Guatemala, Belize & Mexico Adventure 14D/13N (from Guatemala City)

Antigua is renowned for its rich culture, Spanish Baroque architecture, and the infamous Acatenango volcano. Spend a few days in Antigua and you’ll feel like you stepped out of a time capsule from the 17th century. Explore the colonial churches, City Hall, and many other cultural ruins – don’t forget to take a selfie at Antigua’s famous Arch de Santa Catalina (#forthelikes).

Home Stay in San Jorge La Laguna (D)
Upon arrival at Avenida Santander Zona 2 (next to Hotel Dos Mundos), you will be given instructions on how to take a public bus from Panajachel to reach the village where your host family lives, San Jorge La Laguna.
The home stay will give you a genuine insight into the everyday lives of a local family during your trip by staying one or more more nights with a family from the Kakchiquel Indigenous group in San Jorge La Laguna. Maya Experience Home Stays has started this home stay program in the village to give something back to the communities around Lake Atitlan, and also to give you a very genuine experience of living with a Maya local family to experience their culture and customs. This experience is very new to the village and families who welcome foreigners into their homes. As a responsible traveler, we as guests must be aware of and sensitive to the culture by behaving respectfully during our time with the family and in the village.
Although shy at first, the villagers are very friendly and welcoming people. Make sure you ask permission to take photos of the people in the village since the Mayan community commonly believes a photograph will steal their soul. You will most likely find the housing situation in San Jorge La Laguna rather basic but the reason for partcipating in this home stay is to enjoy a real insight into Guatemala, so you can experience the culture firsthand and interact with the local community on a personal basis. We hope that you enjoy this very unique experience.
A small gift for the family would be a nice gesture of appreciation for the family welcoming you into their home.  Cooking or kitchen materials such as pasta, rice, sugar, fruit, vegetables or kitchen utensils are very much appreciated ($3 USD per person approx). Other materials from your home country or children's books (coloring, basic English, workbooks, almanacs) would be a great addition to the family library.

Boat Tour of Lake Atitlan with visits to indigenous villages. Return to Panajachel (B)
You will have all the instructions on how to go from the Homestay to the meeting point. Then, you will hop in a boat for a tour of Lake Atitlan and a visit to its colorful indigenous villages.
The word "atitlan" is translated from Maya as "the place where the rainbow gets its colors" and accordingly you will understand why so many people have been drawn to this magical lake for hundreds of years. Panajachel alone is an 800 year old town home to mostly Cachikel Maya and an increasing number foreigners from every corner of the globe, all coming together to soak up a piece of that serenity and originality that this place provides.
You'll visit the following villages:
San Pedro La Laguna, much like Panajachel has a large population of bohemian tourists and ex-pats, however the indigenous people of the town still preserve their original ways of life and wear traditional dress, remain very conservative and practice the same style of subsistence agriculture that their ancestors practiced years ago. Just outside of town coffee crops are cultivated on the mountain side and hard working farmers hike up and back on a daily basis to tend to their crops.  Walk uphill towards the town center (away from the docks) and you will see a whole different side to this popular lakeside village.

Santiago Atitlán is the largest of the communities around the lake with a population of over 32,000, 95% of which are indigenous Tz’utujils. Traditionally, it is fishing and farming town; it is also known for the manufacture of cayucos, wooden canoes. Directly from the dock, the main street leads visitors up to the main square where there is a vibrant and very lively indoor/outdoor marketplace where street hawkers target "gringos" as they wander by looking for good deals on original locally made souvenirs. Santiago is also home to a very interesting Maya/Catholic sacred statue called Maximon (also known as San Simon by the Spanish and Rilaj Maam by the Maya). All Guatemalan people worship this deity and go to him to ask for blessings or give offerings.  During "Semana Santa" (Holy Week) in March/April, the statue is paraded around town and celebrations are held to worship this Guatemalan god. If you can, catch a glimpse of this interesting and very unique local custom.

San Antonio Palopo is one of the most interesting villages around lake Atitlan and the best place to really get an idea for how these traditional indigenous towns used to feel. Walking through the village one can see people wearing intricately designed "huipiles" (woven tunics) and women weaving fabric made of wool and cotton. Take in the views of this tranquil town and imagine what the villagers' peaceful life is like living in adobe houses with tin roofs, farming and selling souvenirs to make a living. This is one of the best places to purchase a "huipil" traditional hand-woven tunic knowing that the profits are going straight to the villagers.
You will be dropped off back in Panajachel when the tour is finished.

Antigua is renowned for its rich culture, Spanish Baroque architecture, and the infamous Acatenango volcano. Spend a few days in Antigua and you’ll feel like you stepped out of a time capsule from the 17th century. Explore the colonial churches, City Hall, and many other cultural ruins – don’t forget to take a selfie at Antigua’s famous Arch de Santa Catalina (#forthelikes).

Get up close and personal with an active volcano and brag to your friends about it. Hike up the Pacaya Volcano slope fo two hours and then trek onto dry lava that resembles a moon-like landscape. Look up to catch an eruption from the active volcano if you're lucky (depending on the activity of the volcano you may or may not see eruptions or lava). Take unforgettable photos in a landscape so surreal that you feel like you are walking on the moon. Admire the breathtaking landscape and views of neighbouring volcanoes peeking through the clouds around you. Take your time returning to the base of the mountain as you make your way down the slippery, muddy slopes. (Note: Horses can be rented for the trip up and back.)
We recommend wearing comfortable trekking shoes and bringing a flash light and a walking stick (or rent one for a few dollars from local kids before you start your hike). It gets dark and steep on the mountain if you are going up in the afternoon. If you are travelling during rainy season bring a raincoat or poncho... you will definitely need it! Bring bottled water for the trek and some extra cash to buy snacks afterwards or pack a few power bars in your day pack to take with you.

Antigua is renowned for its rich culture, Spanish Baroque architecture, and the infamous Acatenango volcano. Spend a few days in Antigua and you’ll feel like you stepped out of a time capsule from the 17th century. Explore the colonial churches, City Hall, and many other cultural ruins – don’t forget to take a selfie at Antigua’s famous Arch de Santa Catalina (#forthelikes).

El Ritero Eco Lodge is a backpacker's dream located directly on the river. It is the place to stay if you are interested in going to Semuc Champey, which is just a 40 minute drive away. The hostel is owned by a Guatemalan family and its business supports over 20 local Guatemalan families. The lodge offer great tours to Semuc Champey, the Lanquin Bat Caves and Chocolate tour daily. You can have also lot of fun with us doing tubing and zipline. Be sure to try our authentic Guatemalan dishes, homemade bread, and freshly baked desserts!

Take a hike through the mysterious caves of Kanba (activity at your own risk) which are filled with extraordinary limestone formations distributed among an endless stretch of different chambers (so far, the end of the cave system has not yet been discovered) housing a sharp pointed rock altar where ancient Maya once performed sacred rituals. The Maya people of Guatemala continue holding spiritual ceremonies here and believe that the cave is the "heart of heaven" where the secrets of many centuries are held.
Enjoy some free time to swim and go river tubing in the crystalline waters of Semuc Champey where there are natural pools filled with fresh mountain spring water above a 300-meter long limestone bridge. Flowing underneath the bridge is the Cahabón River where you will have time to swim in the cool waters in a beautiful natural surrounding immersed in native flora and fauna. At the end of the bridge you will visit waterfalls over 40-feet in height where the water from the pools rejoins the Cahabon River. The color of the water is constantly changing depending on factors such as the season, sun and rainfall, a characteristic of the national park that makes this place an idyllic and awe-inspiring setting to experience and take photographs.

El Ritero Eco Lodge is a backpacker's dream located directly on the river. It is the place to stay if you are interested in going to Semuc Champey, which is just a 40 minute drive away. The hostel is owned by a Guatemalan family and its business supports over 20 local Guatemalan families. The lodge offer great tours to Semuc Champey, the Lanquin Bat Caves and Chocolate tour daily. You can have also lot of fun with us doing tubing and zipline. Be sure to try our authentic Guatemalan dishes, homemade bread, and freshly baked desserts!

Youth Hostel Los Amigos is a unique hostel created by travellers for travellers with love, detail and creativity over the past 15 years. We consider it more than just a quick sleep or another stop on your way. Los Amigos is truly that warm nest that you'll be looking for during your travels. We provide a 5 star service at a backpacker price offering loads of extra free services like - a free cinema - pool table - Separate Night lounge - Reliable in House Agency - Wide lush green garden to relax - Sauna and Spa - Boat tours on the lake - Rope swing tours and canoe rentals and much more! You catch our drift! Los Amigos is more than a place to stay, it is a place TO BE!!!

Depart Flores at 4:30 am this morning for your early morning experience to Tikal archaeological site. Walk among giant pyramids towering over 200 feet at dawn to feel the magical vibration of Tikal and its historic splendor. Listen to the jungle sounds of exotic birds, monkeys and small mammals and feel the humid jungle air on your skin as the Maya inhabitants of this site felt it 2000 years ago. Immerse yourself in the jungle at dawn for an early morning tour through the archaeological site to experience the jungle come alive as it wakes up at sunrise, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get in touch with nature and marvel at the majestic pyramids hidden away in the jungle.
This magical ancient city is teeming with native flora and fauna. If you are lucky you may be able to spot a jaguar walking leisurely through the park, although large numbers of visitors have caused the wildlife to move further into the jungle away from the noise. Howler monkeys here are famous for their loud growling sounds which may surprise you from a tree top overhead. Keep an eye out for colorful birds throughout the park such as toucan, parrots, eagles and quetzals.
Tucked away in the vast Peten Region that covers 222 square miles of lush jungle in the northwest corner of Guatemala lie the ruins of the most magnificent archaeological site and important Maya citadel in Mesoamerica. Tikal National Park, declared as a UN World Heritage Site in 1979, is the largest excavated archaeological site on the American continents and is one of the most important natural reserves of Central America.
It is known that Tikal, meaning “Place of Voices” in Maya, was one of the most powerful cities of their era covering more than 16 square kilometers and dominating other tribes in the surrounding region as well as interacting with neighboring cultures as far as Teotihuacan in the Valle de Mexico. The site was estimated to house between 10,000 - 90,000 inhabitants before being abruptly abandoned over 1000 years ago.
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If you prefer, you can purchase your entrance tickets at any Banrural bank in Flores the day before the tour to avoid waiting in line.

Youth Hostel Los Amigos is a unique hostel created by travellers for travellers with love, detail and creativity over the past 15 years. We consider it more than just a quick sleep or another stop on your way. Los Amigos is truly that warm nest that you'll be looking for during your travels. We provide a 5 star service at a backpacker price offering loads of extra free services like - a free cinema - pool table - Separate Night lounge - Reliable in House Agency - Wide lush green garden to relax - Sauna and Spa - Boat tours on the lake - Rope swing tours and canoe rentals and much more! You catch our drift! Los Amigos is more than a place to stay, it is a place TO BE!!!

Offering budget and backpacker accommodation, Bella’s Backpackers in Caye Caulker has a relaxed, bohemian and friendly vibe.  We want to make you feel like a local during your stay!

Discover the unparalleled natural beauty of Belize's marine life with a snorkeling experience that you will never forget. On this half-day tour in Caye Caulker Marine Reserve, you will get the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to snorkel along the reef in complete serenity. Navigate through mazes of pristine coral reef among schools of tropical fish, and even get the chance to swim with nurse sharks and stingrays. See all this and more at three different snorkeling stops along the magnificent local reef of Caye Caulker.

Offering budget and backpacker accommodation, Bella’s Backpackers in Caye Caulker has a relaxed, bohemian and friendly vibe.  We want to make you feel like a local during your stay!

Do you smell that? It’s the fragrant blend of smudged copal and sage that floats through the air at Selina Tulum Los Lirios! Nestled between the sacred Tulum port ruins and Sian Ka’an’s nature reserve, our beachfront location is a hub for music, art, wellness, and culture.
From Mayan massage treatments to temazcal and cacao ceremonies, our wellness center offers a host of activities that incorporate ancient Mexican tradition. Plus, our weekly social programming includes drink and draw, mindfulness talks, and gong baths run by local and international experts. Head over to our restaurant for grilled fish, spicy tamales, and crunchy marquesitas, connect with new people at our cocktail bar, or dance to the sounds of local performers and DJs at dusk. Looking for a unique sleeping experience? Stay in a canopy-topped glamping tent or bamboo teepee under the stars!

Not sure where to stay in Playa del Carmen? We’re in the best location and can offer what other hotels in Playa del Carmen can’t – an amazing community of fellow travelers. Selina Playa del Carmen is located on the rambling Quinta Avenida, the perfect spot to stroll the streets, relax on the paradisiac beach or mingle with locals and fellow travelers. Skip the other hotels to stay in our stylish space decorated with art from local creators. We infuse a piece of the local culture in every one of our Selina locations, and this one is no different. If wellness is what you seek, sign up for one of our on-site yoga classes or other wellness activity. We have a full calendar of events each week to help you make the most of your time in town. Stay in our dormitories, standard, deluxe, or private rooms.

Embark on a thrilling adventure to the heart of ancient civilization with this breathtaking early morning tour of Chichen Itza. Rise with the sun and beat the crowds as you delve into the rich history of this renowned archaeological site.

With a specialized guide by your side, journey back in time as you explore the remains of this once powerful city. Discover the secrets of the Maya civilization and learn how Chichen Itza played a pivotal role in shaping their world from 600 AD to 1200. Marvel at the intricate details of this sacred site, still considered holy by the Maya people of the Yucatan today.

Brave the jungle's lush terrain as you unearth the mystery of this lost city, protected by UNESCO and now listed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. With the cool morning air at your back and the warm sun at your face, this early morning tour offers a unique opportunity to experience Chichen Itza in a way most will never have the chance to.

Please note: The government requires an additional fee for the use of mobile devices such as GoPros, professional cameras, selfie sticks, and drones at the ticket office. Get ready for a truly epic adventure!

Not sure where to stay in Playa del Carmen? We’re in the best location and can offer what other hotels in Playa del Carmen can’t – an amazing community of fellow travelers. Selina Playa del Carmen is located on the rambling Quinta Avenida, the perfect spot to stroll the streets, relax on the paradisiac beach or mingle with locals and fellow travelers. Skip the other hotels to stay in our stylish space decorated with art from local creators. We infuse a piece of the local culture in every one of our Selina locations, and this one is no different. If wellness is what you seek, sign up for one of our on-site yoga classes or other wellness activity. We have a full calendar of events each week to help you make the most of your time in town. Stay in our dormitories, standard, deluxe, or private rooms.