Guatemala

Guatemala is known for its gentle way of life, expansive highlands dotted with several volcanoes, deep-rooted Mayan heritage, and delicious cuisine. This adventure combines exploration of the colonial city of Antigua with a visit to traditional Maya villages surrounding the beautiful waters of Lake Atitlan. We will help you create a customized itinerary that incorporates authentic culture, delicious cuisine, relaxing villas, and as much or as little activity as desired. All components of the schedule are coordinated to match curriculum objectives for all grade levels. Choose from a wide range of activities ranging from culinary tours or Yoga retreats to several day hikes along the highlands of Guatemala culminating in an epic sunrise above the Lake Atitlan volcanoes. We guarantee an experience you will cherish forever, at a price that remains well within your budget. Our expert guides are all certified first responders, have lived or worked for extended periods of time in Guatemala, and will ensure a worry-free experience for you and your whole party.

Trip Highlights

stroll the colonial city of antigua

Sample local coffee from all regions of Guatemala
Visit La Iglesia de San Francisco, a church built in 1579
Take a culinary tour of local traditional foods and wines, organic avocado farms and the infamous Valhalla Macadamia Plantation
Practice your bargaining skills at local shops
Optional curriculum-focused activities: cooking lesson, chocolate workshop, salsa dancing lesson, a visit to a local school or health clinic, Spanish language lessons, and many more.

Immerse yourself in Maya Traditions

Tour indigenous villages surrounding Lago Atitlan
Learn about traditional weaving techniques at local Women's Cooperatives
Experience a Maya traditional sauna called a tamascal
Time your visit and participate in honoring the celebration of Semana Santa during the Holy Week of Easter
Explore the ancient city and ruins of Tikal
Optional activities: learn local indigenous plants and their many uses, medicinal plant lessons, make your own scarf using traditional looms, ancient fabric dying workshop, visit to local school or speak with local elders, etc.

adventure activities abound

Trek across the central highlands
Mountain biking tours
Climb one of many volcanoes, including roasting marshmallows on Mt. Pacaya's lava vents
Sea kayak around or Para-glide over Lago Atitlan
Volcano board down the mountain of ash
Hike/swim through the caves of Semuc Champey