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Guatemala Kayak Adventure
Discover Atitlán, Central America's iconic, volcano fringed lake where Mayan culture lives on in the alluring villages that dot the beautiful shoreline.
Lake Atitlán is a kaleidoscope of color and culture. The kayaking and hiking are far and away the best ways to explore this gem of the Guatemalan highland.
Like so many incredible destinations, it's easy to fall into crowded tourist traps. But on this adventure you'll kayak from one charming village to the next and experience the very best of Atitlán's awe inspiring views and vibrant communities.
This circumnavigation adventure is bookended by overnights in Antigua, an enchanting UNESCO Heritage Site town that feels like you've stepped into a postcard. You'll have plenty of time to stroll the pastel hued streets and colorful markets.
Don't miss your opportunity to uncover the heart of the Guatemalan highland on this thrilling adventure!
Lodging | Activities |
|---|---|
Hotels | Kayak, Multi-sport, Hike |
From | Duration |
|---|---|
Guatemala City | 8 days, 7 nights |
Skill Rating | Van Supported |
|---|---|
1 | Yes |
Single Supplement | Price |
|---|---|
$700 | $3,295 |
Included
Guides, ground transportation, support vehicle, lodging (based on double occupancy, single supplement applies), most meals (breakfasts and all but one dinner), all kayaking equipment, instruction.
Not Included
Air to Guatemala City airport, lunches, drinks and one dinner, personal clothing and accessories, full medical, baggage and trip cancellation insurance, airport taxes and gratuities. Solo occupancy supplement not included.
Upcoming Dates:
2027 Dates:
February 8-15
April 2-9
ITINERARY
Day 1:
Transfer from Guatemala City (GUA) to the charming UNESCO Heritage Site city of Antigua. You have plenty of time to explore the vibrant cobblestone streets and admire the well preserved Baroque architecture. A welcome reception, orientation and wonderful dinner round out the first evening of the adventure. (D)
Day 2:
Transfer to Pacaya Volcano for a spectacularly scenic hike. Explore interesting lava fields and even roast marshmallows over the hot spots. Pacaya has been erupting continuously since 1965. Witnessing these eruptions in person is a truly amazing experience! After completing the hike you return to Antigua for an optional walking tour and another evening in the Guatemalan highlands. (B, D)
Day 3:
The paddling adventure begins today! After transferring to Panajachel, the gateway to Lake Atitlán, you hop in your kayak paddle along the eastern shoreline. Your destination for the evening: San Antonio Palopó, a little visited waterfront town that’s renowned for its local art, offers some of the very best views of the lake. (B, D)
Day 4:
On today’s route you paddle along the base of the towering Tolimán Volcano as you make your way into the stunning inlet where your next home for the evening awaits, Santiago Atitlan. Here you’ll find that Tz’utujil Mayan culture is woven into everyday life. (B)
Day 5:
Paddle along the base of San Pedro Volcano to San Juan La Laguna, another lakeside town renowned for its art. Between the vibrant murals, installments, textiles and leatherwork, there’s interesting art almost everywhere you look! An optional sunset hike to La Nariz del Indio rounds out this amazing day. (B, D)
Day 6:
A very special town awaits you at the end of today’s paddle. Leaving San Juan La Laguna behind, you make your way along the beautiful northern shoreline to the unique hamlet of Jaibalito. No roads lead into this town, and, partially due to its limited accessibility, Jaibalito is justifiably considered the most authentic Mayan village on Atitlán. (B, D)
Day 7:
On the final paddling day of the adventure you complete the circumnavigation of Lake Atitlán. A brief paddle along a nature preserve completes the circuit back to Panajachel. Soak up your last views of this remarkably gorgeous lake over lunch, and then transfer back to Antigua for a celebratory farewell dinner. (B, D)
Day 8:
Shuttle back to Guatemala City (GUA) for your return flight home or your extended travels. (B)
Our Belize kayak and camping trip was not what anyone expected due to unseasonably windy, rainy and cool weather. But we had a grand adventure nonetheless! How many times in your life do you get a chance to help a Belizean captain right and bail his swamped boat? Learn the ebb and flow of life on a tiny uninhabited Caribbean island? See a tiger ray leaping from the water trying to shake off the eel attached to its middle? Backpedal furiously to avoid a collision with a huge loggerhead turtle swimming your way as you snorkel? Eat comforting conch stew at a picnic table, the taste heightened by the sweetness of plantains and sharpness of the ubiquitous Marie Sharp's hot sauce? We experienced all that and much more with our small group this February. Our guide and fearless leader CP was perpetually cheerful and accommodating even as we confronted multiple days of high seas after landing on Moho Caye. He gave us opportunities to kayak whenever conditions permitted but also kept us safe. The local support team of Ian and his son Shane were steady and resourceful even under adverse circumstances. In addition to providing information, guidance and motor transport when needed, they fed us well, including platters of fresh fruit and hot fry jacks cooked in a primitive outdoor kitchen. This was our fourth trip with Northwest Passage, and we are on the lookout for our next one. As always, the company and its excellent staff provided a personalized, unique and fun adventure trip. Derek Belize 2026
My son and I had a fabulous time. Crystal clear water for paddling and swimming. Great scenery. Clean, comfortable accommodations. Wonderful professional, competent, helpful, friendly and enthusiastic guides Chris and Sean. I'd do it again in a heartbeat but I think next time I'll try a different trip.
By Chuck F on Sep 30, 2024
Our family of 5 had an amazing time exploring the Apostle Islands with our guides. Our kids had a blast and will never forget this trip. We felt safe and prepared for the adventure. And to top it all off the food was terrific! One of our family members requires a gluten free diet and they were able to accommodate that with no issues. Thank you, Chris and Ted and Northwest Passage, we could not have asked for a better family trip!
By Sarah B on Sep 04, 2024
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