SPIRITUAL • STORYTELLING • HEALING

Guatemala: Galentine’s Day Flowers, Fire, & Freedom

Dates: February 7 - 15, 2026

What is in Guatemala?

Our Guatemala trip is designed to sweep you into a world of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable adventures. Picture yourself exploring ancient Maya temples hidden in the jungle, sailing across the sparkling waters of Lake Atitlán, and wandering the cobblestone streets of Antigua, a city that feels like stepping back in time. Along the way, you’ll meet warm, welcoming locals, taste rich Guatemalan coffee right at the source, and discover colorful markets overflowing with life. Guatemala is a place that captures your heart — and this journey is crafted to make every moment count.

Why Guatemala is calling

Cacao Ceremony

A cacao ceremony is included in your journey—and it’s one of the most soulful experiences in Guatemala. Rooted in ancient Maya tradition, the ceremony invites you to slow down, sip warm, stone-ground cacao, and connect with intention.

Volcanoes

This active volcano lets you walk across cooled lava fields, feel the heat rising from the earth, and—yes—toast marshmallows on the volcanic rocks. The views are wild, the energy is raw, and the experience is unforgettable. It’s nature at its most powerful, and you’re right in the middle of it.

Food Heaven

It’s a feast for your senses, and every meal tells a story. From rich, smoky pepian stew to banana-leaf wrapped tamales, every bite is steeped in tradition and flavor. Sip fresh-roasted coffee in the highlands, snack on street-side chiles rellenos in Antigua, and don’t miss the handmade chocolate that traces its roots back to the ancient Maya.

ACCOMODATIONS

Where we will stay

We select luxury hotels and lodges that value the environment and sustainability practices. Every hotel selected on our itinerary is powered by solar energy.

We partner with a boutique that’s more than just a beautiful place to stay—it’s a force for good. Every night you spend there helps fund local education programs through Niños de Guatemala, a foundation that provides schooling for over 600 children who wouldn’t otherwise have access to it.

The hotel also runs a hands-on hospitality training program, offering classroom learning and paid work experience to locals looking to build careers in tourism. So when you stay there, you’re not just relaxing—you’re helping send kids to school and opening doors for future tour guides, chefs, and hotel managers. It’s comfort with real impact.


THE ITINERARY

What you
will experience

  • Day 1

    Arrival in Guatemala City

    Be greeted at the airport by our local driver and transported to your hotel. Check into your accommodation and meet fellow travelers.

  • Day 2

    Cooking Class

    Take the 4x4 pick-up to the afternoon cooking class at a family-owned cooking school, Cuscun School. Learn how to make hand-made tortillas and amazing traditional dishes.

  • Day 3

    Antigua Tours and Ninos De Guatemala

    Enjoy a walking tour of Antigua with our guide, Tania! Explore all the highlights, including Cerro de la Cruz, and see a panoramic view of Antigua up high. Pass by the beautiful Iglesia del Merced, Plaza Central, and additional city highlights.

    Sit and learn how to make a Worry Doll, and hear from Doña Rose the legends and history of quitapenas. Enjoy this experience and leave with your hand-made worry doll.

  • Day 4

    Antigua: Jade Museum and Artisan Market

    Visit the Jade Museum and uncover the history of this rare stone treasured by the Maya. Choose a custom piece of jewelry to take home as a one-of-a-kind memory.

    Wander through Antigua’s artisan market filled with colorful textiles, hand-embroidered bags, ceramics, and more. It is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs while supporting local Maya artisans.

    In the evening, join a lively salsa class with a local couple and pick up moves that will make your nights in Antigua unforgettable.

  • Day 5

    Lake Atitlán, Santa Catarina

    Relax on a scenic drive to Lake Atitlán with stops at the ancient ruins of Iximché and a delicious meal at a local Maya-owned restaurant.

    Stay in the lively lakeside town of Panajachel. Ride in a 4x4 to Santa Catarina, stroll its colorful streets, visit the historic church, and dive into Maya culture at the community center.

    Spend the afternoon at Reserva Natural Atitlán with its lakeshore trails, hanging bridges, and a chance to zip across the canopy. For the ultimate thrill, take on the X-Tremors zip lines with expert guides and world-class safety standards.

  • Day 6

    San Marcos & San Juan La Laguna

    Begin your day with a Mayan reading led by a local shaman at Lake Atitlán. Connect with the elements of fire, air, water, earth, and sun while cacao opens your heart and mind in a truly once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience.

    In the afternoon, take a lancha across the lake to San Juan. Discover Maya traditions, meet local artisans, and wander streets brought to life with vibrant murals and storytelling.

  • Day 7

    Antigua

    Depart early for Antigua and, if time allows, stop to enjoy fresh pupusas, a beloved Guatemalan treat.

    Meet the inspiring team at Niños de Guatemala and see how their programs are changing lives through education. Spend time with students and teachers, learn about their mission, and take part in a meaningful cultural exchange that makes a real impact.

  • Day 8

    Volcan Pacaya

    Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes and today you will hike one of its most thrilling, Volcán Pacaya. Watch lava flow and feel the ground rumble beneath your feet. Roast marshmallows on steaming rocks and savor the moment.

    In the evening, enjoy a final dinner together with local comida típica and relive the unforgettable memories of your adventure.

  • Day 9

    Departure Day

    On your final day, savor the last moments of Guatemala before bidding farewell. After checking out, enjoy a seamless airport transfer, ensuring a smooth journey back home.


The
Breakdown


What is included:

  • 9 Days of Accommodations

  • Roundtrip transportation to/from airport transfers

  • Breakfast every morning

  • Walking tour of Antigua

  • Entrance to the National Reserve in Lake Atitlan

  • Zip-lining in Lake Atitlan

  • Mayan healing Cacao Ceremony

  • Morning hike to Volcan Pacaya

  • Traditional Mayan Cooking Class

  • Salsa class in Antigua

  • All internal transportation

  • Worry doll indigenous workshop

What is not included:

  • International flights to and from Guatemala

  • Gratuities for Guides & Lodges (Suggested, up to client’s discretion)

  • Meals other than those specified in 'What's Included

  • Travel and Medical Insurance

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Other optional activities not specified above included

Total Cost: $2,350

Deposit: $450 to reserve your spot.

After that, all payments can be divided into monthly payments — no stress, no hassle, save at your leisure with the full payment completed by 30 days prior to departure.

Example Plan:

  • One Deposit of $450

  • Six Monthly Payments of $316 (auto-pay makes it effortless)

Because the trip of a lifetime and your dreams shouldn’t wait of “someday”

Guided by family

Meet Tania, born and raised in Santa Lucía, just outside the charming city of Antigua. She’s the kind of guide who feels more like your big sister from the moment you meet her. She’s got a heart wide open, a laugh that pulls you in, and a deep love for Guatemala that she shares with every story, every smile, and every step of the adventure.

She’s a total foodie, always on the hunt for the best tamales or street snacks, and she knows exactly where to take you for that perfect bite. With Tania, you’re not just exploring—you’re connecting, laughing, and experiencing Guatemala like a local, with someone who truly cares.

What our travelers are saying

  • - Sharda T.

    "The World Within Us Travels creates a unique environment with trips geared towards bringing like minded travelers together and creating a fun and flexible traveling experience for every group with personal guides. I had been watching their page for years before going on a trip with them and I wish I started sooner. The itineraries are carefully planned out that traveling is stress free and flexible enough to cater to each individual group. Definitely one of the best agencies I've ever booked with and will be booking again!"

  • - Wendy R.

    “I’ve had the pleasure of traveling with The World Within Us on three incredible journeys, and each one was a masterpiece! The trip to Guatemala was thoughtfully planned, making it easy to immerse myself in the culture while feeling safe and supported. What sets The World Within Us apart is the attention to detail and heart behind every itinerary. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, you’ll feel cared for and inspired. I wholeheartedly recommend planning your next adventure with them—you won’t regret it!”

  • - Sam O.

    “The World Within Us does a wonderful job at planning these trips and itineraries! She is very intentional with the local guides and giving back to the communities we are visiting. I love how she chooses women organizations that taught us about their culture, heritage, etc. The trip, unlike other group retreats / travel agencies, is not overwhelming or leaving you exhausted at the end as there’s plenty of time to either rest, relax, or do something lowkey.”

  • Nicole R.

    “I booked the Guatemala Latinas retreat last year and was so impressed with the ease of the trip. From my airport pickup, beautiful hotel, the excursions that were planned… EVERY LITTLE DETAIL was thought out and planned and I didn’t have to research one thing about the new place. TWWU planned a dream vacation that I would have spent days to research and plan on my own.”

Our Impact

We are also proud to support Chok'ojol Juyu, located in San Antonio Aguas Calientes, Guatemala is a vibrant cultural hub dedicated to preserving Maya heritage through traditional weaving and artisan practices. We proudly support their local projects by sending our travelers to participate in their hands-on workshops, where they learn ancestral weaving techniques directly from local artisans. It's a meaningful way to connect with the community and economically contribute to their artisan programs and skills-training.

GET STARTED

Join us in Guatemala!

If you’re interested in joining our group trip to Guatemala,
Fill out the form and submit your deposit below to secure your spot. We hope to see you there!