Antigua, Lake Atitlán, Chichicastenango
Antigua
Lake Atitlán
Antigua
Chichicastenango
From tasting local flavours, absorbing ancient history + moving your body in nature - this trip has it all.
- Foodie walking tour through local market in Antigua
- Kayak the crystal waters of lake Atitlán
- Hike the volcanic mountainscape.
- Wander around Chichcastenango “Chichi” market - one of the largest and most diverse in Central America.
- Take in the bohemian vibe of San Marcos, and witness the spell-binding local weaving practices.
- Learn about Mayan culture and rituals from a local scholar
the plan
*If you'd like to hike the Pacaya volcano or take an ATV excursion, we recommend arriving one day early and planning the hike for the morning of Day 1. Our planners can help you arrange it!*
Day 1 | GUA Airport Pickup. Welcome Meeting + orientation.
Day 2 | Wander picturesque and historic Antigua, or opt to see the sights with a guide and join in on a foodie walking tour that explores the town center and local market halls. Afternoon private transfer to Lake Atitlán (approx 3 hrs.)
DAY 3 | Boat taxi to Panajachel - the largest town along the shores of the lake. From there, your driver will drive you through quaint villages to the start of a hike, accompanied by your local guides Estelita and Xelita. Begin a gentle incline through beautiful, rolling landscapes until you get to the jawdropping lookout Puerta del Cielo (Heavens Door).
Continue to the home of Estelita and Xelita, who will host you to enjoy a fresh lunch with incredible surrounding views. After lunch, continue the hike for about 20 minutes crossing a small river to meet the driver and head back to the hotel for the night.
DAY 4 | Rise early to enjoy a morning kayak around Santa Cruz La Laguna. Boat to Santa Juan La Laguna and visit a women’s textile cooperative to see the hand weaving and the natural dye process. Visit the studios / homes of the celebrated naïf painters, and then you can hike up the Mirador Kaqasiiwaan for an amazing view of Lake Atitlan and its surrounding volcanoes.
DAY 5 | Free day at the lake! Our guide Nancy will be there to show you around or give you pointers if you prefer to explore on your own.
DAY 6 | AM transfer back to Antigua, stopping at Chichicastenango Market, a bustling local market with interesting handicrafts. Take a guided tour through the cemetery that has a lot of secrets to tell. Free evening to explore colourful Antigua - grab dinner on a rooftop, find some live music or taste local craft beers.
DAY 7 | Departure Day. Transfer to Antigua or Guatemala City Airport
Please note, this is a fully outdoor itinerary and therefore activities and schedules are weather and tide-dependent. Expect to go with the flow - literally!
Included
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Custom OT Know Before You Go Guatemala Travel Guide
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2 Breakfasts | 2 Lunches | 2 Dinners
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Arrival airport transfer from GUA(La Aurora International)
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A dedicated and experienced local Spanish/English speaking guide
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Guided foodie walking tour in Antigua with local snacks
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2 nights accommodation in Antigua, 4 nights accommodation in a Lake Atitlán magical lakeside lodge
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Explore Lake Atitlán on a guided hike + kayak day trip
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Day trip to one of Central America's largest local markets in Chichcastenango ("ChiChi market")
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International flights
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Travel insurance
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Gratuities
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Meals and activities not mentioned
Not included
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Free time to explore
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Transport in private + public vehicles and boats
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All taxes
Add-on
1-day extension: Acatenango Volcano Hike (+$270)
Acatenango Volcano hike is a 2 day, 1 night hike known for its incredible views of volcanic eruptions from the neighboring Mt. Fuego. Meet your guide and get fitted with all the essentials and then embark on this scenic hike. Get rewarded at base camp with epic views - stay up all night watching the red lava explode (snuggly tents and sleeping bags provided for sleep) and then hike to the peak at sunrise for a closer view.
your stay
Each hotel has been selected to showcase traditional decor styles, comfort, cleanliness, and location.
your guide
Meet Nancy! Nancy has been our trusted local guide in Guatemala for 4 years. By the end of the week, you are sure to consider her family, like we do.
