Guatemala

First solo trip is in the books!! Guatemala was the trip of a LIFETIME & I am so excited to share all about it. Get ready to join me on an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Guatemala. In this comprehensive itinerary blog post, I'll be sharing my firsthand experience as a solo female traveler exploring the serene beauty of Lake Atitlan and the charming allure of Antigua + sharing how I spent the night on an active volcano?? Let’s dive in.

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I flew into Guatemala City around 11am. Since I was traveling solo I made sure to fly into Guatemala City during the day just for extra safety. From Guatemala City I took about a five hour ride to Lake Atitlan. I use Bookaway for every single transfer in another country. They help me feel so safe and taken care of when traveling & I could not recommend more. You can schedule shared or private transfers through them!

Tips:

Staying Connected: When traveling to another country, the best option to save time and money is an eSIM. I've been using eSIMs for years when visiting different countries, but the one I found on esims.io is the best by far. It's the largest comparator for eSIM plans worldwide. When I tell you guys the ease it gave me while traveling solo, I mean it. My parents would also gladly agree that this was the best thing to make them feel comfortable as well.

Day 1-5: Lake Atitlan

Lake Atitlan, nestled in the Guatemalan Highlands, is a stunningly beautiful and culturally rich destination that attracts travelers from around the world. Surrounded by three towering volcanoes and dotted with charming Mayan villages, Lake Atitlan offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors.

Getting Around:

• Once at Lake Atitlan, the most convenient way to get around is by boat. Public boats, known as "lanchas," operate between the various towns around the lake.

• Each town has a designated dock where you can catch boats to other destinations. The boat fares are relatively inexpensive and offer a scenic way to travel between towns.

• Some towns, such as Panajachel and San Pedro La Laguna, are also accessible by road, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas on foot or by tuk-tuk.

Where to Stay:

• Panajachel: As the largest and most developed town on the lake, Panajachel offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. It's a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area and has plenty of restaurants, shops, and amenities. I stayed at Selina which I loved. I personally appreciated being in Panajachel as the town had lots to do more than just staying at the hostel. Selina offered free yoga classes every morning, $10 kayak tours, bar crawls etc. The hostel had a good mix of providing ways to be social but there was also plenty of options to keep to yourself if you prefer.

• You however cannot swim in Panajachel which is the downside of staying here.

If you stay anywhere beside Panajachel note that the shuttle busses stop running after around 5pm, they stop running after 7pm from Panajachel.

• San Pedro La Laguna: Known for its laid-back vibe and vibrant expat community, San Pedro La Laguna is a popular choice for backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation here ranges from simple guesthouses to eco-lodges.

• Santa Cruz: Everyone raves about Free Cerveza and I made a couple friends who were staying there. They loved it but the town of Santa Cruz doesn’t have much but there are free paddle boards and areas to swim here.

• San Marcos La Laguna: If you're looking for a more tranquil and holistic experience, San Marcos La Laguna is the place to be. This bohemian town is known for its yoga studios, wellness centers, and spiritual retreats. Accommodation options include rustic cabins, boutique hotels, and eco-friendly resorts.

Exploring Different Towns:

• Panajachel: Explore the bustling streets, browse the colorful artisan markets, and take in panoramic views of the lake from the waterfront promenade.

• San Pedro La Laguna: This was one of my favorite towns, you don’t need too much time here but you MUST try Nativo Coffee Shop, their smoothie bowl alongside the açaí was to die for (they are cash only). Hike to the top of Indian Nose for breathtaking sunrise views, visit the local weaving cooperatives, and enjoy the lively nightlife scene.

• San Marcos La Laguna: Practice yoga at one of the many studios, indulge in holistic treatments at a wellness center, and take a dip in the tranquil waters of the lake. Cerro Tzankujil Nature Reserve is a perfect place to swim + cliff jump. I highly recommend going here & finding at Vida for lunch afterwards.

Overall, Lake Atitlan offers a wealth of experiences for travelers seeking natural beauty and cultural immersion. Whether you're exploring the charming towns, hiking the surrounding hills, or simply relaxing by the lakeshore, Lake Atitlan is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul.

Safety Tip:

• While Lake Atitlan is generally safe for solo female travelers, it's essential to exercise caution, especially when exploring remote areas or hiking trails. Always trust your instincts, avoid walking alone at night, and stay informed about any potential safety concerns in the region.

• Keep cash on you at all times and a decent amount too. I absolutely got stranded in another town & had to hire a private boat shuttle back for about 150 Quetzals.

Highlights:

• Exploring the charming village of San Marcos and its tranquil nature reserve.

• Participating in a captivating Mayan cooking class and spending some time learning about the rich culinary traditions of Guatemala and learning traditional cooking techniques from local experts.

Day 5: Antigua

After saying goodbye to Lake Atitlan, I headed to Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its colonial architecture and vibrant culture. PLEASE bring dramamine for these shuttles, the roads are windy and if you get car sick, you will get car sick.

I stayed at Purpose Hostel and Maya Papaya truly both of these were so great.

Safety Tip:

• Antigua is a relatively safe destination for solo female travelers, but of course always remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas and markets. Keep your belongings secure, avoid walking alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Day 6-7: Acetenago

Y’all get ready for the most insane adventure ever. I slept on a freaking volcano. If you are in Antigua you MUST book this tour. You will start by getting picked up early in the morning from town center in Antigua. From there you start hiking around 12pm and hike 5-6 hours up to base camp.

Basecamp is on top of volcano Acatenango and from there you have a clear view of Volcan Fuego which you can see it erupt every twenty or so minutes.

From basecamp we were given the choice to hike Volcan Fuego — ooof this was rough. The elevation sickness I was getting climbing up was the most unenjoyable thing but the view from the top is so worth it!

Overall the hike is challenging but I will say it is doable for anyone who is well in shape. However, prepare better than I did for the Fuego part & bring water (I did not so please don’t be as dumb as myself).

Day 7: Antigua

Coffee Shops:

• Cafe Estudio: This cozy cafe is beloved for its artistic ambiance and quality coffee. With a focus on supporting local artists, Cafe Estudio is a great place to sip on your favorite brew while admiring creative works. Their chai, crepes and the view is STUNNING.

• 12 Onzas: Named after the Spanish word for "12 ounces," this cafe is dedicated to providing an exceptional coffee experience. From expertly brewed espressos to flavorful pour-overs, 12 Onzas is a must-visit for coffee aficionados.

• Doña Luisa Xicotencatl: While primarily known for its delectable pastries and baked goods, Doña Luisa Xicotencatl also serves up delicious coffee to complement their treats. If going here you must try their banana bread. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.

Conclusion:

My solo journey through Guatemala was THE BEST trip ever. I truly felt safe and secure the entire time. I will say it is important to have some type of basic level of Spanish knowledge or travel/meet friends who know Spanish well. Google translate is always an option but honestly I did not use it once on this trip.

Pack your bags, embrace the spirit of exploration, and embark on your own solo adventure through this captivating country. Safe travels, and may your wanderlust lead you to new horizons!