Hi ${Contacts.First Name}, we are getting close to go time for this trip and we and we are excited to share with you our final itinerary. This is your source for day-by-day descriptions, elevation profiles and activities for each day.
Guatemala is a densely layered, rich topographic region of active volcanoes, black sand beaches, high alpine plains, and over 20 ethnic Mayan groups that define the heart of the Mayan world. Unconquered and untamed, Guatemala’s landscapes are both breathtaking and demanding—especially when explored by bicycle.
On this nine-day itinerary, you’ll journey through three of the country’s most iconic regions: Antigua, Tecpán, and Lake Atitlán. This point-to-point adventure offers a firsthand experience of Guatemala’s diverse terrain, deep traditions, and warm communities. It’s a route that I’ve personally come to love after more than a decade of living here—and I’m excited to share it with you.
Part of what makes this itinerary special is we will offer options for non-riding participants each day. You can choose to ride every day or mix and match from a variety of experiences, including horseback riding, guided cultural tours, visits to weaving cooperatives, mural walks, Mayan archaeological sites, stand-up paddleboarding, and hikes to hidden waterfalls. Whether you’re here for the adventure, the culture, or both, there’s something for everyone.
We invite you to join us on this unforgettable journey through Guatemala, crafted in partnership with Peacetrain Guides—an immersive experience that goes far beyond the ordinary.
Brendan James
Director
OVERVIEW
For this itinerary, we have curated a varied point-to point tour that connects the dots on ancient routes. You will start in the colonial town of Antigua, pass through our base in the cold mountains of Tecpán and experience the beautiful Lake Atitlán: a tropical paradise.
Your Trip Includes
Services:
⦿ Airport Pickup and Drop off
⦿ 4 Guided Mountain Bike Tours
⦿ 2 Drivers
⦿ 2 Bi-Lingual Mountain Bike Guides
⦿ Pacaya Hiking tour with Hiking Guide (Day 2)
⦿ Horse Farm visit (Day 4)
⦿ San Antonio La Laguna Hiking Guide (Day 5)
⦿ Mayan Cultural Guide Days (Days 4, 5, 7)
Equipment
⦿ 2 Vehicles 4×4
⦿ Full Suspension Bike Rentals
⦿ 2 Ebike rentals
⦿ Helmets, Gloves, Water Bottles for each bike
⦿ First-aid kit, two way radio Communication, Satellite locator
⦿ Refrigerator and drinks in each vehicle
⦿ Daily Bike Cleaning
⦿ Access to pro tool kit
⦿ Private Boat Transfers
⦿ Kayak / SUP rentals day 6
Accommodations
⦿ Nov 3rd – El Remanso Tecpan (Queen Bed)
⦿ Nov 4-7 – Sacred Tree Lake Atitlán (Queen Bed)
Park Entrances
⦿ Entrances to the Carmona Bike Park
⦿ Entrances to the Iximche Mayan Ruins Tecpán
⦿ Entrances to the Churi-Rax-Amolo Park in Santa Lucia La Laguna
Meals
⦿ Picnic Lunches prepared for dietary needs
⦿ Breakfast at El Remanso Tecpán
⦿ 2 Chef Dinners
⦿ Fruits, Snacks Filtered Water each day
NOT INCLUDED:
◙ Gratuities
ITINERARY
| Date | Notes | Hotel |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 Oct 31 (Fri) |
Airport Pickup Transfer to Antigua | Camino Real Antigua |
| Day 2 Nov 1 (Sat) |
Pacaya Hike | Camino Real Antigua |
| Day 3 Nov 2 (Sun) |
Carmona Bike Park Intro Ride | Camino Real Antigua |
| Easy Bike Tour and Coffee Farm Visit | ||
| Day 4 Nov 3 (Mon) |
am – Visit Mayan Ruins of Iximche Tecpán XC Ride | El Remanso Tecpán |
| Horseback and Farm Tour | ||
| Day 5 Nov 4 (Tue) |
Tecpán – Pana XC Ride | Sacred Tree Santa Cruz LL |
| Visit the weaving town of San Antonio Palopó, Hike up to hidden waterfall | ||
| Day 6 Nov 5 (Wed) |
Rest Day Kayaking / SUP Lake Atitlán” | Sacred Tree Santa Cruz LL |
| Day 7 Nov 6 (Thu) |
Atitlán Oeste MTB Tour | Sacred Tree Santa Cruz LL |
| Visit the Artist town of San Juan la Laguna with Mural Tour | ||
| Day 8 Nov 7 (Fri) |
Return to Guatemala City | |
| Day 9 Nov 8 (Sat) |
Departure Flight |
Day 1
October 31, 2025
Airport Pickup / Transfer to Antigua
Meals: n/i
Hotel: Camino Real Antigua
Antigua, Sacatepéquez
Day 2
November 1, 2025
Pacaya Hike
Meals: L
Hotel: Camino Real Antigua
Antigua, Sacatepéquez
Day 3
November 2, 2025
Carmona Bike Park Intro Ride
Easy Bike Tour and Coffee Farm Tour
Meals: L
Hotel: Camino Real Antigua
Antigua, Sacatepéquez
Day 4
November 3, 2025
Visit Mayan Ruins of Iximché / Tecpán XC Ride
Horseback and Farm Tour
Meals: L, D
Hotel: El Remanso
Tecpán, Chimaltenango
Day 5
November 4, 2025
Tecpán – Lake Atitlán XC Ride
Visit San Antonio Palopó and hike to waterfall
Meals: B, L
Hotel: Sacred Tree
Santa Cruz La Laguna, Sololá
Day 6
November 5, 2025
Rest Day
Kayaking / SUP Lake Atitlán
Meals: n/i
Hotel: Sacred Tree
Santa Cruz La Laguna, Sololá
Day 7
November 6, 2025
Atitlán Oeste MTB Tour
Visit San Juan La Laguna Mural Tour
Meals: L, D
Hotel: Sacred Tree
Santa Cruz La Laguna, Sololá
Day 8
November 7, 2025
Return to Guatemala City
Meals: n/i
Hotel: Not included
Day 9
November 8, 2025
Airport Transfer
Meals: L
Hotel: Not included
Bike Rentals
This year we are exited to offer a new partnership with the European bicycle brand Commencal with a new rental fleet of 2024 Meta Models. We also have electric mountain bikes available on request.
Includes helmet, water bottle, daily bike cleaning and maintenance.
2024 META TR29
META “Trail 29”
29″ Wheels
1×12 Drivetrain
4 piston Hydraulic disc brakes
Dropper Post
150mm (F) / 140mm Travel (R)
MAXXIS Tubeless Tires
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
2024 META AM29
Meta “All Mountain 29”
29″ Wheels
1×11 Drivetrain
4 piston Hydraulic disc brakes
Dropper Post
170mm (F) / 160mm Travel (R)
MAXXIS Tubeless Tires
Sizes: S, M, L, XL
PACKING LIST
Riding pack / Camelbak 10L
Overnight duffel bag 30L
Raincoat / windbreaker
Rainpants
Sturdy Hiking Boots
Headlamp
Light puffy / insulated jacket for evenings
Sufficient riding gear for 6 days.
We will have access to laundry day 5
Sunscreen / Sunglasses.
Guatemala has strong UV due to its high elevation and proximity to the equator. If you have fair skin you will burn if the sun is out or not.
WEATHER
Our country has a unique density of micro-climates. Please bring a day bag / fanny pack that accommodates a light jacket / windbreaker or rain coat. Expect cool, clear days with the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms.
Temperature in Guatemala varies with elevation, and is consistent year-round. In Antigua / Lake Atitlan 5,200ft temperatures get close to 80F during the day and drop to around 55F at night. Shorts for riding / pants for the evening.
At our base in mountains of Tecpán (9,500ft) the temperature gets up to around 65F during the day and drop to around 40F at night with the occasional frost.
GENERAL TRAVEL TIPS
Our local currency is Quetzales with a current exchange rate of around 7.6 to the dollar. Credit cards are accepted nearly everywhere.
Upon your arrival at the airport there are several ATMs in the baggage claim area. We would recommend taking out 1000Q -2000Q which should cover light spending for the week.
CELL PHONES
If you want to enjoy the luxury of live posting and spending screen time abroad and you can get a data plan relatively cheap in Guatemala.
Before immigration at the airport are several stands that sell / install and configure local sim cards. Installation costs around 30Q / $5.
Providers
Tigo – Q.10 per 1.5GB
Claro – Q.10 per 3GB
FOOD CONCERNS
Please fill out our Pre Tour Form to indicate your dietary preference. On our trips we are happy to accommodate Vegetarian / Gluten free diets. If you have any other special requests just let us know.
The food we prepare is sourced from reputable supermarkets and is sanitized and washed several times before preparation. We only use restaurants of confidence.
Coming from the United States your bodies will not be accustomed to the level of sanitation in our country. We would not recommend drinking a lot of alcohol or eating street food at least until the last days of the trip, its just not worth getting sick and jeopardizing your biking experience.
WATER
Don’t drink the tap water / don’t even wash your teeth with it. We will provide bottled / purified water throughout your trip. All hotels provide water stations with purified water. Consider refilling your water bottle or camelback from these stations to avoid the purchase of plastic bottles.
SAFTY ADVISE
Guatemala is generally a very safe country, and we’re proud to say that in over 10 years of operating tours, we’ve never experienced any security incidents. That said, as a foreigner, you may stand out and be perceived as a target for petty theft. To stay safe and avoid unwanted attention, we recommend following these three basic guidelines:
Carry only what you need. A few hundred quetzales is more than enough for daily expenses—there’s no need to carry large amounts of cash.
Avoid walking alone at night in urban areas, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the surroundings.
Drink responsibly. If you go out, be mindful of your alcohol consumption and avoid walking home intoxicated.
Guatemalans are known for being warm, jovial, and sociable. It’s common for locals to greet you or strike up a conversation—even if you’re a stranger. This is a normal and friendly gesture, not a threat. In fact, ignoring a greeting or failing to respond with a simple “hola” or “buenos días” is often considered rude. Most people greet everyone in small establishments when entering or leaving. Go with the flow.
Day 1 – Friday, October 31
Arrival in Guatemala – Transfer to Antigua
Upon arrival at Guatemala City International Airport, our private drivers will meet you in the arrivals area for transfer to Antigua. The drive takes approximately 90 minutes, depending on traffic. Once in Antigua, check in to your lodging and take some time to rest. You can explore the cobbled streets or enjoy a quiet evening. Dinner is on your own.
Day 2 – Saturday, November 1
Pacaya Volcano Hike
Today you’ll visit Pacaya, one of Guatemala’s most well-known volcanoes. After a morning transfer, begin a guided hike over volcanic terrain with views of lava fields and the surrounding mountains. The hike lasts around 2.5 to 3 hours. We’ll be summiting neighboring cerro Grande, where we’ll pass through inactive calderas and visit a hidden lake. A picnic lunch will be provided before returning to Antigua in the afternoon. Your evening is free.
Meals: Lunch included
Accommodation: Client-arranged in Antigua
For today’s route, we will be starting in the town of San Francisco del Alto, taking a non-traditional route up the Pacaya volcano, connecting two summits. One is Cerro Chino, which is where the lava fields begin. Once we reach the lava fields, we’re going to be crossing extinct and rocky terrain to reach the old summit crater of Volcán de Pacaya, Cerro Grande.
The route crosses a variety of ecosystems and traversing several extinct craters of the Pacaya Massif. We’ll cross native grasslands, subtropical forests and see virgin earth and lava from recent eruptions.
Although Pacaya is a relatively low elevation volcano by Guatemalan standards, its prominence in relation to the coastal plains makes it vulnerable for high winds and the occasional rainstorms and fog. Please come prepared for today’s trip with a rain jacket, as well as dry clothes for changing into afterwards.
From the top of Cerro Grande (8340ft), you’ll be afforded incredible views of neighboring Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango volcanoes. After summiting we will descend down through farms and ranching areas to reach Laguna del Calderas, completing the circuit of just over six miles. This will be a great introduction to the trip and a fantastic way to get off the beaten path on one of Guatemala’s most visited sites.
| Distance | Gain | Loss | Min. Altitude | Max Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6.1 mi | 2,746 ft | – 2,746 ft |
5,955 ft | 8,340 ft |
Day 3 – Sunday, November 2
Carmona Bike Park
Spend the day riding at Carmona Bike Park in the hills above Antigua.
Non-Riders: Beginner mountain bike ride and coffee Tour. After lunch we’ll take a guided visit to Antigua’s cathedral and main plaza. You’ll return to your lodging with time to relax
Meals: Lunch included
Accommodation: Client-arranged in Antigua
In recent years, Carmona Trails has become Guatemala’s premier destination for gravity-oriented mountain biking. Located just outside Antigua in one of the region’s oldest coffee fincas, the park boasts over 50 kilometers of groomed trails suitable for all skill levels.
Today’s ride begins in the heart of the historic coffee finca, where we’ll start with a five-mile introductory loop. This route circles the flat, lower portion of the property, offering views of the coffee operation, including plant preparation and a small on-site dairy farm and processing area.
After the loop, we’ll divide into groups. Advanced riders will take a 4×4 shuttle to the summit of Cerro Cucurucho (8,700 ft), where panoramic views stretch across Pacaya Volcano, Lake Amatitlán, and Guatemala City. From the summit, we’ll ride two intermediate downhill trails.
Carmona Warm Up Loop (Part 1)
Loop through the lower part of the coffee finca (all Riders)
| Distance | Gain | Loss | Min. Altitude | Max Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.72 mi | 1,168 ft | –1,168 ft | 5,374 ft | 6,352 ft |
Carmona Shuttle 1 – Caffeine Fix
| Distance | Gain | Loss | Min. Altitude | Max Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.72 mi | 1,200 ft | – 1,200 ft | 5,374 ft | 6,352 ft |
| Distance | Gain | Loss | Min. Altitude | Max Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.91 mi | 210 ft | -3,320 ft | 5,466 ft | 8,652 ft |
Carmona Shuttle 2
From the top and back to to the hotel in Antigua
| Distance | Gain | Loss | Min. Altitude | Max Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6.19 mi | 407 ft | – 3,018 ft |
5,033 ft | 7,644 ft |
Day 4 – Monday, November 3
Iximché Mayan Ruins
Begin the day with a visit to the archaeological site of Iximché in Tecpán. A cultural guide will take you through the site providing insight into the ancient Kaqchikel capital. The visit lasts 1-2 hours.
Riders: Cross-Country Ride in Tecpán
After the ruins, head out for a cross-country ride through rolling terrain and pine forests. Support vehicles and a guide accompany the ride.
Non-Riders: Horse Farm Visit
You’ll visit a local horse farm for a casual trail ride and traditional lunch.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner included
Accommodation: El Remanso de Tecpán
Today we’ll visit our base in the heart of the Mayan Altiplano—Tecpán, Chimaltenango—a region steeped in cultural history and natural beauty. Our first stop is the ancient Mayan city of Iximché, a post-classic archaeological site that served as one of the final strongholds of the Maya during the Spanish conquest.
Founded in the 1400s, Iximché was home to several royal families and features more than 30 structures and pyramids. At the rear of the site lies an active ceremonial space still used by Mayan spiritual leaders.
Following the ruins, we’ll split into two groups. Cyclists will embark on a challenging cross-country ride deep into the highlands, descending from Tecpán (8,700 ft) to the Motagua River Fault Line at 4,500 ft. This route travels through a mosaic of farmland and pine forest, tracing ancient Mayan paths that once connected the region.
| Distance | Gain | Loss | Min. Altitude | Max Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26.24 mi | 4,167 ft | -6,214 ft | 4,751 ft | 7,992 ft |
Non-riders will visit Third Eye Connections, a horse farm and wellness retreat operated by local host Juliana Contreras, located within Finca Pasajinak. Here, participants will enjoy a guided horseback tour through the farm’s expansive pastures and rolling hills, taking in panoramic views of Tecpán’s green countryside.
The experience also includes a hands-on dairy tour, where visitors can interact with the farm’s young calves —and explore the full cycle of artisanal cheese production. Guests will get an inside look at the craftsmanship behind the farm’s cheeses.
In the evening, we’ll unwind at El Remanso, a serene eco-lodge tucked into the pine-covered hills just outside of Tecpán. Each couple will enjoy their own private A-frame bungalow, with rustic charm, wood-burning fireplaces, and views of the forest. The lodge also features a wood-fired sauna and a jacuzzi, ideal for relaxing tired muscles after a full day of activity.
Day 5 – Tuesday, November 4
Tecpán to Lake Atitlán
Ride from the mountains of Tecpán down to the shores of Lake Atitlán. This full-day point-to-point ride covers 32 miles with over 8,700 feet of descent. A picnic lunch and full vehicle support are provided. After the ride, board a private boat to your lakeside bungalows.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch included
Accommodation: Sacred Tree, Santa Cruz La Laguna
| Distance | Gain | Loss | Min. Altitude | Max Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32.82 mi | 6,306 ft | -8,720 ft | 5,108 ft | 8,635 ft |
The centerpiece of our guiding operation, this legendary route from Tecpán to the shores of Lake Atitlán traces the historic trade path of the Kaqchikel Maya, connecting the highlands to the Atitlán Caldera. It’s a ride that blends cultural history, rugged landscapes, and backcountry adventure into one unforgettable day.
Starting high in the pine-forested mountains of Tecpán, the route descends through a wild network of spidering dry canyons, eventually finishing at the shores of Lake Atitlán. At 32 miles, this is the longest ride of the trip—but it’s also one of the most rewarding, offering breathtaking views and a taste of off-the-beaten-path Mayan towns.
Our ride is fully supported by 4×4 vehicles, and we’ll pause midday for a picnic lunch in a scenic halfway spot. For those who prefer to conserve energy, there’s an optional shuttle available for the final stretch through the Río Madre Vieja Canyon—a steep, demanding descent known to be a true leg-burner.
This point-to-point journey crosses departments and has taken years to scout, refine, and build in partnership with local communities.
Non Riders
San Antonio
Palopó Cultural hike and Weaving Tour
Non-riders will shuttle directly to Lake Atitlan after breakfast where you’ll visit the weaving village of San Antonio Palopó, followed by a hike to a local waterfall.
Perched dramatically on the cliffs of Lake Atitlán’s southeastern shore, San Antonio Palopó is a traditional fishing village known for its rich weaving traditions and enduring Mayan heritage. Here residents continue to uphold ancestral customs—from farming steep terraces to weaving traditional clothing.
On this cultural immersion hike, you’ll ascend through terraced hillsides where onions and vegetables have been cultivated for centuries. Along the way, observe local farmers tending their crops on sheer slopes with spectacular lake views, and see ancient Mayan irrigation systems that distribute water evenly across the terraces.
After returning to town, you’ll visit a local women’s weaving cooperative, where artisans create intricate textiles using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
Here, you’ll witness the creation of the “güipil” a richly embroidered blouse worn by Indigenous women across Guatemala. These wide blouses feature distinctive patterns and embroidery that vary from village to village, each design reflecting the identity of a specific Maya community.
Get up close with the local weavers as they work thread by thread on handmade backstrap looms, crafting garments that can take up to a month to complete. This hands-on cultural experience offers a rare glimpse into daily life and local artistry of the women of Guatemala.
Hospedaje
Sacred Tree Bungalows
Located a private property on the shores of Lake Atitlan on the western side near the village of Santa Cruz. Sacred Tree is a newly constructed retreat center with modern bungalows each featuring a jacuzzi, small kitchenette, king-size bed, and hammocks for lounging. The property is yours for the next three days and includes a swimming pool as well as Temescal or Mayan sauna.
Explore hikes available right out your back door, borrow kayaks or stand-up paddle boards (included) for a morning paddle, or simply lounge by the pool.
Day 6 – Wednesday, November 5
Rest Day at Lake Atitlán
Today is yours to spend as you wish. You can relax at the lodge or take advantage of optional activities. Kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are available at no extra charge. There are also short hiking trails nearby if you’d prefer to explore on foot. Meals are not included, but several lakeside restaurants are within walking distance.
Accommodation: Sacred Tree, Santa Cruz La Laguna
Day 7 – Thursday, November 6
Riders: Lake Atitlán Oeste Ride
Start the day with a cross-country ride along the western highlands of Lake Atitlán. You’ll travel in 4×4 support vehicles to trail access points. The ride includes approximately 20 miles with a final 4000ft singletrack descent. All equipment, snacks, and lunch are included. In the evening, enjoy a chef-prepared farewell dinner at Sacred Tree.
Non-Riders: San Juan La Laguna Visit
In the afternoon, you’ll visit San Juan La Laguna, a town known for its murals and artisan cooperatives. A guide will walk you through the main streets and art installations. You’ll return to the lodge by boat in time for the final group dinner.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner included
Accommodation: Sacred Tree, Santa Cruz La Laguna
| Distance | Gain | Loss | Min. Altitude | Max Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18.85.mi | 4,098 ft | -6,512 ft | 5,118 ft | 8,694 ft |
In the morning we will ascend one of the steepest roads at the lake (By 4×4!) Climbing up from the shores of Lake Atitlán. Our route follows the Mesoamerican route in San José Chacayá traversing through its famous onion terraces dating back to 500AD.
Along the northwest rim of Lake Atitlán our route follows cliffs with impressive views of volcanoes Atitlán, Tolimán and San Pedro. We will pass through the forests of Santa Lucía Utitlán, a large pine reserve and eco-park.
Our descent follows one of the original routes of the Maya to reach the lake finishing with the rest of the group at San Juan la Laguna.
-San Juan Mural Tour-
Nestled along the shores of Lake Atitlán, San Juan is a Tz’utujil Mayan town known for its commitment to tradition, community, and stunning visual storytelling through public art.
Our tour begins with a guided walk through the town’s colorful streets, where you’ll explore San Juan’s iconic murals—a powerful expression of Mayan identity, history, and daily life. Each mural tells a story, and your local guide will share the meaning and symbolism behind the art, offering insights into the spiritual beliefs, folklore, and contemporary struggles of the Tz’utujil people.
Day 8 – Friday, November 7
Transfer to Antigua or Guatemala City
After breakfast, take a private boat across the lake to Panajachel. From there, a private shuttle will take you to either Antigua or Guatemala City. The transfer takes approximately four hours depending on destination and traffic. There are no planned activities for the afternoon. You’ll have time to rest or prepare for departure.
Meals: Not included
Accommodation: Client-arranged
Mountain Bike Guatemala
Tecpán, Guatemala
Tecpán, Guatemala
+1-555-770-3122 (whatsapp)
+1-347-403-9993 (Call / Text)
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