Guatemala: Volcanoes, Beach & Lake: July 18th – 26th 2026
July 18th - 28th 2026
- 9 Days
- July 18th - 28th 2026
- 3 Destinations
- Min People: 8
- Max People: 12
- 11 Meals Included
- Boutique Hostels & Glamping
Guatemala has it all...
If you like adventure, Guatemala should be at the top of your bucketlist.
We have curated the perfect itinerary to blend relaxation with adrenaline – with opportunities to hike a volcano to 4000m overnight, kayak, paddleboard, surf, alongside relaxing by the beach or connecting with local culture through a cooking class and chocolate workshop.
If you’re craving the type of holiday where you bring back too many bucketlist memories to count, we would love if you could join us in Guatemala.
Arrival & Departure Location
Fly in and out of Guatemala City
Trip starts in Antigua
Trip finishes El Paredón
Visiting
Antigua
El Paredón
Lake Atítlan
Accommodation
Shared Accommodation in Boutique Hostels & Glamping Tents
Trip Highlights
- Overnight Acatenango hike to watch one of the most active volcanoes in the world
- Option for Half-Day hike to Pacaya if you would rather do a smaller hike
- Authentic Guatemalan Cooking Class
- Surf Lesson in El Paredón
- Glamping
- Chocolate Making Class
- Connect with Local Charity
- Lake Atitlan Cultural Tour
- 11 Meals (Daily Breakfast & 3 Three Course Dinners)
- Accommodation (Boutique Hostel & Glamping)
- All internal transport
- All listed activities
- Donation to local partner charity
- Experienced Local Guide
- International Flights
- Travel Insurance (Mandatory)
- Meals and activities not listed
- Tips (approx €30)
Choose Your Volcanic Adventure
For those craving a proper challenge, Acatenango is the ultimate “earn your views” adventure. This is a tough, high-altitude overnight hike that rewards you with front-row seats to Volcán Fuego erupting in the distance – lava bursts lighting up the night sky while you camp above the clouds. It’s steep, it’s cold, and it’s no joke physically, but if you’re reasonably fit and up for pushing yourself, it’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime, core-memory experiences. Expect a long ascent, basic mountain glamping, and serious bragging rights.
If you’d prefer something shorter and more manageable, Pacaya offers an epic volcano experience without the same intensity. This is a half-day hike with a steady but achievable incline, perfect for those who want incredible views (and the chance to toast marshmallows on hot volcanic rock!) without the overnight element or extreme altitude. It’s still an active trek, but far more accessible and a great option if you’d rather soak up the scenery without fully emptying the tank. This option gives you an extra evening to relax at your leisure in Antigua.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Antigua
Touch down in the colourful colonial city of Antigua and settle in before our welcome briefing. This is your chance to meet your new travel mates, run through the adventure ahead, and get excited for what’s to come. In the evening, we’ll head out together for a relaxed welcome dinner to kick things off properly.
Day 2 - Explore Antigua & Cooking Class
Spend the day wandering Antigua’s cobbled streets, discovering vibrant markets, historic churches and stunning volcano views around every corner. Later, we’ll take part in a hands-on traditional cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare authentic local dishes from scratch. The best part is sitting down together to enjoy everything you’ve made.
Day 3 - Acatenango (or Pacaya)
Today is your big choose-your-own adventure moment. Take on the legendary Acatenango overnight hike for an unforgettable high-altitude challenge with views of erupting Volcán Fuego, or opt for the shorter Pacaya trek for an epic volcano experience that is more manageable but still seriously impressive.
Day 4 - Travel to the Lake
After descending the volcano, we’ll freshen up for the next adventure! Today we journey to the breathtaking Lake Atitlán, surrounded by towering volcanoes and traditional Mayan villages. The views alone make this one of the most memorable travel days of the trip.
Day 5 - Free Day & Meet Local Charity
Enjoy a free day to soak up lake life at your own pace. You can spend the morning kayaking or Stand up Paddleboarding, or for those keen on adventure, there is an optional morning zipline through the hills. We will also meet with our partner charity to learn about the meaningful work they do supporting indigenous Mayan communities.
Day 6 - Explore the Lake by Boat
Spend the day discovering the unique towns dotted around Lake Atitlán. Visit local businesses and workshops, including traditional chocolate making and textile artisans, and gain a deeper appreciation for the culture and craftsmanship of the region.
Day 7 - Travel to the Beach
Today we’ll make our way to Guatemala’s black sand Pacific Coast! Spend the afternoon unwinding, catching the sunset, or simply relaxing by our gorgeous pool with a well-earned drink in hand.
Day 8 - Surf in El Paredón
This morning we hit the waves in El Paredón. Whether you are a total beginner or have surfed before, local instructors will guide you through the basics and help you catch your first wave. Expect plenty of laughs and a great workout.
Day 9 - Goodbyes
All good things must come to an end. Say your farewells to the group and choose to continue your adventure through Central America or transfer to the airport for your journey home.
Book This Trip Now
Payment Plans Available
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this the right trip for me?
This trip is for those who love adventure and don’t mind a long travel day or getting stuck into new experiences. That being said, we have made space to customise the trip by opting for a smaller half day hike and extra night in Antigua.
Where do I fly in and out of?
Fly in and out of La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. This is about a 45 minute drive from our first destination (Antigua) and about 2.5 hours from our last location (Lake Atítlan).
Will there be a group chat?
Yes we make a group chat 60 days before the trip where you can co-ordinate travel plans with the rest of the group and discuss your upcoming adventure together!
What kind of accommodation do we stay in?
We stay in shared dorms in boutique (bougie!) hostels, only sharing with other members of our group. We will also be glamping in bell tents for 3 nights of the trip.
Don’t just take our word for it. Here’s what some of our past legends had to say:
16 May 2026
Thailand May 2026
What can I say? A group of 14 strangers at the start of our adventure quickly turned into lifelong friends. After only a few hours together, we were already making memories, sharing laughs, and eventually saying some very emotional goodbyes with plenty of promises to meet up again! Armeen was our tour guide and honestly, what a man! He was amazing from start to finish — the best craic, a brilliant singer, and an incredible photographer… he knows all the angles! He was so organised and made everyone feel comfortable and at ease right from the beginning. Ayla was ...
16 May 2026
First solo trip and…
This was my first solo trip and I never felt more secure and safe with craic on travels. They took care of everything and also gave me a lovely first solo holiday to remember, as well as so many amazing connections with all the girls ❤️ would love to travel with them again someday!
08 May 2026
Philippines 2026
I had a lovely experience with the Craic on Travels trip to The Philippines. The itinerary was excellent, we did major bucket list activities but also some nice wholesome activities like bracelet making. We also had quite a bit of free time in the afternoons which was great. The Philippines can be a bit difficult to navigate with all the different islands so a group tour is the perfect and stress free way to do it. Would go again in a heartbeat ❤️
30 Apr 2026
This was my second trip with Craic On…
This was my second trip with Craic On Travels, and once again, it completely exceeded my expectations. After travelling to Thailand in April 2025, I’ve just returned from the Philippines in April 2026 — and I’m still blown away by how incredible it was. From the excursions to the accommodation and even the travel in between, everything was so well organised and enjoyable. The whole experience felt seamless, and I always felt comfortable, safe, and genuinely welcomed. Last year, I travelled with Colin and Isabelle, whose passion for what they do really shines through in every detail. This year, ...
27 Apr 2026
Amazing
This was my 2nd trip with Craic on and once again they never failed to impress. The trip was ran amazingly with our tour guides Roisin and Izzy who were the most helpful and kind leaders who looked after us so well. The trip left me with 19 new friends and was the most incredible experience! for anyone wanting to get away rather solo or with friends this is the company to go with. 100% will be doing another trip
26 Apr 2026
Was a fantastic trip and got a lot done…
Was a fantastic trip and got a lot done in 10 days, Isabelle is a lovely person and did a great job of making sure everyone felt comfortable and happy. Would go on another trip again 10/10🫶🏻
24 Apr 2026
Amazing trip to the Philippines
We enjoyed an amazingly well organised trip to the Philippines with craic on travels. Both of our guides, Roisin and Izzy were fabulous and took all the stress out of travelling for the group. Couldn’t recommend craic on travels more!!
24 Apr 2026
An unforgettable holiday
I’ve just returned from the best trip to the Philippines with Craic on Travels. From the start Colin and Isabelle were so helpful with any questions I had. We had the best hosts, Roisin and Izzy. From the first day they made 18 strangers feel like best friends. Everything from start to finish was so well organised, plenty of activities but also lots of free time. Roisin and Izzy brought so much energy to the group. I am so glad I went on this trip and would highly recommend using Craic on Travels. It was such an incredible experience ...
24 Apr 2026
Unbelievable experience
I had the best trip to the Philippines with Craic on. I met the best bunch of girls we all got on so well! Roisín and Izzy made the trip so stress free and so well organized. Couldn’t have asked for better, they were so sound and made sure everyone was always good and kept energy high throughout. Even on our downtime we spent it together. Honestly it was such an unforgettable trip and I’ve made friends and memories for life🤩 so glad I picked Craic on and I will be going again! I highly recommend them!
24 Apr 2026
The Philippines
I’ve just returned from the Island Escape Philippines trip and I’m honestly lost for words at how incredible it was. From the very beginning, Colin was amazing—always quick to answer any questions or concerns before the trip. Roissin and Izzy, our tour guides, thought of absolutely everything and quickly became part of all the laughs and memories we shared as a group. If you’re thinking about booking, just go for it—you won’t regret it. I’ve made friends for life!
23 Apr 2026
An incredible experience from start to finish!
This is my second time travelling with Craic On Travels and once again, it was an incredible experience! Isabelle and Colin create the most special and unique trips, including activities and stays that you wouldn't get on your usual group trip (like our stay at Tsumugu Guesthouse!) and because of this, they bring together such a lovely bunch of people to share the experience with! All of our activities in Japan were so thoughtfully put together, creating an itinerary that really gave us a sense of the country and the culture. Isabelle also had a few surprises up her ...
21 Apr 2026
My first trip with Craic On exceeded every expectation…
My first trip with Craic On exceeded every expectation I had and then some. I originally came across them on TikTok, saw a video about a Japan trip, and booked it on impulse. Honestly, if you are even half thinking about it, just go for it. It is the kind of decision you will thank yourself for later. The itinerary struck the perfect balance between iconic sights and meaningful cultural experiences. Of course, you see the must visit spots, but what really sets it apart are the moments you would never plan on your own. Staying in a traditional ...
19 Apr 2026
1st time with craic on travels
It was my 1st time travelling with craic on travels and l with knowing what the itinerary is which I personally like as it certainly helps take the pressure off trying to figure it out on what we do and where we go, the whole experience exceeded beyond imagination of how good it was, Isabelle led the trip along with the ever so impressive and amazing tour guide tiaga and you couldn’t of met such wonderful and formative people both in professionalism and kindness, without them the trip would of never been as amazing as they made the dream ...
19 Apr 2026
I’m honestly blown away by my…
I’m honestly blown away by my experience with Craic On Travels. I had never done a trip like this before and showed up not knowing a single person. By the end, I left with 10 new best friends and a full year of travel plans to keep the adventure going. Our guide was incredible and every part of the trip went beyond what I expected. 11 out of 10, I will absolutely be traveling with COT again.
19 Apr 2026
Japan April 2026 Trip
I just got back from an unforgettable trip to Japan with Isabelle and our local guide, Taiga—and I’m still in awe of the experience they created. Every detail of the itinerary felt intentional, blending culture, adventure, and genuine connection in such a seamless way. What really stood out was the atmosphere they created: safe, welcoming, and full of kind, like-minded people. It felt like being part of something special. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m so grateful to have been part of it. Can’t wait for my next adventure with Craic on Travels. - Maeve
18 Apr 2026
Had such an Amazing experience…
Had such an Amazing experience travelling the Phillipines with craic on. Our guides Roisin and Izzy were Amazing and really made the trip an unforgettable experience ❤️
10 Apr 2026
Uganda 2026
I attended the Uganda trip with Craic on Travels in March/April 2026 and had an incredible experience. The schedule was jam‑packed and we genuinely did everything we possibly could — every day was full and exciting from start to finish. Everything was very well organised, and our guides, Chris, Ibrah, and Ivan, were extremely knowledgeable and brilliant at spotting animals on safari. Special shout out to Chris for answering all of my (many!) questions throughout the trip. The group itself was amazing, with a great sense of community. I’d highly recommend Craic on Travels and would absolutely book with ...
10 Apr 2026
The Uganda Safari was a dream come true!
I recently just finished my first ever Craic On Travels trip to Uganda. I’m lucky enough to say I’ve done my fair share of travel over the last 10 years but this trip tops them ALL! From start to finish the trip was incredible. It was fun, perfectly paced, a good mix of adventure and culture. I’ve never seen so much wildlife in my LIFE!! And we were lucky enough to have some of the BEST tour guides who were incredibly knowledgeable on all things safari! (Shoutout to Chris, Ibra and Ivan) SUCH LEGENDS!! You can see how much ...
09 Apr 2026
5* Uganda Trip 2026
Just home from an amazing trip with Craic on Travels to Uganda. Everything was organised really well, and we got to do so much in the 11 days that we were there. Our local guides Chris, Ibrahim and Ivan were really helpful, knowledgeable and fun - Always happy to answer our many many questions! The safari experience itself was incredible - We got to see gorillas, rhinos, chimpanzees, giraffes, zebras, pumbas and many more. We even got close to a lion thanks to Chris assessing where he would end up! What really made the trip was all of the ...
09 Apr 2026
Uganda March/April 2026
My trip to Uganda was incredible. It was jam-packed with so many unique experiences from start to finish and I would highly recommend to anyone. Our tour lead (Robyn) and local guides (Chris, Ibrahim and Ivan) were outstanding. We had an amazing group and cannot wait to meet up again in the future.
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