Venture to the land of volcanoes and living culture as you make your way from the highlands to the lush jungles. This 7 day adventure will take you to must-see destinations such as UNESCO World Heritage Sites Antigua Guatemala and Tikal. You will also explore the beautiful textiles and living traditions of Lake Atitlán and visit other major archaelogical sites of great historical and cultural significance to the Mayan people.
Right for You?
One of our local experts in Guatemala will make this the perfect trip for you!
Base Price:
$1,810/person
Speaks: English, Spanish and Other Local Language
Details
Upon arrival at Guatemala City Airport you will drive to the colonial city of Antigua (approx. 1 hour). After checking in at the hotel, your tour leader will meet you with all tips and 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.
Wake up to enjoy a day of exploring the cobblestone streets of Antigua Guatemala. You will be walking the colorful cobblestone streets and will have the opportunity of learning the history of this UNESCO World Heritage site, visit markets, ruins of the city, along with the majestic views of surrounding volcanoes. You will also visit hidden restaurants, shops and street stalls with the best authentic Guatemalan appetizers and dishes. You will try tamales, atole, ingredients, fruits, stews, desserts and much more! You will live an experience full of flavors, sensations and 100% Guatemalan culture. Free evening.
After an early breakfast you will drive to Lake Atitlán to the town of Panajachel (approx. 2.5 hours), upon arrival you will take the boat to the town of Santiago Atitlán (approx. 30 mins) to check into your hotel. This will be the first night of your stay in the Guatemalan highlands. You will explore Santiago Atitlán and visit major highlights. Most of the Guatemalan highlands were severely affected during the civil war that lasted 36 years. The case of Santiago Atitlán was no different and its Tzutujil population carries the scars and wounds of the war. You will come up close and personal to the tales of the war, you will also visit the market, the church and the cofradía of Maximón to learn about the religious syncretism between Mayan cosmovision and Catholicism. After the tour you will have a free enjoy to enjoy the beautiful gardens and views of the lake.
You will take a short boat transfer to the town of San Juan la Laguna (approx. 30 mins). Surrounded by primitive art, beautiful textiles and majestic views, San Juan will give you a warm welcome and the opportunity to interact and learn the way of life and customs of its T’zutujil villagers. You will be taking a guided visit up the mountain with local farmers in the coffee plantations, you will visit local cooperatives and associations to learn the process of natural dyeing and textiles, the use of medicinal plants and healing and the background and evolution of naif art. You will also enjoy a local rustic lunch at a women’s cooperative to try authentic Guatemalan Pepián and tamales. After the tour feel free to explore the town on your own before heading back to Santiago for the evening.
After breakfast, you will take the boat to visit the town of San Antonio Palopó to learn the unique ceramic factory and textile cooperatives. You will then transfer to the town of Santa Catarina Palopó, with the best view of volcanoes San Pedro, Tolimán, Atitlán and Cerro de Oro, this colorful town will give you a warm welcome and allow you to relax on the shores of the most beautiful lake in the world. After lunch, you will drive to Guatemala City (approx. 2.5 hours). Upon arrival you will take a flight (approx. 45 mins) to Flores in the northern part of Guatemala. You will drive to wonderful El Remate (approx. 30 mins), spend the evening at leisure, relaxing at the lodge or lake.
Begin your day with the sounds of howler monkeys as you get ready for an excursion to explore the ancient Mayan kingdom of Tikal, this is one of the few UNESCO World Heritage Sites to be recognized for both its cultural and natural significance. You will watch the sunrise on top of one the most emblematic pyramids in the heart of the lush Guatemalan jungle and will have the chance to appreciate the local fauna. After your tour you will head to FRS airport for your flight back to GUA airport. Upon arrival at Guatemala City, you will be taken to your hotel so you can relax and enjoy your last evening.
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
