
Antigua, Guatemala is an exquisite Spanish Colonial town with elegant 16th and 17th Century architecture, cobblestone streets, tranquil central squares, stylish hotels, luxurious shops, and superb international cuisine. The town enjoys a unique and impressive setting, nestled beneath three towering volcanoes and surrounded by lush evergreen forests. Lake Atitlan has been called by many “the most beautiful lake in the world.” It is indeed an amazing setting with the crystal blue waters of the lake surrounded by the three lofty peaks of Toliman, San Pedro and Atitlan volcanoes. This is a fabulous place for hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, or just relaxing in one of the elegant hotels around the lake's shoreline. Boat trips are an enjoyable excursion to visit the traditional Mayan people in their villages to see their colorful dress and traditions. Rio Dulce means “Sweet River”. Travel on this beautiful river 42 kilometers long from Guatemala’s largest lake, Lake Izabal, to the Amatique bay on the Caribbean coast, through a changing landscape of flat rainforest to sheer canyon cliff walls. Pass old Spanish forts built to keep the marauding pirates at bay, modern marinas, natural hot springs, manatee breeding waters and abundant wildlife until you reach the Caribbean and the coastal town of Livingston. Only accessible by water or air, Livingston is a unique town and home to the “Garifuna” people, descendants of the indigenous Caribbean and African cultures. The Garifuna people are known for their rich culture, music and dance. An evening here will be a truly different experience, dining on the best seafood, enjoying the local cocktails and dancing “punta” to the rhythmic percussion. The northern rainforest area of the Peten is a huge expanse of rainforest with home to thousands of archaeology sites and a myriad of exotic wildlife. Of the few archeology sites that have been excavated and restored, Tikal is the largest and most spectacular Mayan temple site yet uncovered. Over 3,000 separate temples, shrines, ceremonial platforms, ball courts, and plazas make up this impressive archaeological discovery. The largest temples here tower above the jungle canopy and spectacular views can be seen from climbing their height. Close to Tikal, situated on the shores of a peaceful lake, is the site of the third largest known Classic Mayan site in the country.
Guatemala Highlights Travel Vacation Package (9N) includes:
Observations:
SPECIFICS