Guatemala Easter Festivals *9 Day*

The Easter Festival is just the beginning of this Guatemala travel adventure. Arrive in Antigua in the middle of the festival, when the streets come alive in celebration of this Holy Week. This itinerary is designed to coincide with the Easter festivities in colonial Antigua, but also offers so many other opportunities to discover Guatemala. Journey into the highlands and explore the commanding temples and other remnants of the Mayan past. Wander through rows of vendors at Chichi\'s magnificent market, and spend a few nights along the shores of the volcano-fringed Lake Atitlan. Explore colonial Antigua. Join us for fascinating traditions, mystifying history, and the inviting culture of Guatemala.

Days 1 - Apr 8 Arrive Antigua  

Fly into Guatemala City where you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Antigua.

Days 2-4 - Apr 9 - 12 Free Days Antigua  

Let the celebrations begin! The spectacular Easter festivals in the former colonial capital are beyond comparison to anything in the northern hemisphere. Along cobblestone streets, intricate carpets of colored sawdust are painstakingly laid down. Later, a solemn procession of Roman centurions march over the carpets, carrying an image of Christ on the cross. Music and swinging incense burners accompany the robed cofradia. During these lively days leading up to Easter Sunday we'll witness elaborate ceremonies re-enacting the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. Trips can also be arranged to climb the nearby volcanoes of Pacaya and Acatenango, or you might rent mountain bikes and explore the foothills of the Antigua Valley, go horseback riding, or visit a nearby coffee plantation.

Days 5 - Apr 12 Chichicastenango  

Today we rise early to visit the famous market of Chichicastenango. This beautiful town, surrounded by valleys and shadowed by mountains, has many shamanistic and ceremonial overtones. Its large market brings villagers from throughout the region, who often arrive the night before and sleep on blankets in the market square. Rising early, they set out their colorful fruits, vegetables and handicrafts. The market disperses in the early afternoon and we travel to the shores of beautiful Lake Atitlan, a deep caldera lake flanked by three majestic volcanoes. A passenger boat takes us across the azure-colored water to our charming lodge in the village of Santiago Atitlan.

Days 6 - Apr 13 Lake Atitlan  

This morning after admiring the placid waters of the lake, we set out about town on a walking tour. Scholars tell us that the Ancient Maya disappeared mysteriously a thousand years ago, but anyone who has intimately explored this fascinating region knows that the Maya continue to thrive in the highlands of Guatemala. Villagers in Santiago Atitlan still adhere to the traditional lifestyle of the Tz'utuhil Maya and on our walk we'll see many people cloaked in brightly-colored, handwoven clothing. Along Santiago's main street are art galleries filled with oil paintings depicting busy market scenes and typical life in the highlands. We may also visit Maximòn and leave an offering to this curious and revered deity.

Days 7 - Apr 14 Solola/Lake Atitlan  

We board the lancha this morning for our return trip across Lake Atitlan. A few miles down the curvy mountain road known as the Interamericana, we reach the town of Solola. The main plaza is home to one of the most authentic markets in the highlands, and we'll spend some time wandering through the stalls, admiring the palette of colors created by mounds of fruits, vegetables, meats, housewares and clothing. After our sensory feast, we return to Lake Atitlan for the evening.

Days 8 - Apr 15 Antigua  

This morning you will transfer back to Antigua. Volcan Fuego rises to the roof of the world above the streets of Antigua below. Once the capital of Guatemala and all Central America, Antigua resembles a living ruin. Mammoth ruins of churches and palaces tell the story of Antigua's past glory, and restored fascades speak of a bright future for this wonderful city. This afternoon we tour the city and admire Antigua's gilded cathedrals. The afternoon is yours to rent mountain bikes to explore the countryside, visit a coffee finca, or macadamia nut plantation, or just people watch in the main plaza to complete your Guatemala travel experience.

Days 9 - Apr 16 Return Home
  

US$1380

J F M A M J J A S O N D
9 days Wed - Thu, Starting and ending in Antigua, Guatemala.
Tour Code: GEF9
Single Supplement:  US$425

US$1595 - GEF12
Interested in visiting Tikal? Click here to view our longer 12-day Easter Festival trip.






Travel Highlights Easter Festivals
Antigua
Lake Atitlan
Chichicastenango
Solola

Accommodations:  5 nights comfortable hotels, 3 nights charming lakeside lodge

Food Includes:  All meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner); most of our hotels offer free continental breakfast.

Transportation:  vans, ferries, bus

Group & Staff:  Min 2, Max 12, Adventure life Tour Leader/Guide, Local guide

Personal Budgeting:  Allow US$200 for meals, drinks and snacks not included, US$33 international departure tax, US$100 optional excursions, money for souvenirs!

Pre & Post Tour Accommodations:  Antigua: Share US$65, Single $130

Is it for Me?  A look at the insider\'s Guatemala, timed to see one of the most festive weeks of the year. Emphasis is on the Semana Santa celebrations and Maya culture, with plenty of time to explore colonial Antigua, colorful markets, and the beautiful Lake Atitlan. An easy trip for anyone who\'s culturally curious.

Arrival / Departure Transfers: 1 person US$50 each
2 or more people US$25 /person
Start Dates 2009 : Apr 8 - 16

Prices are based on a 3% cash discount