Solo-ish Guatemala

Please ensure your flight lands by 14:00 and enjoy an included arrival transfer to the start hotel in Antigua. After a brief welcome meeting, discover the secrets of Guatemalan cuisine during a hands-on, private cooking demonstration at a local culinary school. With an experienced chef by your side this sensory immersion into the region’s culture will demonstrate just how important food is in bringing people together across the world. From dishes like Pepián and Kak'ik, both of which are deeply rooted in Mayan traditions, to Hilachas, Tamales, and Rellenitos, your taste buds will be in heaven no matter which dish you learn to make. Your local culinary instructors will charm you with their personal stories and expert local knowledge, and you'll make new friends as you enjoy your own creations together. The experience will help you understand how Mayan culture and Spanish Colonial influence have blended together in a perfect harmony through food.

Today is all about the history and local cultures of Guatemala. Begin the day with breakfast and a visit to a local macadamia farm, where you'll learn how the cultivation of these trees has created sustainable income opportunities for surrounding communities. Then head to G Adventures-supported Chokojol Juyu for a meaningful cultural experience. Enjoy a traditional Guatemalan lunch prepared by the local community before participating in a Quitapenas Doll workshop, where you'll discover the story behind one of Guatemala's most beloved traditions and create your own keepsake. In the afternoon, stop at Cerro de la Cruz for panoramic views of Antigua before joining your CEO on an orientation walk through the city's cobblestone streets, colonial landmarks, and vibrant plazas. Finish the day with free time to continue exploring this UNESCO World Heritage city at your own pace. A day full of local connections and heartwarming interactions.

Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Guatemala's Lake Atitlán on an unforgettable G Day. Travel from Antigua to Panajachel before boarding a boat across the lake to the community of San Marcos. Enjoy a delicious community lunch with Konojel, followed by a special G surprise that offers a deeper connection to local Mayan traditions. Continue by boat to San Juan La Laguna, where you'll visit the Rupalaj textile cooperative to learn about the traditional natural dyeing process and try weaving on a backstrap loom. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the colorful streets, local markets, and artisan shops of San Juan before returning to Panajachel by boat. Remember to be on the lookout because who knows where you might end up on this epic G Day.

Enjoy the gorgeous views of Lake Atitlan during a liesurely morning. Have breakfast with a view, walk near the lake, and simply enjoy the sounds, smells, and sights of Panajachel. In the afternoon, travel north on a flight to Flores, with its heavy Mayan influence in the northeast jungle Petén region. Flores is situated on an island in Lake Petén Itzá, connected to the mainland by a causeway. This unique location offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The town is also considered the gateway to nearby Mayan ruins and towering temples. Upon arrival take time to get settled and enjoy your new surroundings. Choose to find a cozy spot for an authentic Guatemalan dinner this evening with your newest travel friends.

Step back in time into the life of the ancient Maya with a guided tour today to the Tikal archaeological site. Set in the heart of the jungle, in Tikal National Park, you will see this UNESCO World Heritage site along with your bilingual guide. See some of the temples, plazas, carved stone monuments and public squares dating from as far back as 600 BC. Climb to the top of Temple IV and feel your heart thumping in your chest. Snap some photos and soak in the deep, ancient energy of this place. Return to Flores for more free time to relax, maybe journal, walk along the water, or grab an ice cold beverage to celebrate a day well spent.

After breakfast the group will drive from Flores to Rio Dulce, special for its unique combination of natural beauty, Caribbean influence, and diverse wildlife. This river runs through the lush rainforest landscape featuring cliffs, beaches, and hot springs. It is a haven for nature lovers and those wishing to experience adventure off-the-beaten-path. After having lunch on your own in the charming town, the group will enjoy an unforgettable visit to Finca Paraíso. This place is so special because it features a rare, natural phenomenon where hot and cold water sources converge. The waterfall cascades down a rock formation heated by the underground hot springs creating a steamy, warm waterfall combining with the cooler river below. It’s an ideal place to swim and find the perfect temperature to float and stare up at the jungle hovering above you. Return to Rio Dulce for free time to grab dinner on your own and recharge your social batteries. There’s no doubt that Guatemala will have captured your heart by now.

It’s time for a day that belongs entirely to you! Choose to go on a scenic boat ride to the Caribbean town of Livingston and enjoy a visit to the G Adventures–supported El Manglar Restaurant for an explanation of the women-led community initiative project here. Then, walk around the grounds before a sit-down lunch of delicious local flavours. Or you can join your CEO on a visit to the nearby beach for some downtime by the water and in the sand. The choice really is all yours. You can decide to be as solo or social as you wish for the best of both worlds. Dinner in the evening will be at your leisure. Finding a hip foodie spot with your travel mates sounds like a fabulous idea.

Enjoy breakfast in Rio Dulce before traveling back to Antigua. There will be a stop for lunch on your own along the way. Upon arrival to Antigua your CEO will take the group on an orientation walk downtown and then you will be free to do dinner as you please. Maybe gather together as a group of strangers that have become friends for a fantastic night of delicious food, laughter, and love in a beautiful place you will never forget.

You arrived a solo traveller and are leaving with many new friends. Say goodbye to your fellow Solo-ish travellers and depart at any time.