HIGHLIGHTS:

Itinerary:

Day 1 Arrive Antigua Arrive in Antigua at any time.
Day 2 Antigua This UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site was once the seat of the Spanish colonial government and the most important city in all of Central America. Today it is still a gem in the region and provides many opportunities to experience the rich and textured Guatemalan culture.
Day 3-4 Chichicastenango/ Panajachel/ Lake Atitlan Of course, a visit to Guatemala would not be complete without the chance to visit to the famous market of Chichicastenango. Travel to the shores of Guatemala?s Lake Atitlan. Volcanoes and small indigenous villages surround this pristine lake, truly one of the most beautiful spots in Central America.
Day 5-6 Antigua You now have time for in-depth exploration of this picturesque town, surrounded by volcanoes. Textiles sold here are of the highest quality, beautifully designed and woven on foot looms or the rarer back strap loom. Optional activities include a hike up the Pacaya Volcano, visiting Macadamia nut and coffee plantations, and salsa lessons.
Day 7-8 Rio Dulce Meaning ?sweet river? in Spanish, dense jungle surrounds Rio Dulce, on the shore of Lake Izabal. Take a lancha down this beautiful river, stopping for a dip in the hot springs on the way to the Garifuna town of Livingston where you will get a taste of Caribbean culture.
Day 9-10 Flores, Guatemala Our final stop in Guatemala is Flores, a picturesque town surrounded by Lake Peten Itza. Soak up the laid-back attitude of Flores before an optional visit to Tikal, one of the largest and most incredible ruins in the Mayan world.
Day 11-12 San Ignacio From the town of San Ignacio, opportunities abound for exploring Belize?s little known inland scenic beauty. Choose to explore the area by foot, canoe or horse, take a caving trip, or visit the Mountain Pine Ridge Area and swim in its inviting pools and rivers.
Day 13-14 Caye Caulker "Go Slow" is not only a traffic sign in Caye Caulker, it?s a way of life. An ideal spot to chill and enjoy the easy-going Caribbean vibe in a beachside bar, Caye Caulker also offers the chance to snorkel with stingrays and nurse sharks at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve.
Day 15-16 Playa del Carmen Leaving Belize with its near constant sounds of reggae, head north for our last night in Playa del Carmen, the de facto centre of the Mayan Riviera. Spend your time here snorkelling among the mangroves, diving in underground caverns, or simply sipping on cool margaritas and catching some rays. The seaside Mayan ruins of Tulum are a short distance down the coast and well worth the trip.
Day 17 Depart Playa del Carmen

Accommodation: Simple hotels (16 nts).
Group Size: Max 15, Avg 10
Local Payment: USD 250
Meals Included: No meals included.
Reverse Itinerary: This trip also runs in reverse - see trip code MSC.
Transport: Public bus, boat, van.
Trip Reference: MSG