Embark on an Epic Adventure through Guatemala's Volcanoes and Maya Ruins. This action-packed itinerary is perfect for adrenaline junkies and adventurous travelers. Explore the breathtaking volcano surroundings of Antigua Guatemala, conquer the Acatenango Volcano on an unforgettable overnight trek, and practice your kayaking skills on the tranquil waters of Lake Atitlán. Then, get ready to venture deep into the jungle of the Maya Biosphere Reserve, where you'll hike off-the-beaten-path trails to uncover the ancient cities of Tikal and Uaxactún. Get your heart pumping and your senses tingling with this unforgettable journey through the rugged beauty of Guatemala!
***Customize your itinerary however you like! Just give us a heads up about any changes you want to make before you book. We're here to help you plan the perfect trip!
Get ready for an adventure-packed itinerary that will leave you in awe! Here are some of the highlights:
Includes:
-Round trip transportation fron Antigua to hike starting point.
-All park entrance fees.
-Local community guide.
-Local, bilingual guide with certified 1st aid training.
-Freshly prepared picnic lunch, dinner, and breakfast + juice / coffee / tea & snacks.
-Sleeping bags, sleeping pads and comfortable tents for camping at high altitude.
Trek packing list:
-Hiking boots or trekking shoes
-Hand sanitizer
-Large capacity backpack with rain cover (25L+)
-One war layer and /or windbreaker
-Rain jacket
-Cold weather clothing for near-freezing night-time temperature at camp
-Personal toiletries and / or medications
-Camera, hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
-4 liters of water minimum
-Flashlight
The park offers a local porter service from the community of La Soledad to support you carrying your backpack. The service costs $65 each way per person. Please notify us in advance if you wish to hire the porter service on your way up, down, or both. A liability waiver is required from each participant when booking this experience.
Experience comfort and convenience at its finest as you settle into carefully selected standard hotels (2&3 stars) during your trip. Our team has scoured the area to find hotels with prime locations, cozy accommodations, competitive pricing, exceptional service, and modern amenities, ensuring that you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. However, if you're looking for a more luxurious experience, we've got you covered too. Just let us know in advance, and we'll tailor your trip to include the most exquisite and high-end boutique hotels, providing you with an even more indulgent and pampered experience.
Transfers will be in a registered and authorized vehicle by the Guatemalan Institute of Tourism and transportation authorities. Our drivers are highly experienced and speak Spanish. If you travel by shuttle, transfers will include other travelers and will have a fixed schedule and stops. If you travel by private transfers, there will be more flexibility.
Embark on your adventure with confidence, knowing that our team of specialized local guides will be there to take care of you throughout your activities. Our guides have extensive knowledge of the local culture, history, and geography, ensuring that you have an authentic and immersive experience. Please note that while some of our guides are English-speakers, others may speak primarily in Spanish or local indigenous languages. However, we can arrange for an English-speaking translator at an additional cost to ensure that language barriers do not hinder your experience. Each guide is passionate about sharing their knowledge and love for their country, providing you with a unique perspective and insider insights that you won't find in any guidebook. So, sit back, relax, and let our expert guides lead the way as you explore the beauty and wonder of Guatemala.
Indulge in the rich and vibrant flavors of traditional Guatemalan cuisine and freshly prepared meals throughout your journey. Our team will provide you with a curated list of our favorite food and drink spots in each destination you visit, ensuring that you don't miss out on any culinary delights.
Moreover, during tours that include meals, you'll have the chance to taste home-cooked food prepared by community projects, local operators, or associations. You'll get to experience the authentic taste of Guatemalan culture and support the local community at the same time.
We understand that dietary restrictions can be a challenge, but don't worry - we've got you covered! Simply notify us in advance, and our team will accommodate your needs, ensuring that you can savor every bite without any worries.
We recommend you travel light and bring only what’s necessary. If you’re doing a volcano or
jungle trek make sure to consider all the recommended items to bring. Some of the essentials
you shouldn’t miss are:
-Warm fleece or wool sweater
-Windproof and rain jacket
-Swimwear
-Comfortable shoes for hiking with grip
-Sandals
-Comfortable and fresh clothes
-UV filter sunglasses
-Sun hat & sunscreen
-Insect repellent
-Daypack
-Reusable shopping bag
-Refillable water bottle
-Any medication needed
-Personal toiletries
-Hand sanitizer
-Hand fan
BOOKING AND CANCELLATION POLICY FOR ONE DAY TOURS AND EXPERIENCES
If you need to cancel your day trip package, please email us at hola@etnicatravel.com with “Cancellation” in the email title. Cancellations will only be effective when we receive a written confirmation of your decision to cancel the package.
If you cancel your package at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled departure time, you may be eligible for a refund. However, if you cancel less than 48 hours before the scheduled departure time, no refunds will be available. We reserve the right to assess other refund possibilities based on the circumstances of the cancellation. Please note that an email stating your desire to cancel your package is an irrevocable notice, and you will not be able to change your mind once you have sent this notice, even if we have not yet acknowledged the cancellation in writing. We understand that sometimes unforeseen circumstances can arise, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs within our cancellation policy guidelines. If you have any questions or concerns about our cancellation policy, please do not hesitate to contact us.
BOOKING AGREEMENT FOR MULTI-DAY TOURS AND PACKAGES
A booking is only effective and confirmed once a deposit has been paid by the customer/traveler. Once we collect your deposit or initial payment, we will proceed to confirm all offered services with our local partners and suppliers.
For group bookings, we will make an initial temporary hold on hotels; this reservation will have a deadline to confirm room blocks with an initial down payment, respecting the dates defined by the hotels. In the case of FIT (Foreign Independent Travel) bookings, we will only make room blocks and proceed to reserving hotels once we collect a deposit or initial installment payment as a guarantee. All hotels mentioned in trip proposals are subject to dates and availability. If by any chance we need to change hotels once you’ve booked, we will notify you in advance and will choose an accommodation option that is the same category and pricing.
Once we confirm your booking with the deposit or installment payment, we proceed to securing all offered services. In the case of FIT travelers (Foreign Independent Travel), all payment installments must be completed 15 days prior to the arrival date in Guatemala or Mexico. In the case of groups, all payment installments must be completed 30 days prior to the arrival date in Guatemala or Mexico. Ten days prior to arrival, we will share the detailed travel program and pre-departure recommendations.
THIRD-PARTY SERVICES AND LIABILITY DISCLAIMER
We act as an intermediary between travelers and independent service providers, including but not limited to transportation companies, accommodation providers, local guides, activity operators, and other third-party vendors. While we take all reasonable measures to ensure the quality, safety, and reliability of these services, we do not own, operate, control, or manage these third parties.
By booking an experience with us, you acknowledge and agree that:
We strongly recommend that all travelers obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances.
TRAVEL INSURANCE, SAFETY, AND DAMAGES
Each traveler/customer is responsible for acquiring valid travel insurance that will provide coverage for medical emergencies and any incidents during their travels. We are not responsible for international travel delays, missing luggage, or cancellations.
Be advised we do not operate overnight ground transfers or conduct long ground transfers during nighttime.
High-risk activities such as active volcano hikes, paragliding, and other active adventures may require you to sign a liability waiver. If this is not signed, we cannot be responsible for your participation in such activities, and it will be your responsibility to book them.
The hotels and accommodation services used during your trip have established evacuation plans and safety procedures, which we will adhere to while using their facilities. These establishments also manage their own internal rules regarding the use of their facilities and amenities. Damage to the room, linens, furniture, and equipment may incur an extra charge by the lodging establishments. Covering any damage costs is the sole responsibility of the traveler. This will also apply to damages to any equipment used during tours and transportation vehicles.
ENTRY TO GUATEMALA AND MEXICO
Check the validity of your personal travel documents and whether you require a visa for visiting Guatemala or Mexico. If this is the case, each traveler/customer is responsible for acquiring a valid travel visa before booking a trip and making a payment. We do not provide invitation letters or any documentation for such procedures.
Guatemalan or Mexican authorities may require upon entry:
CANCELLATIONS
To cancel a package for which you have made a booking, please email us at hola@etnicatravel.com stating your order reference and “Cancellation” in the email title. You may telephone us to discuss your desire to cancel the package, but cancellation will only be effective when we have received written confirmation from the person who purchased the package. An email to us stating that you desire to cancel a package is an irrevocable notice, and you cannot subsequently change your mind, even if we have not yet acknowledged the cancellation in writing.
If you cancel your tour:
If we cancel a package due to terrorism, natural disasters, political instability, or other external events, you may choose between (i) applying the amounts paid towards an alternative trip or (ii) receiving a full refund. We are not responsible for incidental expenses such as visas, vaccinations, or non-refundable flights.
AMENDMENTS TO BOOKED PACKAGES
If you wish to change the date, route, services, or itinerary:
No amendments or name changes are permitted within 29 days of departure. Changes requested during the trip that incur additional expenses are the client's responsibility.
ALL CUSTOMERS ARE REQUIRED TO AGREE WITH THESE POLICIES UPON BOOKING.
Single / double room depending on package booked. Some hotels may include breakfast in the room rate.
Unique experiences available daily. See the day-by-day itinerary for recommended tours and additional options available.
Local specialized guides will accompany you during activities. Please note that some guides may not speak English, and an additional cost will apply if an English-speaking translator is required.
Shuttles and taxis arranged to get you to/from the airport.
Private/shared shuttles will take you between destinations.
Roundtrip flight GUA-FRS.
Entrance fees for Acatenango, sunset in Tikal and Uaxactun.
Included meals are noted in the itinerary: B= Breakfast, BB=Box Breakfast, L= Lunch, BL= Boxed Lunch, D= Dinner
Real time itinerary available on an app. Includes recommendations for every destination, maps and direct chat with our team.
In country assistance in English during the whole trip.
Book your flights to/from La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City.
Prepare in case of any medical emergency, international flight issues or situation where you may require coverage and assistance.
Tell us if you wish to include any of the suggested optional activities.
Drinks are not included during meals on day trips and tours.
We'll give you the pointers for moving like a local in the Lake Atitlan public boats. If you want a private boat let us know in advance.
Ask about our tipping guidelines so you can consider this in your travel budget.
Welcome to Guatemala! Your private transfer from Guatemala City Airport will take you to the charming colonial city of Antigua Guatemala (approx. 1.5 to 2 hours). Enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the town and trying some local cuisine. Exciting adventures await you tomorrow!
Today is your chance to explore the vibrant and colorful cobblestone streets of this UNESCO world heritage town. We know you have some exciting adventures ahead, so take this day to relax, get used to the altitude and enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in the sights and sounds of this magical colonial city. We have some fantastic optional activities for you to choose from, such as a 3-hour guided walk through the city's highlights, a panoramic hike in one of the surrounding nature parks, or an artisan experience in San Antonio Aguas Calientes with Maya weavers. And if you're looking for a fun evening activity, we highly recommend a cooking class for lunch. So conserve your energy and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Antigua Guatemala!
Optional day activities: 3 hour guided walk with highlights of the city, cooking class in the heart of Antigua , or artisan experience with women weavers in San Antonio Aguas Calientes.
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? Get ready to hike the 3rd tallest volcano in Central America, reaching a height of 3976m above sea level, with stunning views of the active Fuego Volcano. This hands-on adventure will have you hiking for 4-5 hours on the first day to reach base camp at 3400m. Here, you'll rest and take in the incredible views of Fuego's activity before setting out before sunrise on day two. After a two-hour hike to the summit, you'll witness a breathtaking finale before heading down to base camp for breakfast and continuing your descent. By lunchtime, you'll be back in Antigua to celebrate conquering one of the most challenging peaks in the country! Be advised any extra luggage will be left in your hotel storage area and you'll have to check-in again upon arrival.
Included activities: Fully guided Acatenango overnight trek, includes meals, specialized guides, and camping gear.
Accommodation during trek: Acatenango base camp (camping)
Wake up to the delicious smell of a traditional Guatemalan breakfast and take your time savoring every bite. You'll have a slow-paced morning before embarking on a scenic journey through the breathtaking highlands to the stunning Lake Atitlán in a shuttle transfer (approximately 2 hours). Once you arrive, get ready to be amazed by the stunning views and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. You'll check in to your hotel and spend the afternoon taking in the mesmerizing sunset in this magical place. And if you're up for it, take a leisurely stroll and explore the town to get a feel for the local vibe.
Take the public boat from the public boats to Santa Cruz la Laguna (not included). Explore the stunning surroundings of Santa Cruz la Laguna by paddling for 1.5-2 hours along the shores of Santa Cruz, Jaibalito, and Tzununá surrounded by volcanoes. Following your kayak adventure, you’ll immerse yourself in the local culture when you visit a local family and share lunch together in their home. For an extra dose of relaxation, you'll have the option to use the family's temazcal - a traditional Maya sweat lodge that has been passed down through generations. After a day of adventure and culture, you'll have a free evening to relax and reflect on your amazing experiences.
Included activity: 2 hour kayak expedition with Spanish-speaking local guide in Santa Cruz la Laguna followed by a visit to a family home with use of the temazcal and a rustic lunch prepared by your hosts.
Enjoy a slow paced morning at the lake before you make your way to Guatemala City airport (approx. 4 hours) for a short flight to the Maya Biosphere Reserve. Once you arrive, you'll head straight to Tikal National Park. You'll spend the evening at a jungle eco-hotel inside the national park.
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast before hopping on a bike and cycling along an ancient Maya trail that connects Tikal to the charming community of Uaxactún (approx. 24 kms). Keep your eyes peeled for endemic bird species and local mammals as you ride through the lush surroundings. When you arrive in Uaxactún, you'll enjoy a tasty lunch and explore the community and its renowned archaeological site - known for its relation to astronomy and the model forestry concession. After the tour, you'll enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by jungle sounds.
Included activity: Cycling from Tikal to Uaxactún with visit of the site, includes rustic lunch (drinks not included), specialized Spanish-speaking community guide, gear, hydration station and entrance fees.
Journey through vast jungle trails and climb some of the most iconic temples in the heart of the lush Guatemalan jungle. Keep an ear out for the sounds of howler monkeys as you explore the ancient Maya kingdom of Tikal. Make your way to the Lost World - a Mayan observatory with a 360° view of the jungle - for a breathtaking view of the temple crests. After an exhilarating day, you will transfer back to Mundo Maya airport so you can catch your flight back to Guatemala City. Spend your last evening strolling around the city center, taking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant city.
Included activity: Tikal tour, includes English-speaking specialized guide, general entrance fee.
Savor one last cup of exceptional Guatemalan coffee and bid farewell to this beautiful country as you transfer by shuttle to the airport for your departure flight. We're so happy you chose to explore Guatemala with us and we hope you had an unforgettable trip! Don't be a stranger and come back to visit us again soon!
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