VOLCANOES AND ANCIENT RUINS OF GUATEMALA

Unearth this mountainous slice of central America. Renowned for its active volcanoes, charming colonial towns, vibrant indigenous cultures, and ancient ruins, Guatemala is home to a fascinating history and enchanting landscapes.

When to go
Nov-Apr
From Price
£10,200 PP*
Ideal length
10 Nights

Experience Highlights

  • Explore Antigua, a colonial gem nestled among volcanoes, then hike Acatenango at night to witness volcanic eruptions from Fuego.
  • Visit Lake Atitlan, surrounded by dormant volcanoes, to discover Mayan villages, kayak on the lake, and unwind in lakeside hammocks with tropical birds
  • Experience the vibrant Chichicastenango market, visit coffee farms in Coban, and explore the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey in the jungle
  • Explore Tikal's Mayan ruins, climb temples for jungle views, and watch the sunset at Uaxactun with its Mayan observatories

Antigua

Begin your journey at the 17th century capital Antigua, a beautifully vibrant city, described as one of the most charming in all the Americas. Nestled in a mountain valley at the base of three volcanoes, Antigua is surrounded by evergreen forest. Wander the cobblestone streets and take in the Spanish colonial architecture. Littered with charming cafes, allow yourself time to sit and sip at a cup of wonderfully flavourful local coffee as you watch the hustle and bustle of this magnificent city. Explore some of the authentic stores that pepper the streets, or indulge in the culture of fine art galleries and fascinating museums. Uncover the awe-inspiring power of one of the country’s most famous active volcanoes Fuego. Erupting almost every hour, hike up neighbouring volcano Acatengo at nightfall to watch the lava spew out beneath the stars.

Lake Atitlan

Continue your discovery of Guatemala with a trip to Eden-like Lake Atitlan, a mesmerising 12-mile-long crater lake. This glistening highland jewel is watched over by a ring of dormant volcanoes, whose slopes are shrouded in luscious rainforest. Escorted by your personal guide, discover the unique character of each of the Mayan villages that are dispersed along this sparkling shoreline, meeting the T’zutujil and Kaqchiquel people dressed in exquisitely embroidered clothing. Awake to a misty morning kayak and spend your day relaxing at the water’s edge, letting the tranquility wash over you. Sway peacefully in a lakeside hammock and watch the beautiful bustle of tropical birds around you.

Continuing your journey northwards, spending a few hours exploring the vibrant Chichicastango market, piled high with beautifully crafted artisan creations, ceramic arts, local woodcrafts, intricate jade jewellery, natural dyes and handwoven textiles. An assault on the senses, ‘Chichi’ market is not only the country’s oldest but is also one of the largest in Central America. A brief stop at Coban will give you the opportunity to see firsthand the traditional coffee and spice farms that sit high in this unique cloud forest destination. Travel on through dense jungle by 4x4 to discover the picturesque stepped turquoise pools of the Semuc Champery natural monument, the perfect spot for a refreshing dip. Spend your evening unearthing the mysteries of the nearby caves by candlelight.

Tikal

Finally, discover the iconic ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal. High above the dense green jungle canopy loom the ancient temples, a sprawling complex of more than 3,000 structures. Gaze across treetops abundant with tropical birds and monkeys from atop the magnificent 154ft tower. As the day comes to an end, watch the sun set on your Guatemalan adventure amongst these mystical ruins at Uaxactun, home to some of the earliest known Mayan astronomic observatories.

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