Top Add-On Adventures in Guatemala Before or After Your Fishing Trip
One thing that makes the world-class sailfish fishing in Guatemala accessible and desirable is that it’s so easy to get there. With direct flights from many US and Canadian cities, you can be there in 3-4 hours. Casa Vieja Lodge picks you up in a Mercedes Sprinter and a few hours later you’re poolside, imbibing a frozen drink, hearing stories of what happened on the water that day – and preparing to wrestle with billfish the next day.
But it’s fair to ask: If you’re flying all the way to Guatemala, shouldn’t you see more of it while you’re there? We think so. In our experience, the people are incredibly friendly, and the country is packed with Guatemalan culture, scenery, and adventure.
In 2023, we explored Antigua Guatemala and hiked Pacaya Volcano before the fishing began. In 2024, after three days and 60+ sailfish, we relaxed at Lake Atitlán with our friends Lisa and Carl Vicars.
For our 2026 trip, we won’t have time to explore after fishing — we’re heading straight to Nashville for the SCI show — but we’re already thinking ahead to 2027 (or maybe late 2026 if we just can’t stay away). Here are a few spots we’re eyeing for future Guatemala fishing trip add-ons – a chance to better understand what has rapidly become one of our favorite countries.
A no-brainer for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Wander among thousands of ancient Mayan ruins dating back over 2,900 years, deep in the lush jungle. Travelers seem to unanimously agree that the towering temples and rich wildlife make it one of Central America’s most awe-inspiring archaeological sites.
We can’t get enough of jungle locales and climates, and by taking a boat ride along the Rio Dulce we’ll get to visit Livingston, a Garífuna town on the Caribbean coast known for its Afro-Caribbean culture, music, and cuisine – an aspect of the Guatemalan scene we’ve yet to experience and that many others miss.
This area of central Guatemala consists of a series of limestone bridges and caves, punctuated by crystal-clear turquoise pools. It’s a bit remote, but that’s the point – a chance to relax and decompress.
I hadn’t even heard of Guatemala’s second-largest city until I started looking for this blog. While we enjoyed Antigua, it was a bit overrun with gringos. This should be a little bit less touristy, providing a chance to immerse ourselves in authentic Mayan culture and markets, while also enjoying volcano hikes and hot springs.
Ready to experience the world-class sailfish fishing at Casa Vieja Lodge and explore the incredible sights of Guatemala? Whether you want to add a cultural adventure, natural wonder, or relaxing getaway before or after your fishing trip, we’re here to help craft your perfect itinerary. Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable Guatemalan fishing adventure!
