Antigua, Guatemala | Spring 2023
Quick Trip Details
📅 Duration: 6 days
📍 Route: Guatemala City → Lanquín → Antigua → Lake Atitlán
✈️ Flights: Roundtrip from NYC to Guatemala City
🚍 Transport Tip: Book long-distance shuttles online and allow down time for winding mountain roads—motion sickness is real!
Day 1 – Budget-Friendly Arrival in Guatemala City
Saturday night around 7 PM, I arrived in Guatemala City on a direct flight from NYC. A driver from Mariana’s Petit Hotel, a top-rated budget hotel near La Aurora Airport, picked me up. This affordable guesthouse is perfect for a quick stay, it’s quiet, clean and located just minutes from the airport. Great for anyone flying in late.
Day 2 – Long Bus Ride to Lanquín for Semuc Champey
Early Sunday, I took an Uber from Mariana’s Petit Hotel to McDonald’s Utatlán in Guatemala City, where the chartered bus to Lanquín departs (under $40 USD, booked online). The route passed through Cobán and lasted over 8 hours. Scenic? Absolutely. Smooth? Not so much. The mountain roads are winding; bring Dramamine if you’re sensitive.
In Lanquin, I caught a tuk-tuk to Hotel Rabin Itzam a great value at $25 USD/night for a private room with a shared bathroom. The hotel is walkable to the market, restaurants and shops. The staff helped book my Semuc Champey tour for the next day.
Day 3 – Visiting Semuc Champey on a Budget
Monday was all about Semuc Champey, one of Guatemala’s top natural attractions. After breakfast at the hotel, I packed snacks and joined a local tour to explore the limestone pools.
The tour started with cave exploration by candlelight, followed by a cliff jump into the river. Then came the steep hike to the viewpoint, totally worth it for the sweeping views of emerald-colored pools. Swimming in the natural pools after the hike was refreshing and fun, especially after the StairMaster 1000 of a hike I had.
Dinner afterward was at Comedor Shalom, a favorite among locals and travelers for good, cheap eats. The vibe was casual, with wooden tables, friendly staff and big portions.
📖 See how the day unfolded: My full Semuc Champey blog post →
Day 4 – Shuttle to Antigua + Affordable Hostel Stay
On Tuesday, I checked out and took a morning shuttle to Antigua Guatemala, arriving around 6:30 PM. I booked a bed at Ojalá Hotel via Booking.com for just $18 USD. The hostel is beautifully designed, full of cozy nooks, hammocks and chilled-out travelers.
The shared dorm was fine, but a bit small. Honestly, I didn’t see many people staying inside unless they were completely wiped out. Everyone was either hanging in the common areas or visiting the on-site café. My only complaint? The bathroom was too far from the room, especially at night after a hot shower when cold air ruins your groove. Next time, I’d book a private room.
Day 5 – Antigua Walking Tour + Switch to Socialtel Hostel
Wednesday morning, I explored Antigua on foot, cobblestone streets, pastel buildings and volcano views at every corner. After checking out, I moved to Socialtel Antigua also called Selina Hostel, a trendy social hostel. This time I paid $26 USD for a 4-bed dorm with an attached bathroom, so much better. That long walk to the bathroom the night before really got to me and having one in-room made all the difference.
I grabbed a burger from the restaurant before heading to Hobbitenango, a fantasy-style eco park and hotel in the hills. Entry was around $6 USD and the truck ride up is a whole experience in itself. I spent about three hours exploring and taking photos, chatting with a few other solo girls I met on the truck. Hobbitenango is full of photo ops, mountain swings, quirky architecture and mini houses.
Day 6 – Pacaya Volcano Hike
Thursday morning started with a guided hike of Pacaya Volcano. The $40 tour included transport, a guide, and a fun twist of roasting marshmallows over volcanic heat. Hiking through cooled lava fields and seeing steam rise from the ground felt surreal.
When I got back to the hotel, I noticed a sign across the street advertising shuttles to Lake Atitlán. One was leaving soon. I dashed to the desk, asked if I could still get on, and was told: “If you’re ready in 5 minutes, yes.” My bag was already in the storage room, so I sprinted back to Socialtel Hostel, grabbed it, said a quick goodbye and made it back across with just enough time to use the bathroom. Success.
The shuttle to Panajachel was filled with chill, bubbly travelers. The ride was scenic and relaxed, the kind of experience where the road just fades away and you feel totally present. I was exhausated.
Coming soon: My full guide to Panajachel and Lake Atitlán—where to stay, what to eat and the best views on the lake.
Final Thoughts: Solo Travel in Guatemala on a Budget
This Guatemala solo itinerary was full of epic views, affordable stays and spontaneous twists. From jungle treks at Semuc Champey to volcano hikes, everything stayed well within a backpacker budget.
If you’re planning budget travel in Guatemala, this route offers unbeatable value and unforgettable experiences. Just keep your plans flexible, your bags light and your curiosity high.
👉 Want more details about Semuc Champey? Don’t miss my full post here:
