Itinerary

 
 
 

Day 1

March 20 Wednesday

Arrival Notes

  • Arrive at Guatemala Airport on March 20, 2024, with arrival by 3 p.m. We will greet you with a sign out the doors where everyone is waiting. Then we whisk you away to the quaint colonial town of Antigua. (We will wait for you to get through customs so no stress).
    If you are interested in arriving a day ahead of time we recommend a nearby hotel we are familiar with where we can also pick you up.

  • Arrive in Antigua and check into our locally run hotel in Antigua.

  • Unpack and settle in to meet other companions before a group dinner

  • You’ll find a printed agenda in your room

  • You’ll have time to unpack, recharge your devices, and explore before enjoying a scrumptious dinner together.

  • Evening: We’ll dine at a typical Guatemalan restaurant, which includes a variety of food. After dining (included) we'll stroll around the main plaza, where you can take photos and enjoy the bustling night market with local Guatemalan artisans.

    DAY 2

  • March 21, Thursday

  • Breakfast at Hotel

  • Receive your daily photo challenge

  • Grab your camera for an exhilarating walk through the charming and photogenic cobblestoned streets of the town.

  • Discover the breathtaking architectural marvel of the Casa Santo Domingo Monastery, a site that boasts an astonishing display of craftsmanship dating back to its construction in 1538. This historical gem showcases awe-inspiring architectural elements that continue to captivate visitors to this day.

  • We'll ride up to a stunning vista point overlooking the city, where you'll be treated to an unobstructed view of one of Guatemala's most active volcanoes.

  • Special Lunch

    We are thrilled to have the chance to indulge in delectable, homemade cuisine thoughtfully prepared by a warm and welcoming family in the comfort of their Guatemalan home.

  • This evening we will enjoy our first photo share in a common hotel area. Great time to see what others see and ask questions about photography.

    DAY 3

  • March 22, Friday

  • Sunrise Photo Fun for early risers

    Explore some of the most captivating spots around La Merced Arch

    Consider bringing a lightweight tripod for capturing the best photos.

  • Breakfast at our hotel

  • Chicken Bus Ride 15 minutes

    Get ready for a truly authentic experience as we journey to a nearby village just 15 minutes away via the famous "chicken bus". This colorful and lively mode of transportation offers a glimpse into the local way of life. Get snacks for tomorrow’s journey.

  • Explore Antigua on your own.

  • Dinner together

  • Short photo share this evening

    DAY 4

  • March 23, Saturday

  • Breakfast

  • Embark this morning on our 3-hour journey with our driver to breathtaking Lake Atitlan, a sight of unparalleled beauty and tranquility.

    Renowned writer, Aldous Huxley, famously referred to Lake Atitlan as the most exquisite and picturesque lake in the world, a testament to the breathtaking beauty and natural wonder of this magnificent destination.

  • We'll journey into sacred Mayan sites and delve into their rich history, granting you a rare glimpse of rituals typically hidden from outsiders.

  • Bring snacks.

  • DAY 5

  • March 24, Sunday

  • CHICHICASTENANGO

    Embark on a thrilling short-day trip to explore one of the most ancient and vibrant Mayan Indian markets in all of Latin America. The intoxicating scents of animals, incense, and candles intermingle with the sacred atmosphere of ancient churches, creating an unforgettable sensory experience that simply cannot be missed.

  • Return to Lake for Lunch

  • Time on your own to roam

  • DAY 6

  • March 25, Monday

  • Morning - we visit the lovely village of Santa Catarina

  • Boat ride across the lake to San Pedro and San Juan.

  • We will stay at a Mayan-run hotel on the lake

  • Free Time: relax on your own or Choose your fun -Canoes are available, hammocks, and there is lots to photograph and buy on the streets.

  • Photo sharing this evening at the roundtable.

  • DAY 7

  • March 26, Tuesday

  • Early breakfast and a boat trip/ or tuk-tuk ride to a nearby artesian village

  • Explore a Mayan Coffee Farm and learn about how coffee is grown and enjoy a cup of Guatemalan organic coffee on the farm.

  • Mayan weavers show you demonstrations of the backstrap loom and learn about herbal healing teas.

  • Lunch in the village of San Juan

  • This evening we’ll visit a Mayan priest to see, taste hear, and photograph a special ritual. The priest or priestess decides on the ritual ( you do not need to partake to witness it).

  • Dinner together at one of the fine outdoor restaurants

  • DAY 8

  • March 27, Wednesday

    Volcano Hike at 4 a.m. for those who want to do it. It is 5 hours long but has a majestic view. You can also choose to relax around the lake.

  • Afternoon -Time on your own.

  • Boat back across the lake together. Meet our driver in Panajachel for the journey back to Antigua

  • Dinner together in Antigua at one of our favorites

  • Share your 5- 10 best photos and stories this evening.

  • DAY 9

  • Antigua -Breakfast at the hotel and get ready for the driver to escort you to the airport. TBA If your departure is at an odd time we suggest you stay in Antigua and we’ll help you hire your private Uber or cab to the airport.

Cost $2900 for 9 days in Guatemala. We pick you up at the airport where we begin our journey together. All group ground transportation is included.

Cost is $2900.

Included in Guatemalan journey:

9 days include pick up and return to Guatemala Airport

  • 12 meals

  • all group ground transportation including to Lake Atitlan and return

  • HOTELS DOUBLE OCCUPANCY

  • SINGLE OCCUPANCY AVAILABLE

  • MINIMUM GROUP -5

  • MAXIMUM GROUP -10

  • if you are traveling solo and want we can hook you up with a traveler to room share.