About this trip
On November 1st each year, Guatemala's families honor their departed loved ones during on Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Besides the traditional visit to the cemetery, this day is marked with colorful and extravagant kite festivals and dining on fiambre, the traditional dish of the day. The vibrantly colored designs on the kites, some of which are 30-meters high or more, are made of cloth and paper with bamboo frames, depict religious or folkloric themes and are flown in local cemeteries to honor the familial dead.
The practice of flying colorful kites during the Day of the Dead celebrations has been a tradition of Guatemalan’s for over 3,000 years and is recognized by various religious sects, and locals believe it is a tool for communicating with the beyond.
Our journey begins in bustling Guatemala City before setting out to explore the vibrant country spending two nights on the shores of beautiful Lake Atitlan, a treasure trove of rich nature and colorful, traditional culture. We will enjoy ample time in Antigua, a cosmopolitan destination with a rich colonial past. Its cobblestone streets are lined with pastel-hued homes, and an exceptional selection of cafes, restaurants, and shops. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, this city of 35,000 people sits in a valley between coffee farms, indigenous villages, and three imposing volcanoes.
We’ll travel back to the advanced Mayan civilization visiting the extensive remnants of Ixmiche, Tikal, and Uaxactun. Uaxactun will be a special highlight of our journey when we spend two-nights under the stars just as the Mayans did in an exclusive camp set amongst the ruins.
Our one-of-a-kind journey will have us engaging with the locals at the colorful Compalapa Market, we will be the guests of honor when we dine with a local family in their home for a true cultural exchange, and we'll meet the coffee producers of De La Gente (DLG), a nonprofit organization working to support small independent coffee producers and promote environmentally responsible agriculture in Guatemala.
The Evolved Traveler's exclusive, small group journey is limited to just 12 guests. Call us now to reserve your space!
What’s included
- PlanningCommunication and Operational Setup
- Accommodations5-Star hotel, room category* noted in the itinerary for duration of tour (room upgrades available upon request)
- Travel DirectorPrivate Guide to take care of all your needs during the tour
- MealsMost meals as noted in itinerary inclusive of beverages
- Private ExursionsThroughout Itinerary
- SightseeingProvided by private deluxe A/C vehicles as noted in Itinerary when required
- GuideOne experienced english-spanish speaking guide throughout your tour
- FeesEntrance fees to all sites, monuments and museums per itinerary
- Airport TransfersPrivate A/C Vehicles
- All gratuitiesFor Guide, Driver and Hotel Staff
- Bottled waterDuring all tours and Transfers
- Local Taxes
What’s not included
- International AirFrom your hometown to Havana Cuba International Airport
- MealsNot noted in itinerary
- Airport and DepartureTaxes
- PorterageAt Airports
- Travel Insurance
- MiscellaneousAny items not noted as included