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Guatemala archaeology vacations

Guatemala archaeology vacations
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You’ll hear Guatemala’s sites described as “ruins” — but it’s hard to imagine these sites as ruined. The temples of Tikal and Copán still tower majestically over the rainforest. Best of all, you’re allowed to climb the stepped faces of these monuments, and survey your surroundings from the vantage of Maya royalty.

PLAN A VACATION SEE ARCHEOLOGICAL SITES IN GUATEMALA

Guatemala has an incredible assortment of archeological sites. At these sites, you can walk around and inspect ruins that are over 2,000 years old. There are Mayan ball courts, hieroglyphic carvings, huge stelae, and stepped pyramids . Your knowledgeable guides will be able to explain the symbolism in Maya hieroglyphs and tell the dramatic stories of how these city-states rose to power.

Trips to inspire

Browse some of our favorite itineraries

Get excited and browse our selection of our favorite hand made tours from around the world. From romantic honeymoons to family-fun; these are completely flexible and arranged to your needs.

10 daysFrom $2,142 per person

Friends Vacation Exploring Mayan Ruins

I think efforts are being made, and change can be slow. People are aware of the problems of pollution in the air and lake.

Friends Vacation Exploring Mayan Ruins

Guatemala

14 daysFrom $1,475 per person

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

13 daysFrom $2,119 per person

Active Couple Mayan Culture Explorer

We loved GUATEMALA. This was our first visit to Central America and found the country intriguing, complex, and exciting. Hope to visit Central America and South America in the future. Would definitely recommend traveling to Guatemala for friends and family.

Active Couple Mayan Culture Explorer

Guatemala

12 daysInquire

Heart of The Mayan World

I would warn them about the deceptive practices of Casa Azul though about the stocking and charges of the alcohol in the fridge. No warning at check in. No signage on fridge. Not locked. No tally sheet. No warning or heads up by Anywhere. I have never had to pay for alcohol before. ($92. U.S.) There was a store a few doors away. My only complaint about this hotel. I would stay there again. I just wouldn't be tricked twice.

Heart of The Mayan World

Guatemala

15 daysInquire

Live, Laugh, Love in Guatemala

Rediscover your passion for adventure and each other when you make your way through beautiful Guatemala. Sample a little of everything –– from ruins to cuisine.

Live, Laugh, Love in Guatemala

Guatemala

9 daysInquire

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

14 daysInquire

An Expedition in Guatemala & Belize

You’re an intrepid traveler with an explorer’s spirit –– it’s time to make your way through the wild heart of Guatemala and Belize. This vacation, walk with the ancients.

An Expedition in Guatemala & Belize

Guatemala

6 daysFrom $974 per person

This is the Jungle? Ohh La La!

Take the children on an exciting adventure without sacrificing your comfort. Spend time outdoors, then enjoy high thread count linens, swimming pools, and private transportation.

This is the Jungle? Ohh La La!

Guatemala

9 daysInquire

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

8 daysFrom $1,194 per person

Enchanting Highlights of Guatemala

Guatemala was an enchanting country to visit, and Anywhere presented a fun-filled, scenic, and cultural experience beyond our expectations.

Enchanting Highlights of Guatemala

Guatemala

13 daysFrom $1,261 per person

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

9 daysFrom $1,102 per person

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

Top experiences

Maya ruins day trips

Tikal, Yaxhá and Topoxté from Flores, and Iximché from Antigua. See all Guatemala Maya ruins tours, archaeology tours and history tours.

Yaxhá One Day
ArcheologyBestGuided Tours2+

Yaxhá is the third largest Mayan site in Guatemala, but due to its seclusion, it tends to lack large crowds. Enjoy a visit to Yaxhá (including both the ruins and nearby jungle) during this one-day tour.

Iximche Mayan Cosmology and Archaeology Tour
ArcheologyBestGuided Tours1+

This tour brings travelers to the Postclassic Mayan site of Iximché. Iximché was once a Kaqchikel capital and today it’s still used in many Mayan ceremonies.

Iximché Ruins and Surrounding Towns Tour
ArcheologyBestCultural2+

This tour explores the Mayan ruins of Iximché and a few surrounding towns in the area.

Antigua Walking Tour
BestCity TourGuided Tours3+

La Antigua is one of Guatemala’s most charming and historic cities. During this half-day walking tour you’ll visit some of Antigua’s best sites.

Antigua One Day
City TourGuided ToursHistoric2+

Antigua is one of Guatemala’s most lovely and historic cities. During this tour you’ll visit some of its best sights.Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Antigua Guatemala and its picturesque surroundings on this full-day guided tour. From colonial landmarks to artisan villages, this experience offers the perfect balance of history, architecture, and local traditions. Morning Walking Tour in Antigua Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of Antigua as your expert guide takes you to iconic landmarks, including: Central Park, San Francisco Church, The Cathedral, La Merced Afternoon Scenic Drive to Nearby Villages In the afternoon, relax as we drive through the beautiful countryside, visiting traditional villages known for their handicrafts and rich cultural heritage: Ciudad Vieja – Guatemala’s first capital San Antonio Aguas Calientes – Famous for its intricate handmade textiles and weaving traditions San Felipe – Home to charming local markets and historic sites

From Antigua to Tikal National Park
ArcheologyGuided ToursRuins

Discover the awe-inspiring ruins of Tikal, one of the most important archaeological sites of the ancient Mayan civilization, on this hassle-free day tour from Antigua. Your journey begins with a comfortable transfer from Antigua to the airport, where you will board a flight to Flores, Petén. Upon arrival, embark on a guided collective tour of Tikal, exploring its majestic temples, towering pyramids, and lush jungle surroundings. Learn about the fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site from an expert guide. Enjoy a delicious lunch before heading back to the airport for your return flight to Guatemala City, followed by a transfer back to Antigua.

LOTS OF OPTIONS

There are lots of archeological sites to choose from — talk to us about what you’re looking for so we can help you pick the right ones. If you want to see archeological sites but also go birding, we'll set you up with a list of places to visit in Petén. Combine archeological excursions with beach time on the Pacific Slope when you visit the site of Takalik Abaj. You can see incredible wildlife as you hike through the Maya Biosphere Reserve, and follow a hiking trail to sites like El Mirador, Yaxhá, and Uaxactún.

CAVES AND THE MAYA UNDERWORLD

Archaeological sites are found outside of Maya cities as well. Some of Guatemala’s caves have significant archaeological significance as well, and the Maya believed that caves served as the entrance to the underworld. Go on a caving expedition to see another element of Maya culture.

MAYA HOSPITALITY

On your archeological expeditions you can stay in comfortable hotels that are close to Maya sites. You can also find simple accommodations and campgrounds inside Tikal National Park. Let us know how close to nature you want to be on this trip, and we’ll find you the perfect accommodations.

Recommended for archaeology trips

Maya Destinations

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Guatemala Cultural Tours

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Guatemala Bird Watching Tours

Guatemala has more than 700 different species of birds living within its borders...

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.

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