Photo: Paweł Wielądek / Unsplash
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Leg 3 · Lake Atitlán & the Maya highlands

Guatemala

The start of Central America: volcanic highlands, living Maya culture, and the deep blue of Lake Atitlán.

What to see

5 stops we’re not missing

  1. 01

    Lake Atitlán

    A deep volcanic lake ringed by three volcanoes and a dozen distinct Maya villages — often called one of the most beautiful lakes on Earth.

  2. 02

    Tikal

    Towering Maya temples rising above the Petén jungle canopy; Temple IV tops 70 m, among the tallest the Maya ever built.

  3. 03

    Antigua

    A UNESCO colonial city of cobblestones and ruined convents beneath three volcanoes.

  4. 04

    Acatenango

    An overnight volcano hike where you camp opposite Volcán de Fuego and watch it erupt through the night.

  5. 05

    Chichicastenango

    The largest and most famous Indigenous market in Central America, in the western highlands.

! What to watch for

  • Steep mountain roads with fog and rainy-season landslides
  • Petty theft — don’t leave the rig unattended with valuables visible
  • Avoid driving at night

⛽ Diesel & DEF

Low-sulfur diesel (LSD) is common but not always true ULSD — expect more frequent DPF regens and clogging. DEF is scarce outside cities.

🛂 Borders & permits

Quick TIP at the border; expect chaotic crossings and freelance "helpers." Budget time and small bills.

Sources & further reading

Safety notes link to the live official travel advisory — always check it before you go.