Guatemala Rivers

Guatemala

Guatemala's rivers crisscross the nation as they flow from highland areas into the country’s coastal zones. How does that create a better getaway for you? It means that you will enjoy enjoy dockside access to beautiful bodies of water if you add Guatemala's river destinations to your travel to-do list. If you're lucky, then the last time you heard the sound of a river, you might have been on a weekend rafting or fishing trip, but what if it's been longer than that? Was it when you were enjoying a beer with your friends during university? Maybe it was skipping stones during summer vacation. Rediscover the subtle allure of nature as you listen to Guatemala's rivers flow.

The journey to reach these waters is itself and adventure. Rivers, like the Río Dulce, are shrouded with dense tropical forests and host an assortment of wildlife. Other regions, such as the Río Usumacinta in Petén, pass the ruins of important Mayan cities. Meanwhile, Cobán, Alta Verapaz's Río Cahabón hosts whitewater rapids that are perfect for multi-day rafting trips. An added bonus of Guatemala's rivers? Many of these destinations have hotels set near the banks of the river, offering you even more access to fun outdoor activities, and the siren song of flowing water.

Guatemala Rivers
Destinations

Guatemala Highlights

A curated look at the best Guatemala has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.

Cobán, Alta Verapaz

Cobán, Alta Verapaz

The misty alpine town of Cobán sits within the highlands of Las Verapaces. This moderately sized town (pop. 65,000) is close to several natural attractions and has good hotel and restaurant options.

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Lanquín, Alta Verapaz

Lanquín, Alta Verapaz

Set within a lush valley in Guatemala’s Central Highlands, the small town of Lanquín is becoming well known for two attractions—the Lanquín caves and the Semuc Champey limestone pools.

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Rio Dulce

Rio Dulce

The Río Dulce flows from Lake Izabal to the Caribbean Sea, emptying its waters near the town of Lívingston. Dense jungle, some of which falls within the protection of the Río Dulce National Park, border this picturesque river. Several eco-lodges line the shores of tributaries that flow away from the Río Dulce. The town of Fronteras is set along the headwaters of the Río Dulce.

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Copán Ruinas (Honduras)

Copán Ruinas (Honduras)

The town of Copán Ruinas is located just 8 miles (13 km) across the border with Honduras. This pleasant town is set within a lush valley and abuts the Mayan site of Copán. Copán is an archeological site that houses some of the most exquisite Mayan structures known to date.

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Baja Verapaz

Baja Verapaz

Baja Verapaz is a lovely department in the Central Highlands of Guatemala. Together with Alta Verapaz, this region is collectively known as “Las Verapaces.”

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Lake Izabal

Lake Izabal

Lake Izabal is the largest lake in Guatemala. It’s still largely undeveloped, but that may change in the coming years as word gets out about its natural beauty and tranquil vibes.

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Trips to inspire

Featured Guatemala Trips

Browse our handpicked selection of Guatemala itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.

11 days | $$$

Volcanoes, Lakes, and Hot Springs

The rich history and beautiful sights blew us away! We got more than we expected from this Guatemala trip.

Volcanoes, Lakes, and Hot Springs
Guatemala
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14 days | $$

An Unforgettable Trip to Tikal

Visiting Tikal is a one of a kind experience that we recommend to anyone traveling to Guatemala. Our family is fairly active and this exploration type vacation was just what we wanted.

An Unforgettable Trip to Tikal
Guatemala
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13 days | $$$

The Colors & Culture of Guatemala

Don’t just take your family somewhere new, teach them about the world on a colorful expedition of Guatemala full of outdoor adventures, history, and cultural exchanges.

The Colors & Culture of Guatemala
Guatemala
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7 days | $$$

On the Shores of Atitlán

We were looking to celebrate my partner’s 50th birthday. Lake Atitlán blew our minds. It is one of the most beautiful places we've seen.

On the Shores of Atitlán
Guatemala
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9 days | $$$

We Dreamt. Then We Went.

When we told our family and friend that we were going to Guatemala, their first impression was your kidding. The country is not safe. Let me say we had a fantastic time from beginning to end of our trip. Guatemala has a lot to present and the country has a lot of history and the people are wonderful. I would come back again. In general I would say we had no issues with the Itinerary and the drivers of Anywhere were very professional and most of all kept us safe where ever we went. The hotels that we stayed were very nice and in safe location.

We Dreamt. Then We Went.
Guatemala
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8 days | $$$

We Journeyed Together

This had been a memorable family vacation for us. Guatemala is a beautiful country, and Anywhere welcomed us warmly from the moment we landed.

We Journeyed Together
Guatemala
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8 days | $$$

Lakeside Villages and Relaxation

My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed this lakeside getaway by Lake Atitlan. We stayed in amazing places and will be using Anywhere again as we explore more of Central America!

Lakeside Villages and Relaxation
Guatemala
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9 days | $$

A Wedding Celebration Made Better

Thank you for making my Wes and Ines's wedding so special! We were taken care of at all times and will return and only use your services!

A Wedding Celebration Made Better
Guatemala
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9 days | $$$

Colorful Cultural Adventures

Explore the world in vivid color when you make your way through Guatemala. Get outdoors, enjoy cultural exchanges, learn something new. Sample the best of Guatemala now!

Colorful Cultural Adventures
Guatemala
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5 days | $$$

Magical Sunsets of Lake Atitlán

I would recommend this trip to others from the heart! Our tour guide Leonel was just perfect! He’s super passionate about his job and went above and beyond out expectations! We fell in love with Guatemala’s culture, its people and the nature! Unforgettable experience!!

Magical Sunsets of Lake Atitlán
Guatemala
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Anywhere mission
Anywhere Guatemala

Insider-led Guatemala Design & Concierge

Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.

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Private drivers; English-speaking available.

Avoid the crowds in private day tours.

Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.

Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.

24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.

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Real Voices, Real Benefits

We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list – it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.

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