We discover the natural and cultural splendour of Lake Atitlan, the incredible scenery of the Guatemalan highlands, and visit the early Maya cities of Copan, Tikal and Quirigua - hidden in the forests and backcountry of Central America.
Lake Atitlan & Indian Highlands
We begin this journey in the old capital of Antigua, Guatemala, an architectural jewel nestled between three of Guatemala's grandest volcanoes. From here we drive to Lake Atitlan (1500m), where huge volcanoes dominate the landscape. Here, we take a full-day boat trip on the blue waters of Lake Atitlan. We'll admire the craftwork of the Quiche Indians in the local market at Chichicastenango, before making a journey high into the remote Cordillera de los Cuchumatanes, a beautiful and isolated region of steep, verdant hills. We spend a day at the whitewashed town of Nebaj, home to the Ixil, wandering its streets and markets, exploring surrounding areas on foot.
Copan & the Rio Dulce
Next we drive through spectacular mountains to reach Coban, from here we drive to the Biotopo del Quetzal reserve, where we plan to go in search of the elusive quetzal. We make a foray into Honduras to visit the ceremonial centre of Copan. A major astronomical site, it abounds with strange stelae and complex mathematical notations. Travelling via Quirigua, we reach Livingston on the Caribbean. Then make an enchanting boat trip beneath the cliff walls of the Rio Dulce.
Wonders of Tikal
We enter the tangled forests of El Peten to view the mighty 20-story temples of Tikal, the most impressive Maya city of all. We can only speculate about these monumental temples which soar 30m above the Great Plaza, piercing the jungle canopy, and the sophisticated engineering of the mighty stonework palaces. Finally we stay in the modern capital of Guatemala, also shadowed by volcanoes.
Itinerary:
Day1 Join Antigua. 2 In Antigua. 3 Drive to Lake Atitlan. 4 & 5 Visit Solola market and Panajachel; boat trip to San Antonio; optional walks. 6 Visit Chichicastenango market en route to Nebaj. 7 In Nebaj; discover hidden hill villages. 8 Drive to Biotopo del Quetzal via Coban. 9 Early visit in Biotopo; drive Copan (Honduras). 10 Explore Copan site. 11 Drive via Quirigua (Guatemala) to Livingston. 12 Launch to Rio Dulce; drive to Flores. 13 Drive to Tikal; full-day visit. 14 Drive to Flores; fly Guatemala City. 15 End Guatemala City.
Accommodation: 13nts hotel, 1nt lodge; 5 breakfasts & 1 dinner included.
Transport: Bus/Riverboat/Flights/On foot.
Comment:An in-depth look with some off-beat travel in one of the most varied countries in the region. This trip takes in some of the finest Mayan sites in existence, as well as contemporary indigenous cultures.
Group: Approx. 14 to 18.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus driver(s), boatmen and some local guides.
Trip Reference:GM
