Guatemala, Mayan Territory Vacation
12 days/11 nights
$1125
P/P Double Occupancy
In this trip you’ll learn about the fascinating Maya culture, represented by the ruins in Ceibal, Yaxha, Tikal and Copan in Honduras. You’ll get to see Guatemala from north to south, from east to west: all the best highlights in one trip!
Day 01 Arrival in Flores (B)
Upon arrival to Flores, you’ll be transferred to a hotel in Flores or Tikal. Flores is located on a small lake island. This tiny town is in close proximity to famous caves, zip-line tours, a zoo, and a wide range of wilderness adventures. With a great number of places to enjoy the tasty cuisine and relax, this stop is one not worth missing. Lodging at Del Patio Hotel in Flores Lodging in Flores
Day 02 Ceibal (B)
Today, you’ll take a sightseeing tour to Ceibal. This archaeological site offers more of the ruined remnants of the Mayan civilization. It was first inhabited as early as the ninth century BCE and contains many elaborate structures including what may be the oldest circular observatory in classic Mayan culture, a must-stop location during your trip to Guatemala. Lodging at Del Patio Hotel in Flores
Day 03 Yaxha (B)
Today, you’ll visit Yaxha, a vast archaeological site containing over 500 Mayan structures. Here you will not only enjoy the many temples, alters, and intricate Mayan carvings, but also the surrounding turquoise lagoons and tropical vegetation. Lodging at Del Patio Hotel in Flores
Day 04 Tikal (B)
Visit the famous Tikal, the monumental site of an enormous Mayan civilization left in ruins, that’s been attracting archaeologists from all over the world. The ruins of Tikal include over 3,000 structures including, temples, platforms, and intricate plazas. Lodging at Del Patio Hotel in Flores
Day 05 Rio Dulce / Livingston / Puerto Barrios (B)
Today, you’ll be transferred to Rio Dulce, from where you’ll join an excursion to San Felipe Castle. Then, continue to Livingston, once Guatemala’s main Caribbean port, its known for its diverse culture, gorgeous tropical climate, and incredible seafood. Afterwards, continue to Puerto Barrios. Lodging at the Green Bay Hotel and Resort in Puerto Barrios
Day 06 Quirigua / Copan, Honduras (B)
This morning, you will visit Quirigua Archeological Site, well known for its stone sculptures, some of which are truly masterpieces. In the afternoon proceed to Copan in Honduras, located close to the Guatemalan border. Lodging at the Posada Real in Copan
Day 07 Copan / Guatemala City (B)
Today you’ll visit the Mayan ruins of Copan. This site was of huge importance about 1500 years ago. Today, the remains of this kingdom feature stone carvings, stelae and buildings. After this visit, return to Guatemala City. Lodging at the Marriott in Guatemala City
Day 08 Chichicastenango (B)
Today, you’ll depart towards Chichicastenango. Upon arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the famous and colorful open-air market which sells local food, flowers and handicrafts such as woodcarvings, clothing, and more. You’ll also be able to visit Santo Tomas Church, which is over 400 years old church and still used today for local rituals and practices. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Lodging at the Mayan Inn in Chichicastenango
Day 09 Lake Atitlan (B)
In the morning, transfer to Lake Atitlan, located in the Guatemalan highlands. This immense and beautiful lake is said to be the deepest in Central America, and it’s the result of an ancient volcanic eruption. Here you will find lush animal and plant life and many villages and towns still inhabited by Mayan descendants. Upon arrival, join an excursion to the picturesque lake-side village of Santiago Atitlan. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Lodging at the Villa Santa Catarina in Atitlan
Day 10 Solola / Antigua (B)
Today, depart towards Antigua. Along the way you’ll visit Solola Indian market. Antigua is famous for its Spanish baroque architecture. This area has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its many ruined churches, cobblestone streets, and strong culture, Antigua offers a wide range of activities such as sightseeing around town and near the neighboring volcanoes. Lodging at the Villa Colonial in Antigua
Day 11 Antigua (B)
In the morning, visit the best spots in Antigua: colonial buildings such as churches, convents and monasteries. After lunch, you’ll be transferred to Guatemala City. Lodging at the Marriott in Guatemala
Day 12 Departure (B)
You’ll be transferred to the airport.
Prices Include
- Transportation throughout the itinerary
- Daily breakfast
- Excursions mentioned (including entrance fees)
- Accomodations in suggested hotels (or similar)
Prices Do Not Include
- Airfare (domestic or international)
- Tips to Guide, Driver and Chambermaids
- Personal expenses such as: beverages, phone calls, laundry, etc.
- International airport exit tax ($30.00 per person)
- Domestic airport tax ($1.00 per person)
- Services not mentioned in the itinerary
Notes
- Rates are per person - double occupancy
- *The Seat in Bus basis tour departs on Sundays
- Lodging can be either at Tikal or Flores the first four nights
- For larger groups, please ask for discounts!
- Price is subject to confirmation in the above mentioned hotels
- All rates are valid from January 1 through December 23, 2008, except during Easter week (March 15 to 23, 2008). Some hotels require a minimum 4 night’s stay during Easter, Christmas and New Year’s.
