Guatemala Tour

Markets and Ancient Traditions

Upon landing in Guatemala City, the capital of Guatemala, we will meet our representative at the airport and transfer for approximately one hour to Antigua. Antigua is one of the most beautiful colonial cities in America and served as the capital of Guatemala until it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1773. The city is located at the foot of three volcanoes that rise to nearly 4,000 meters above sea level. The eruptions of these volcanoes and seismic activity have caused the city and surrounding villages to be destroyed several times in the past.

Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Antigua.

Antigua, the former capital, was established by the Spanish in 1543 and offers travelers beautiful colonial buildings, museums, churches, and the inner courtyards of mansions that have transformed into boutique restaurants and hotels.

Early in the morning, we will set out for a hike up Volcán Pacaya, one of the three volcanoes surrounding Antigua. The tour includes a climb to a viewpoint where, on certain days, you can see the lava (it is also possible to climb on horseback).
Afterward, we will embark on a city tour through the cobblestone streets, where you will encounter churches, monasteries, inner courtyards, and galleries that seem to have frozen in time.

Next, we will continue to visit the coffee plantations, where you can observe the growth and production processes.
Overnight in Antigua.

After breakfast, we will embark on a 2.5-hour drive to Lake Atitlán. This lake is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the Americas, with its deep blue color surrounded by three volcanoes. Along its shores, there are indigenous villages that rely on agriculture (growing onions, coffee, bananas, and avocados). Each village has developed its unique weaving styles and clothing, illustrating why Guatemala is often referred to as the “Land of the Rainbow.”
Lake Atitlán is located in the mountainous region of western Guatemala, sitting at an altitude of 1,562 meters above sea level, where its inhabitants enjoy a spring-like climate year-round.
In the villages, three distinct tribes reside, each differing in clothing, language, and culture: the Tzutuhil, who live on the southern shore; the Cachiqueles in the northeast; and the Quiche in the northwest, all connected to the Maya culture.

Upon arrival, we will visit the stunning Atitlán Nature Reserve. The reserve features hiking trails with breathtaking views of the lake and mountains, various water sources, and waterfalls. You will stroll through coffee plantations and may encounter local wildlife. The reserve also hosts a butterfly farm, showcasing a diverse array of colorful butterflies.

After the visit, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Atitlán.

After breakfast, we will embark on a boat trip on Lake Atitlán to the indigenous village of Santiago Atitlán. Here, you’ll see the unique textiles of this village, with women sitting in the town square selling huipiles—embroidered blouses featuring flowers and birds, which are characteristic of the region. The village is also home to an interesting cult surrounding a wooden statue of a shaman known as Maximón, to whom locals from all over the area pilgrimage to seek help, blessings, and participate in trance ceremonies.

Next, we will visit San Juan La Laguna, followed by San Antonio Palopó, a village known for its onion cultivation and vibrant weaving. In San Antonio, we will hike up to the church, where we can observe the local men wearing distinctive black and white skirts.
Overnight in Atitlán.

After breakfast, we will embark on a 1.25-hour drive to the vibrant market in Chichicastenango. This bustling market is renowned for its stunning array of textiles, unique hammocks, colorful clothing, intricate figurines, and ceremonial masks used in traditional rituals.
We will explore Central America’s largest and most colorful market, where the air is filled with the sounds of bargaining and lively chatter. Afterward, we will visit the Church of Santo Tomás, a fascinating site where indigenous religious practices blend with Catholic rituals, creating a unique spiritual atmosphere.

Next, we’ll tour a local workshop where traditional masks are crafted, offering insight into the cultural significance of these artifacts.

We will then ascend to the summit of Pascual Abaj, a sacred site where pagan rituals are performed in honor of the Maya gods. Here, purification ceremonies take place for market-goers seeking blessings and spiritual renewal.

Afterward, we will drive for approximately two hours to Guatemala City Airport for our flight to Flores, a city that serves as a base for excursions to the archaeological site of Tikal. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Flores.

After breakfast, we will set out to visit Tikal, the grand and famous city of the Maya, built deep within the jungle. Only the pyramids peeking above the forest reveal that a vast city once thrived here, featuring ceremonial structures and giant pyramids, the tallest of which reaches a height of 90 meters. We will explore the site and learn about its fascinating history, and those lucky enough may encounter wildlife inhabiting the rainforest—mainly monkeys. A local restaurant will provide lunch.

Afterward, depending on the flight schedule, we will transfer to Flores Airport for our flight back to Guatemala City. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Guatemala City.

After breakfast and depending on the flight schedule, we will transfer to the airport for our flight back home.