The Itinerary
Day 1 (Saturday 1 week before Easter):Arrive in Guatemala City. Meeting at the airport and transfer to Antigua Guatemala, which is a scenic drive of 45 minutes. Overnight in Radisson Villa Antigua.
Day 2:After breakfast, we drive high into green mountains to the indian town of Chichicastenago. Enjoy the largest open-air market in Central America, where you will find handicrafts at incredibly low prices (use your best bargaining skills!). In the afternoon, drive to Panajachel, situated on glorious Lake Atitlan. Hotel Atitlan (B).
Day 3:Lake Atitlan has been described as the most beautiful lake in the world. It is certainly unique and spectacular, surrounded by three impressive volcanoes. We travel by launch across the calm waters to visit the fascinating lakeside village of Santiago. Afternoon at leisure. Hotel Atitlan (B L)
Day 4:In the afternoon, we drive deeper into the Maya highlands, past Alaska, the highest point on the Interamerican Highway, to the capital of the indigenous mountain communities, Quetzaltenango, or Xelahu in the ancient Maya tongue. Overnight at the simple but charming Pension Bonifaz, located right on the principal Plaza (B).
Day 5:Visit the surrounding villages, including Zunil, famous for its extremely colourful textiles. Drop in on the busy market at Almolonga, the market garden of Guatemala and also visit the beautiful hot springs of Fuentes Georginas, in the Pacific cloud forest on the side of Zunil Volcano. In the afternoon, transfer back to Antigua Guatemala. Overnight Radisson Villa Antigua (B).
Day 6:Antigua is a true colonial gem, and this morning we visit the principal sights on foot with a local historian, who will include centuries old churches, convents and plazas. Many buildings have been beautifully restored; others remain as they were after the devastating earthquakes of 1773 and 1976. In the afternoon, a guided tour of local villages and countryside around Antigua. Overnight Radisson Villa Antigua (B)
Day 7:Today is the principal day of processions. Our guide accompanies us as we stroll the streets of Antigua appreciating the wonderfully artistic street carpets, and following the processions as they wind through the quaint cobblestone streets of this ancient colonial city. Overnight in Radisson Villa Antigua (B).
Day 8:Full-day visit to Guatemala City. Guatemala City is the largest city in Central America. A 45-minute scenic drive brings us to the historic centre, where we visit the Cathedral and imposing National Palace, both located on the main square. Afterwards, we visit the remarkable Relief Map, built in 1905, it was a wonder of its day, and still impresses visitors. Lunch on your own in the Zona Viva, then a brief visit to the National Archaeological Museum (admission fee of about US$ 5.00 not included) or the lovely artisans market next door (your choice). Return to Antigua by mid-afternoon (B).
Day 9:Transfers to the International Airport for departure flights or continuation of jour journey.
http://www.condorjourneys-adventures.com/guatemala_santa.asp
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