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Zoom Vacations® GUATEMALA ITINERARY
Guatemala City, the Ruins of Tikal, and the colonial city of Antigua
Guatemala is a fascinating collage of cultures: full-blooded Maya people; the descendants of mixed unions between the Maya and Spanish colonizers; Afro-Antillean settlers in the Caribbean coast of Central America; and European immigrants. Sociologically, it’s a unique blend that gives the country a special imprint, a mix of urban sophistication, fine gastronomy, outstanding arts and crafts and textiles, and exotic indigenous customs. Lending more shades to this cultural mosaic is the eclectic mix of mountains, volcanoes, scenic coasts, rivers and lakes. In short, Guatemala offers gay travelers an exotic experience coupled with a geographical sense of a faraway place just a few hours from home—the ultimate vacation destination. Zoom Vacations®' exploration of Guatemala gives you the best of this incredible destination! Visit unbelievable ancient ruins, explore the romantic city of Antigua, taste some of the world's best cuisine, and more! And like always, this trip features enough free time to relax and do your own thing!
Day One ~ Guatemala City
Arrive in Guatemala. After clearing customs, please proceed to the luggage area to claim your check-in bags. Your hotel shuttle will transfer you the Hotel Camino Real.
Evening: Welcome Dinner
Our special evening will take place in one of the best restaurants in town that serves authentic Guatemalan cuisine.
Accommodations: Hotel Camino Real, Five Stars
Meals Included: Dinner
Day Two ~ Guatemala City-Tikal
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in Hotel
Early Morning: Fly to Tikal
After a quick 45 minute flight, we arrive at the Flores/Tikal Airport.
Morning: Tour to the Mayan city of Tikal
Today, we explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the many pyramids, stelaes, temples and buildings of the most important Mayan city yet discovered and restored. Additionally through the jungle paths we will be able to see birds, plants and the famous howler and spider monkeys. Afterwards we will enjoy a delicious lunch in a restaurant in the middle of the jungle.
Afternoon: Fly Back to Guatemala City
This afternoon, fly from Tikal to Guatemala Cit
Accommodations: Camino Real, Five Stars
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast, Lunch
Day Three ~ Guatemala City-Antigua
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in Hotel
Morning: Guatemala City tour, including the Presidential Palace, Main Plaza, and cathedral. After breakfast we take you to the main attractions in the most cosmopolitan city in Central America, Guatemala City. During our tour you will visit the National Palace of Culture; the Central Plaza, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Time permitting, we will visit the Popol Vuh and Ixchel archeology museums. We will then enjoy a quick, tasty lunch for our adventure continues.
Afternoon: Drive to Antigua (45 minutes)
Late Afternoon: Arrival in Antigua
We check-in to the Posda del Angel. Antigua is the most important and enchanting city of colonial Guatemala. Founded by the Spaniards in 1543, nowadays Antigua is a beautiful blend of ruins, restored colonial buildings, and new buildings in colonial style. It was declared “ Monument of America ” in 1965 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From its colonial architecture to its beautiful surroundings, you will be charmed as you stroll through town on the cobblestone streets, exploring stunning monasteries, convents and cathedrals.
Accommodations: Posada del Angel, Boutique
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast, Lunch
Day Four ~ Antigua
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in Hotel
Morning: Tour to Pacaya Volcano
Today we enjoy private transportation to the Pacaya Volcano National Park entrance where you will meet your volcano guide and begin a 1½ hr hike up the volcano. Watch results of recent eruptions and the volcano smoking. Experience incredible views. Pacaya is one of 33 volcanoes in Guatemala and one of three active ones. It is located just 45 minutes from Antigua. Pacaya is a fairly popular volcano amongst travelers, because it offers climbers a unique glance into the geologic bowels of the earth. A relatively easy climb of one hour brings us to the fertile shelf called La Meseta where you can get an awesome view of the lava flows. Wear long pants and good shoes. Lunch is provided, and we will return in the afternoon.
Tonight you are encouraged to explore Antigua’s many sensational restaurants and nightlife.
Accommodations: Posada el Angel,
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast, Lunch
Day Five ~ Antigua
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Morning: Guided Tour of Antigua.
Today we have the opportunity to learn the history behind the stunning buildings, ruins, and plazas of Antigua. This city often surprises our travelers by just how much they love it. From its romantic ruins to chic, stylish restaurants, Antigua masters the art of being ruggedly hip and sophisticated like no other place on the planet.
Afternoon: Farewell Cooking Party and Dinner
This afternoon, our group enjoys a special last moment of bonding as together we create some of the incredible delicacies we have had over the past week. This is also a party, so of course we will have plenty of wine and cocktails! We will explore the history and culture of Guatemala through its cuisine while sharing stories and laughter.
Accommodations: Posada del Angel, Boutique
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast, Evening Cocktails
Day Six ~ Antigua-Guatemala City
Buffet Breakfast at leisure in hotel
Morning, transfer to the airport for the flights home.
Meals Included: Buffet Breakfast
Hotels
Westin Camino Real, Guatemala City, Five Stars
The best hotel in Guatemala City.
The Posada del Angel (boutique)
The best hotel in Antigua
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