Ultimate guide for corporate retreats in Guatemala

The dry season (November-April) offers the best weather for outdoor activities and exploration. Events outside of this time are still possible, but there may be travel and activity cancellations due to the weather. Many venues offer low-season discounts, which can be ideal for more intimate indoor events such as meditation retreats or yoga retreats.

Guatemala’s range of retreat venues includes boutique hotels, forest retreat centers, lakeside resorts, and colonial-style venues. In a nod to Mayan traditions, many venues have well-being features like a sauna or yoga classes, and can provide business facilities such as meeting spaces and wifi (although this may be slower than you’re used to, especially in rural venues).

Budgets typically range from $100 to $300 per person per day, making it an affordable yet high-quality setting for a retreat. Many venues offer great-value packages that will allow you to create a luxury event for less money than you may think.

Popular activities include hiking volcanoes, lake boat rides, and unique events like weaving workshops or a Mayan fire ceremony. It’s also possible to organize adventure options like zip-lining, canyoning and lake kayaking. Many venues, especially those around Lake Atitlán, focus on self-discovery activities like mindfulness sessions and daily yoga classes.

While Spanish is the official language, English is spoken in most major tourist and business areas, ensuring smooth communication for international teams.

Flights to Guatemala arrive at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. Private shuttles and domestic flights provide onward travel options to retreat venues in more remote areas.

• Antigua: A compact and colorful colonial city with charming venues, volcano views and cultural experiences.
• Lake Atitlán: Serene lakeside retreats with stunning views in small towns like Panajachel or San Marcos La Laguna.
• Tikal: One of the key centres for the Maya empire is now a lush jungle location offering historical and adventure activities.
• Guatemala City: The largest city in Central America is a modern urban hub with excellent facilities.

Most visitors from the U.S., EU, and Canada do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. Verify specific requirements for participants based on their nationality.

Guatemalan cuisine focuses on fresh and nourishing foods, including lots of tropical fruits and vegetables. Menus feature local dishes like pepian (spiced stew), pupusas, and empanadas as well as local seafood and meats. Many venues offer a mix of local and international options to suit diverse tastes and diets. They may be able to organize special meals such as a traditional Mayan feast.

Guatemalan culture is built around hospitality and respect for traditions. Business settings are often formal, but social interactions during retreats are more relaxed and friendly.

Many venues in Guatemala have an eco-friendly approach, using solar energy and permaculture farming as well as supporting community projects. Booking one of these venues will align with your sustainability goals, and organizing a retreat focused on relaxation and personal growth ensures you are looking after employee wellbeing.

Explore our PDF guide to retreat venues in Guatemala for additional venue ideas, regional inspiration, and examples of the types of properties available for group retreats. It was published in September 2020, so some venue details may have changed, but it's still a requested item, and it remains a useful resource for discovering locations and shaping your shortlist. For the most up-to-date options, feel free to visit our explore page, use our AI Coplanner or contact a retreat success advisor.