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Guatemala: its storied heritage and natural landscapes
3 stops
7 nights
76 miles
Throughout Guatemala, history seems intertwined with nature. From Guatemala City to Santa Catarina Palopó, via the ancient capital of Antigua, your journey leads through epic landscapes to the heart of Mayan civilization. The country remains refreshingly undeveloped and, whether you encounter Mayan roots or European influences, each historic vestige seems integrated within one other. The country’s mountains, lakes and volcanoes offer astonishing backdrops for fans of short walks and long hikes, but above all, your adventure conveys a sense of unrestrained liberty–to match the very spirit of Guatemala.
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Departure
Recommended duration : 1 night
Guatemala City
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To truly appreciate Guatemala City, you have to get passed your first impression. While the capital may at first seem austere, thanks to its division into administrative zones, it benefits from a remarkable geographical location, surrounded by volcanoes on all sides. Guatemala City is home to some of the country's finest museums, showcasing everything from Mayan artifacts to modern Guatemalan art_a perfect introduction to the historic sites found throughout the country.
Things to do, see, and discover
During your stay
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Sublime Restaurant
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26 milesCar
Recommended duration : 3 nights
Antigua
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The timeless city of Antigua
The enduring city of Antigua has resisted earthquakes, floods, volcanic eruptions, and the (temporary) evacuation of its entire population. Huddled between three volcanoes, the former capital seems even more beautiful today. Enjoy the fortuitous opportunity to stroll among the colonial vestiges of the past and restored monuments, since some say that its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site offers rather feeble protection against the threats posed by the Earth itself...
Things to do, see, and discover
During your stay
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Antigua’s epic panorama, from Cerro de la Cruz
Simply follow a path up a small hill to discover one of the most beautiful views over Antigua Guatemala. From Cerro de la Cruz, countless convents, monasteries and churches, nestled among the wide cobbled streets of the former Guatemalan capital, are revealed. In the background stands the imposing Agua volcano, whose summit rises to 12,300 feet/3,760 meters. Dominated by a cross, this look-out is the destination for an important religious procession every Ascension Day.
During your stay
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Shopping at Nim Po't market
A meeting place for local artisans and passing tourists alike, this vast and vibrant marketplace showcases the country's rich traditions and craftsmanship, from traditional Mayan textiles to ceramics, wood carvings, bags and masks, figurines, kites and bags of roasted coffee. The wares on sale come from all over Guatemala–this is an excellent destination for shopping amid an atmosphere that's truly bursting with life.
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50 milesCar
Recommended duration : 3 nights
Santa Catarina Palopó
Things to do, see, and discover
During your stay
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A stroll through the market of Chichicastenango
a town cut off from the world. Hidden away behind the cobblestone alleyways and red roofs of Chichicastenango, there's an incredible market waiting to be discovered. Often arriving on foot from the surrounding valleys, the market gardeners, farmers and artisans make their way there to sell their wares in a festive atmosphere. Among the fruits and vegetables, you'll find balls of wax, and chunks of chalk, as well as a multitude of masks, pottery pieces, and colorful clothing.
During your stay
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Explore the archaeology of Iximché
East of Lake Atitlán, the ancient capital of the Cakchiquel kingdom remains a sacred place for many Guatemalans. Founded in 1470, the city was originally comprised of adobe huts, palaces, temples and pyramids. Abandoned then later burned by the Spanish in the 16th century, Iximché remains an important archaeological site and has become a place of pilgrimage for the local population. Around the remnants of ancient temples and squares where ceremonies, dances and sacrifices were once held, a small museum now bears witness to this rich history.
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