Private Highlights of Guatemala Family Adventure

Receive a warm and hospitable welcome upon arrival in Guatemala City, followed by a scenic drive to the captivating highland colonial gem of Antigua (1 hour). Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this erstwhile Guatemalan capital mesmerizes with its resplendent charm, steeped history, and timeless colonial architecture. Delight in leisurely strolls through the vibrant central plaza, meandering along enchanting cobblestone streets lined with local boutiques, inviting coffee kiosks, and an array of remarkable dining establishments boasting delectable traditional fare like tamales and Pollo a la cerveza (chicken in beer sauce) served with freshly made tortillas. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at the conveniently located and family-friendly Hotel Camino Real Antigua.

Embark on an exhilarating mountain hike to explore one of Central America’s most active volcanoes, granting you breathtaking and up-close encounters with mesmerizing molten lava. Reaching an impressive elevation of 8,373 feet above sea level, Pacaya rewards you with awe-inspiring vistas of Antigua’s picturesque valleys and a magnificent trio of neighboring volcanoes: Agua, Acatenango, and Fuego. Trek to a secure distance to witness fiery glimpses of the simmering magma. Additionally, Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a captivating testament to life during the Spanish Colonial Days. Its origins trace back to 1542, and although devastated by an earthquake in 1773, it stands as a remarkable testament to the splendor of that era. Previously known as Guatemala City, Antigua served as the capital of Central America for over two centuries.  Remarkably, during this era, it ranked as the third largest city in The Americas, surpassed only by Lima, Peru, and Mexico City. Tonight, indulge in a delectable dinner at a local restaurant nestled within Antigua’s vibrant downtown. Enjoy a restful overnight stay at the Hotel Camino Real Antigua.

Start a captivating journey from Antigua to Lake Atitlan traversing the highlands and immersing yourself in a verdant panorama adorned with Maya villages and their thriving corn and vegetable plantations. En route, make a stop at Iximche, an ancient capital of the Cackchiquel Kingdom, revered as a sacred site by the Cackchiquel Maya community. A remarkable encounter awaits near Xetonox village, where a local family warmly welcomes you to take part in their agricultural and weaving practices, granting you insights into their cherished way of life. Relish a delectable farm-to-table lunch lovingly prepared at their abode. As you delve deeper into the realm of the Mundo Maya, remember that the pronunciation of the letter “x” mimics the sound “sh.” In the native Mayan tongue, expressing gratitude is beautifully conveyed as “Matiox” (Ma-ti–osh). Ascending to a height of 9,000 feet and then descending, you are greeted by the picturesque shores of Lake Atitlan, encircled by majestic volcanoes in every direction. Overnight at Hotel Atitlan, a lakeside haven adorned by breathtaking botanical gardens, encapsulating the tranquil allure of Lake Atitlan. 

The heartbeat of Maya Peoples’ daily existence revolves around the vibrant “Market Days” held in their significant towns. Today, we embrace the Maya-Kiche People’s cherished traditions. With a staggering population of one and a half million, the Maya-Kiche community thrives, and nestled among their largest towns is Totonicapan, home to approximately 100,000 inhabitants. This bustling town, situated 20 miles away and perched at an elevation of 7,500 feet above sea level, hosts its bustling market on both Tuesdays and Saturdays. What sets this market apart is its authentic allure, untainted by excessive tourism. The handicrafts showcased here are not tailored for mere tourists; they embody the essence of the Maya’s vibrant culture, crafted for their own people. The Maya of today proudly don handmade garments and utensils, preserving their rich heritage. Exploring Totonicapan grants you an intimate glimpse into their way of life, as we visit two remarkable homes. The first will belong to a talented clay ceramic artisan, while the second will be the abode of a skilled weaver, deftly maneuvering a “foot pedal loom.” Within the weaver’s home, a delightful lunch will be served, further immersing you in their warm hospitality. Overnight at Hotel Atitlan.

Today is dedicated to the enchanting Lake Atitlan, a magnificent “caldera” lake believed to have been formed by a volcanic eruption nearly 80,000 years ago—merely a geological blink of an eye. This almost perfectly circular lake spans 10 miles in diameter, delving an impressive 1,000 feet deep, and is gracefully embraced by three majestic volcanoes:  Toliman, Atitlan and San Pedro. Embark on a picturesque boat journey to San Juan, affectionately known as San Juan La Laguna, a charming village nestled by the lake’s shores. Here, have the privilege of immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of the Maya Tzutuhil People, in collaboration with the esteemed “Community Tourism Committee,” an organization we wholeheartedly respect and support. Prepare for a dynamic morning filled with captivating encounters as you visit talented artists specializing in naïf paintings, exquisite wood carvings, and masterful weavers. Engage in a workshop showcasing the art of natural dyeing, savor organic coffee, and admire the intricate hand-woven textiles. Embark on a refreshing hike to a nearby vantage point, offering breathtaking panoramas of the sprawling lake. Witness the Tzutuhil women embroidering their garments with vivid depictions of colorful birds and blossoms, an unforgettable spectacle. The boat takes you to your lakeside abode for dinner and a restful evening.  Overnight at Hotel Atitlan. 

Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of the renowned Chichicastenango Market—an essential pilgrimage for most travelers exploring Guatemala. This bustling market comes alive on Thursdays and Sundays, offering an awe-inspiring showcase of exquisite handicrafts. As the largest and most vibrant market in The Americas, it beckons visitors from far and wide. Although the area is predominantly inhabited by the Maya Kiche People, Chichicastenango draws people and products from every corner of the country, creating a truly captivating cultural amalgamation. Delve deeper into Guatemala’s rich heritage as you witness the Saint Tomas Roman-Catholic Church, an epitome of the country’s religious syncretism. This remarkable structure was constructed atop a pre-Columbian temple, retaining its sacred significance for the Maya people who gather at the stairway to burn incense and offer prayers to their ancient deities. Your visit to Chichicastenango entails a slight detour of 10 miles along the route from Lake Atitlan to Guatemala City. Following this enriching experience, you are transferred to Guatemala City Airport for a swift one-hour flight to Flores. Prepare to unwind in a warmer climate, graced by the serene beauty of Lake Peten Itza. Your overnight stay awaits at the idyllic Hotel Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel Museum and Spa, perfectly situated by the tranquil shores of this picturesque lake.  

Spend a leisurely morning exploring the town of Flores with your guide. Following a satisfying lake front lunch in town, a mere 30 km southeast of Tikal, awaits the captivating Yaxhá—a former Maya city adorned with remarkable architectural grandeur and impeccably preserved structures. Immerse yourself in the very essence of Maya culture as you wander through Yaxhá’s ancient marvels. This awe-inspiring site offers a profound connection to nature, boasting over 500 archaeological structures, including pyramidal temples, observatories, and captivating abandoned complexes. Discover a tranquil spot, allowing the serenity to envelop you, and savor the symphony of the jungle. As the sun gracefully descends, painting the sky with its golden hues, a truly magical experience unfolds, leaving an indelible imprint upon your soul. Yaxha’s enchanting sunset vista is a moment of pure wonderment, etching memories that will endure.  Return to your Hotel Las Lagunas for an overnight. 

Today we take you on an extraordinary journey to explore the awe-inspiring Maya ruins of Tikal, emerging majestically from the verdant embrace of the jungle canopy. Immerse yourself in a realm where monkeys frolic amidst towering trees and vibrant toucans fill the air with their animated chatter. Once the preeminent city in the Americas, this expansive complex sprawls across the landscape, boasting over 3,000 structures dispersed over a vast expanse of one square mile. Temples, altars, pyramids, plazas, and palaces intertwine to create a mesmerizing tapestry of ancient architecture. The Maya civilization, renowned for their intellectual prowess, gifted the world with exceptional contributions in literature, philosophy, astronomy, and architecture, along with their precise calendar. Led by your knowledgeable family guide, tailored to captivate the attention of young explorers, you witness history come alive. Ascend pyramid temples, traverse ancient Mayan football fields, and meander amidst captivating archaeological relics, gaining invaluable insights into this ancient civilization. Remain vigilant as you traverse this enchanting landscape, as tapirs, anteaters, monkeys, jaguars, and pumas may grace you with their presence. Meanwhile, a multitude of tropical birds, including toucans, parakeets, and macaws, embellish the canopy with their vivid plumage. Depending on the park regulations at the time, it might be possible to arrange a short visit either at sunrise or sunset, offering an intimate experience of the park when the crowds disperse. Conclude this captivating day with a tranquil overnight stay at the exquisite Hotel Las Lagunas. 

Depart from your hotel and make your way to Flores Airport for a seamless 1-hour flight back to Guatemala City Airport. Arriving at the same terminal building where your return flight awaits, this smooth transition ensures convenience and ease as you prepare to embark on your journey back home.  May your journeys continue to be filled with respect, curiosity, and a profound appreciation for the diverse tapestry of our global community. 

Important note: In order to facilitate a seamless connection with your local flight, it is crucial that your international flight departs no earlier than 11:00 a.m. If your international flight is scheduled to depart earlier, we recommend planning an overnight stay in Guatemala City on day 9 and departing at your convenience on day 10 to ensure a hassle-free continuation of your journey.