Meet at the group hotel. A single timed transfer from Guatemala City Airport is provided. Your guide will provide you with instructions to meet the following morning.

Your guide will join you for breakfast in the morning to provide a full trip briefing and outline the day's arrangements. Our journey begins with a transfer (approximately 3 hours) from Guatemala City to Lake Atitlán, where we will check into our 4-star lakeside hotel.

Often hailed as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, Lake Atitlán is flanked by volcanoes and dotted with charming Mayan villages, making it a truly magical destination. After settling in, we will embark on a captivating boat tour to explore some of the indigenous villages along the shore. Immerse yourself in the local culture, discover traditional crafts, and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Afterwards we'll return to the hotel, where you'll have time to relax before heading out for dinner in the evening. Your guide will be happy to recommend some excellent local restaurants.

Today we will head into the Guatemalan highlands to visit the vibrant Chichicastenango Market, one of Latin America's most colourful and authentic indigenous markets. Held on Thursdays and Sundays, this bustling market offers a kaleidoscopic array of textiles, pottery, traditional crafts, and fresh produce. Your guide will lead you through the lively stalls, helping you discover unique souvenirs and experience the heart of Mayan trade and culture. Chichicastenango, with its misty cobbled streets and colonial architecture adding to its mystical charm, captures a world that feels a step away from the bustle of modern life. You will have some free time to explore in the afternoon before we head back to our lakeside hotel for a second night.

Today we will take a boat across Lake Atitlan to hike the shapely San Pedro at 3040 metres, which can be viewed from our hotel. The path is steep in places as it winds its way, firstly through a large plantation of coffee and then between cornfields, before entering thick cloud forest. The rock stack on the summit of San Pedro is the perfect picnic spot at approximately 3040 meters and provides a superb view of the truly beautiful lake and towns below.' After lunch we descend back down the volcanic slopes to the lake shore where we will meet our boat transfer for the journey back across the lake to enjoy a final night and well-earned rest at our hotel.

Today, we'll start the morning with a leisurely breakfast before heading out onto the water. From the dock, we board a boat to Tzununa, where our kayaking adventure begins. Paddling westward along the northern shore of Lake Atitlán, we glide past villages perched dramatically on the lakeside cliffs. After about two hours of gentle paddling, we'll pause at a safe spot to enjoy a refreshing swim in the lake.

Continuing on, we eventually reach the village of San Marcos La Laguna, where we leave our kayaks behind and set out on foot. The lakeside hiking trail winds its way between villages, offering spectacular views of the San Pedro, Tolimán, and Atitlán volcanoes. After roughly an hour and a half of easy hiking, we return to Tzununa, concluding today's activity.

In the late afternoon, we transfer to Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its stunning colonial architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and charming cobblestone streets.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, Antigua is one of the most beautiful cities in the Americas, renowned for its rich and colourful history. The city boasts a wealth of 17th- and 18th-century architecture, charming cobbled streets, and a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by excellent restaurants, cafés, and bars. Its stunning setting, framed by the volcanoes Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango, makes it truly unforgettable.

After a leisurely breakfast we can immerse ourselves in the charm of Antigua with a comprehensive city tour. We'll stroll through its enchanting streets, admire the beautifully preserved colonial buildings, and discover the city's fascinating past, including its history of earthquakes and resilience.

In the afternoon, we dive into Guatemalan culinary traditions with a hands-on cooking class. We'll learn to prepare authentic local dishes and enjoy the flavours of your own creations.

Today our journey us from the colonial beauty of Antigua to the ancient wonders of the Petén jungle. Our day begins with an early transfer to the airport for the scenic flight to the colourful island town of Flores. Upon arrival, we continue directly to the legendary Mayan city of Tikal, one of the largest and most powerful urban centres of the ancient Maya world.

At Tikal, we will explore the towering pyramids and temples that rise dramatically above the jungle canopy, some over 200 feet tall. As howler monkeys echo through the rainforest, our guide will share the fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site-its role as a political, religious, and economic hub, its monumental architecture, and the mysteries still being uncovered by archaeologists today. We'll explore grand plazas, ceremonial platforms, and stelae carved with intricate hieroglyphics that reveal the stories of Maya rulers and dynasties.

In the late afternoon, we transfer to our hotel in Flores, a charming island town with narrow cobblestone streets, brightly painted houses, and a relaxed lakeside atmosphere. With its lively cafés, craft shops, and panoramic views over Lake Petén Itzá, Flores offers the perfect blend of history and tranquility.

Today, you will embark on a road trip across northern Guatemala, traveling through the Alta Verapaz region. The journey offers a gradual transition in scenery, from open countryside to the densely forested, green hills characteristic of this area. A planned stop near Cobán City allows time to stretch and enjoy lunch before continuing on the route.

As the journey progresses, the roads become less developed, with rougher surfaces and increasing remoteness, leading toward Lanquín. This small mountain town serves as the base for the final stage of your trip.

Accommodations are provided in a glamping site set within the surrounding forest, offering both comfort and immersion in the natural environment. Dinner is available on-site, providing an opportunity to rest and prepare for the following day's activities.

Today we embark on an unforgettable day trip to Semuc Champey, one of Guatemala's most breathtaking natural wonders. Famous for its cascading turquoise pools, lush jungle surroundings, and dramatic limestone formations, this hidden gem promises a day full of beauty and adventure.

Our day begins with a hearty breakfast and a quick overview of the itinerary, before heading off in our truck for a scenic drive through the Guatemalan countryside.

Upon arrival at Semuc Champey, we'll have a brief chat about what to expect on our journey to the pools. From here, the group can choose to hike up to the iconic mirador (viewpoint) or head straight to the pools to relax and swim. For those who want the full experience, we highly recommend the hike. This moderate trek, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours, leads to El Sumidero, where the powerful Cahabón River dramatically disappears beneath a natural limestone bridge. Along the way, we'll witness various natural features including waterfalls, jungle paths, and panoramic views.

After the hike, we make our way to the pools for a well-deserved swim and spend some free time relaxing in this natural paradise. The crystal-clear water, surrounded by lush vegetation, makes for a perfect refreshing break. Afterwards, we hike onto a private picnic area right on the banks of the Cahabón River. Here, we'll enjoy a delicious lunch, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle.

After lunch, we'll take a short hike to visit the Semuc Champey waterfall, offering one final chance to admire the raw power and beauty of the river before we begin our journey back to our overnight accommodation.

Today we have a long drive of 7.5 to 9 hours back to Guatemala City. We'll break the journey after around 2.5 to 3 hours with a guided hike through the Biotopo del Quetzal, a protected nature reserve located in the lush highlands of Baja Verapaz. This sanctuary was established specifically to preserve the habitat of the resplendent quetzal, Guatemala’s national bird and a sacred symbol in ancient Mayan culture. Revered for its vibrant emerald and crimson plumage and long, flowing tail feathers, the quetzal is both elusive and breathtaking - a true treasure of the cloud forest.



As we walk along the mist-shrouded trails, enveloped by towering trees draped in moss and orchids, keep your eyes and ears open not only for the quetzal but also for a wide array of other wildlife, including hummingbirds, toucans, howler monkeys, and countless species of butterflies. The forest itself is alive with dense, tropical vegetation - ferns, bromeliads, and towering hardwoods that thrive in the cool, humid climate created by near-constant cloud cover.



After soaking in the serene atmosphere and natural wonders of the Biotopo, we’ll continue our return journey to Guatemala City, enjoying the changing scenery as we descend from the highlands. On arrival we'll settle in for our final evening in the capital, with time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences and diverse landscapes that have made this journey so special.

Your holiday ends after breakfast. A single timed group transfer to Guatemala City Airport is provided. Flight time allowing there may be additional time to explore this charming city.

Should you wish to extend your stay additional hotel nights in Antigua are available. Please contact the KE office for further information. We can even arrange an incredible once-in-a-lifetime trip to the Galapagos Islands!