Guatemala

Day 1

Arrive in Guatemala

Afternoon

  • Your journey begins at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City (GUA), where you are scheduled to arrive at 1:00 p.m.. After you get your luggage, your Trip Leader and fellow travelers will welcome you, setting the stage for a fantastic adventure. 
  • Then, you will leave for the beautiful Lake Atitlán. Enjoy a scenic three-hour drive through the Guatemalan countryside, with a nice lunch stop along the way to rest and try some local food.

Evening

  • When you arrive at your boutique hotel on Calle Santander, the main street in Panajachel, you will feel the welcoming local atmosphere. The hotel offers beautiful views of the lake and volcanoes, creating a lovely setting for your stay. 
  • After checking in and freshening up, gather with your new friends for a traditional Guatemalan dinner in a local restaurant in Panajachel. Enjoy tasty local dishes while sharing stories and laughter, building friendships that will stay with you throughout your journey.

Day 2

Lake Atitlán: Boat tour to San Juan and Santiago

Morning

  • Start your day with fresh Guatemalan coffee and take in the beautiful views of Lake Atitlán from the hotel. 
  • After breakfast, get ready for an exciting adventure across the lake, known for its stunning scenery. Take a water taxi to explore the local towns around Lake Atitlan.
  • Your journey begins in the charming town of San Marcos, where you can explore Tzankujil National Park. In this park, nature invites you to take a refreshing swim in its calm waters, offering a perfect break surrounded by breathtaking views.

Afternoon

  •  Enjoy a delicious lunch of local Guatemalan food at a lovely restaurant in the village of San Juan La Laguna.
  • After lunch, visit the workshops of a women’s weaving cooperative to experience the local culture. Skilled artisans will demonstrate how they dye threads with vibrant colors from plants and weave patterns that tell their stories. You will also learn about the importance of cacao in the region and its connection to the Mayas, and conclude your day by discovering how bees contribute to the local ecosystem, helping you appreciate this remarkable area even more.

Evening

  • Hop on a water taxi for your return journey to Panajachel, taking in the stunning sunset reflecting off the lake's surface. 
  • Once back at your hotel, enjoy some well-deserved free time to unwind or explore the town of Panajachel.
  •  Conclude your final evening on Lake Atitlán with a festive group meal, celebrating your experiences and immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the local nightlife.

Day 3

Guatemalan Coffee Community and Antigua City Tour

Morning

  • Start your day with a tasty breakfast featuring delicious Guatemalan dishes at your hotel. After enjoying the local flavors, take a scenic three-hour drive to the beautiful city of Antigua. 
  • On the way, visit a local farmer’s home and explore a busy coffee plantation. You will learn about the coffee to the Guatemalan people and their culture. 
  • Experience the traditional way of brewing coffee. You can join the farmer and their family to make your own cup. Enjoy your fresh coffee in the fragrant coffee fields while sharing stories and cultural insights with your hosts.

Afternoon

  • Visit the charming city of Antigua and enjoy a tasty lunch at a local restaurant. After your meal, join a walking tour of the town. Wander through the lively Plaza Central and admire the beautiful buildings, such as the Cathedral, San Francisco Church, and La Merced. 
  • Stroll along Calle del Arco, where you can see colorful buildings. Make sure to stop by a jade factory to learn about the art and significance of this valuable stone.

Evening

  • When night comes, gather with your group at one of the local Trip Leader's go-to restaurants, where laughter and the sound of clinking glasses fill the air. Enjoy a delicious meal packed with vibrant flavors and traditional dishes that showcase the region’s culinary heritage.

Day 4

Pacaya Volcano Hike

Morning

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast before heading to Volcán Pacaya, one of Guatemala's active volcanoes. Enjoy an exhilarating 1.5-hour hike to the summit, which reaches an elevation of 8,000 feet (2,438 meters), offering breathtaking views. The round trip typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on pace. The trail starts in humid forests and transitions to rocky volcanic terrain, so sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential. While the hike is generally moderate, the elevation gain of approximately 350 to 450 meters (1,150 to 1,500 feet) can be challenging due to the altitude.
  • Optional horseback riding is available for those who prefer not to hike the entire way. Experience stunning landscapes, including a caldera, lagoon, and views of other volcanoes—Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango. This adventure is truly unforgettable!

Afternoon

  • Journey back to the enchanting streets of Antigua, where vibrant colonial architecture greets you at every turn. 
  • Spend your afternoon exploring the town’s rich history and charm, wandering through bustling local markets that are alive with color and energy. Here, you can uncover unique souvenirs, handcrafted by local artisans, that capture the essence of this beautiful region.

Evening

  • Don’t miss the opportunity to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden restaurants, where you can savor authentic Guatemalan dishes, each bite an adventure for your palate. Every moment in Antigua promises to be a delightful experience.

Day 5

Depart Guatemala

Morning

  • The group will enjoy one final Guatemalan breakfast together before departing for La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. The journey will take approximately two hours using the provided transportation.
  • You are scheduled to arrive at the airport by approximately 1:00 p.m. Remember to say "hasta luego" (never goodbye!) to your new friends, as you'll likely want to stay connected with our travel community. Many groups arrange reunions in various U.S. cities, book new trips together, or even become so close that they attend each other's weddings.

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