2

INDIGENOUS VILLAGES

This tour will bring you to interesting indigenous villages in the Quetzaltenango area. We start with a visit to the cooperative glass factory in Cantel where you can see the manufacture of hand-blown glass. Afterwards you can bring a visit to the factory shop where you can see all their products. In Cantel we will also visit a really interesting church. We continue to Zunil where we visit an indigenous cemetery, the leaving cooperative Santa Ana, the colonial church and the San Simon. Afterwards it’s time to relax a little bit (1 ½ hour) in Fuentes Georginas (natural volcanic hot springs) and have a relaxed warm bath surrounded by a beautiful primary cloud forest. We end our tour with a visit to Almolonga one of the most productive agricultural villages in Guatemala. In Almolonga you can see the very popular church and the real life of the local people, because here you will have a tour through these agricultural villages.

* Please remind that the glass factory is closed on Saturday and Sunday * During the weekdays the glass factory is only opened in the morning * Also the church in Almolonga is only opened during the mornings. * Monday market day Zunil * Wednesday market day Almolonga * Sunday market day Cantel Tours Dates: Every day at 8:00 am back at 13:00 pm or 14:00 pm back at 19.00 pm Included: Transport, guide and entrance fees included

3

COLONIAL CHURCHES

This tour will take you not only to the famous colonial churches in the Quetzaltenango area, but includes a lot more! We will first go to San Andres Xécul. This yellow church is probably the most famous church in Central America. We also visit a place where you can see how the local materials are painted which are used for the typical weavings. Next to a little chapel which is really interesting to see, we will visit a Maya altar and after that San Simon (Maximon a local Maya Saint). In San Cristóbal Totonicapán we will visit the church and the next door ´Monesterio´ as well as the place where indigenous

women do their laundry, standing with their feet in the water while fish are swimming between them. We end our tour in Salcaja where we visit a local family who makes ´Caldo de frutas´ a local drink in Guatemala, Of course here is the opportunity to try one of these popular drinks! After that we will go to the weavery where you can see how they make the local textiles and end our tour in Quetzaltenango Tour Dates: Every day at 8:00 am back at 13:00 pm or 14:00 pm back at 19:00 pm Included: Transport, entrance fees included

4

CULTURAL WALKING

Discover the forgotten history of Quetzaltenango, learn about the ‘Sexto Estado’ and the independence, the history of the train ‘tren de Los Altos’ and a lot more. We will take you on a tour trough the city explaining about the historical facts and about the colonial architecture. If you are interested to learn more about the city of Quetzaltenango this tour is excellent for you!

Tour Dates: Every day at 9:00 am back at 12:00 pm or 14: 00 am back at 17:00 pm

5

FUENTES GEORGINAS THE HOTSPRINGS

Just relaxing……… If you just want to enjoy the fantastic hot baths of Fuentes Georginas, next to Zunil, this is the fastest and cheapest way to go. With the Fuentes Express we go and return two times a day directly (no stops) to the Fuentes Georginas surrounded by a beautiful primary rainforest.

Tour dates: Every day at 08:00 am back at 13:00 pm or 14:00 pm back at 18:00 pm Included: Transport

6

HORSEBACKRIDING

Would you like to go for a ride? Saddle up for a horseback adventure in the Quetzaltenango valley. Feel the magic of freedom and infinite space, the intense blue of the sky, the vertigo of the ravines with carpets of crops on the bottom, the surprise of the locals. We will ride from Salcajá to San Andres Xecul and for the experienced riders we return to Salcajá over a different trail! This tour is even for beginners and people with very little knowledge of horseback riding!

Tour dates: Every day 8:00 am back at 13:00 pm or 14:00 pm back at 18:00 pm Included: Transport, guide (not English) and horses.

7

VIEJO PALMAR & SAN ISIDRO FARM

Do you want to see real life on a coffee/rubber/sugarcane plantation in Guatemala? Well bring a visit to the Finca San Isidro where you can see the process of making coffee, rubber and sugarcane and see the way of living on a farm. On the plantation we will have a tour showing the different products and statues you will encounter on the Finca. You will see that much processing and human labor is required before coffee berries and its seeds can be processed into the roasted coffee. The roasting process has a great degree of influence on the taste of the final product. You will taste it after the tour with of course a nice cup of coffee!

Tour Dates:

Every day at 7:00 am back at 13:00 pm or 14:00 pm back at 19:30

Included:

Transport, local guide and entrance fees.

8

VIEJO PALMAR & TAKALIK ABAJ

After the eruption of the volcan Santiaguito everything of the little village Viejo Palmar was destroyed. Now Viejo Palmar (also called it’s Guatemala´s Pompeii) seems like an inhabitable ghost town. Here you can see hanging bridges and in the morning you will have an amazing view of the Santiaguito volcano. Near El Asintal, Retalhuleu we will visit Takalik Abaj (standing stone), one the oldest archaeological site in Guatemala, where once the Olmecs and Mayans lived and mingled. Maya styles stela 5 bears the long count date of 125 AD while a pure Olmec style were-jaguar is carved on a nearby boulder. Recent excavations have uncovered temples, ceremonial platforms, wood carvings and ceramic plus large Olmec heads. You can also see the artifacts on the site in the local museum, and enjoy the botanical garden with more than 200 different species of plants and flowers typical of the area.

Tour dates:

Every day at 7:00 am back at 13:00 pm or 14:00 pm back at 19:00 pm

Included:

Transport, local guide and entrance fees.

8

CHICHICASTENANGO

Surrounded by valleys, with mountains

serrating the horizons, Chichicastenango

seems to be isolated from time and space and

the rest of Guatemala. When its narrow

cobbled streets and red-tiled roofs are

enveloped in mist, it seems magical. On the

Thursday and Sunday market local craftsmen

from the entire region come to this town to

sell their goods. Shamanistic and ceremonials

can be found here as well. Apart from the

market you can visit the cathedral, museum

Rossbach, a mask factory and Pascual Abaj.

During the Sunday market you also have a

good chance to see the cofradias (Mayan

religious brotherhoods) who often hold precessions in and around the church of Santo

Tomas on Sunday

Tours Dates:

Only Thursdays and Sundays at 7:00 am back at 19:00 pm

Included:

Transport, guide and entrance fees included

Only Transport available, ask for more information.

9

INDIGENOUS VILLAGES & COLONIAL CHURCHES

This tour will take you not only to the famous colonial churches in the Quetzaltenango area, but includes a lot more! We start with a visit to the cooperative glass factory in Cantel where you can see the manufacture of hand-blown glass. Afterwards you can bring a visit to the factory shop where you can see all their products. In Cantel we will also visit a really interesting church. We continue to Zunil where we visit an indigenous cemetery, the weaving cooperative Santa Ana, the colonial church and the Maya saint San Simon. Afterwards it’s time to relax a little bit (1 ½ hour) in Fuentes Georginas (natural volcanic hot springs) and have a relaxed warm bath surrounded by a beautiful primary cloud forest. We end our tour with a visit to Almolonga one of the most

productive agricultural villages in Guatemala. In Almolonga you can see the very popular church and the real life of the local people, because here you will have a tour through these agricultural villages. We continue to San Andres Xécul. This yellow church here is probably the most famous church in Central America. We also visit a place where you can see how the local materials are painted which are used for the typical weavings. Next to a little chapel which is really interesting to see, we will visit a Maya altar and after that San Simon (Maximon a local Maya Saint). In San Cristóbal Totonicapán we will visit the church and the next door ´Monesterio´ as well as the place where indigenous women do their laundry, standing with their feet in the water while fish are swimming between them. We end our tour in Salcaja where we visit a local family who makes ´Caldo de frutas´ a local drink in Guatemala; Of course here is the opportunity to try one of these popular drinks! After that we will go to the weavery where you can see how they make the local textiles and end our tour in Quetzaltenango. Tour Dates: Every day at 8:00 am back at 19:00 pm Included: Transport, guide and entrance fees

10

LAKE ATITLAN & SORROUNDINGS

This is a great opportunity to get to know the lake Atitlan in one day. We take you to the most beautiful lake of the world in the morning with our collective shuttle service. From there you go on a boat tour over the lake visiting three different villages with a guide. You will visit the villages of Santiago de Atitlan, San Antonio Palopo and Santa Catarina Palopo. In the afternoon you’ll have some free time in Panajachel before returning to Quetzaltenango.

Tour Dates: Every day at 6:00 am back at 19:00 pm Included: Transport, guide, lunchbox and entrance fees included

11

TODOS SANTOS

Full day tour to Todos Santos, los Cuchumatanes and the Chiantla town. This is a fantastic ride through the Cuchumatanes mountains to visit the remote village of Todos Santos (See also special market tours). If you are interested in contemporary but traditional Mayan life and dramatic mountain scenery, put the small town of Todos Santos Cuchumatán, 24, 85 miles or 40 km northwest of Huehuetenango, on your itinerary. Todos Santos lies in the bottom of a deep valley, and the last 1¼ hours of approach by bus are down a bone-shaking dirt road that leaves the paved Huehuetenango – Soloma road after a 1½ hour climb up from Huehuetenango.

Tours Dates: Every day at 6:00 am back at 19:00 pm Included: Transport, guide and entrance fees included * Saturday market day Todos Santos

12

TOTONICAPAN (MAYA QUICHE PROYECT)

We will first visit La Casa de la Cultura in Totonicapán where our local guide will be waiting for us. We visit several families where they make different local products. Here you can see how the local textiles are made. After that we will have a lunch with a local family in Totonicapán. In the afternoon we continue our tour with a visit to different factories. At this factories the guide will explain you how the people make the masks and other arts which are very famous here in Guatemala. In the casa de la cultura a small performance will be given of folkloric dancing. After that we will return to Quetzaltenango.

Tour Dates:

Every day at 8:00 am back at 18:00 pm

Included:

Transport, guide, entrance fees and lunch included

* Saturday is market day at Totonicapán

13

VIEJO PALMAR, TAKALIK ABAJ & SAN ISIDRO FARM

After the eruption of the volcan Santiaguito everything of the

little village Viejo Palmar was destroyed. Now Viejo Palmar (also

called its Guatemala´s Pompeii) seems like an inhabitable ghost

town. Near El Asintal, Retalhuleu we will visit Takalik Abaj

(standing stone), the oldest archaeological site in Guatemala,

where once the Olmecs and Mayans lived and mingled. Maya

styles stela 5 bears the long count date of 125 AD while a pure

Olmec style were-jaguar is carves on a nearby boulder dates

even far earlier. Recent excavations have uncovered temples,

ceremonial platforms, wood carvings and ceramic plus large

Olmec heads. You can also see the artifacts found on the east in

the local museum and enjoy the botanical garden with more

than 200 different species of plants and flowers typical of the

area. The tour continues with a visit to the coffee, rubber and

sugarcane plantation at Finca San Isidro. On the plantation we

will have a tour showing the different products and statues you

will encounter on the Finca. You will see that much processing

and human labour is required before coffee berries and its seeds can be processed into the

roasted coffee. The roasting process has a great degree of influence on the taste of the final

product. You will taste it after the tour with of course a nice cop of coffee after lunch which will

be served in the house of the landowners! On request, a real Maya priest can give you all the

explanations about this fascinating site, and at the end you have the opportunity to perfume in

a Maya ceremony on the Takalik Abaj site.

Tour dates:

Every day at 8:00 am back at 19:00 pm

Included:

Transport, guide, lunch at the farm and entrance fees included

14

CHAMPERICO BEACH

Enjoy a nice day at the beach having a dip in the Pacific and eat delicious sea food at one of the restaurants. Only two hours away from Quetzaltenango lays ChamperIco beach. Champerico is one of the easiest ocean beaches to reach on a day trip from Quetzaltenango.

Tour Dates: Every day at 7.30 am back at 20:00 pm. (leaving Champerico at 18.00 pm) Included: Transport go & return from Quetzaltenango

TILAPA BEACH

Tilapa is one of the real Guatemalan Beaches with a

little fisherman village. The environment of Tilapa

makes it perfect to go on a day trip or even for more

days. (Nice hotel on the beach) In this trip we will take

you on a mangrove tour and after that to the beach. A

very remote beach!!!

Tour Dates:

Every day at 7.30 am back at 20:00 pm (leaving Tilapa at 17.00 pm)

Included:

Transport go & return from Quetzaltenango, mangrove tour with guide included

15

CHICHICASTENANGO MARKET

Surrounded by valleys, with mountains serrating the horizons, Chichicastenango seems to be isolated from time and space and the rest of Guatemala. When its narrow cobbled streets and red-tiled roofs are enveloped in mist, it seems magical. On the Thursday and Sunday market local craftsmen from the entire region come to this town to sell their goods. Shamanistic and ceremonials can be found here as well. Apart from the market you can visit the cathedral, museum Rossbach, a mask factory and Pascual Abaj. During the Sunday market you also have a good chance

to see the cofradias (Mayan religious brotherhoods) who often hold precessions in and around the church of Santo Tomás on Sunday Tour Dates: Only Thursdays and Sundays at 7:00 am back at 19:00 pm Included: Transport, guide and entrance fees included Only Transportation available, ask for information.

16

OLINTEPEQUE MARKET & COLONIAL CHURCHES

7 km of Quetzaltenango we will bring a visit to the market

of Olintepeque. This is a big animal market where you can

see all kinds of animals. Olintepeque is also the place

where according to the legend, the famous Maya Quiche

prince Tecún Uman died in battle against Pedro de

Alvarado in 1524. We Continue to San Andres Xécul. This

yellow church is probably the most famous church in

Central America. We also visit a place where you can see

how the local materials are painted which are used for the

typical weavings. Next to a little chapel which is really

interesting to see, we will visit a Maya altar and after that

San Simon (Maximon a local Maya Saint). In San Cristóbal

Totonicapán we will visit the church and the next door

´Monesterio´ as well as the place where indigenous women

do their laundry, standing with their feet in the water while

fish are swimming between them. We end our tour in Salcaja where we visit a local

family who makes ´Caldo de frutas´ a local drink in Guatemala, Of course here is the

opportunity to try one of these popular drinks! After that we will go to the weavery

where you can see how they make the local textiles and end our tour in

Quetzaltenango.

Tour Dates:

Only Tuesday Leave at 7:00 am back at 13:00 pm

Included:

Transport and entrance fees.

17

MOMOSTENANGO MARKET & COLONIAL CHURCHES

The best days to visit this town 26 km from Quetzaltenango are on a Wednesday or Sunday, the main market days. Here you will find the famous woolen blanks and other woolen products. Because of this Momostenango is a popular place to visit. Momostenango is also noted for its adherence top the ancient Mayan calendar and for its observance of traditional rites. We continue to San Andres Xécul. This yellow church is probably the most famous church in Central America. We also visit a place where you can see how the local materials are painted which are used for the typical weavings. Next to a little chapel which is really interesting to see, we will visit a Maya altar and after that San Simon (Maximon a local Maya Saint). In San Cristóbal Totonicapán we will visit the church and the next door ´Monesterio´ as

well as the place where indigenous women do their laundry, standing with their feet in the water while fish are swimming between them. We end our tour in Salcaja where we visit a local family who makes ´Caldo de frutas´ a local drink in Guatemala; Of course here is the opportunity to try one of these popular drinks! After that we will go to the weavery where you can see how they make the local textiles and end our tour in Quetzaltenango.

Tour Dates:

Only Sundays at 7:00 am back at 13:00 pm

Included:

Transport and entrance fees included

18

SAN FRANCISCO MARKET & COLONIAL CHURCHES

Visit the biggest indigenous market in Guatemala; this is a

not very well known market but 100% authentic. Only

Fridays. The animal market, typical products, food and

vegetables makes it a real experience that you can’t miss.

This tour will take you not only to the famous colonial

churches in the Quetzaltenango area, but includes a lot

more! We will first go to San Andres Xécul. This yellow

church is probably the most famous church in Central

America. We also visit a place where you can see how the

local materials are painted which are used for the typical

weavings. Next to a little chapel which is really interesting to

see, we will visit a Maya altar and after that San Simon

(Maximon a local Maya Saint). In San Cristóbal Totonicapán

we will visit the church and the next door ´Monesterio´ as

well as the place where indigenous women do their laundry,

standing with their feet in the water while fish are swimming between them. We end

our tour in Salcaja where we visit a local family who makes ´Caldo de frutas´ a local

drink in Guatemala; Of course here is the opportunity to try one of these popular

drinks! After that we will go to the weaver where you can see how they make the local

textiles and end our tour in Quetzaltenango.

Tours Dates: Only Fridays at 7:00 am back at 13:00 pm Included: Transport and entrance fees include

19

TOTONICAPAN MARKET & COLONIAL CHURCHES

If you want to visit a laid-back, pretty Guatemalan

highland town with few other tourists in sight,

Totonicapán is the place to go. Visit the market of

Totonicapán, which is a market mostly visit by locals and

sees a few tourist. A visit to this market gives you a great

opportunity to see how the locals do their shopping. This

tour will take you not only to the famous colonial

churches in the Quetzaltenango area, but includes a lot

more! We will first go to San Andres Xécul. This yellow

church is probably the most famous church in Central America. We also visit a place

where you can see how the local materials are painted which are used for the typical

weavings. Next to a little chapel which is really interesting to see, we will visit a Maya

altar and after that San Simon (Maximon a local Maya Saint). In San Cristóbal

Totonicapán we will visit the church and the next door ´Monesterio´ as well as the place

where indigenous women do their laundry, standing with their feet in the water while

fish are swimming between them. We end our tour in Salcaja where we visit a local

family who makes ´Caldo de frutas´ a local drink in Guatemala, Of course here is the

opportunity to try one of these popular drinks! After that we will go to the weavery

where you can see how they make the local textiles and end our tour in

Quetzaltenango.

Tour Dates:

Only Tuesdays and Saturdays at 7:00 am back at 13:00

Included:

Transport and entrance fees included

21

BIRD WATCHING

Leave very early from your hotel in

Xela, and then we take a two hour

drive to get to the hot Pacific Coast

of Guatemala, we take a dirt road and

finally you get to the farm that we

are going to visit today.

A local guide who knows every kind

of birds of the region takes to the bird watching tour, first you get up to a

16 meter tower of observation and then you walk through the beautiful

tropical forest; then you take the breakfast.

Like around nine o’clock you start the plantations tour, which includes

Coffee, Rubber, Rambutan and Bananas. This comes with the explanation

of a local guide expert in this kind of

products.

If it’s also possible if you want to take the

adventure of the Canopy, there is a circuit

of four ropes that you can try.

Finishing all the adventure you take a nice

lunch with a very cold drink, after this you

come back to Xela.

Possible every day with a minimum of 02 persons.

Ask for price.

22

COFFEE PLANTATION

You will visit a real coffee

plantation to know all the

process of this amazing

product; you will get to see

how it comes from a fruit to

your cup as exquisite

beverage.

The farm is located on the

warm Pacific Coast and the

combination of the climate and

the forest is beautiful to walk

around the Coffee, Macadamia, Rambutan and Banana plantations, all of

this with a local guide which actually works on the farm. After he will

explain you the whole process of coffee and

show the different machines and spaces they

use to process it.

You can also have the experience of the Canopy

that this farm can offer you it counts with four

circuits of ropes.

At the end of all the adventure you will have

your lunch in the farms restaurant which has an

excellent view of a little valley.

Possible every day with a minimum of 02 persons.

Ask for price.

23

NUEVA ALIANZA FARM

Comunidad Nueva Alianza is a fair trade, organic coffee

and macadamia plantation owned and run by a

cooperative of forty Guatemalan families. All profits

raised by the community are divided amongst the

community members and are used to improve the

health, education and living conditions within the

cooperative. Nueva Alianza is located in a temperate

area 1000 meters above sea level in the Guatemalan

municipality of El Palmar, Quetzaltenango. The

cooperative works according to the principles of Direct Democracy and currently

boasts within its organizational structure a Women's Committee, an Education

Committee, and a Board of Directors dedicated to ensuring that all workers have equal

rights. A visit to our community, either as a tourist or a volunteer, will give you the

opportunity to learn our amazing history of exploitation or extended struggle for land

and workers rights.

For generations the plantation was owned and managed by an individual land owner.

In the 1990s, due to the global fall of coffee prices and poor management by the

owner, the workers were not paid wages for a total of 18 months and barely survived.

Consequently, they united and initiated a long legal process against the owner for

those unpaid wages. During this legal process the owner declared bankruptcy and it

appeared that they would lose everything. They formed an independent workers union

in a desperate effort to retain the land their parents and

grandparents had worked. With a loan from Fondo de

Tierras, They purchased legal title to the plantation on

December 18, 2004.

Their principal projects are: Fair trade of coffee and

macadamia plantations; ecotourism; micro hydro-electric

and biodiesel plants; Alianza Pure Water and Bamboo

furniture workshop.

Possible every day with a minimum of 02 persons.

Ask for price.

24

SANTA ELENA FARM

It is located in the municipality of

San Felipe, in the department of

Retalhuleu. The Farm is part of San

Felipe and is close to Guangzhou

and Tierra Colorada Nuevo Palmar

Village (Palmarcito). The farm’s

helmet is one kilometer north from

San Felipe’s downtown. From Xela is

a one hour and a half drive. This

farm has a lot of plantations, starting with the most important the coffee

and also bananas, oranges, limes and lemons, and some other wood

variations.

The tour in the farm will include the

walk among these varied

plantations you will also visit a

beautiful waterfall, and view points

to Santa Maria and Santiaguito

volcanoes. You can also check out

the beautiful beach and bridge that

the farm has over the Samala River.

To end the tour you can visit some

little communities and a colorful

little market.

Possible Every day with a minimum of 02 persons.

Ask for price.

25

CROSSING MOUNTAIN BIKE The interesting thing about this tour is to visit five colonial churches and its picturesque villages, including the church of San Andrés Xecul and the Church of San Jacinto in Salcajá. Scheduled to depart at 7 am to take advantage of the weather, there are seasons of rest in every village we visited, the terrain is mostly flat, there is little promotion of approximately 5 minutes, no technical descents, the distance to travel is 29 kilometers, we include: the mountain bike, helmet, bike repair equipment, breakfast, guide and ½ liter of water (not including over water because there is no need to load all the

water is needed, customers can buy in the villages we visited). You just need to bring: shorts, a cap for the sun, comfortable shirt, glasses, small backpack and jacket for the rain. Join us and don´t lose the chance to combine the adventure of the mountain biking with the living culture from Guatemala’s highlands.

Possible every day with a minimum of 02 persons.

Ask for price.

26

CHICABAL LAGOON

BY HORSE Sacred place for the indigenous people of

the Maya Mam region of our country,

with great wildlife and bird watching.

There are different ways to climb this

volcano in auto 4x4, walking, mountain

biking too, but they certainly raise a

horse will be an experience hard to

forget; The route begins near the town

of San Martin Chile Verde, the horse and

your guide will take you to a path where it will be necessary to continue on

foot. After 10 minutes you reach the lookout point (2800 mosl.) of the

lagoon, from this point you can see the Chicabal Lagoon and Tajumulco

Volcano. We will make a visit inside the crater of this volcano at an altitude

of 2712 mosl, where the lagoon Chicabal is, we

can visit all the Mayan altars. Out of the lake

using an old road where the horses will be

waiting for us, the fall lasted 40 minutes. The

departure time from your hotel or home in Xela

is 05.00 am the ride begins at 06.00 am; the tour

is done in about 4 hours round trip, returning to

Xela around 11: 00 am. We have maximum of 4

persons, the rides Include: Roundtrip private

transport, Horses, breakfast, entrance fees and

guide.

Possible every day with a minimum of 02 persons.

Ask for price.

26

BIRD WATCHING

& TAKALIK ABAJ

A perfect combination between nature,

adventure and culture; getting up very

early in the morning a leaving to the farm

where you can see the very special

collection of birds authentic from the

region guided by a local worker from the

farm; after this beautiful walk you will take

your breakfast in a very nice restaurant.

At nine o’clock you will be guided by another farm worker specialized in

agriculture plantations he will show you plantations such as coffee,

macadamia, rambutan and bananas. You will also have the opportunity to

learn the process of the coffee. After

you will take lunch with a very cold

natural drink, in the farm’s restaurant.

After lunch you will start the drive to

the archaeological site Takalik Abaj one

of the first Olmec ruins, cradle of the

Mayan Culture. Here you will take a

tour with a local guide, assisted by our

bilingual driver.

Possible every day with a minimum of 02 persons.

Ask for price.

27

COFFEE PLANTATION

& TAKALIK ABAJ You will visit one of the famous coffee

plantations from the warm pacific coast

of Guatemala; you will be able to see the

whole coffee process: how it comes

from a fruit to your cup as exquisite

beverage.

You will get the chance to also walk

around the Macadamia, Rambutan and

Banana plantations, all of this with a local guide which actually works on

the farm.

You can also have the experience of the Canopy that this farm can offer

you it counts with four circuits of ropes.

At the end of all the adventure you will have your lunch in the farms

restaurant which has an excellent

view of a little valley.

After lunch you will start the drive to

the archaeological site Takalik Abaj

one of the first Olmec ruins, cradle of

the Mayan Culture. Here you will take

a tour with a local guide, assisted by

our bilingual driver.

Possible every day with a minimum of 02 persons.

Ask for price.

28

NUEVA ALIANZA FARM

& TAKALIK ABAJ

Comunidad Nueva Alianza is a fair trade, organic

coffee and macadamia plantation owned and run by

a cooperative of forty Guatemalan families. All

profits raised by the community are divided amongst

the community members and are used to improve

the health, education and living conditions within

the cooperative. Nueva Alianza is located in a

temperate area 1000 meters above sea level in the

Guatemalan municipality of El Palmar,

Quetzaltenango. The cooperative works according

to the principles of Direct Democracy and currently boasts within its organizational

structure a Women's Committee, an Education Committee, and a Board of Directors

dedicated to ensuring that all workers have equal rights. A visit to our community,

either as a tourist or a volunteer, will give you the opportunity to learn our amazing

history of exploitation or extended struggle for land and workers rights.

Their principal projects are: Fair trade of coffee and macadamia plantations;

ecotourism; micro hydro-electric and biodiesel

plants; Alianza Pure Water and Bamboo furniture

workshop.

After lunch you will start the drive to the

archaeological site Takalik Abaj one of the first

Olmec ruins, cradle of the Mayan Culture. Here you

will take a tour with a local guide, assisted by our

bilingual driver.

Possible every day with a minimum of 02 persons.

Ask for price.

29

SANTA ELENA FARM

& TAKALIK ABAJ

It is located in the municipality of San

Felipe, in the department of Retalhuleu.

The Farm is part of San Felipe and is close

to Guangzhou and Tierra Colorada Nuevo

Palmar Village (Palmarcito). The farm’s

helmet is one kilometer north from San

Felipe’s downtown. From Xela is a one

hour and a half drive. This farm has a lot

of plantations, starting with the most important the coffee and also

bananas, oranges, limes and lemons, and some other wood variations.

The tour in the farm will include the walk among these varied plantations

you will also visit a beautiful waterfall, and view points to Santa Maria and

Santiaguito volcanoes. You can also check out the beautiful beach and

bridge that the farm has over the Samala River. To end the tour you can

visit some little communities and a

colorful little market.

After lunch you will start the drive to

the archaeological site Takalik Abaj

one of the first Olmec ruins, cradle of

the Mayan Culture. Here you will take

a tour with a local guide, assisted by

our bilingual driver.

Possible every day with a minimum of 02 persons.

Ask for price.

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SAN MARCOS MAYAN PALACE, LA CASTALIA

& MUNICIPAL FOREST

A full day tour that you can enjoy going 60

minutes away from Quetzaltenango, we

go by bus to the city of San Marcos a

beautiful town located in the highlands of

Guatemala, here is where you can visit the

famous Mayan Palace, this is the name

given by the locals to the Government

building of this city; a beautiful building

with a mixture of colonial and Mayan

architecture. We continue the trip through a landscape of dreams, full of vegetation,

mountains and fog covering the middle of them

in search for the sources of La Castalia where

you can enjoy the view of the beautiful waterfall

and also you can take a bath on its relaxing hot

springs, with places to have a nice lunch or just

to relax. To end the journey we take a walk into

the municipal forest of San Marcos a foggy and

cold forest but with a lot of wood trees and

plenty of birds and mammals that you can find

on your way. After we go back to Xela.

Possible every day with a minimum of 02 persons.

Ask for price.

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CORAZON DEL BOSQUE

We leave early in the morning for an hour and fifteen

minutes drive, to the ecologic park Corazon Del

Bosque (the Heart of the Forest), this is a completely

natural Pine-Oak forest, and it is the ideal destination

for birdwatchers. Here you can observe birds such as

the Collared Trogon, Pink Headed Warbler, Rofous

Collared Robin and the Blue Throated Mot Mot. Also

birdwatchers can observe endangered species such

as the Xara, Chocoyo and Owl species. The visitor may

observe the interaction between the diverse variety of insects, arachnids, diplopods

and centipedes, with the flora found in our forest, which together create an important

ecosystem. There is a magnificent variety of conifer and litifoliate trees (Pinus,

Cupressus, Querus, Alnus, Arbutus) that interact with other species of flora, creating

naturally rich environmental niches that invite visitors to learn more about their

development and growth, and also smell their different aromas, as well as to learn the

importance of their existence for all living creatures. Corazón Del Bosque has also

joined the campaign to rescue the “ Pinabete” tree (Abies Guatemalensis), an

endangered species, native to Guatemala. Also by visiting this beautiful place you help

to keep these goals: To maintain a Project that

benefits their community by promoting equal

participation among its inhabitants, sustainable

management of our rich natural resources, along

with an effort to conserve and preserve our Mayan

K´iché culture and Promote sustainable forestry by

taking care of our region´s flora and fauna (located

at the highest point of Lake Atitlán´s pretected area),

in order to mitigate the deforestation that has been

damaging Guatemala´s environment.

Possible every day with a minimum of 02 persons.

Ask for price.

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SANTA MARIA VOLCANO

(3772 mosl) The Santa Maria volcano is situated next to the small village of Llanos del Pinal. The view from the top of the volcano is mind blowing. You can see the volcanoes Tacana, Tajumulco, Siete Orejas, Chicabal, Lacandón, the volcanoes around Lake Atitlan, as well as the volcanoes Acatenango, Fuego and Agua. You can climb the Santa Maria in a half day. The Santiaguito is the security valve of the bigger Santa Maria and thus in constant eruption (about every hour). You have a perfect view from top of the Santa Maria Volcano on the crater of the Santiaguito Volcano, which is one of the most active volcanoes in the world.

Tour Dates: Every day 5:00 am back at 13:00 pm Include: Transport, breakfast and guide included. What to bring / wear: Hiking boots, long trousers, wind or rain jacket, sun block, sun glasses, camera, binoculars, personal items and at least 2 liters of water. Difficulty: Difficult.

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FULL MOON SANTA MARIA

This is a unique experience to climb the Santa Maria at night with the full moon. After arriving to the top you will experience one of the most incredible wonders. When the sun gets up and the sky turns gold.

Tour Dates: Full moon nights. Starts at 23:59 back at 09:00 pm next day Include: Transport, guide, breakfast included What to bring / wear: Hiking boots, long trousers, wind or rain jacket, sun block, sun glasses, camera, binoculars, torch, gloves, hat, personal items and at least 2 liters of water Difficulty: Difficult.

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MIRADOR SANTIAGUITO

The easy way to see the Santiaguito if you don’t want to or cannot climb the Santa Maria. You can climb the Mirador Santiaguito in half a day. You will watch the eruptions of Santiaguito volcano very closed from a safety location, (Natural terrace 1 km. or 0.62 miles from the crater).

From this point you can sea the pacific coastal slope, Santa Maria volcano, Chicabal volcano.

Tour Dates: Every Day at 6:00 am back at 11:30 pm Include: Transport, guide and breakfast included What to bring / wear: Hiking boots, long trousers, wind or rain jacket, sun block, sun glasses, camera, binoculars, personal items and at least 2 liters of water Difficulty: Easy.

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MIRADOR SANTIAGUITO 2

The ascent to this viewpoint is hard, has an approximately 4 hours walk , the point is achieved here is impressive, the view is from the south flank of the volcano Santa Maria, flora and fauna make this place a little walk different compared to other routes that are around this volcano. departure is made from Quetzaltenango, about 30 minutes by car, there are places to camp, optionally, the walk down is the same place at the end you can enjoy a relaxing sauna bath at the Eco Lodge Las Cumbres.

Tour Dates: Every Day at 03.00 am. Includes: Breakfast, roundtrip private transport, local guide, Eco sauna bath in Las Cumbres. Difficulty: Difficult.

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ZUNIL VOLCANO (3542 mosl)

This is a mountain peak that according to the

gazetteer of Guatemala is not considered as a

volcano, but recent studies confirm that it

was a volcano, in the bowels of this

wonderful mountain begin the warm waters

known as Fuentes Georginas, during ascent

and descent of this volcano can pass through

forests of bamboo and one of the few

remaining rain forests in our country, its

vegetation is incredible, is one of the few

places where you can see green until the rocks! His ascent is seen as difficult, and is not

for anyone who simply wants to walk, the view you have achieved since its summit is

amazing, as can be seen around the Lake Atitlan and the whole valley of

Quetzaltenango, During the dry season can be made camp on its summit and we can

offer one of the best sunrises in the entire region.

Tour Dates:

Every Day at 03.00 am.

Include:

Private transportation round trip, Breakfast,

water, entrance fees, and guide.

Difficulty: Difficult.

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CHICABAL LAGOON (2900 mosl)

The majority of the inhabitants of San Martin Sacatepéquez are indigenous from the Mam tribe. For them the Laguna Chicabal is sacred and miraculous - the mystic perception that becomes even more convincing because of the shape and the fog that shrouds the volcano. Maya priests perform traditional sacrificial ceremonies on the shore using candles, flowers and holy crosses. We’ll take you to the Laguna Chicabal with a local people as the guide. He will explain about the Maya religion, Maya culture and about the different plants and animals.

Tour Dates: Every day at 6:00 and back at 13:00pm Include: Transport, breakfast, entrance fees. What to bring / wear: Hiking boots, long trousers, wind or rain jacket, sun block, sun glasses, camera, binoculars, personal items and at least 2 liters of water Difficulty: Moderate.

39

SANTO TOMAS VOLCANO (PECUL 3505 mosl)

This volcano is among the 37 volcanic

peaks or summits of Guatemala, its ascent

can be done from different points, one

route is best known which leaves from the

Hot Springs Fuentes Georginas (we offer 3

different routes exist to ascend to the

summit this colossus). The approximate

time of climb is approximately 5 hours. The

walk down is about 4 hours. From its

summit there are several volcanoes that

are part of the ring of fire in our country. We recommend starting your climb early in

the morning, (03:00 am) through the walk you can see different types of forest (pine,

pinabete, cypress and eucalyptus trees), the degree of difficulty: difficult, the descent

from this volcano you can enjoy a relaxing and deserved bath in the Hot Springs.

Tour Dates:

Every day at 03.00 am.

Includes:

Private transportation round trip,

Breakfast, water, entrance fees, and

guide.

Difficulty: Difficult.

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CANDELARIA VOLCANO (3176 mosl)

This is a part of an inactive volcanic dome with pine and cypress trees growing in the dry lava. The peak called Candelaria is an excellent point to view the Quetzaltenango Valley. To walk on dry lava is a memorable experience.

Tour Dates: Every day at 5:00 a.m. Include: Transport, guide and breakfast. Difficulty: Difficult

41

TAJUMULCO VOLCANO (4220 mosl)

This is the highest volcano in Central America. Although the hike to the top, which is at a high altitude, is relatively easy. Good (but cold) camping is available in pine glades near the summit. We leave Quetzaltenango early in the morning and make our way by public bus to the town of San Marcos, near the Mexican border. After breakfast (not included) in the town of San Marcos we will board a second public bus to a place called Crucero Tajumulco. At approximately 10:30 am, we will start our hike through corn fields and farm land. Lunch is provided after about 02 hrs. At about 4 pm we are will reach an altitude of 4000 mts

and our camping spot .In normal weather conditions; we will go to the summit (200 meters) to see the sunset. We have a campfire,, dinner and sleep overnight in tents. At 05 am the next morning, and after a 45 minute walk, we will see the sunrise and views of the Cuchumatanes from Tacana to Volcano Fuego. After breakfast, we hike for another 3 hours down a small trail. Tour Dates: Every day at 6:00 am with a minimum of 4 persons (with Public Transport) back at 13:00 pm the next day. Included: Transport, equipment (tents, sleeping bags and roll mattress), 1 x breakfast, 1 x lunch and 1 x dinner. What to bring / wear: Hiking boots, long trousers, wind or rain jacket, sun block, sun glasses, camera, binoculars, personal items and at least 2 liters of water, big back pack, snacks, warm clothing especially in November/December/January/February, hat and gloves. Difficulty: Difficult. (The hike is moderate but with equipment and high altitude it becomes difficult).

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PACAYA VOLCANO (2500 mosl)

The Pacaya is by far the most popular volcano to climb in Guatemala, and not without reason. The volcano is easy to climb and provides the opportunity to climb an active volcano. On clear days you can see the volcanoes of Agua, Fuego and Acatenango. If you arrive at the top of the Pacaya you can smell the sulfer, feel the heat and have a good chance to actually see lava.

Tour Dates: Every day at 6:00 am back at 14:00 pm, Include: Guide and transport. (Entrance fees are not included)

Difficulty: Easy.

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ACATENANGO VOLCANO (3976 mosl)

The Acatenango is a more difficult hike, but the views that you have from this volcano are amazing. Especially at the Fuego Volcano which is an active volcano located next to the Acatenango. During your hike on the Acatenango you walk tthrough a beautiful pine forest which provides some nice shade. You can also camp for one night at this volcano to have an impressive night view at the Fuego Volcano.

Tour Dates: Every day at 5:00 am Include: Transport, guide, breakfast and lunch.

Acatenango Overnight Every day at 05:00 am back at 17:00 next day Include: Transport, guide, lunch dinner and breakfast. Difficulty: Very Difficult.

44

ATITLAN VOLCANO (3537 mosl)

Approximately 2.500mosl. Upward, the volcano is

almost devoid of vegetation. The summit crater is

about 250 mts. in diameter and about 50 mts. deep,

open to the south and surrounded by concentric cracks

and crevices, from which emanate weak fumaroles.

North and east is a small plateau at the top, where

another depression craters of equal size. For

indigenous documents is also known that it was

approximately around the year 1469. Its last eruption

was recorded on June 3, 1853 when the ashes were

thrown causing a blackout. The volcanic rock is apparently andesite. The guy is a strato-

volcano. In the testament of Xpantzay, the year of 1554, referred to as the volcano

during the period that was indigenous Choy Juyú

In his written account of the pastoral visit made to his diocese between 1768 and 1770,

Cortés and the archbishop referred to Larraz Atitlan volcano: "The other volcano is the

highest burst time shows that there is no memory smoke continuously and also the

peak is already cooked and burnt earth, without trees or grass green. In his banda

East has three mountain ranges, running north to south which is the first in the village

The view from the top is wonderful, you can see Lake Atitlan via a lookout. The forest

ends some 500 meters before reaching the summit

Tour Dates:

Every Day at 03.00 am

Include:

Transfer by car from Panajachel round trip to the

entrance of the path of the volcano, breakfast,

lunch, local & bilingual guide throughout the tour.

Difficulty: Very Difficult.

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SAN PEDRO VOLCANO (3020 mosl)

The volcano is located in San Pedro San

Pedro La Laguna, Solola department and

has a height of 3020 meters. This volcano

is a symmetrical and almost perfect cone,

and the rise is directly upwards, so you go

up without difficulty, but in a fairly steep

incline. The entrance to the crater is

located to the side of the lake and the road is generally covered with

weeds. The crater is small and its depth is unknown because it is covered

by large trees. Interest: The path starts between coffee plantations, trees,

avocado, corn, beans, pines, cedars. From the top the view is beautiful and

compelling.

Tour Dates: Every day at 06:30 a.m. Include: Transfer round trip by boat from Panajachel, breakfast, taxi to the slopes of the volcano round trip from San Pedro Station to ecology, ecological park entrance to San Pedro volcano, and local bilingual guide throughout the tour. Difficulty: Difficult

46

SANTIAGUITO CRATER (2550 mosl)

Since its birth produced by the eruptive activity of

the volcano Santa Maria in 1902, has not stopped its

activity, is constant and it is estimated that it may

happen every 45 minutes is considered very

dangerous because during the 1983 lahars

produced by heavy rains the winter of that year,

destroyed the old town of El Palmar. This

expedition to the crater of the most active volcano

in Central America is an experience like no other,

simply being inside the one time in what were its

active craters, this turns into an extreme adventure

travel, The camp is a few meters from the main crater named El Caliente, from here we

can see its night life, and hear the power of nature as close as anyone has been on an

active volcano, this will take 7 to 8 hours the first day, and return the second day is

more or less about 8 or 9 hours is a walk only for people with strong experience in

hiking, not for weak people.

Tour Dates: Every Day at 06:00 a.m. back the next day in the afternoon. Available from November to March Include: Transport, guide and three meals. What to bring / wear: Hiking boots, long trousers, wind or rain jacket, sun block, sun glasses, camera, binoculars, personal items and at least 2 liters of water Difficulty: Very Difficult.

46

XELA TO LAKE ATITLAN (03 DAYS)

This three day hike will bring you from Quetzaltenango to San Pedro la Laguna on the lake Atitlán. This is a great experience that provides beautiful views and nature. We walk through the mountains and pass small indigenous communities on our way. We ship your luggage for free to Panajachel where you can pick them up at our office.

Day 1 We will start this day by picking you up from your hotel or home. From here, we will all meet at the beginning point of the hike. From Xela, we go to Cantel, one of the municipalities of Quetzaltenango, at an altitude about 2350 meters. Here the adventure starts. We have 3 hours of uphill hiking to go, until we reach the highest point in the hike (2950m). Here we can have our breakfast and enjoy one of the most beautiful views (in the summer and the rainy season). We can see the lake and many volcanoes (San Pedro volcano in San Pedro la Laguna, Atitlán volcano, Toliman, Fuego, Acatenango, Agua, Santa Maria, Cerro Quemado, Tajumulco, Tacana) and many more. After this stop we have a difficult and slippery 2 and a half hour ascend. At the end we arrive at a dirt road which we will continue for approximately an hour. This road is relatively horizontal, and will take us to an altitude of 2100 meters. Note: Here we have lunch, continue hiking for 3 more hours and stay overnight at a hostel located behind the Nahualate River. The other option is to have lunch at the first place, and stay there overnight as well. This will make the second day the most difficult one. Day 2 This day we are faced with many challenges. We start with breakfast at 6.30am, and begin hiking at 7.30am. We descend for 2 ½ hours in natural surroundings, with pine trees and coffee farms. The last part of this descend is the most difficult (30 minutes of very slippery route), and finally arrive at the Nahualate river at an altitude of 1400 meters. After, we have a difficult half hour ascend, and we continue ascending on easier parts for 3 hours, to reach an altitude of 2100 meters. Here, we prepare and have our lunch, and after this, we are head to Santa Clara la Laguna. This part will take about 1 ½ hours. In this village, we sleep overnight, in the house of an indigenous Quiché family. Note: One day 2, we have our lunch in Santa Clara la Laguna.

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Day 3 It is 5.30am, and we have to get up to see the sunrise from the viewpoint of Santa Clara la Laguna. This is situated just 5 minutes from the house where we stayed overnight. Afterwards, we go to a small canteen, a “comedor”, to have breakfast. Then we will go back to the house to collect our luggage and start with the descent of today, which will only take 3 hours. We will try to start at 8am here, and we will head to a mountain known as El Rostro Maya, situated in San Juan la Laguna. After taking a lot of pictures we will end the hike in San Pedro la Laguna.

Note 1: for safety matters we sleep in the house of an indigenous family. Apart of being a small economic support, we are having a good time with them as well. Note 2: you will need 2 liters of water to start the first day. After this day, we will purify our water with HADEX products. Tour Dates: Every day at 06:00 am Include: Transport, free luggage transport to Panajachel, equipment (tents, sleeping-bags, roll mats) 3 x breakfast, 2 x lunch and 2 x dinners included. What to bring / wear: good shoes, a big bag pack (60+10 liters minimum), clothes for 3 days of hiking, towel, 2 or 3 pairs of socks extra, Sun block, Insect repellent, A camera with a lot of films or memory, A hat of cap for the sun, A rain and wind jacket, Polar What do we offer you? Day 1: Lunch, dinner, Day 2: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, Day 3: Breakfast, This package includes: purified water for 3 days, tents, sleeping bags or mattresses, Guide, Transport from the hotel to the starting point of the hike, Entrance fees. We all work together to carry the luggage and food for this three day hike, which is why you need a big bag. 50 lbs + 10 is sufficient. Note: If you have any medical needs, please notify us before the start of the hike because we bring a minimal first-aid kit. Difficulty: Difficult (the hike is moderate with some difficult parts but with equipment it becomes more difficult)

48

LAKE ATITLAN TO XELA (FINISHING IN FUENTES GEORGINAS)

Day 1 We leave from San Pedro La Laguna (or Santa Clara La Laguna) at 9.00 in the morning. The ascent from San Pedro to Santa Clara la Laguna is very difficult, and it starts at the altitude of 1560m. The route we take is inside the Mountain – El Rostro Maya or La Nariz Del Indio. This route takes about 3 hours. After that we will arrive at Santa Clara La Laguna, a place where we will have lunch. Just after the lunch we start a light descent followed by an ascent to the highest point of the trek this day on the altitude of 2200m. This takes about 2.5 hours. From there we start a long descent to a place where we will stay overnight at the altitude of

1550m. The descent takes about 1.5 hour. Day 2 On the second day we departure at 7.00, from the altitude of 1550m. We continue descending for about 30 minutes until we arrive at the Nahualate River, situated at the altitude of 1400m. The second day is considered to be the most difficult one. The ascent starts at the altitude of 1400m and reaches 3100m at the peak called Cumbre de Alaska. Between 12.00 and 13.00, about half the way to the top, we will have a lunch. After the deserved break we continue ascending for about 3 to 4 hours. The next part continues to be difficult, taking about 3 more hours of trekking until the peak Alaska is reached, a place where we will spend the night. (As usual in case of trekking the duration of the trip can vary depending on the physical condition of the participants.

49

Day 3 After the breakfast, we start the 3rd day, which offers the best landscapes of the whole trek. The trip today takes about 6 to 8 hours of hiking but it is considerable less difficult than the day before. From the altitude of 3100m we leave and we have to get the peak of the Zunil Volcano, 3542m we can go to the top or pass around the volcano, from that point it is possible to see 14 volcanoes. With a single turn of the head one can see an amazing panorama of volcanoes from Volcano Tacana at

the Mexican border to the Volcano Agua in Antigua Guatemala as well as the Quetzaltenango Valley, Xela, the Atitlan Lake and the activity of the active Volcano Santiaguito.. For some time we will be descending at a rocky terrain. After that we will take a trail to a place where we will spend the night, passing a humid jungle and going through a bamboo forest. Here we can relax in hot springs called Fuentes Georginas (2400m) Tour Dates: Every day at 06.00 Include:

Sleeping bags, mattresses, lodging with indigenous families, entrances to the park call The

Mayan Face, 06 meals, guide, transport from the Hot Springs to Quetzaltenango, after trek or

the following day.

Not Include:

Bag packs (each person must bring its own), each person helps to take her own equipment to

sleep, and also they must help with taking the food, lodging in the Hot Springs Fuentes

Georginas

What to bring:

Good shoes for trek, good physical condition, and extra clothes for the three days, bathing suit,

mosquito repellent and sun block.

Difficulty: Very Difficult.

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SUMMIT TO SUMMIT 2 VOLCANOES Over 40 miles (02 DAYS)

A really challenging walk begins at the summit of

Alaska at 3100 m altitude. Making a tour of the

volcano Zunil approach, through a gradual terrain,

this can take around 4 hours from here you can

enjoy some incredible scenery, you can view the

complete Lake Atitlan, more than 11 volcanoes, the

whole valley the city of Quetzaltenango.

Immediately after reaching the summit of the

volcano Zunil 3542 meters, we will have a drop of about 1 hour. Then ascend to the next

summit of the volcano Santo Tomas. This part will ask much of us, because we carry

more than 20 kilometers traveled pinabete full of

forests, pine and eucalyptus will be nice this last part

before reaching 3505 meters at the summit of this

volcano. The next day we got up very early to watch

the sunrise, and then begin the descent from the

summit to end with a relaxing place, the Hot Springs

Fuentes Georginas, there is the option to stay here.

Tour Dates: Every Day at 05.00 am.

Includes:

4 meals, water, all equipment for camping,

sleeping bags, mattresses, tents, guides, entrance

fees to the Hot Springs, roundtrip private

transport.

Difficulty: Difficult.

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ALASKA TO FUENTES GEORGINAS, HOT SPRINGS

(01 DAY)

We start the day at the Cumbre Alaska, the highest pass in Guatemala. On a clear day you can see 12 volcanoes! From Alaska we start the hike and descend. We will walk into the cloud forest around the Volcano Zunil which is a protected area in this area, with more Quetzals (Guatemala`s national bird) to be found than in the actual biotope of Quetzal. We will end the hike in the Natural Volcanic hot springs of Fuentes Georginas

where you can take a nice relaxing bath before we return to Quetzaltenango. It is 7 to 8 hour walk mostly downwards! There is a restaurant in Fuentes Georginas where one can have something to eat or drink. Tour dates: Every day at 05:00 am back at 18:00 pm (or stay one night) Include: All transport and lunchbox. What to bring / wear: Hiking boots, long trousers, wind or rain jacket, sun block, sun glasses, camera, binoculars, swimming suits, towel, personal items and at least 2 liters of water. Difficulty: Moderate.

52

TODOS SANTOS TO NEBAJ (03 DAYS)

Day 1 The first day starts at 04:30am in Huehuetenango. The hike will start to Chiantla, passing the Mirador, from where a marvellous view over Huehuetenango can be enjoyed, and continues to Capillania. There the guides will wait for us we will contibue the journey to San Nicolás, a small village in the Cuchumatanes. There the minibus will be changed for horses and the hike can really begin. The hike goes in the direction of Pericon, which is almost two

hours walking. Around lunch time a short stop will be made at the river of Aguacatan to have lunch. This is a beautiful spot. After about a four hour walk, a village named Choritz will be visited, where they can drink and eat something. Then the hike will continue to the place were will stay for the night. It is in a very small village in the beautiful surroundings of the Cuchumatanes. We have dinner and sleep at a local community Day 2 At the second day the hike starts at about 8:30am in the direction of Chutuj, this is a village with only fifteen inhabitants. After the hike passed this village, it will be approximately two and a half hour of descend and will arrive in the village of Xexecom, which is part of the region of Quiche. Here we will have lunch. During the walk a cave will be passed which is called God of the luck. In this cave many refugees hid during the civil war. Later on the war cemetery will be passed. This cemetery is in memory of all those who were killed and slaughtered for the Aguil´s army Quiche, on the 22nd of April in 1981. At about 4.00pm the village Acul will be reached and there will find the overnight stay place, at Finca mil Amores.

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Day 3 On the third and last they, the hike leaves at 7.30am the village. The hike will go into the direction of a cheese fabric, with a beautiful Hacienda. Then the hike will continue through the mountains and will pass a ceremonial place which is called God’s children. Here they do ceremonies for the health of children. Descending the mountain after the lunch, other ceremonial places will be passed, named God of the money, God of the rain, God of the culture and God of the harvest. Finally Nebaj will be reached which is the end of the hike

Tour Dates: Every day at 04:30 am back at 19:00 pm (three days) Include: Transport, overnight stays, guide, 2 x breakfasts, 2 x lunches and 2 x dinners included What to bring / wear: Hiking boots, long trousers, wind or rain jacket, sun block, sun glasses, camera, binoculars, big back pack, extra clothing, snacks, pocket money and at least 2 liters of water. Difficulty: Moderate.

54

EL MIRADOR, PETEN (05 DAYS)

The Petén rainforest's Mirador Basin is the last tract of virgin rainforest remaining in Central America. It is home to the largest and earliest cities in the Maya world and is the area of many recent and important archaeological investigations. This trail is operated by the people of from Carmelita, the northernmost village of Petén located close to the Mexican border. This community was founded 60 years ago as an important base for chicle collection and processing. Chicle is the resin of the Chico Zapote tree, which forms the natural base of chewing gum. Another rainforest product is the xate palm frond which is

used in floral arrangements. The villagers of Carmelita have always depended on the surrounding forest for their livelihood and have extracted these non-timber forest products in a sustainable manner. This trail explores the Lost Maya Empire of El Mirador. Legend has it that at its height, El Mirador was four times as grandiose as Tikal. This impressive site remains one of the most isolated and understudied of the great Mayan ruins. Although largely unexcavated, these ruins are still predominantly intact, protected by the dense jungle canopy which covers and protects them from erosion The most impressive structure in the complex is the Tigre Pyramid, which stands at an unprecedented height of 18 stories, the tallest pyramid yet discovered in the Maya world, with a base the size of three football fields. Over 200 other buildings in this gigantic complex still remain undiscovered. Come and explore El Mirador, one of the greatest legacies left by the Maya Civilization! Day 1 06:00 Departure by car from Flores to Carmelita

community, estimated time 4 hour. Breakfast in route, at San Miguel Crossroad.

10:00 Entrance to Carmelita Community, equipment preparation

11:00 Begin long walk, estimated time 5 to 6 hours. Spend the night in a campsite located in the middle of the jungle, which is commonly used by Xate, pepper and chewing gum collectors.

13:00 Lunch. 14:00 Continues the long walk until 17.00 hours. 18:00 Dinner.

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Day 2 06:00 Breakfast. 07:00 Continues the long walk the whole day with a 15 minutes rest every 2 hours 13:00 Lunch. 16:00 Arriving to El Mirador, place where a formal ceiling is provided by nature. 18:00 Dinner

Day 3 07:00 Breakfast 08:00 Departure to Las Plazas and the high Acropolis from the archaeological place.

Visit during the whole day and spend the night in these places. 13:00 Lunch 18:00 Dinner Day 4 06:00 Return to campsite Tintal visited on day 1. 07:00 Breakfast. 13:00 Lunch. 18:00 Dinner. Day 5 06:00 Departure from campsite Tintal to

Carmelita Community. 07:00 Breakfast. 10:00 Arriving to Carmelita Community. 10:30 Departure to Flores. 14:00 Arriving to Flores.

Tour Dates:

Leaving Every Day at: 07.00

Includes: Transportation, Entrance Fees, Guide, Horses for the Equipment, Water and Meals.

Difficulty: Very Difficult.

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EL ZOTZ TO TIKAL (03 DAYS)

The Mayan site of El Zotz lies at the western border

of the Tikal territory and has several impressive

plazas and two high temples. On our tours, visitors

walk through virgin jungle from El Zotz to Tikal and

discover countless plants and animals, such as

howler and spider monkeys, coatis, deer, and wild

boars along the way.

Day 1 Wake up for 7:00 am pick-up from hotel Drive to Dos Aguadas, eat breakfast Walk six hours to the biotope camp of El Zotz ("the Bat") Watch thousands of bats fly out from a Mayan cave after sunset Sleep in the campsite

Day 2 Walk through the biotope to visit the mystic ruins Climb over virgin Mayan temples covered by jungle After lunch 3 hour jungle walk to the camp El Yesal Sleep in the campsite

Day 3 Wake up at 5:00 am Walk for six hours through the jungle Reach Temple IV in Tikal and leave guide Explore Tikal at your own pace Return to Flores by minibus

Tour Dates:

Every Day at: 07.00 am.

Includes: Transportation, Entrance Fees, Guide, Water and Meals

Difficulty: Difficult.

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TAJUMULCO, THE SOUTH FACE

Tajumulco the tallest volcano in Central America 4220mosl, its last eruption???, some people say it was in l818, experts say that only a lahars that was dropped from the summit of the volcano in season of course winter or rainy season as he is known in Guatemala, many have made the climb at this volcano, with cold, rain, sun, wind. But few dare to climb the Real Tajumulco. The south side of Tajumulco has been scaled by few, is considered a walk VERY STRONG - VERY HARD - EXTREME - good if you give us your opinion and is in our statistics and you see the difference. The walk

begins at a height of 1400mosl. No intermediate camps, be prepared to suffer the sun because the sun happens in the East and sunshine will have on us throughout the hike, with some exceptions, and it occurs very little, through a thick layer of clouds above the 2000mosl. And get out of the top 3500mosl, and to see the vast sea that has been left below. also has very few or almost no flat parts on this hike, is 99% is totally inclined, this hike is strong because each participant must carry their own equipment (sleeping bag, mattresses, tents, water, part of the group food, utensils and personal) in any case clear that we can provide the equipment that each lead,. To reach the base camp on the first day of climb is located at 4000mosl. This means that uploading can take a mean time of 11 hours to pass through coffee plantations, cardamom, macadamia nuts, corn and potatoes, (the time is approximately between 11 and 14 hours of ascent) the next day will be the rise of the last 220mosl. To reach the summit at 4220mosl it took an average time of 45 minutes. After appreciating the sunrise down to camp, take breakfast and returns via a different route that does not take more than 2 and half hours away, at an altitude of 3000mosl, the bus will wait here and go back to Xela. The experience of making sure that this rise will be unforgettable, remember very few have done. Tour Dates: Every Day at 03.00 am. Includes: Sleeping Bag, Insulation Mats, Water, Three meals, Tent, Guide, Private Transportation on the way to the hike and public transportation on the way back. What to Bring: Big backpack (remember each person carries its own things), Good hiking shoes, Cap or hat for the sun and sunscreen, Two pair of clothes, Rain and Wind jacket, Extra socks, extra shirt, sweaters, Camera.

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SANTIAGUITO CRATER (2550 mosl)

Since its birth produced by the eruptive activity of

the volcano Santa Maria in 1902, has not stopped its

activity, is constant and it is estimated that it may

happen every 45 minutes is considered very

dangerous because during the 1983 lahars

produced by heavy rains the winter of that year,

destroyed the old town of El Palmar. This

expedition to the crater of the most active volcano

in Central America is an experience like no other,

simply being inside the one time in what were its

active craters, this turns into an extreme adventure

travel, The camp is a few meters from the main crater named El Caliente, from here we

can see its night life, and hear the power of nature as close as anyone has been on an

active volcano, to get from el Llano del Pinal to the Crater will take you 07 to 08 hours,

this way you will see the first explosions in the morning, to get back will be more

exhausting, 08 to 09 hours so you will be arriving Quetzaltenango in the afternoon.

Tour Dates: Every Day at 11.00 p.m. back the next day in the afternoon. Available from November to March Include: Transport, guide and two meals. What to bring / wear: Hiking boots, long trousers, wind or rain jacket, sun block, sun glasses, camera, binoculars, personal items and at least 2 liters of water Difficulty: Very Difficult.

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ROCK CLIMBING CERRO QUEMADO

This is very interesting activity, there are only 3 walls with natural places for the practice of this sport throughout Guatemala, we have that out of hand one of them, the wall that we offer is not higher than 70 mts. Located at the foot of the volcano Cerro Quemado. We have available more than 20 routes, many of them are professionals, and we also have routes for beginners. There are many routes are marked and equipment to start your own route. We have over 20 years of experience in this sport.

Tour Dates: Every Saturday and Sunday at 08.00 a.m. Include: All equipment is included, harnesses, ropes, karabiners, guide, transportation, and bathing in the warm waters of Almolonga. Difficulty: Moderate to Very Difficult.

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FULL MOON TREK FROM XELA TO LAKE ATITLAN

The first part is a climb of 2 hours,

followed by an almost flat part of 15

minutes, then we will have a drop of 2

hours followed by a flat part that lasted 1

hour, we followed it in search of the

Nahualate River during 2 hours, at an

altitude of 1400 mosl. From here we will

have a rise of 4 hours and up to Santa

Clara la Laguna, we visited the lookout

for the sunrise and down over 2 hours to

San Pedro La Laguna.

This is an extremely tough physically walk, with different slopes, is scheduled to leave

Xela 4 pm, and walk all night and arriving at San Pedro La Laguna about 7 in the

morning next day. The total distance we cover is 47 kilometers, and the time we walk is

15 hours, so walk during the hold night.

Tour Dates:

Every Full Moon night of the year. Leaving at

17.00 from Xela.

Include:

Transportation, guide and breakfast.

What to Bring:

A small backpack, water 04 liters or more,

food, jacket for rain, good walking shoes.

Difficulty: Very Difficult.

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TREK SUMMIT TO SUMMIT ZUNIL & PECUL

The summit of Alaska is located at an altitude

of 3100 mosl, the start of the walk is on a

gradual terrain, with small decreases and

promotion for 2 hours, followed should climb

wing Zunil Summit Peak, at an height of 3542

mosl, then start declining by 1 hour between

wing forked Zunil volcano and Santo Tomas,

here begins the ascent to the peak Santo

Tomas, at an altitude of 3505 mosl, this can

last 3 hours but then started to summit

decline until wings Fuentes Georgina, at an altitude of 2400 meters, the descent takes 3

hours and a half

This hike begins at the summit of Alaska, the highest point of the Inter-American

Highway and the route is reached two volcanic peaks VOLCAN Zunil - VOLCAN SANTO

TOMAS, Finishing the hike at the Hot springs Fuentes Georginas. The total time we

walk on this trek is 10 hours.

Tour Dates:

Every day at 03.00.

Include:

Transportation, guide and breakfast.

What to Bring:

Small backpack, water 4 liters per person,

good shoes, food and bathing suit to take the

bath in Fuentes Georginas.

Difficulty: Very Difficult.

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TIKAL ONE DAY (LEAVING FROM ANTIGUA)

Day 1 04.00 Shuttle from Antigua to Guatemala City Airport. 06.00 Domestic flight with (TACA or TAG) from Guatemala City to Flores. 07.00 Arrival to Flores. 07.30 Collective Shuttle from to Tikal, entrance fee from the park not

included: USD 20.00. 09.00 Tour in the ruins, we visit: Complex, Main Plaza, 7 temples and the

lost world, bilingual guide included. 13.00 Lunch. 15.00 Collective Shuttle from Tikal to Flores Airport. 17.00 Domestic flight from Flores to Guatemala City. 18.00 Arrival to Guatemala City. 18.30 Collective Shuttle from Guatemala City to Antigua. 19.30 Arrival to Antigua.

Included: Shuttles, flight ticket, lunch,

guided tour in Tikal.

Not included: Airport Tax, entrance fees,

meals, drinks and other than mentioned.

ALSO ONLY FLIGHTS AVAILABLE.

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TIKAL TWO DAYS (LEAVING FROM ANTIGUA)

Day 1 04.00 Shuttle from Antigua to Guatemala City Airport. 06.00 Domestic flight with (TACA or TAG) from Guatemala City to Flores. 07.00 Arrival to Flores. 07.30 Collective Shuttle from to Tikal, entrance fee from the park not included: USD 20.00. 09.00 Tour in the ruins, we visit: Complex, Main Plaza, 7 temples and the lost world, bilingual guide included.

13.00 Lunch. 18.00 Tikal park closes, bring a strong flash light, as it is dark after sunset. 22.00 Lights out at the hotel and Tikal Park.

Hotel: Tikal INN. Day 2 06.00 Tikal park opens. 07.00 Breakfast. 11.00 Check Out from the hotel, but safely leave your bags there. 15.00 Collective Shuttle from Tikal to Flores Airport. 17.00 Domestic flight from Flores to Guatemala City. 18.00 Arrival to Guatemala City. 18.30 Collective Shuttle from Guatemala City to Antigua. 19.30 Arrival to Antigua. Included: Shuttles, flight ticket, lunch, guided tour in Tikal and

01 night hotel accommodation.

Not included: Airport Tax, entrance fees, meals, drinks and other than mentioned.

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TIKAL THREE DAYS (LEAVING FROM ANTIGUA)

Day 1 04.00 Shuttle from Antigua to Guatemala City Airport. 06.00 Domestic flight with (TACA or TAG) from Guatemala City to Flores. 07.00 Arrival to Flores. 07.30 Collective Shuttle from to Tikal, entrance fee from the park not included: USD 20.00. 09.00 Tour in the ruins, we visit: Complex, Main Plaza, 7 temples and the lost world, bilingual guide included. 13.00 Lunch. 18.00 Tikal park closes, bring a strong flash light, as it is

dark after sunset. 22.00 Lights out at the hotel and Tikal Park.

Hotel: Tikal INN. Day 2 06.00 Tikal park opens. 07.00 Breakfast. 11.00 Check Out from the hotel, but safely leave your

bags there. 15.00 Collective Shuttle from Tikal to Flores. 17.00 Free afternoon in Flores.

Day 3 Free morning in Flores.

15.00 Collective Shuttle from Tikal to Flores Airport.

17.00 Domestic flight from Flores to Guatemala City. 18.00 Arrival to Guatemala City. 18.30 Collective Shuttle from Guatemala City to Antigua. 19.30 Arrival to Antigua.

Included: Shuttles, flight ticket, lunch, guided tour in Tikal and 01 night hotel accommodation.

Not included: Airport Tax, entrance fees, meals, drinks and other than mentioned.

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02 DAYS TIKAL – FLORES LOW BUDGET

Day 1 04.00 Collective Shuttle from Antigua to Guatemala City 06.00 Domestic Flight from (with TACA or TAG) from Guatemala City to Flores. 07.00 Arrival to Flores. 07.30 Collective Shuttle from to Tikal, entrance fee from the park not included: USD 20.00. 09.00 Tour in the ruins, we visit: Complex, Main Plaza, 7 temples and the lost world, bilingual guide included. 13.00 Lunch.

18.00 Tikal park closes, bring a strong flash light, as it is dark after sunset. 22.00 Lights out at the hotel and Tikal Park. Hotel: Jaguar INN.

Day 2 06.00 Tikal park opens. 07.00 Breakfast. 11.00 Check Out from the hotel, but safely leave your bags there. 15.00 Collective Shuttle from Tikal to Flores Airport. 17.00 Domestic flight from Flores to Guatemala

City. 18.00 Arrival to Guatemala City. 18.30 Collective Shuttle from Guatemala City to

Antigua. 19.30 Arrival to Antigua.

Included: Shuttles, flight ticket, lunch, guided tour in Tikal and 01 night hotel

accommodation.

Not included: Airport Tax, entrance fees, meals, drinks and other than mentioned.

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THE MAYAN WORLD

Day 1 04.00 Shuttle from Antigua to Guatemala City. 06:00 Flight from Guatemala City to Flores. 07:30 Shared transfer to Tikal. Entrance fee TIKAL not included = Q150. p/p 09:00 Start group tour of ruins (Tour: Complex Q Main Plaza, 7 temples, Lost World). Bilingual Guide included. 13:00 Lunch at your hotel (included), (beverage not included). 18:00 TIKAL PARK CLOSES. Bring a strong flashlight, as it is dark after sunset.

Hotel: TIKAL INN Day 2 06:00 TIKAL PARK OPENS. 07:00 Breakfast at hotel (included). 14.00 Collective shuttle from your hotel in Tikal to Flores 15:30 Collective shuttle from Flores to Sayaxche and boat over the river for about an

hour to Posada Caribe. Hotel: POSADA CARIBE

Day 3 06:00 Early breakfast (included). Departure for

Aguateca by boat over the River Petex Batun and later over the lake Petex Batun.

10:00 Departure from Aguateca to Ceibal, Lunch Box (included).

13:00 Arrival at El Ceibal tour over the ruins. 16:00 Collective shuttle from Sayaxche to Flores

Hotel LA CASONA DE LA ISLA

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Day 4 08:00 Departure from “Café Arqueologico Yaxha” 09:15 Arrival at the campground of Yaxha

09:30 Boat trip on the lake towards “Topoxte” Guided visit of the archaeological site 11:00 Return to Yaxha campground. Box lunch. 11:30 Guided tour through the site of Yaxha Explanation about the construction forms and uses of palace architecture, observatories, sacbes (sacred ceremonial roads), Triadico complexes, plazas with steals and temple constructions. 14:30 Temple 216. A unique building within Mayan architecture - Unforgettable view over the lake and the jungle. 16:00 Return to Flores 17:30 Arrival Flores airport for check-in. 18.50 Return flight for Guatemala City. 19.30 arrival in Guatemala. Shuttle to Antigua.

Included: Transport, 3 nights accommodation, guide Not included: Meals, drinks other than mentioned, entrance fees

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THREE DAYS TIKAL – YAXHA – TOPOXTE

Day 1 04:00 Shuttle from Antigua to Guatemala City. 06:00 Flight from Guatemala City to Flores. 07:00 Arrival to Flores. 07.30 Collective shuttle to Tikal. 09:00 Start group tour of ruins (Tour: Complex Q Main Plaza, 7 temples, Lost World). Bilingual Guide included. 13:00 LUNCH at your hotel (beverage not included). 18:00 TIKAL PARK CLOSES. Bring a strong flashlight, as it is DARK after sunset. 22:00 Electricity / Lights out at the hotel and Tikal Park.

Hotel: Tikal Inn. Day 2 06:00 TIKAL PARK OPENS. 07:00 Breakfast at hotel. Free day

in and around TIKAL. 14:00 Transfer Tikal to Flores to

your hotel. FREE AFTERNOON IN FLORES Hotel: La Casona de la Isla

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Day 3 08:00 Departure from “Café Arqueologico Yaxha” 09:15 Arrival at the campground of Yaxha 09:30 Boat trip on the lake towards “Topoxte” Guided visit of the archaeological site

11:00 Return to Yaxha campground. Box lunch 11:30 Guided tour through the site of YaxhaExplanation about the construction forms and uses of palace architecture, observatories, sacbes (sacred ceremonial roads), Triadico complexes, plazas with stelaes and temple constructions. 14:30 Temple 216. A unique building within Mayan architecture - Unforgettable view over the lake and the jungle. 16:00 Return to Flores

17:30 Arrival Flores airport for check-in. 18.50 Return flight for Guatemala City (TACA or TAG). 19.30 Shuttle from Guatemala City to Antigua. Included: Transport, 2 nights accommodation, guide, flight-ticket, guided tour tikal, guided tour Yaxha, 2 x lunch and 1 x breakfast Not included: Airport tax, meals, drinks other than mentioned, entrance fees

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THREE DAYS TIKAL – CEIBAL

Day 1

04:00 Shuttle from Antigua to Guatemala City. 06:00 Flight from Guatemala City to Flores. 07:30 Collective shuttle to Tikal. 09:00 Start group tour of ruins (Tour: Complex Q

Main Plaza, 7 temples, Lost World). Bilingual Guide included. 12:00 LUNCH at your hotel (beverage not included). 18:00 TIKAL PARK CLOSES. Bring a strong flashlight, as it is dark after sunset. 22:00 Electricity / Lights out at the hotel and Tikal Park.

Hotel Tikal Inn Day 2 06:00 TIKAL PARK OPENS. 07:00 Breakfast at hotel. 14:00 Collective shuttle from Tikal to Flores. 15:30 Collective shuttle from Flores to Sayache, and boat

on the river for about an hour to hotel Posada Caribe. 18:00 Dinner at the the hotel (included)

Hotel POSADA CARIBE

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Day 3 Ceibal or Aguateca 06:00 Early breakfast. Departure for El Ceibal by boat over the River Petex Batun and later over the Rio de Passion! 12:00 Departure from El Ceibal to Sayaxche and lunch. 13:00 Private transfer from Sayaxche to the Airport in Flores. 15:00 Return flight for Guatemala City (TACA or TAG) *Q20. airport tax not included. 18:00 Arrival in Guatemala, National or International airport END (please advice your family or friends for a pick up or take a taxi home

Include: Flight ticket, transport, 2 nights accommodation, guided tour in Tikal, 2 x lunch, 2 x breakfast and 1 x dinner Not include: Meals, drinks other than mentioned, airport tax, entrance fees.

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QUETZALTENANGO & TODOS SANTOS

Day 1 06:00 You will picked up at your hotel. Today we drive to Huehuetenango in the Guatemalan Highlands. In the morning we drive to Quetzaltenango. 12:00 Arrival in Quetzaltenango. Free time to have lunch (not included) 14:00 We leave Quetzaltenango and depart to Huehuetenango. 16:00 Arrival in Huehuetenango Hotel Casa Blanca

Day 2 07:00 Early departure to Todos Santos.

Spectacular landscapes, ranging from sparse highland plateaus to steep moun tain passes, mark the route to Todos Santos. Nestled high in the the Cuchumatán Mountain Range, this Mam vil lage provides a perfect example of traditional Guatemalan life in the highlands.

09:00 Arrival in Todos Santos. Our guide will take you to the market (on Saturdays) and show you all the in interesting places. Notable are the men of San Juan Atitán, dressed in red shirts with floppy collars, red head cloths, hats with ribbons and short white pants

12:00 Return to Quetzaltenango, on the way we will stop in Huehuetenango to have lunch.

16:00 Visit the church San Andrés Xecul, the most colorful church in Guatemala. 19:00 Arrival in Quetzaltenango

Hotel Casa Mañen / QUETZALTENANGO (breakfast included) *Market day in Todos Santos on Saturday

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Day 3 08:00 Guided tour visiting indigenous villages. You visit a glass cooperative in Cantel, Don Maximon and the church in Zunil, the hot springs of Fuentes Georginas and the biggest vegetable market from the region in Almolonga. 12:00 Back in Quetzaltenango 14:30 Shuttle back to Guatemala City 19:30 Arrival in Guatemala City

Included: Transport, 2 nights accommodation, guide, entrance fees Not included: Meals, drinks other than mentioned

75

LAKE ATITLAN & CHICHICASTENANGO

Day 1 11:00 Shuttle from your Hotel in Guatemala City to Antigua. 14:30 Shuttle from Antigua to Panajachel. 17:00 Arrival in hotel in Panajachel.

Free evening in Panajachel. Hotel Kakchiquel.

Day 2

09:30 Start a boat tour on the Lake Atitlan (box lunch included) 09: 45 Arrival at San Pedro la Laguna. This indigenous village is located on the feet of the volcano San Pedro 11:00 Departure from San Pedro la Laguna 11:30 Arrival at Santiago de Atitlan. In the second biggest town on the lake you can visit the Maya saint Maximon or have lunch 13:15 Departure from Santiago de Atitlan 14:30 Arrival at San Antonio Palopo. From this indigenous village you have amazing lake views and beautiful weavings can be bought here 15:00 Departure from San Antonio Palopo 15:45 Back in Panajachel.

Free afternoon/evening. Hotel Kakchiquel / PANAJACHEL

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Day 3

08:00 Shuttle from your hotel in Panajachel to Chichicastenango 09:00 Arrival in Chichicastenango. Free time to enjoy the colorful market of Chichicastenango, you can also visit the Santo Tomas Church and Museum Rossbach 16:00 Shuttle to Guatemala City. 19:30 Back in Guatemala City * Market day in Chichicastenango on Thursdays and Sundays

Include: Transport, 02 nights accommodation, guide, entrance fees. Not include: Meals, drinks other than mentioned

77

HIGHLANDS & MARKETS

Day 1 Wednesday From Guatemala City you will go to the biggest town on Lake Atitlan, Panajachel. On the way we will visit Pastores , the ruins of Iximche and others. You will sleep in a hotel in Panajachel.

Hotel Dos Mundos (breakfast included)

Day 2 Thursday Today you have a boat tour around the lake, visiting various indigenous villages such as Santiago de Atiltlan, San Antonio Palopo and Santa Catarina Palopo. Lunch box is included. In the afternoon you continue to Quetzaltenango where you will spend the night. Hotel Casa Mañen (breakfast included)

Day 3 Friday Today you visit authentic indigenous villages but first you will visit the biggest Central-American market in San Francisco el Alto (only on Fridays). After this you will visit villages Zunil, Cantel, Almolonga, and the hotsprings of Fuentes de Georginas. In the afternoon you will visit the indigenous villages San Andrés Xecul, Salcajá, and San Cristóbal Totonicapán. You will continue to the Sierra Cuchumatanes. You spend the night on the colonial farm Unicornio Azul. Hotel Unicornio Azul

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Day 4 Saturday

In the morning you visit the colourful market of Todos Santos Cuchumatanes (only on Saturdays). A beautiful ride through the Cuchumatan Mountains will bring you to the famous village of Chichicastenango.

Hotel San Thomas

Day 5 Sunday The market of Chichicastenango is one of the most picturesque and most colorful in Guatemala. Indigenous from the entire region come to this town to sell their goods. In the afternoon you will have a transfer back to Guatemala City.

Included: Transportation, all overnight stays, entrance fees and English speaking Guide on day 1, 2, 3 and 4 Not included: Airport and exit taxes, meals & drinks, tips (optional)

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COBAN, SEMUC CHAMPEY & LANQUIN

Day 1 09:30 In the morning we depart from you hotel in Guatemala City to Coban with our collective shuttle service. 13:00 Arrival in Coban with a free afternoon to visit the orchid farm or a coffee plantation (not included) Hotel La Posada.

Day 2

07:00 Early wake up and leaving Coban to Semuc Champey. Today breakfast and lunchbox are included. Thousands of years of erosion created many pools in the lime stone rocks. Here we can go for a swim at this beautiful place, called by many, the eighth wonder of the world

13:00 In the afternoon we visit the Caves of Lanquin. At sunset you can stand in one of the caves and see thousands of bats leaving the cave. Then we return to Coban where we will spend the night.

Hotel La Posada. Day 3

09:00 Today we drive back to Guatemala City. 14:00 Back in Guatemala City. Included: Transport, 2 nights accommodation Not included: Local guide, food other than mentioned.

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COPAN, RIO DULCE & LIVINGSTON

Day 1 04:00 Early in the morning departure to Copan from Antigua Guatemala. 10:00 Arrival in Copan, and visit the ruins (entrance fees and local guide not included) Hotel Plaza Copan.

Day 2 08:00 Today we continue to Rio Dulce. During

the journey we visit Quirigua, a Maya site surrounded by huge banana plantations.

12:00 From Rio Dulce we take a boat to the Caribbean part of Guatemala, the town Livingston. During the boat ride at the Rio Dulce you will see beautiful flora and fauna.

15.00 Arrival in Livingston. Free afternoon to enjoy the Caribbean live. Hotel Villa Caribe.

Day 3 09:00 Today we go on a tour to Playa Blanca, Rio

Coculu and and Siete Altares. First we go to the seven waterfalls of Siete Altares. On the Rio Coculu you can see a lot of wildlife. We end at the beautiful beach of Playa Blanca.

15.00 Back in Livingston Hotel Villa Caribe

Day 4 11:30 After a free morning in Livingston we depart

to Puerto Barrios. From Puerto Barrios we take a shuttle to Antigua.

17:00 Back in Antigua. Included: Transport, 3 nights accommodation, transport by water and land Not included: Entrance fees, guide, meals, drinks other than mentioned

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BELIZE CAYES BY PLANE

Day 1 05:00 Pickup from your hotel in Guatemala City. We bring you to the airport from where your fly to Caye Caulker. You have a free morning in Flores before your connecting flight leaves. 18:10 Arrival in Caye Caulker.

Free afternoon in Caye Caulker Hotel Anchorage Resort.

Day 2 Free day on Caye Caulker, you can choose to go on a diving, snorkeling or sailing excursion, or choose to relax on the beach.

Hotel Anchorage Resort. Day 3

Another day to enjoy the beach, the weather and the Caribbean atmosphere. Hotel Anchorage Resort.

Day 4 13:00 Check in on airport 14:30 Flight leaves from Caye Caulker to

Belize CIty for connecting flight Flores Guatemala.

18:00 Pick up from the airport and shuttle to your hotel in Guatemala City

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BELIZE CAYES & INLAND

Day 1 04:00 Pickup from your hotel. We bring you to the airport from where your fly to Belize.Free morning in FLores between flights. 18:15 Arrival in Caye Caulker

Hotel Anchorage Resort.

Day 2

Free day on Caye Caulker, you can choose to go on a diving, snorkeling or sailing excursion, or choose to relax on the beach. Hotel Anchorage Resort.

Day 3 In the morning you can take a boat back to Belize City ($ 10,- pp) We pick you up from Belize City and bring you to Windy Hill Resort in San Ignacio

14:00 In the afternoon we go on a excursions to the Maya site Xunantunich. Standing atop "El Castillo", the largest pyramid at the site, you will have a panoramic view of west ern Belize and eastern Guatemala Hotel Windy Hill Resort.

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Day 4 09.00 Today a full day tour to the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. The reserve covers an area of over 300 square miles. Here you will find a scenic combination of cool pine forests, tumbling streams, lush river valleys, caves and wa terfalls. The most popular of the waterfalls is the Hidden Valley Falls, a spec tacular fall that drops 1500 feet to the valley below. The Rio Frio Cave is the largest cave in Belize and the Rio

On pools are a must for an afternoon swim before heading out of the reserve. Hotel Windy Hill Resort.

Day 5 14.00 Free morning or go on a excursion like

horseback riding or cave climbing (not included)

16.00 Shuttle back to Flores. 17.30 Flight back to Guatemala city. Here we

pick you up and bring you back to Antigua

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FROM QUETZALTENANGO (XELA) to

DEPARTURE TIME DURATION PRICE USD$

Fuentes Georginas The Hotsprings (round trip) 09:00 & 15:00 40 min 7.00 Panajachel 07:00 & 15:00 2 ½ hrs 14.00

Chichicastenango 07:00 & 15:00 2 ½ hrs 17.00 Antigua 07:00 & 15:00 4 ½ hrs 25.00

San Pedro La Laguna 07:00 & 15:00 15.00 Huehuetenango 08:00 2 hrs 20.00

Guatemala 07:00 5 ½ hrs 35.00 San Cristóbal de Las Casas Mx 08:00 8 hrs 25.00

Cobán 07:00 10 hrs 40.00

FROM ANTIGUA to

DEPARTURE TIME DURATION PRICE USD$

Guatemala, airport and zona 1/9/10/13

04:00 - 05:00 - 07:30 09:00 - 11:00 - 12:30

15:00 - 18:30 1 hrs 10.00

Panajachel 04:00 & 14:00 2 ½ hrs. 12.00 Chichicastenango 07:00* 2 ½ hrs 10.00

Monterrico 08:00 2 ½ hrs. 15.00 Copan 04:00 6 hrs 15.00

Quetzaltenango 04:00 & 14:00 4 ½ hrs 25.00 Coban 07:30 6 hrs 30.00

Lanquin/Semuc 07:30 7 ½ hrs 35.00 San Cristóbal de Las Casas Mx 04:00 11 hrs 55.00

Huehuetenango 04:00 5 ½ hrs 50.00

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FROM GUATEMALA CITY to

DEPARTURE TIME DURATION PRICE USD$

Antigua 06:30 - 09:30 - 11:00 13:30 -

14:30 - 18:00 20:30 1 hrs 10.00

Copan 05:00 5 hrs 15.00 Panajachel 11:00 3 ½ hrs. 22.00

Chichicastenango 06:00* 3 hrs 25.00 Coban 08:30 5 hrs 25.00

Quetzaltenango 11:00 5 ½ hrs. 35.00

FROM PANAJACHEL to

DEPARTURE TIME DURATION PRICE USD$

Guatemala 06:00 3 ½ hrs 25.00 Antigua 06:00 2 ½ hrs. 15.00

Antigua 09:30 - 10:00 12:00 -

16:00 - 17:30 2 ½ hrs. 12.00

San Pedro La Laguna 17:00

15.00

Guatemala 09:30 - 10:00 12:00 -

16:00 - 17:30 3 ½ hrs. 22.00

Coban 06:00 - 09:30 10 ½ hrs 51.00 Huehuetenango 06:00 4 hrs 30.00

Rio Dulce 06:00 8 hrs 45.00 Flores 06:00 - 16:00 12 hrs 55.00

Monterrico 10:00 3 ½ hrs 50.00 Chichicastenango (one way) 08:00* 1 ½ hrs. 8.00

Chichicastenango (round trip) 08:00 1 ½ hrs. 12.00 Quetzaltenango 07:00 - 17:00 2 ½ hrs 20 .00

San Cristóbal de Las Casas Mx 7:00 9 hrs 35.00

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FROM COBAN to

DEPARTURE TIME DURATION PRICE USD$

Quetzaltenango 07:00 8 ½ hrs 40.00 Nebaj 07:00 4 hrs. 20.00

Panajachel 07:00 9 hrs 51.00 Chichicastenango 07:00 7 hrs 40.00 Huehuetenango 07:00 6 hrs 30.00

Antigua 08:30 5 hrs 30.00 Guatemala 08:30 4½ hrs 25.00

Flores 09:30 5 ½ hrs 20.00 Lachúa 06:00 4 hrs 35.00

FROM FLORES to

DEPARTURE TIME DURATION PRICE USD$

Tikal 07.00 - 08.00 - 09.00 -

10.00 1 hrs 25.00

El Remante 07.00 - 08.00 - 09.00 -

10.00 35 min 8.00

Sayaxche 09.00 - 14.30 1 ½ hrs 20.00 Belize 06.30 3 hrs 35.00

Chetumal 06.30 5 hrs 45.00 Palenque 05.00 6 hrs 35.00

Coban 09.00 - 14.30 3 hrs 20.00 Rio Dulce 09.30 3 hrs 25.00

Guatemala 09.30 - 20.30 - 21.00 7 hrs 30.00 Antigua 09.30 - 20.30 - 21.00 8 hrs 40.00

87

FROM SAN PEDRO LA LAGUNA to

DEPARTURE TIME DURATION PRICE USD$

Quetzaltenango 17:00 2 ½ hrs 1500 Panajachel 15:00 1 hrs 25.00

Antigua 15:00 2 hrs 25.00 Coban 07:00 9 ½ hrs 50.00

Monterrico 07:00 4 ½ hrs 40.00

FROM HUEHUETENANGO to

DEPARTURE TIME DURATION PRICE USD$

Nebaj 09:30 6 hrs 20.00 Coban 09:30 6 hrs 30.00

Quetzaltenango 13:15 2 hrs 20.00 Panajachel 06:00 - 13:15 4 hrs 30.00

Chichicastenango 06:00 - 13:15 4 ½ hrs 32.00 Antigua 06:00 - 13:15 5 ½ hrs 40.00

Guatemala 06:00 6 ½ hrs 50.00 San Cristóbal de Las Casas Mx 09:30 6 hrs 20.00

88

FROM CHICHICASTENANGO to

DEPARTURE TIME DURATION PRICE USD$

Panajachel 09:00 1 ½ hrs. 10.00 Antigua 09:00 2 ½ hrs 12.00

Quetzaltenango 16:30 2 ½ hrs 18.00 Guatemala 09:30 3 hrs 23.00

FROM SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS MEXICO

DEPARTURE TIME DURATION PRICE USD$

Huehuetenango 08:00 6 hrs 21.00 Panajachel 08:00 9 hrs 40.00

Quetzaltenango 08:00 8 hrs 25.00 Antigua 08:00 11 hrs 55.00