The Mayan Express

The Mayan Express

Ancient Cities, Highland Culture & Jungle Discovery
6 Nights / 7 Days

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Experience one of Central America’s most vibrant markets in Chichicastenango
Discover Mayan traditions and spiritual heritage at the Church of Santo Tomás
Explore lakeside villages and artisan culture at Lake Atitlán
Enjoy a scenic boat journey across one of the world’s most beautiful lakes
Wander Antigua’s colonial streets framed by volcanoes and history

From the UK, the best route to Guatemala City would be on Iberia via Madrid. Ask us for competitive fares.

Included:

6 nights hotel accommodation
Private sightseeing transportation
Entrance fees to visiting sites

Not Included:

International flights
Items of a personal nature
Meals
Gratuities
Travel Insurance

LENGTH: 6 Nights

DATES: November to April for dry, clear conditions

PRICE: From £2,815 per person, based on two people sharing. Prices for single occupancy and larger groups on request.

INTERNATIONAL GATEWAY: Guatamala City

Traditional Markets

Chichicastenango’s vibrant market is one of the most important in Central America. A place where colour, craftsmanship, and culture come together, it offers a unique insight into daily life in the Guatemalan highlands.

Jungle Discovery

Venture into the dense rainforest of Petén, where hidden temples, wildlife sounds, and ancient history combine to create a truly immersive jungle experience.

Volcanoes

From Antigua to Lake Atitlán, Guatemala’s dramatic volcanic scenery provides a constant backdrop, shaping both the landscape and the experience.

Mayan Ruins

Explore some of Guatemala’s most impressive ancient cities, from the peaceful jungle setting of Ceibal to the towering temples of Tikal rising above the rainforest canopy.

Overview

Guatemala offers a rare opportunity to experience both living culture and ancient history in one journey.

From highland markets to jungle temples, this itinerary brings together the country’s most fascinating contrasts, creating an experience that is as diverse as it is unforgettable.

This journey moves quickly yet meaningfully through Guatemala’s most iconic landscapes.

In the highlands, colourful markets and colonial streets offer a glimpse into Guatemala’s cultural heart. Where tradition is visible in every detail.

Further north, the landscape transforms into dense tropical rainforest. Here, ancient Mayan cities emerge from the jungle, their temples rising above the canopy, surrounded by the sounds of wildlife and centuries of history.

Each destination reveals a different dimension of Guatemala. Woven together into a journey that is both dynamic and deeply enriching.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrival in Guatemala City

Arrive in Guatemala City, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

Take time to settle in after your journey and prepare for the experiences ahead.

Overnight in Guatemala City.

Day 2 | Antigua & Chichicastenango

Depart for Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala’s former colonial capital.

Enjoy a short visit to this picturesque city, known for its cobbled streets, colourful facades, and surrounding volcanoes.

In the afternoon, continue to Chichicastenango.

Overnight in Chichicastenango.

Day 3 | Markets & Lake Atitlán

Visit the famous open-air market of Chichicastenango, one of the most vibrant in Central America.

Explore stalls filled with textiles, handicrafts, and traditional goods, and visit the Church of Santo Tomás, where indigenous and Catholic traditions blend.

In the afternoon, stop at Lake Atitlán for a short visit, taking in views of the surrounding volcanoes and lakeside scenery.

Return to Guatemala City for overnight.

Day 4 | Into the Jungle: Ceibal

Fly north to Flores, gateway to Guatemala’s rainforest region.

Upon arrival, transfer to the archaeological site of Ceibal for a guided visit. Set within dense jungle, Ceibal is known for its impressive stelae and peaceful atmosphere, offering a quieter insight into Mayan civilisation.

After lunch, transfer to Flores or Tikal for overnight accommodation.

Day 5 | Yaxhá & Topoxte

Travel to the archaeological sites of Yaxhá and Topoxte for guided visits.

Surrounded by lakes and jungle, these lesser-visited sites offer a more remote and atmospheric experience. Explore ancient temples, plazas, and causeways while immersed in the natural surroundings.

Return to Flores or Tikal for overnight accommodation.

Day 6 | Tikal: The Mayan World

Visit the legendary Tikal National Park, one of the greatest cities of the ancient Mayan world.

Walk through vast plazas and climb towering temples that rise above the jungle canopy, offering panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest.

In the afternoon, return flight to Guatemala City.

Overnight in Guatamala City

Day 7 | Depart

Transfer to La Aurora International Airport for your onward journey.