Treasures of the Maya Highlands

Welcome to Guatemala! Your private transfer from Guatemala City Airport will take you to the charming colonial city of Antigua Guatemala (approx. 1.5 to 2 hours). Enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the town and trying some local cuisine. Exciting adventures await you tomorrow!

Start your day off with a delicious Guatemalan breakfast. Today, you're in for a truly unique and authentic experience with Chokojol Juyú school of culture.Your local guide and representative of the school will meet you at your hotel, and together, you'll take a short chicken bus ride to the community of San Antonio Aguas Calientes. It's not just any ride though - you'll be traveling like a local! As you arrive in San Antonio Aguas Calientes, you'll immediately be immersed in the rich traditions and history of the region.The school's objective is to encourage young generations to keep practicing their cultural heritage of weaving and their native Kaqchikel language. You’ll get to witness this firsthand with weaving demonstrations by both students and representatives. You'll also get a deep insight into the weaving tradition of the community and the efforts the school does to support children and senior citizens. Head back to Antigua, for a guided visit of the colonial town and its main highlights. You'll discover the charming architecture and history of Antigua, all while basking in the warm hospitality of the locals. After a day of exploring, you'll have a free evening to unwind.

Today you will venture to a small village outside Antigua for an exceptional culinary experience. You’ll visit a local family who will open the doors of their home and share their traditional cooking techniques with you. Learn how to move around in a Guatemalan kitchen, and prepare local dishes that are only made on special occasions.Experience firsthand the use of traditional methods and utensils in the preparation of authentic Guatemalan cuisine, accompanied by fresh ingredients. Learn insights about the culture, regional ingredients, local produce, and flavors. Taste your creation for lunch with your hosts before continuing your travels to Lake Atitlan.

Wake up to the delicious smell of a traditional Guatemalan breakfast and take your time savoring every bite. You’ll take a guided walk through the picturesque and colorful alleys of Santa Catarina Palopó, the first village to be included in the initiative of transforming communities through textile-inspired art. Immerse yourself in the local life and living traditions of San Antonio Palopó, as you visit the ceramic factories and witness the traditional craft-making process. After the tour, enjoy a free evening to explore the area at your leisure.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure as you take a boat ride across the tranquil waters of Lake Atitlan to the captivating town of San Juan la Laguna. Immerse yourself in the traditional art of weaving with natural dyes, in a unique 3-hour workshop where skilled women weavers will guide you through the process of creating your very own textile masterpiece. Get hands-on experience spinning cotton thread, extracting natural dyes, and using a backstrap loom to weave your creation. Along the way, you'll learn about the history and cultural significance of these traditional techniques, as well as the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly practices. The result? A beautiful, one-of-a-kind garment that you make yourself, using the same techniques that have been passed down through generations of Mayan women. After the workshop, enjoy a free afternoon to explore this enchanting town and take in the vibrant local culture.

Escape the ordinary and venture off the beaten path on an exhilarating hiking adventure in Santa Cruz la Laguna. With your expert local guides, you'll explore hidden trails that lead to paradisiac waterfalls and offer breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and surrounding communities. Along the way, you'll visit a local cooperative where women work with Guatemalan cacao, and indulge in a delicious and warm Cacao sacred drink, while learning about the cultural significance of this ancient ingredient. As the day winds down, head back to your hotel and bask in the beauty of a Lake Atitlan sunset.

Explore the heart of Guatemalan trade on a guided tour of Chichicastenango market day. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and bustling energy of this magical place, where artisans, farmers, and travelers come together to offer all sorts of crafts, textiles, local produce, and living traditions. Discover the colorful cemetery and historic Santo Tomás Church, witness Maya syncretism and cosmovision rituals. Shop for unique and authentic crafts and textiles, and taste the local produce that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region.But that's not all! You'll have the opportunity to learn the art of mask painting with local artisans. Under their expert guidance, you'll create a one-of-a-kind mask using traditional techniques and designs, while learning about the cultural significance of this ancient craft. Indulge in a traditional market day rustic lunch, and then take time to explore on your own, soaking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of market day. Head back to Antigua for your final evening.

Savor one last cup of exceptional Guatemalan coffee and bid farewell to this beautiful country as you transfer to the airport for your departure flight. We're so happy you chose to explore Guatemala with us and we hope you had an unforgettable trip! Don't be a stranger and come back to visit us again soon!