zTreasures of Guatemala

Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted by private car to the enchanting Casa Santo Domingo Hotel.  

Founded in 1543, Antigua offers a rich blend of handsome Colonial-era architecture, a lively spirit and ancient cultural traditions which endure to this day. Setting out with your private guide, today’s walking tour focuses on historic landmarks like the Central Plaza and Palace of the Captain General. You’ll also delve into some of the region’s enduring traditions, including the age-old weaving techniques which are still used to produce Guatemala’s world-famous textiles. Meals B

After breakfast and checking out from your hotel, join your guide for a boat ride across Lake Atitlan, a breathtakingly beautiful crater lake of azure waters surrounded by three mighty volcanic peaks. Step ashore to visit the picturesque lakeside town of Santiago Atitlan before continuing on to San Antonio Palopo, a small and colorful highland village nestled amidst the towering volcanoes that surround Lake Atitlan. Your village walking tour showcases the tranquil and timeless charms of San Antonio Palopo, and offers you an opportunity to admire the skill and handiwork of its residents, many of whom still use the same type of foot looms as their ancient Mayan ancestors. Spend two peaceful nights at the Atitlan Hotel.  Meals B

Today’s excursion to the market town of Sololá offers an authentic encounter with some of Guatemala’s indigenous peoples, including the Cakchiquel Indians who comprise close to 90% of the town’s colorful inhabitants. This is one of the few places in all of Central America where both men and women still routinely wear their traditional Mayan dress. On market days, visitors regularly see the townspeople carrying traditional Mayan baskets overflowing with goods for market – everything from homegrown produce to hand-woven textiles and chickens.  Meals B

This morning’s scenic overland journey by private car brings you to Chichicastenango, set amidst tranquil valleys and lushly forested mountains. With its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional red-tile roofs and enduring Shamanistic traditions, this charming highland town evoke the magical ambience of a timeless place isolated from the rest of the world and the 21st century. Upon arrival, join your engaging guide for a fascinating visit to Pascual Abaj. This private excursion begins with a 40-minute walk up into the hills outside of town. Along the way, you’ll see the tiny studios where residents make and store the colorful ceremonial masks which have been used for centuries during their most important festivals and celebrations. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Chichicastenango and an opportunity to see the ancient Mayan stone altar which is still used today by locals as a sacred place for worship, offerings and prayers. Check in to the comfortable Chichicastenango Hotel for a restful overnight stay.  Meals B

After breakfast, your guide will be waiting to show you the colorful highlights of town, including the Central Plaza which is overflowing on market days with Mayan craft sellers who come here from throughout the Highlands to set up their colorful stalls and booths. You’ll also visit the Iglesia de Santo Tomás which was built by Dominican priests nearly 500 years ago on the site of an ancient Mayan temple. Then visit the ancient Mayan site at Iximche before traveling on to Guatemala City, where you’ll check in to the deluxe Westin Camino Real Hotel.  Meals B

You’ll be escorted by private car to the airport for your onward journey.  Meals B