Explore the history of ancient Mayan civilizations on this amazing journey to Guatemala and Honduras. Travel back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating story of the Maya as you visit world-renowned treasures in Tikal and Copan. You'll also experience the indigenous cultures and colonial tradition of these countries and admire the breathtaking and diverse scenery. Explore colorful traditional markets and delight in the warm hospitality throughout these fascinating lands!

YOUR ITINERARY

Day 1: USA/Guatemala. Your exciting journey to exotic Guatemala and Honduras begins today with a direct flight to Guatemala City, the vibrant capital of Guatemala. Upon arrival you’ll be welcomed to the “land of eternal spring” and escorted to your centrally located upscale hotel. Later join your tour director for a briefing and welcome dinner. Barceló Hotel (D)

DAY 2: Yaxha & Topoxte Excursion. Early this morning board a short flight to Flores, in the Petén region, and travel by road into Guatemala's northern rainforest. Here you'll explore two significant but less visited Mayan sites. First discover Yaxha, a pre-Columbian city and ceremonial site for the Maya civilization. Excavations to unearth the magnificent ancient structures, including the only twin-pyramid complex found outside of Tikal, started some 10 years ago and are still ongoing. Proceed to the western part of Lake Yaxha and visit Topoxté, an island in the Yaxha Lagoon, where you'll witness examples and learn how the Maya lived and defended themselves. Later arrive at your hotel. Villa Maya or Del Patio Hotel (B,L)

DAY 3: Tikal Excusion. Today travel back more than 2,000 years in time when you visit the ancient city of Tikal. One of the largest archaeological sites of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization, Tikal was inhabited from 600 BC. to 869 AD. A local expert will introduce you to some of the jungle-clad ruins of palaces, temples, ball courts, and ceremonial platforms. Marvel at the impressive Twin-Pyramid complex, the Lost World Complex where the Great Pyramid is located, Temple III, the Palace of the Windows, the Great Plaza, the Pyramid of the Grand Jaguar, the Pyramid of the Masks and the Palace of the Nobles. You’ll also visit Pyramid IV, the highest of the Mayan pyramids, from which you may enjoy spectacular views of Tikal and the surrounding jungle. Return to your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax (B,L)

DAY 4: Rio Dulce. After breakfast journey to Rio Dulce bridge, and board a scenic cruise of Rio Dulce, the “Sweet River”. While your motorboat navigates the river, savor the beautiful natural surroundings of thick forests and listen to the sounds of the howler monkeys and the aquatic birds. You'll also see the enchanting Castillo de San Felipe on Lake Izabal, at the entrance to the Rio Dulce. Built in 1604, the castle was a Spanish colonial fort designed to prevent pirates from entering the lake from the Caribbean. Later arrive at your resort hotel located on a small river island and surrounded by exuberant tropical rainforest vegetation.
Catamaran Hotel (B,D)

DAY 6: Copan Ruins Excursion. Today tour the renowned pre-Columbian ruins of Copan, long protected by the jungle and often referred to as the “Athens of the Maya world”. The amazing complex, which flourished from the 5th to the 9th century AD consists of majestic temples and imposing plazas built on multiple levels. Witness the cultural achievements of the ancient Maya as you view the elaborate stone sculptures with detailed carvings and the well-preserved stone columns called stelae. As you walk into the dramatic expanse of the Great Plaza, you’ll encounter the greatest collection of Maya sculptures in Central America. (B)


Day 7: Guatemala City/Lake Atitlan. Depart Copan this morning and re-enter Guatemala. Voyage through the breathtaking scenery of Guatemala’s central valley dotted by small Indian villages, lush pine forests and picturesque lakes and ascend the highlands region towards the capital, Guatemala City. Enjoy a guided orientation tour of the city before continuing by road to Lake Atitlan, one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. With its crystalline-azure waters and gorgeous vistas of several area volcanoes, Lake Atitlán is the ideal place to experience Guatemalan folklore. The lake shore is inhabited by a dozen indigenous villages whose inhabitants still preserve their Maya heritage, customs and culture. Arrive at your ideally located lakeside hotel. Porta Hotel del Lago (B,D)

Day 8: Chichicastenango Excursion. This morning travel to the nearby whitewashed town of Chichicastenango and visit the most picturesque and colorful open-air market in Guatemala. Hundreds of Indians from the surrounding area gather to sell handicrafts, textiles, candles, food, flowers and pottery. Spend some free time browsing the market for unique items and souvenirs. Later, witness the captivating ancient Maya ceremonies held on the steps and inside the 400-year old Church of Santo Tomás, built on a pre-Columbian temple platform. After lunch at a local inn return to your hotel at Lake Atitlan where the balance of the day is at leisure. (B,L)

Day 9: Solola Market Excursion. Today you'll be treated to a visit that few foreigners experience, to the vibrant and authentic Sololá Market. The colorful market attracts every Friday locals from the surrounding villages, mostly Cakchiquel Indians who proudly retain their heritage. It is one of the few places where both men and women routinely wear their traditional Mayan dress that varies in fabric, color, pattern and the amount of embroidered motives. Women often carry their wares in the traditional Mayan market basket, balancing vegetables from their garden, tortillas, textiles or even a chicken that they hope to sell at market. The common blue plastic pans are scales used to compare the weight of different products. After time to explore at your own pace, return to your hotel at Lake Atitlan and enjoy the balance of the day at leisure. (B)

Day 10: Antigua. After breakfast journey by road to nearby Antigua, arriving mid-morning. The most important and enchanting city of colonial Guatemala, Antigua was founded by the Spaniards in 1543 and is one of oldest and most beautiful cities in the Americas. It is sure to mesmerize you with its wide cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings and beautiful natural setting. Your guided tour of the city includes a visit the Central Plaza that is surrounded by the 18th century Cathedral, the Municipal Government Building and the Palace of the Captains General. You’ll also see colonial churches and monasteries, primitive foot-looms where colorful textiles are woven and a jade workshop. The balance of the day is at leisure to discover Antigua’s hidden treasures at your own pace. This evening, your tour director hosts you and your fellow travelers for a sumptuous farewell dinner at a famous local restaurant. Villa Colonial Hotel (B,D)

Day 11: Antigua/USA. This morning you’ll be escorted to nearby Guatemala City’s airport for your return flight home. Your memorable journey ends as you arrive Miami airport later today. (B)

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YOUR TOUR INCLUDES:

TOUR COST AIRFARE INCLUDED
DEPART	RETURN	RESERVE BY JUN 6, 2013		RESERVE AFTER JUN 6
2013		w/check discount	sale
Nov 7	Nov 17	$ 1999	$ 2099	$ 2399
Nov 21	Dec 1	$ 1999	$ 2099	$ 2399
2014
Jan 16	Jan 26	$ 1999	$ 2099	$ 2399
Feb 13	Feb 23	$ 2099	$ 2199	$ 2499

Important travelers note You should be aware that the visit to the archeological sites on days 2 & 3 involve a considerable amount of walking and hiking, often on uneven terrain. To participate and fully enjoy the activities on these days you need to be in good physical condition. We strongly suggest that you consult a physician regarding any concerns prior to making a reservation.

MAYAN CULTURE

Tikal pyramid Mayan temple complex