Guatemala: Day of the Dead Tour – Fall 2025
- Ko'ox Maya Tours
- Jun 3
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 4
October 30 – November 6.
Join Ko’ox Maya Tours for an unforgettable journey through the highlands of Guatemala during one of the most vibrant and meaningful times of the year: the Day of the Dead! This one-of-a-kind tour blends living Maya traditions, stunning highland landscapes, and a touch of archaeology, all wrapped into a week of culture, history, and celebration.
Every November 1st, in the cemeteries of Sumpango in the Sacatepéquez region of Guatemala, families gather from all over the country, bringing bright orange flowers to honor their dead. But the real excitement begins when the brilliantly colored kites take flight. The Sumpango Giant Kite Festival happens only on this one special day—and some of these incredible kites can reach up to 16 feet square!
Come and join us for a fun, fascinating tour through the highlands of Guatemala!
Unlike most of our trips, which usually focus on the incredible archaeological treasures of the ancient Maya world, this tour is mostly dedicated to exploring the living Maya culture—in the highlands of Guatemala and the quaint villages surrounding Antigua and Lake Atitlán. Our itinerary is planned around the festivities of the Day of the Dead, and it will truly be a spectacular experience! We’ll also visit the beautifully decorated local cemeteries dressed in their finest for this meaningful occasion.
Starting in Antigua, a charming town known for its Spanish Colonial architecture, we’ll also visit several indigenous villages around Lake Atitlán and the historic highlands market in Chichicastenango, one of the most colorful and magical towns in the region.
And of course, no Dan Griffin tour would be complete without a little archaeology! We’ll visit just two sites: Mixco Viejo and Iximche. Iximche, located in the western highlands, was the capital of the Late Postclassic Kaqchikel Maya from 1470 until its abandonment in 1524.
This is a well-rounded adventure that highlights some of the very best the Guatemalan highlands have to offer. There will also be plenty of opportunities to purchase beautiful textiles and local art directly from artisans—a meaningful way to bring this cultural experience home with you. 😊
Guatemala: Day of the Dead Tour – Itinerary
Day 1 – Oct 30 Arrive in Guatemala City and settle in for the night, readying yourself for the incredible adventure ahead. We’ll greet you at the airport and get you comfortably checked in. Sleep in Guatemala City.
Day 2 – Oct 31
Travel to Mixco Viejo for a guided tour of this ancient Maya site before continuing to Antigua. Stroll the cobblestone streets, admire the Spanish Colonial architecture, and soak in the lively atmosphere. We’ll stay two nights here, using Antigua as our base to explore the region’s charming villages, famed for their rich textile traditions and local artisans. Sleep in Antigua.
Day 3 – Nov 1
Experience the Sumpango Giant Kite Festival—a once-a-year spectacle of color and culture—and visit the decorated cemeteries, immersed in Day of the Dead traditions. This unforgettable day will stay with you long after the trip ends! Sleep in Antigua. Watch the video below to learn more about the festival:
Day 4 – Nov 2
Drive to Chichicastenango for a guided tour of the historic highlands market, renowned for its colorful textiles and handicrafts. Enjoy free time for shopping before we continue to Panajachel, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Atitlán, where we’ll stay three nights. Sleep in Panajachel.
Day 5 – Nov 3
Boat across Lake Atitlán to visit the indigenous villages of Santiago and San Juan, each with its own distinctive character. Santiago is especially famous for its vibrant textiles.
Sleep in Panajachel.
Day 6 – Nov 4
On the way back to Antigua, we’ll stop at the ruins of Iximche, the former Kaqchikel Maya capital. We’ll also visit one of the region’s top coffee plantations to learn about the coffee-making process — and enjoy a tasting of Guatemala’s world-famous brew! Sleep in Antigua.
Day 7 – Nov 5
Spend our final day exploring some of the charming villages around Lake Atitlán and Antigua, or visit the Santo Domingo Museum to view Maya artifacts from the Petén. Alternatively, enjoy a free afternoon to relax or wander more of Antigua’s delights.
Sleep in Antigua.
Day 8 – Nov 6
Transfer to the airport for your departure.
Our Hotels
Guatemala City: Barcelo
Antigua: Villa Colonial Hotel
Panajachel: Posada de Don Rodrigo
Hotels may vary depending on availability for our group.
Flights
Plan to arrive in Guatemala City on October 30, 2025, and depart on November 6, 2025.
What’s Included
· Transportation, lodging, guides, all meals, entrance fees, and tips
· All group activities and cultural experiences
· You’re only responsible for alcoholic drinks and souvenirs!
Not included: Round-trip airfare to Guatemala City and personal expenses.
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