This week on Winging It Travel Podcast, I'm taking you along with me to the breathtaking Lake Atitlán in Guatemala! After an epic volcano hike in Antigua, it was time to slow things down by the water. I’ll be sharing my experience staying in Panajachel, exploring the charming to…🌎 Episode Overview:
This week on Winging It Travel Podcast, I'm taking you along with me to the breathtaking Lake Atitlán in Guatemala! After an epic volcano hike in Antigua, it was time to slow things down by the water. I’ll be sharing my experience staying in Panajachel, exploring the charming town of San Pedro, finding incredible coffee spots, and my disappointment at missing out on paragliding (don’t worry, I’m already planning a return trip!). I’ve got tips on getting around the lake, hostel recommendations, must-try cafés, and why you’ll want way more than two days here.
🎧 In This Episode I Talk About:
• How I got from Antigua to Lake Atitlán
• What it was like staying at Selina Hostel in Panajachel
• The best coffee shops I discovered in Panajachel and San Pedro
• A hidden café gem you have to check out in San Pedro
• My favourite local restaurant find
• Hostels that are perfect whether you want to party or chill out
• What happened when I tried (and failed) to go paragliding
• How to navigate the public boats like a pro
• Why I totally underestimated how long you should stay here
🏡 Places I Visited:
• Selina Hostel Panajachel
• Cafe Loco (Panajachel)
• Tornado’s Café (San Pedro)
• Jakku Restaurant (San Pedro)
Recommended Hostels
• Mr. Mullet’s Hostel (San Pedro)
• Dreamboat Hostel (San Pedro)
• Free Cerveza Hostel (Santa Cruz La Laguna)
🎒 Travel Tips I Learned:
• Always check wind conditions for paragliding (even if the weather looks good!)
• Booking boats directly at the dock is easy — a little Spanish goes a long way
• Two days isn’t enough — plan for a longer stay if you can!
Timestamps
00:00 Welcome to the Winging It Travel Podcast
00:30 Exploring Lake Atitlán: Arrival and Accommodations
01:54 Activities and Local Culture at Lake Atitlán
04:15 Cafes, Dining, and Social Scene
07:10 Adventures and Recommendations for Future Visits
09:31 Wrap-Up and Future Travel Plans
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This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Smart Travel Podcast
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
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In Part 2 of our special on-location episode from the Caribbean paradise of Antigua and Barbuda, David and Tim dive into the island’s vibrant culinary and cultural scene. From beachside fine dining to downtown street food and a deep dive into local rum history, this episode is a flavor-packed guide …In Part 2 of our special on-location episode from the Caribbean paradise of Antigua and Barbuda, David and Tim dive into the island’s vibrant culinary and cultural scene. From beachside fine dining to downtown street food and a deep dive into local rum history, this episode is a flavor-packed guide to the best bites, sips, and experiences across the islands.
Find out more about visiting Antigua and Barbuda here.
In This Episode:
• A deep dive into the Eat ‘N’ Lime Food Tour in the capital of St. John’s, including stops for fungi, goat water, roti, and a Rastafarian vegan café
• Tasting traditional and globally inspired dishes at Loose Cannon Beach Club, managed by a UK-trained chef and set right on Galleon Beach with a DJ, saxophonist, and unbeatable vibes
• Dining cliffside at the stunning Sheer Rocks restaurant, known for its tapas journey, poolside cocktails, and sunset views at Cocobay Resort
• A visit to the Academy of Rum, where you can learn the history of Antiguan rum and even blend your own bottle to take home
• Experiencing the legendary Sunday party at Shirley Heights, with unbeatable views, smoky barbecue, and steel pan sounds
Our Favourite Places to Stay:
• Tamarind Hills Resort: Hillside villas, ocean views, private plunge pools, and luxury living on Frye’s Beach
• Curtain Bluff: Classic luxury meets beachfront relaxation, perfect for families or couples
• Boone’s Point Estate: Private villas curated by a top luxury hotelier, ideal for groups seeking total seclusion
• Cocobay Resort: A romantic, adults-only hideaway with pastel cottages, plunge pools, and sunset views
This episode is supported by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.
Plan your trip
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Follow Us & Stay Connected:
Instagram: @voyascapemedia
Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Smart Travel Podcast
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com.
For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.
My Antigua, Guatemala Travel Guide: Budget Tips, Awesome Activities, Low-Cost Hotels and Great Coffee
Welcome back to the Winging It Travel Podcast — your go-to show for spontaneous adventures, budget travel tips, and honest tales from the road. I’m your host James, and this week I’m taking you to …My Antigua, Guatemala Travel Guide: Budget Tips, Awesome Activities, Low-Cost Hotels and Great Coffee
Welcome back to the Winging It Travel Podcast — your go-to show for spontaneous adventures, budget travel tips, and honest tales from the road. I’m your host James, and this week I’m taking you to one of the most photogenic and culturally rich cities in Central America: Antigua, Guatemala. This charming colonial town is a favorite stop for backpackers, digital nomads, and curious travelers looking to soak up history, sip incredible coffee, and explore some epic volcanoes.
In this solo episode, I break down everything you need to know about spending 5 days in Antigua — from getting there, finding budget-friendly accommodation, navigating local transportation, and, of course, where to eat and drink some of the best coffee in Guatemala. I also share my experience with one of the best lookout points in Central America, a unique coffee farm tour that supports local growers, and a quick recap of the Acatenango Volcano hike, which I covered in full detail in the last two week’s episode. Whether you're just passing through or planning to stay a while, this episode is packed with practical travel tips and inspiration to help you make the most of your time in Antigua.
🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:
• Ox Expeditions (for Acatenango hike)
• Gecko Explorer (for shuttles)
• La Casita de Angie & Hotel Casa Del Cerro (budget hotels)
• Delahente Coffee Farm Tour
• Free Walking Tour via GuruWalk
• My favorite cafes: Fat Cat, Fernando’s, Abole, Onzas, and more!
⏰ Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro: Why Antigua Guatemala?
01:30 – How to Get to Antigua from Guatemala City or El Salvador
03:10 – Currency Tips + Getting Around Town
04:25 – Budget Accommodation in Antigua
06:15 – Best Cafes + Local & International Food Spots
09:00 – Daily Budget Breakdown for Backpackers
10:15 – Top Activities: Santa Catalina Arch, Central Park, & Free Walking Tour
12:40 – Stunning Views from Cerro de la Cruz Lookout
14:20 – Coffee Farm Tour: A Hidden Gem You Shouldn’t Miss
16:00 – Acatenango Volcano Hike Recap & Extra Tips
18:00 – Safety, Language, Digital Nomads & Final Thoughts
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
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Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
In this special two-part episode of Travel in 10, your hosts David Brodie and Tim Johnson record for the first time on location—from the stunning Tamarind Hills Resort in Antigua and Barbuda. Famous for its 365 beaches (one for every day of the year), this Caribbean paradise offers so much more beyo…In this special two-part episode of Travel in 10, your hosts David Brodie and Tim Johnson record for the first time on location—from the stunning Tamarind Hills Resort in Antigua and Barbuda. Famous for its 365 beaches (one for every day of the year), this Caribbean paradise offers so much more beyond its shoreline.
In Part 1, David and Tim explore the vibrant culture and music that define the island, featuring exclusive interviews with some of Antigua’s most celebrated musicians including Soca star CP and steelpan master Khan Cordice. From beach bars and live music to deep-rooted traditions and the rhythm of Carnival, this episode gets to the heart of what makes Antigua truly unique.
Find out more about visiting Antigua and Barbuda here.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
• 🎶 The evolution of Soca music and its roots in Calypso
• 🥁 A behind-the-scenes look at the steelpan tradition with the Hell’s Gate Steel Orchestra
• 💃 How Antigua’s hotels celebrate local culture through live music and performance
• 🏰 Historical insights from Nelson’s Dockyard & Clarence House
• 🐢 Underwater adventures including sea turtles, stingrays & scooter snorkeling
• 🏖️ Beachside relaxation and unbeatable Caribbean views
• 🛥️ Sailing, snorkeling, and why this is Tim’s fifth time back!
Our Favourite Places to Stay:
• Tamarind Hills Resort: Hillside villas, ocean views, private plunge pools, and luxury living on Frye’s Beach
• Curtain Bluff: Classic luxury meets beachfront relaxation, perfect for families or couples
• Boone’s Point Estate: Private villas curated by a top luxury hotelier, ideal for groups seeking total seclusion
• Cocobay Resort: A romantic, adults-only hideaway with pastel cottages, plunge pools, and sunset views
🎧 Episode Highlights Include:
• First-hand perspectives from musicians shaping Antigua’s cultural scene
• Scooter snorkeling and sea life sightings at Galleon Beach
• Nelson’s Dockyard, UNESCO heritage, and colonial stories
• The magic of Antigua after dark with steel drums and Soca beats
💡 Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and follow us for more travel inspiration!
🔗 Follow Us & Stay Connected:
📷 Instagram: @voyascapemedia
🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music
This episode was supported by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority. Some links above are affiliate links, which help support the show at no cost to you.
Mentioned in this episode:
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com.
For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
🎙️ Episode Title: We Hiked Acatenango to See Fuego and Chaos Ensued for Nick!
So we climbed Acatenango together… and that was already intense. But then Nick decided to go one volcano further — literally. Nick and I met in El Salvador, travelled to Antigua in Guatemala, and decided to hike the Acate…🎙️ Episode Title: We Hiked Acatenango to See Fuego and Chaos Ensued for Nick!
So we climbed Acatenango together… and that was already intense. But then Nick decided to go one volcano further — literally. Nick and I met in El Salvador, travelled to Antigua in Guatemala, and decided to hike the Acatenango Volcano together.
In this funny, honest episode, we recount our wild trek up Guatemala’s Volcán Acatenango — a two-day grind through steep trails, freezing nights, and jaw-dropping views. But the real twist? While most sane people watched Fuego erupt from a safe distance, Nick hiked straight toward it with a group in tow.
Yup. He dropped down the saddle and made the bonus climb to stand just a few hundred meters from one of the most active volcanoes in the world — Volcán de Fuego — while it erupted.
For an extra bit of money, you can add a hike to Fuego when you get to base camp, and Nick shares his stories, the good and bad of what to expect when you climb. Nick left at 5 pm for Fuego and did not return until nearly midnight, so there is much to discuss! It should have only taken 3-5 hours, so it didn't go quite as planned.
🏕️ From campfire laughs to hiking-induced delirium and Nick’s death-defying detour, this episode is full of high-altitude absurdity, heart-racing adventure, and a whole lot of ash.
Whether you’re curious about hiking Acatenango, dreaming of volcano views, or just want to hear a story about a guy willingly walking towards an erupting mountain... this one’s a ride.
To add to the drama, there is some great content in here about hiking Acatenango and Fuego in general, so if this is something on your bucket list, you could learn a few things from this episode.
🔥 What’s Inside:
• The Acatenango climb: expectations vs. reality
• Camp life at 3,600m: freezing temps, volcanic light shows, and hot noodles
• Nick’s wild decision to summit Fuego — and what he saw up there
• The sounds, sights, and full sensory chaos of a volcano erupting nearby
• Advice for anyone thinking of doing the hike (and the Fuego add-on)
• A reminder that the best stories come from slightly bad ideas
🎧 Ideal for listeners who love:
• Real, raw, and ridiculous travel stories
• Volcano hiking in Guatemala
• Backpacking comedy with an edge of danger
• Inspiring (and slightly reckless) solo challenges
Timestamps
00:00 Chasing Adventure: The Fuego Hike Experience
02:06 Travel Insights: The Winging It Podcast Introduction
06:04 Traveling for Work: Perks of the Travel Industry
12:09 The Evolution of Travel: From Family Trips to Solo Adventures
17:48 Exploring El Salvador: A Journey of Discovery
30:05 Guatemala Awaits: The Acatenango Volcano Hike
38:46 Booking Adventures: The Importance of Local Knowledge
40:57 Booking and Initial Expectations
43:02 Red Flags on the Journey
49:31 The Volcano Hike Begins
52:00 Challenges of the Ascent
58:29 Reaching Base Camp
01:01:10 Accommodation Realities
01:05:11 The Fuego Hike Decision
01:10:42 The Descent to Fuego
01:13:06 Experiencing Fuego's Eruptions
01:17:54 The Dinner Dilemma
01:21:25 Cold Nights and Stunning Sunrises
01:23:56 The Volcano Experience: Fuego vs. Akatenango
01:28:54 Reflections on the Hike and Company Recommendations
01:35:12 Exploring Antigua: A Tourist's Perspective
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
Hiking Acatenango Volcano: A Brutal Hike to See Erupting Fuego in Guatemala
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to hike to 13,045 feet (3,976 meters) and sleep beside an active volcano? In this immersive audio episode, join me as I take on the challenging Acatenango Volcano hike, a two-day trek n…Hiking Acatenango Volcano: A Brutal Hike to See Erupting Fuego in Guatemala
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to hike to 13,045 feet (3,976 meters) and sleep beside an active volcano? In this immersive audio episode, join me as I take on the challenging Acatenango Volcano hike, a two-day trek near Antigua, Guatemala, that offers some of the most stunning volcanic views in the world. This 14.5-kilometer (9-mile) round-trip hike takes around 5–7 hours to ascend and 3–4 hours to descend, with steep trails, changing climates, and breathtaking panoramas. At the summit, you'll witness Fuego Volcano’s dramatic eruptions, spewing ash and lava every 15–30 minutes—an unforgettable display of nature’s raw power.
🎙️ Expect real-time reactions, raw emotions, and the sounds of Fuego’s powerful eruptions as I navigate this intense overnight trek. From gruelling inclines to breathtaking lava displays at night, this is an adventure you don’t want to miss!
For more information about this hike, the good and the bad, be sure to check in to my next episode with my friend Nick from the hike as we dissect what we learnt and share things you should know. There will be plenty of funny stories, tips, mishaps and banter.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:
✅ The difficulty of the Acatenango hike – is it as brutal as they say?
✅ What it’s like to sleep next to an active volcano and witness eruptions every 10 minutes
✅ Packing tips & what I wish I had brought
✅ Tour company experience – the good, the bad, and unexpected surprises
✅ The insane sunrise views and final descent back to Antigua
✅ Would I do it again? My final thoughts on this bucket-list experience
🌍 Thinking about hiking Acatenango yourself? Stick around for insider tips at the end of the episode!
📌 Subscribe & Follow: If you enjoy immersive travel experiences, don’t forget to subscribe to the Winging It Travel Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen!
👍 Leave a Review: Love the episode? Drop a 5-star review and let me know what adventure you want to hear next!
📷 Follow Along on Instagram: Winging It Travel Podcast for behind-the-scenes photos and videos from this epic journey!
⏳ Episode Timestamps
00:00 - Intro – Welcome to the episode! Get ready for an immersive journey up Acatenango Volcano.
00:05 - Why Acatenango? – The anticipation, excitement, and nerves before the hike.
00:58 - The Big Day Begins – Clear skies, nervous energy, and the start of an intense challenge.
02:06 - What to Expect – Distance, elevation, costs, and how tough this hike really is.
03:09 - First Climb & Reality Check – The brutal incline, volcanic ash terrain, and stolen snacks!
04:32 - The Uphill Battle Continues – No breaks, no flat sections—just relentless climbing.
05:50 - Reaching Base Camp – The first sight of Fuego and the relief of making it to camp.
07:13 - Fuego Erupts! – Experiencing the first rumble and smoke, plus the option to climb Fuego.
08:33 - Nightfall & Lava Show – The eruptions become even more intense—an unforgettable sight.
10:36 - Sunrise Magic – Waking up early for breathtaking morning views and time-lapse moments.
11:16 - Packing Up & Heading Down – The descent begins, and it’s faster but still tough.
12:03 - Final Thoughts & Takeaways – Was it worth it? Key lessons from this epic hike.
13:00 - Outro & Travel Tips – Essential advice for anyone planning their own Acatenango trek.
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Hello and welcome to this solo episode, where I share my experiences from visiting Antigua. This episode can provide you with a one-day itinerary if you are dipping into this amazing country. I visited for eight days in 2014 and returned for one day in 2015, and in this episode, I share an action-pa…Hello and welcome to this solo episode, where I share my experiences from visiting Antigua. This episode can provide you with a one-day itinerary if you are dipping into this amazing country. I visited for eight days in 2014 and returned for one day in 2015, and in this episode, I share an action-packed day around the island. Get ready for some beaches, great food, and cricket.
In this episode, James Hammond shares a comprehensive one-day itinerary for Antigua and Barbuda, drawing from his personal experiences. He highlights the unique aspects of the islands, including their rich culture, stunning beaches, and local cuisine. The episode provides practical travel tips, must-visit locations, and insights into the local lifestyle, making it a perfect guide for spontaneous travellers looking to explore Antigua in a day.
Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the world
This podcast is part of Voyascape, a podcast network that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.
If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.
Voyascape Podcast Network
Check out the Smart Travel Podcast
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:
Send us Fan Mail Travel expert Onanta Forbes has been traveling over the holidays settling in on the Caribbean Island of Antigua so on this week's podcast we'll check in with her from Antigua to see what she's been up to. Plus, we'll talk about Luxury Travel. We're excited to have Rodney George join…Send us Fan Mail Travel expert Onanta Forbes has been traveling over the holidays settling in on the Caribbean Island of Antigua so on this week's podcast we'll check in with her from Antigua to see what she's been up to. Plus, we'll talk about Luxury Travel. We're excited to have Rodney George join us, he's the host of the Luxury Traveler's Podcast and is a luxury travel consultant so we'll get some insight and tips on how to plan a luxury vacation. And Ken Stewart from Crowfoot Travel Solu...more
In this episode, we take you along on our unforgettable family adventure through Guatemala!
Join us as we explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake Atitlan, wander the charming streets of Antigua, and delve into the ancient wonders of Tikal National Park in Flores.
From climbing an active volcano an…In this episode, we take you along on our unforgettable family adventure through Guatemala!
Join us as we explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake Atitlan, wander the charming streets of Antigua, and delve into the ancient wonders of Tikal National Park in Flores.
From climbing an active volcano and roasting marshmallows at the summit to zip lining above the lush rainforest canopy, we share all the exhilarating experiences that make Guatemala a perfect destination for traveling with kids.
We'll also break down our 10-day family-friendly itinerary, offering tips on where to stay, what to pack, and how to keep your little ones entertained and engaged throughout the journey.
Whether you're planning your first trip to Guatemala or looking for insider advice to enhance your travel plans, this episode has everything you need to know before setting off on your own Guatemalan adventure.
Don't miss out on this action-packed guide to discovering Guatemala with kids!
On this episode of "Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast," Kiernan leads us through highlights from his trip to Guatemala—museums of Guatemala City, the pyramids (and howler monkeys!) of Tikal National Park, Antigua volcano hikes, and the part-devil/part-saint of Lake Atitlan. Plus, LOTS OF GORY CATHOLIC…On this episode of "Out Of Office: A Travel Podcast," Kiernan leads us through highlights from his trip to Guatemala—museums of Guatemala City, the pyramids (and howler monkeys!) of Tikal National Park, Antigua volcano hikes, and the part-devil/part-saint of Lake Atitlan. Plus, LOTS OF GORY CATHOLIC STUFF!
