Discover the Heart of the Mayan World With Dina DeLeon
Your TourHero
Hello, I’m Dina! I’m an avid adventure enthusiast and I love to immerse myself in all outdoor activities, but my favorite one is hiking! I find a lot of joy traveling to new places, learning about other cultures and exploring new hiking destinations. I find solace in being outdoors and my hope is to encourage others to find theirs through adventure and exploring. One motto that gets me going everyday is “life is too short.” So live your best life!
Duration
6 days · 5 nights
Travel Date
Apr 15 – 20, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6 – 12
Transportation
Van / minibus
Tour Prices
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
22+
Travel interest
Hiking, culture, nature, water adventures, food, love for the outdoors
Travel style
Open-minded, meeting new people, learning cultural values and history
Fellow Travelers
DINA
Mike
BiancaYour Local Guide
Guides from Maya Cosmos Ascension will make your trip truly unforgettable. With a passion for creating transformational experiences that focus on a sustainable, cultural, educational, environmental and social approach, they pride themselves on offering a holistic experience in the Mayan lands. The team is equipped with valuable education, training and experience to ensure your safety and comfort in Guatemala. Genuinely friendly, passionate and eager to enrich your immersive experience, they’ll take care of the nitty gritty details for you and make your trip as smooth as possible.
Embark on an epic expedition from the mountains of the Mayan Central Valley to the mystical Mayan highlands where indigenous culture is very much alive. Discover incredible sacred sites, archaeological ruins, and ancient traditions that highlight the country’s unique history. Explore the land through incredible experiences: wander the heritage city of Antigua, climb the active Pacaya Volcano, cruise the waters of Lake Atitlan, interact with local communities, partake in a Mayan fire ceremony, and much more! This trip has been specially designed for sophisticated, adventurous, and socially conscious travelers.
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.
Your TourHero
Hello, I’m Dina! I’m an avid adventure enthusiast and I love to immerse myself in all outdoor activities, but my favorite one is hiking! I find a lot of joy traveling to new places, learning about other cultures and exploring new hiking destinations. I find solace in being outdoors and my hope is to encourage others to find theirs through adventure and exploring. One motto that gets me going everyday is “life is too short.” So live your best life!
Duration
6 days · 5 nights
Travel Date
Apr 15 – 20, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6 – 12
Transportation
Van / minibus
Embark on an epic expedition from the mountains of the Mayan Central Valley to the mystical Mayan highlands where indigenous culture is very much alive. Discover incredible sacred sites, archaeological ruins, and ancient traditions that highlight the country’s unique history. Explore the land through incredible experiences: wander the heritage city of Antigua, climb the active Pacaya Volcano, cruise the waters of Lake Atitlan, interact with local communities, partake in a Mayan fire ceremony, and much more! This trip has been specially designed for sophisticated, adventurous, and socially conscious travelers.
Timeline
- Day 1 · Antigua
- Arrive at Aurora International Airport (GUA)
- ~ 1 hr 18 mins van
- Explore Antigua — free and easy
- Check-in at Hotel Convento Santa Catalina (or similar according to availability)
- Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
- Day 2 · Antigua and Pacaya Volcano
- Breakfast
- ~ 1 hr 30 mins van
- Pacaya active volcano hike and tour (with lunch included)
- ~ 1 hr 30 mins van
- Lounge/bar hopping in Antigua
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 3 · Iximche and Lake Atitlan
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- ~ 2 hrs van
- Iximche tour
- ~ 2 hrs van
- Arrive at Panajachel — boat ride across Lake Atitlan
- ~ 35 mins boat
- Lunch (not included in price)
- San Juan La Laguna cultural tour
- Temazcal (Mayan sauna) experience
- Hotel La Casa del Mundo (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 4 · Lake Atitlan
- Breakfast
- Paddleboard and kayaking on Lake Atitlan
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Boat ride to San Marcos La Laguna
- Mayan sacred fire and kakaw ceremony
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 5 · Lake Atitlan and Antigua
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Boat ride back to Panajachel
- ~ 35 mins boat
- Return to Antigua
- ~ 3 hrs van
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Antigua walking tour
- Check-in at Hotel Convento Santa Catalina (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 6 · Departure
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Transfer to Aurora International Airport (GUA)
- ~ 1 hr 30 mins van
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Welcome to Guatemala, the heart of the Mayan world — arrive in the beautiful heritage-listed colonial city of Antigua
Upon arriving at the airport in Guatemala City, our team will whisk you away by private transportation to the charming UNESCO World Heritage city of Antigua. Nestled in forested hills and surrounded by volcanoes in southern Guatemala, this much-visited city is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and well-preserved culture and history. With plenty of ruins and colonial edifices to discover, enjoy your free time this afternoon to explore and sightsee to your heart’s content. If you arrive in the country before midday, you’ll have the great opportunity to enjoy the sunset in Antigua, perhaps with some tea or coffee to cap off the day. After checking into your accommodation, you can rest and prepare yourself for your upcoming journey. We’re very excited to show you the magic of Guatemala!
Day 2
Hike the spectacular Pacaya Volcano for epic lava encounters
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll take you to the rugged terrain of the Pacaya Volcano and Calderas Lagoon National Park for a hike of a lifetime! Get ready to trek the different trails of the volcano to explore a dynamic ecosystem of dried lava fields, magma stones, and steaming vents. Even better, the volcano is surrounded by magnificent and breathtaking views of the Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango volcanoes! Not to worry, the ascent is not too difficult and the hike makes a perfect workout for a group of travelers in search of a hot adventure! If we’re lucky enough, the Pacaya and Acatenango (both active volcanoes) might decide to put on a thrilling lava show for us — Pacaya has become more active in recent times. After your hike, we’ll return to Antigua. As we depart the city for Lake Atitlan tomorrow, we’ll take you out tonight for some lounge/bar hopping, and you’ll also be able to enjoy a nice dinner.
Day 3
Explore the sacred archeological site of Iximche
This morning, enjoy a filling breakfast before we begin the journey through the Mayan highlands, the region most recognized for keeping the indigenous Mayan culture alive. We will come across areas surrounded by beautiful landscapes, mountains, volcanoes, indigenous communities, and crop farms until we finally reach Iximche (“corn tree”). This is a very important sacred site of great energy where the ancient Mayans founded their last capital. Discover the archeological site and its many unique areas, including its plazas, palaces, and fire ceremonial zone. After, we’ll continue to the town of Panajachel, located on the shores of one of the most beautiful lakes in the world: Lake Atitlan.
Travel to Lake Atitlan and discover its indigenous communities — take part in immersive cultural workshops
Upon arriving at the town of Panajachel and Lake Atitlan, we will embark on a boat ride across the lake’s crystalline waters to reach the small and picturesque town of San Juan La Laguna. Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to learn about ways of life unlike anywhere else in the world. Engage in local community projects focused on preserving alternative and natural medicine, primitivist painting, natural dyeing, and beekeeping. Gain firsthand experience as you learn about the local culture and Mayan ancestral knowledge passed down for generations.
End the day with a wonderfully healing and therapeutic Mayan sauna (Temazcal ceremony) experience
To bring your incredible day to an end, a holistic and healing moment is waiting to wrap you in pure bliss. Relax and detox your body as you spend the evening unwinding during a unique Temazcal (house of hot stones) experience. Your journey thus far has been full of wonders and excitement, but this is the time to calm your mind and find some inner peace within this authentic Mayan sauna. Pamper yourself — your body will thank you for it. Afterwards, spend your night in comfortable lodgings at Lake Atitlan.
Day 4
Paddleboard and kayak across the beautiful Lake Atitlan
Have an early breakfast this morning before you head to the crystalline waters of Lake Atitlan for a paddleboard and kayaking session. Surrounded by views of three majestic volcanoes (San Pedro, Atitlan, and Toliman), this is a scenic opportunity not to be missed! The lake is surrounded by various towns and villages, giving you the perfect opportunity to witness the day-to-day life of the locals and even interact with farmers and fishermen. You will have some free time in the morning to spend in your unique surroundings — during this time, you can continue to explore the magic of this powerful lake and its indigenous communities. In the afternoon, you will embark on a boat ride to visit the holistic town of San Marcos La Laguna.
Take part in a sacred Mayan fire and kakaw (cocoa) ceremony at San Marcos La Laguna
Arrive in the small but charming town of San Marcos La Laguna, where the international community and the local people converge. Get ready for an interesting afternoon — you will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a traditional sacred Mayan fire ceremony and also connect with the spirit of the “kakaw” (or cocoa), regarded by the ancient Mayans as the “flesh of the Gods”, believed to be medicine for the heart and soul. Oh, by the way, don't forget your swimsuit; near San Marcos La Laguna, you’ll discover Lake Atitlan’s best swimming spots.
Day 5
Embark on your boat trip back to Panajachel and head back to Antigua
After breakfast, catch your boat back to the other side of the lake. Once you’re back at Panajachel, spend some time exploring the beautiful town before the journey back to Antigua. Once you reach Antigua, you’ll have another chance to explore the World Heritage city on a walking tour through its famous cobblestone streets. Discover the charms of its central plaza, cathedral, jade stores that sell the sacred stone of the Mayans, fantastic handicraft markets, and more! Visit a local cafe and try the best coffees, snap photos of unique areas, and don’t forget to visit the famous Calle del Arco (Arch Street) and, of course, catch fantastic panoramic views from Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross). Note: On this day, you will need to take an antigen test for your flight back home tomorrow. We will help you to coordinate this at Lake Atitlan or Antigua.
Day 6
Time for goodbye — head to the airport for your flight home
How time flies! After a final breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City to catch your flight. Say goodbye to the team and have a safe trip home. Until next time! Buen Camino!
Accommodation
Hotel Convento Santa Catalina (or similar according to availability)
Once a functioning convent founded by the Augustinian Order in 1609 and originally a monastery, Hotel Convento Santa Catalina is an accommodation choice with plenty of character. The property has been carefully preserved and today stands as a unique hotel that offers you a piece of history in Antigua. It is conveniently located in the heart of the city, right under the iconic Santa Catalina Arch on 5th Avenue, and provides plenty of old-world charm blended with modern touches to make your stay special. Room type: Double or twin-sharing.
La Casa del Mundo (or similar according to availability)
The beautiful La Casa del Mundo is perched on a hill right next to the beautiful Lake Atitlan at El Jaibalito, nestled amidst beautiful gardens and surrounded by the views of three volcanoes. The property is accessible only by boat or by foot. Guest rooms, each with their own unique architecture, are fitted with premium beds, hot water, bathrooms, and boast spectacular lake views. The property grants access to swimming balconies, sun terraces, and a lakefront jacuzzi. Room type: Double or twin-sharing.
Included
- 3 nights in Hotel Convento Santa Catalina (or similar)
- 2 nights in Hotel La Casa del Mundo (or similar)
- Shared occupancy in accommodation
- All activities mentioned
- All transfers between airport, hotels, and activities
- Boat ride at Lake Atitlan
- All breakfasts
- Day 2 lunch
- 24/7 guest support
Not included
- International flights
- All lunches (except day 2)
- All dinners
- All drinks at restaurants
- Personal expenses of any kind
- Antigen test for COVID-19 in Guatemala (for your flight back home)
- Any other additional services not described in the itinerary
- Gratuities
Available add-on
One night pre-departure at Hotel Convento Santa Catalina
This add-on is for one night pre-departure at the original hotel, Hotel Convento Santa Catalina, in the city of Antigua.
Price: USD 175
19 spots left
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.
- Detoxify your body and calm your mind with a healing Temazcal ceremony. - The Culture Trip
- Your journey thus far has been full of wonders and excitement, but this is the time to calm your mind and find some inner peace within an authentic Mayan sauna. - Adventure Blog
- Connect with the local people, absorb the good vibes of the city, and have a relaxing time. - Unsplash: Angello Pro
- Visit the busy markets, come across stores selling jade (the sacred stone of the Mayans), or step into local cafes to try the finest Guatemalan coffees available. - Unsplash: Jeison Higuita
- Discover the stunning terrain of the Pacaya Volcano and Calderas Lagoon National Park. Here, you'll embark on a hiking adventure to witness a dynamic ecosystem of dried lava fields, magma stones, and steaming vents. - Unsplash: レオネル ラム
- Back in the charming city of Antigua, you’ll be taken on a walking tour to explore the cobbled streets. - Pixabay: vhcardenas
- Be surrounded by magnificent and breathtaking views of the Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango volcanoes. If you’re lucky, the Pacaya and Acatenango (both active volcanoes) might even decide to put on a thrilling lava show! - Unsplash: Dimitry B
- Hotel Convento Santa Catalina, Antigua, Guatemala - Hotel Convento Santa Catalina
- Hotel Convento Santa Catalina, Antigua, Guatemala - Hotel Convento Santa Catalina
- Encounter indigenous communities and experience authentic local culture — all amidst a gorgeous backdrop of mountains in the distance. - Maya Cosmos
- The lake is surrounded by various towns and villages, giving you the perfect opportunity to witness the day-to-day life of the locals and even interact with farmers and fishermen. - Maya Cosmos
- Engage in local community projects focused on preserving alternative and natural medicine, primitivist painting, natural dyeing, and beekeeping. - Maya Cosmos
- Surrounded by views of three majestic volcanoes (San Pedro, Atitlan, and Toliman), this is a scenic opportunity not to be missed! - Facebook: La Casa Del Mundo
- In the afternoon, you will visit the holistic town of San Marcos La Laguna to connect with the local community. - Maya Cosmos
- La Casa del Mundo, Lake Atitlan, Guatemala - La Casa del Mundo
- La Casa del Mundo, Lake Atitlan, Guatemala - La Casa del Mundo
- La Casa del Mundo, Lake Atitlan, Guatemala - La Casa del Mundo
- On your last day at Lake Atitlan, you'll catch your boat back to the other side of the lake after breakfast. You're heading back to Antigua today. - Facebook: La Casa Del Mundo