CLASSIC GUATEMALA

Day 1 Arrive Guatemala City and transfer to Antigua

Arrive in Antigua, a colourful and charming colonial city with a vibrant culture in the central highlands of Guatemala. Bursting with lively markets, cobblestone streets, secret alleyways and crumbling colonial churches, it is perhaps the most characterful destination in Guatemala. The El Convento Hotel is ideally located, only a short stroll from many of Antigua's attractions, such as La Merced Church with its baroque architecture, El Carmen ruins and many the city's finest restaurants. Enjoy the evening exploring or relaxing in the hotel's colonial courtyard by the pool.

Overnight: El Convento Boutique Hotel

Day 2 Discover Antigua’s Streets and Eats Tour

A feast for all the senses, the day will be spent combining the hearty flavours of Antigua's street food with the city's colourful traditions and culture. Appetite at the ready, begin sightseeing on foot, before heading onto some comedores (local restaurants) to sample delicious, authentic Guatemalan cuisine such as chuchitos (Guatemala-style tamales). You may even wish to try pigs' feet if you’re feeling brave. 

Overnight: El Convento Boutique Hotel

Day 3 Pacaya Volcano Hike with Lunch, Antigua

Drive out of the city to the Pacaya Volcano, a rumbling, smoke-billowing spectacle and candid demonstration of nature's raw power. For adventure-seekers the volcano beckons with a steep walk through the leafy pine forest to the summit and fine panoramic views over the villages and farmland below. 

Overnight: El Convento Boutique Hotel

Day 4 Antigua to Lake Atitlán via Chichicastenango Market

Drive northwest to the stunning, volcanic Lake Atitlán, home to indigenous communities who still wear traditional dress, proudly maintaining their cultural identity. Drive past active volcanoes and terraced farmlands, stopping at the colourful town of Chichicastenango (Chichi), home to the largest market in the country selling fresh produce, a vast array of local textiles, handicrafts and antiquities. After lunch at a local restaurant continue to Lake Atitlán, arriving early evening.

Overnight: Hotel Atitlan

Day 5 San Juan & Santiago, Lake Atitlán

Travel by boat to the village of San Juan La Laguna, a charming Maya town with panoramic lake views. Wander through the quiet streets to find a series of impressive murals depicting the history of San Juan and discover how traditional back strap looms and natural plant dyes are used to make Guatemala's splendidly coloured textiles. Visit the house of Maximón (the Maya folk saint) where, if you’re lucky, a shaman may perform a traditional ritual. 

Overnight: Hotel Atitlan

Day 6 Lake Atitlán

Enjoy a day at leisure to either relax at your hotel or to explore Guatemala's highlands. Hotel Atitlan is perched on the edge of Lake Atitlán and surrounded by botanical gardens and sensational views over the water. Unwind beside the infinity pool and enjoy a cocktail and superbly tasty food in the restaurant. Alternatively, get out and about and discover the region's trio of towering volcanoes, jagged hills and numerous small villages.

Overnight: Hotel Atitlan

Day 7 Lake Atitlán to Flores

Drive to Guatemala City, driving through coffee plantations and local villages. Catch a late afternoon flight north to Flores, famed for its wildlife and archaeology and most famously home to the Tikal National Park. Relax by the pool in the evening sun with incredible views of the Guatemalan Rainforest.

Overnight: La Lancha

Day 8 Tikal

Spend a full day in the splendour of the Tikal National Park, where nearly 3,000 ancient structures, fascinating archaeological remains of the ancient Maya civilization, rise from the rainforest floor. This remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to numerous tropical birds and native animals, including howler and spider monkeys frolicking noisily in the trees above. Following in the footsteps of Maya royalty, your guide will lead you to significant sites such as the majestic Great Plaza and its Temple of the Jaguar, standing a massive 144 feet high. Lunch today will be at a local restaurant. 

Overnight: La Lancha

Day 9 Depart

After an early breakfast, fly back to Guatemala City to connect with your international flight home.