Guatemala
Why should you travel
to Guatemala with us?
At Rise & Roam many of our activities require special access or permits. We are an independent team that works closely with local people, communities, and national park authorities to offer insider access and unique experiences specifically designed for our groups.
Visit Mayan communities, discover archeological ruins in the jungle, stargaze on top of the pyramids, savor authentic Mayan cuisine, and more by joining Rise & Roam on an unforgettable journey through Guatemala!
Every adventure is carefully curated and combines must-see highlights with truly off the beaten path experiences—guaranteed to immerse you in the authentic heart of each place we visit! Whether you usually travel solo or have joined group trips before, theres always something new to discover!
Please note, to preserve the integrity and pristine nature of the lesser-known communities, beaches, and other destinations we visit, we intentionally refrain from sharing certain locations and their names publicly. This helps protect them from the impact of over-tourism. We invite our explorers to join us in upholding this mission, ensuring these special places remain protected for generations to come.
What our explorers have to say…
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"The trip to Guatemala with Rise and Roam was an unforgettable mix of adventure and culture. We did some classic tourist activities but also had unique, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Stargazing on a 2,000-year-old Mayan pyramid and photographing the Milky Way was magical. A personal Mayan cleansing ceremony for our small group was deeply moving. We explored off-the-beaten-path locations, saw stunning nature, and connected with amazing people. The traditional Guatemalan food was delicious, and every day was filled with discovery and fun. If you’re looking for an active, immersive way to experience the world, this trip is absolutely worth it!"
Brad G
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"My trip to Guatemala was an unforgettable adventure filled with vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and thrilling experiences. Exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal and stargazing at night was a highlight, with temples hidden in the jungle and the sounds of exotic wildlife echoing around us. The villa on Lake Atitlán was a serene yet adventurous escape, offering breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes. The local villages we visited throughout Guatemala added a cultural flair, with their vivid textiles, and authentic amazing food. From adrenaline-pumping activities to moments of serene beauty, this Guatemala trip was a once in a lifetime time experience that catered to every adventurer’s dream."
John M
What’s Included
9 nights accomodation, 6 nights in a hotel, 1 night in a local community (hammocks), 2 nights in a luxury villa
Meals: 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners
All entry fees (parks, archeological sites)
All additional in-country local guides
All tours and activities (Tikal, archeological sites, museums, jungle walking tour, community tours + more!)
All private in-country transportation, private vehicles, private buses
One domestic flight, including one checked bag (Avianca airlines)
Tips (we tip so you don’t have to!)
What’s Not Included
International flights
Mandatory travel medical insurance
Overweight baggage fees for domestic flights if not flying via private charter
Visas (if required for your nationality) EU, UK, Canadian, and U.S. citizens typically do not require a visa for this destination but please check the entry requirements for you nationality.
Itinerary
April 7th - 16th, 2025
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Welcome to Guatemala!
As explorers arrive throughout the day, explore all the city has to offer! From vibrant markets, incredible food, to historical buildings and museums
Our Meet and Greet begins at 5pm at our accomodation.
Meals included: Dinner -
Get ready for one of the most unforgettable experiences of the trip! Very few ever experience Tikal at night! Tikal is one of the most famous archeological sites in the Mayan world, and most typically visited to see the pyramids!
We will board our flight in the morning to Flores and drive to Tikal where we will check into our accomodation in the national park.
Enjoy some free time before we make our way to the pyramids for sunset. We will then stay after hours for an extra special night stargazing on the pyramids, surrounded by nature and the sounds of the jungle!
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
Activities: Tikal National Park, stargazing -
Say our goodbyes to Tikal and travel to a remote Mayan community by the jungle where history, astronomy, and ancient ruins, and nature converge.
We will learn about not only the history, but as well as medicinal plants, flora and fauna, the local economy, artisans, and more!
Drift off in a hammock at night time accompanied by the sounds of nature!
Accomodation: Hammocks in the community
Meals included: Lunch | Dinner
Activities: Jungle walk, archeological sites + more! -
Spend the morning exploring more of the community before we head over to Flores for the night!
Once we reach Flores, we will check into our hotel by the water.
You will have this evening free to explore this historic island town nestled in Lake Peten Itza! Stroll its cobblestone alleys, and enjoy a stunning sunset over the water.
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch
Activities: Museum, community tour -
Get your favorite podcasts, tunes, and books prepped for a bus journey to Semuc Champey!
As we travel, watch the terrain shift, from rolling farmland to dense forests, and eventually to the lush, mountainous jungle that surrounds Semuc Champey. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming villages, spot locals going about their day, and take in panoramic views of mist-covered peaks and winding rivers.
We will have our own private transportation and the ride takes approximately 8 - 9 hours.
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast -
Today is a full day enjoying the lush surroundings and crystal clear waters of Semuc Champey!
We will be exploring much of what this pristine part of the country has to offer— swim through historic caves, go on a hike to see a stunning viewpoint of the pools, and more!
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch
Activities: Semuc pools, caves -
Our final full transit day back to Guatemala City as we transition to the final part of our tour.
We will be making a very special stop in Coban — a historic highland city in Guatemala.
We will be meeting with an esteemed member of the Mayan community who will be offering his teachings about the history and culture of the area. We will also be visiting a local food / artisan market with truly authentic goods from around the country.
Approximate travel time is 6 - 7 hours.
Accomodation: Airbnb or Hotel
Meals included: Breakfast
Activities: Ancestral teachings -
Travel to Lake Atitlan from Guatemala city to enjoy our final days in lakeside villa!
Our activities over the next couple days are optional, so you can take things at your own pace.
Go for a swim, kayaking, hang out in the hot tub, or walk around the historic town!
Accomodation: Villa
Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner
Optional activities: Swimming, kayaking -
Weather permitting, there are more activities you can indulge in on our last day!
Go in traditional dugout canoes with the local fishermen to see how they fish, get a massage at the villa, or do a tour to see chocolate making and textiles in a nearby town.
Accomodation: Villa
Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Optional activities: Spend time with local fishermen, go kayaking, swimming, do a local tour!
Please note the massage is subject to an extra charge. -
Today is our final day! After breakfast we will drive to Antigua and say our goodbyes!
We are happy to assist with any travel plans you may have after the tour.
Not ready to go home yet? Join us for an optional two day extension to hike Acatenango volcano! Details below!
Meals included: Breakfast
OPTIONAL: 2 Day Extension
ACATENANGO VOLCANO HIKE
April 17 - 18
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Witness the mighty Fuego volcano as it puts on a show like no other!
Leave Antigua in the morning to begin your journey to the volcano. The hike takes approximately 4.5 - 6 hours. The full tour takes a day and a half.
Gear for the hike: Hat, gloves, hiking shoes, a second change of clothes, windbreaker/rainjacket, extra snacks. -
Optional: Wake up early morning to summit the volcano. (You will still have a view of the Fuego volcano before the summit by your accomodation.)
Arrive back in Antigua by noon.
Transport to and from your accomodation in Antigua
One nights accomodation on the volcano
Entry fees
Local guide
Lunch and dinner on the day of the hike
Breakfast on final morning before returning to Antigua
Professional photographer (our favorite Alejandro!) to capture your epic moment across an active volcano!
What’s Included
Meet Your Guides
Rise & Roam founder and adventure guide Tanin Kayvan spent over a decade traveling to places where few would venture. She stayed with over 100 families in cultures around the world, which led to experiences like migrating with nomadic families, attending lesser-known cultural events, and surreal wildlife encounters. With a background in anthropology, photojournalism, and tourism, she has combined her years of experience to curate bucket list adventures for travelers who are looking to dive deeper into the places they visit.
Alejandro Valdes has been one of Guatemalas top guides for over 10 years.
His extensive knowledge of the country’s history, culture, and gastronomy brings every explorer and deeper understanding of Guatemala. He is also responsible for taking some of the most epic photographs on every adventure. Want your big moment captured under the stars or on Acatenango volcano? Alejandros got you covered!
All photos by our amazing co-host Alejandro Valdes, and talented explorers James Silla and Brad Galo.
Important Things to Note
We will review your application within 1–2 days and then schedule a phone call to ensure the trip aligns with your desires!
Due to the nature of the places we visit, some days require walking for extended hours or a bit of hiking. We recommend participants have a good level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the experience. Alternative options may be available for some activities, feel free to reach out to discuss any questions or concerns you may have.
We encourage all explorers to please read our Terms and Conditions here prior to reserving their spot.
Please note the itinerary is subject to change due to weather conditions, unforeseen circumstances, or anything that may be of concern to the health and safety of our explorers.
FAQ
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Some rooms are shared with arrangements made by gender. If you prefer a private room, please let us know before booking. Private rooms are subject to availability and an extra fee.
Please note hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common in Latin America (even in upgraded hotels and private homes). We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control. -
This trip is for people who are open to stepping out of their comfort zones, desire to immerse in nature, seek personal growth, and value authentic connections with local communities.
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This trip may not be the best fit for those seeking a traditional luxury hotel experience. While we prioritize comfort and safety, our focus is on authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures that often involve very local accommodations and immersive experiences. If you prefer a more structured, high-end, slow travel style, this journey might not align with your expectations.
Still have a question?
Send us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!