GUATEMALA: Culture, Volcanos + Kayaks (7 Days)

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International flights are not included in the tour price. Travellers are responsible for booking their own flights.  This trip requires 4 passengers to run. This trip is operated by  Martsam Travel.
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Guatemala is home to central America’s most diverse landscapes, and vibrant cultural Mayan history.

This adventure will take you from the colourful maze of pastel-coloured colonial relics of Antigua, to the tranquil lake-side towns of Lake Atitlàn.

Take in the local food culture in Antigua. Kayak the crystal waters of lake Atitlán. Hike the volcanic mountainscape. Wander around Chichcastenango “Chichi” market - one of the largest and most diverse in Central America. Salute the sun on a private dock overlooking the lake and surrounding volcanos. Take in the bohemian vibe of San Marcos, and witness the spell-binding local weaving practices.



Inclusions

5 Breakfasts | 2 Lunches | 2 Dinners
2 nights hostel accommodation in Antigua, 4 nights accommodation in Lake Atitlán mountain-side lodge

⇹   Arrival airport transfer from GUA (La Aurora International)

⇹   Explore Lake Atitlán on a guided hike + kayak day trip

⇹ Lunch + hike with local scholar

⇹   Day trip to one of Central America's largest local markets in Chichcastenango ("ChiChi market")

⇹   Free time to explore

⇹  Transport in private + public vehicles

International Flights are not included in the tour price.

Guatemala "Need to Know" Handbook



Antigua

The UNESCO World Heritage town of Antigua is one of the most history-rich quarters in Central America, known for its Spanish colonial history. Pastel coloured buildings and Spanish-Baroque architecture are complimented by vibrant garments worn by locals. A towering volcanic landscape surrounds the small, square-shaped town divided by streets often littered with flower petals and grains to mark local ceremonies.


Today modern artisan and coffee shops line the cobble stone streets. The area pulses with a vibrant Mayan culture, and boasts some of the most intricate handicrafts in the region. On this trip, you'll get about two days to explore this area on foot, with an option to add-on a culinary walking tour to get inside into the local food culture.


Chichicastenango

Lonely Planet dubs this quaint Mayan town of Chichicastenango as a "kaleidoscope of colour". The resident Masheños people are known for their adherence to pre-Christian beliefs, and is a K'iche' Maya cultural centre. This retreat will take you on a day trip into town on the day that it hosts one of the largest markets in Central America, attracting merchants travelling for days to reach it. Looking to bring back a cool trinket for your pal? This is the place.


Lake Atitlán

Lake Atitlàn is a high-altitude lake formed in a massive volcanic crater, about a 2-hour drive from Antigua. Its sparkling clear waters are surrounded by three towering volcanoes, fertile hillsides dotted with palms, and charming villages. Each village has its own brand of tranquility, offering insights into both indigenous culture and holistic-spiritual practices. For those looking to foster a closer connection to themselves, the ritualistic opportunities are endless.

The best way to get around is by public boat taxis that pick you up from the dock of our lodge. Take your time here to relax in a hammock over looking the lake, break a sweat on a kayak + hike trip around the region, and explore the surrounding vibrant mayan towns.

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