s all about getting to know Antigua. Here’s your must-see list:

• Santa Catalina Arch
• Central Park
• La Merced Church
• Cerro de la Cruz Viewpoint (hike or tuk tuk up!)

Want a local experience? Book a coffee tour or chocolate-making class in the afternoon.

Have an early dinner tonight and get some sleep if you’re planning the Acatenango hike.

Day 3: Acatenango Volcano Hike Begins

Time for the highlight of your Guatemala one week trip: the Acatenango Volcano Hike.

Pickup: Around 7:30am from your hotel

Tour company: I highly recommend V Hiking Tours—amazing guides and great food.

After breakfast with your group, you’ll begin your climb to base camp. It’s challenging, but totally doable if you’re prepared.

Optional: Add the Fuego Volcano night hike if you’re feeling adventurous.

At camp, watch Fuego erupt, roast marshmallows by the fire, and stargaze!

Day 4: Summit + Transfer to Lake Atitlan

Today starts early with an optional 4am wake-up for the sunrise summit. If you’re altitude-sensitive, feel free to skip this and enjoy the sunrise from base camp—still gorgeous.

After hiking down, you’ll have breakfast as a group and then transfer directly to Lake Atitlán.

Depending on your hotel, you’ll either be dropped off in Panajachel or at a dock to catch a lancha (boat) to your village.

Not sure where to stay? Check out our Lake Atitlan town guide. I personally loved San Pedro for its local energy and walkability.

Once you check in, take a stroll around your town or book a well-deserved massage.

Day 5: Explore Lake Atitlan’s Villages

Lake Atitlán is all about village-hopping by boat. Each one has its own vibe:

• San Marcos – yoga, spirituality, super chill
• San Pedro – fun, local feel, lots of restaurants
• San Juan – artsy and colorful with tons of murals
• Santa Cruz – remote with great hiking
• Panajachel – most developed, easiest transport
• Santa Catarina Palopó – authentic, vibrant houses

Spend the day taking lanchas around the lake, stopping for coffee, art galleries, or even cliff jumping.

Day 6: Sunrise Hike + Lake Adventures

Optional: Hike to Rostro Maya for sunrise if you’re up for it. It’s easiest if you’re staying in San Pedro and want one last adventure.

Afterward, take it easy. Head to the Nature Reserve, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or just chill lakeside with a cocktail.

Day 7: Slow Morning & Travel

Grab a slow breakfast and enjoy your last morning by the lake. If you’re in San Pedro, go to Orbe Cafe—their iced coffee and pastries with rooftop lake views are perfect.

If your flight out of Guatemala City is super early tomorrow, consider heading back to Antigua this evening. Otherwise, enjoy one last sunset dinner by the lake.

Final Thoughts: One Week in Guatemala

This Guatemala one week itinerary is ideal if you’re craving an active, adventurous trip with downtime built in. It’s got a little bit of everything—history, hiking, lake life, and local culture.

You’ll leave feeling both fulfilled and relaxed.

Want to see more or less of Guatemala?

• Read our Guatemala 5-day itinerary
• See the full 10-day Guatemala itinerary here