This journey will take you up-close to the best and essential highlights of the Maya Biosphere Reserve! Venture into the lush jungle to explore the cultural and archeological history of the region. Through storytelling and shared knowledge, you will learn about Mayan spirituality and cosmovision, Maya traditions, history and biodiversity in some of the most emblematic sites in Mesoamerica and will trekk to the largest pyramid in volume in the world - La Danta. The heart of the Maya world awaits!
Right for You?
One of our local experts in Guatemala will make this the perfect trip for you!
Base Price:
$3,150/person
Speaks: English, Spanish and Other Local Language
Details
Upon arrival at Guatemala City Airport you will transfer to your hotel in Guatemala City. After checking in at the hotel, one of our representatives will meet you with all the recommendations to make the most of your time in Guatemala and answer any questions you may have. Followed by a free evening to relax after your flight and explore the town.
Begin your morning with an early breakfast, before transferring to GUA airport so you can take your flight to the northern region of Petén. Upon arrival, our team will pick you up at the Flores airport and will take you to Flores Island so you can drop your bags and check-in at your hotel. Enjoy lunch on the island and in the afternoon you will head to Ixpanpajul Nature Park to go on an extreme zip-lining adventure in the jungle canopy. Spend your evening at leisure on the island.
Prepare to go on an adventure to one of the most unexplored and uncharted Maya cities. Begin your day with an early breakfast and at 5:00AM you will meet your fellow explorers and local guides for a transfer to the Carmelita Community (2 hours approx.) The Carmelita Community cooperative will be your host on this 5 day-4 night adventure. Enjoy sunrises and sunsets, the sounds of howler monkeys and a visit to El Tintal and La Muerta archaeological sites before arriving at Majestic El Mirador and climbing the most emblematic temple, La Danta. You will be hiking 20 to 25 km everyday and need to be in optimal condition for enduring the hot climate and humidity on this off-the beaten path trek. Once you return to Carmelita on the final day you will transfer back to Flores to relax after this adventure and enjoy a much deserved rest. Accomodation during Mirador trekk: Camping, includes all the necessary gear and meals.
Today you may sleep in and enjoy your morning as you please on the island. After lunch you will transfer to Yahxá Nakum Naranjo National Park (approx. 1.5 hours). You will enjoy a guided visit through the vast jungle and structures of Yahxá between two impressive lagoons and wetlands and welcome the sunset on top of one of the largest temples. Once you finish your visit you will transfer to Tikal National Park to the jungle lodge where you will spend the night.
Enjoy the sunrise on top of one of the tallest temples of the ancient Maya kingdom of Tikal. One of the few UNESCO World Heritage Sites to be recognized for both its cultural and natural significance. Your transfer and local guide will meet you at your hotel before transferring to Tikal National Park (approx. 1 hour). You will be exploring the vast jungle trails and will climb some of the most emblematic temples in the heart of the lush Guatemalan jungle. Recent Lidar discoveries in Tikal have changed everything we once knew about the city and the ancient Maya. This will be a great opportunity to appreciate milenary architecture and be overwhelmed by the sounds of Howler Monkeys and Tikals history. There is a big chance of wildlife sightings within park grounds so be alert! You will enjoy a rustic lunch in Uaxactún, a hidden gem inside Tikal National Park and the perfect place to understand how the equinoxes, solstices and agriculture all came to be of most importance for the ancient Maya. You will be welcomed by the local community development association. You will learn all about the community’s efforts for sustainable development through the collection of Xate, a world class foliage endemic to the region and biggest economic activity of the village. You will also come close to the story and background of the “Chicleros” (chewing gum collectors) of the area, their artisan techniques and venture to explore the history and amazing architecture of this small pre-classic site that harbours an astronomic observatory unique to this region of Guatemala where you will welcome the sunset.
Enjoy your morning relaxing on the shores of Lake Petén Itzá in the colorful village of El Remate, located a few minutes away from Tikal. After enjoying lunch in town, you will head to FRS airport for your flight to GUA. Upon arrival in Guatemala City, you will transfer to your hotel in the city to enjoy your last night in Guatemala.
What's Included
Your Local Host
Etnica
Locally Owned Social Enterprise
Etnica is a travel company that specializes in creating personalized, culturally immersive adventures in Guatemala. They work directly with local associations, cooperatives, independent artisans, fishermen, farmers, and families to provide travelers with unique experiences that also empower the local community. If you're looking to plan a trip to Guatemala, Etnica offers a variety of experiences to choose from, including hiking through the lush forests and volcanoes of the Guatemalan highlands, exploring the vibrant markets and colorful streets of local villages, and trying traditional Mayan cuisine. They are also happy to work with you to create a custom itinerary that meets your needs and interests. Booking with Etnica means that you're not just having a vacation – you're also supporting the people and places you'll be visiting. And because they work directly with the locals, you'll be able to have authentic, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that you won't find with other travel companies. Don't miss out on the opportunity to have an unforgettable adventure in Guatemala. Check out what Etnica has to offer and start planning your next trip today. And if you have any questions, don't hesitate to reach out – their team is always happy to help. So, why wait? Book one of the existing experiences shown on the page or create your own – the choice is yours!
Getting There
