The Best of Guatemala
Ever wanted to visiting the ancient Mayan ruins in the bright sunny mornings, and go haggling for authentic Guatemala-style scarves in the local bustling markets? If so, this is the trip for you!
| Best travel time | ALL YEAR ROUND |
|---|---|
| Ideal Length | 10 DAYS |
| Flight time | 21HRS 1MIN FROM HONG KONG 21HRS 16MINS FROM BEIJING |
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This country bursts with the glorious ruins of that ancient Mayan realm but is certainly rich with other charms as well, including astounding physical beauty and kind-hearted people. Discover the colonial-era capital Antigua, snuggled among verdant volcanoes. Wander authentic flamboyant markets and hop onto a boat on the dazzling Lake Atitlán, encircled by elegant peaks. Lose yourself where village markets erupt with color and Mayan ruins whisper secrets. Marvel at active volcanoes and impressive Mayan ruins, and roam cobbled streets.
THE QUINTESSENTIALLY COLONIAL CITY
Antigua is as lovely a town as any of us will likely ever see. Founded in the 16th century, it served as the capital of the entire Spanish-controlled region known as the kingdom of Guatemala, which stretched from Mexico City to Peru for over two centuries. It's easy to see why the Spanish chose the spot. Antigua’s setting is gorgeous, nestled between three volcanoes: Agua (3,766m), Fuego (3,763m) and Acatenango (3,976m), and its streetscapes – with sprays of bougainvillea bursting from crumbling ruins, and pastel facades under terracotta roofs – offer photo opportunities at every turn. And the dining is some of the best in the country.
Some 30 monastic orders used to exist in the city, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore their history. At Journeys by Chance, we take you to experience the essence of this magical destination by spending a couple nights in an extraordinary hotel build in the remains of a 17th-century Dominican convent; the rooms wrap around flowering courtyards and ancient pottery and statues of saints dot the halls. It is a useful base for your day trips to Maya cities, coffee plantations, weaving villages or a thrilling climb on top of one of the live volcanos.
THE LAKE AND 3 VOLCANOS
Aldous Huxley famously claimed that Lake Atitlán was "the most beautiful lake in the world," and that Italy's Lake Como paled in comparison. Formed thousands of years ago in the crater of a massive volcano, Lake Atitlán is more than 16 kilometers across at its widest point. It sits at nearly 2 kilometers high in altitude, and is surrounded on all sides by steep, verdant hills, picturesque Maya villages, and massive volcanoes with amazing pointed cones. The views from your lakeshore luxury hotel, the hillsides above the lake, and the boats plying its waters are all stunning, and seemingly endlessly varied, as the light and cloud cover shift constantly throughout the day. Take a horseback ride over the verdant hills sport emerald green grass, cornfields and towering stands of pine. With your expert guide, you will visit colorful Indian markets, learn the age-old there is a fascinating story.
GLORIOUS MAYAN RUINS
Wing your way northeast to further delve into the nature, history and architecture at the impressive remains of the Mayan capital. During the heyday of the Mayan empire, in the 8th century AD, five towering temples, rising through a jungle canopy, signaled the ascendancy of the Mayans. Ascending the steps of a 1,250-year-old temple at the ancient Mayan megacity for sweeping view of the Petén jungle is one of Central America’s greatest experiences. Wake up at 3 am and witnessa perfect sun raising from the jungle. Howling monkeys woke up to start the most amazing jungle concert you would ever imagine. Feel the amazing energy of the Mayan civilization, you may be speechless for the natural richness that surround you.
Inspired? Get in touch with our destination expert who can help you tailor this Guatemala trip.
