Spend three days exploring the island paradise of Caye Caulker – munch on barbecued lobster, snorkel around a coral reef, nap under palm trees, go kayaking or just kick back with a couple of worry-free beach days.

See some of the most significant remnants of the ancient Maya civilisation – plus an array of local wildlife, including coatis and howler monkeys – during a guided tour of Tikal National Park.

Get to know contemporary Maya life during a homestay in San Juan La Laguna – a lakeside village where you can share meals and conversation with a local family and see how they harvest their local medicinal plants.

Wander between stalls of rainbow handicrafts, fruits and flowers in the popular and colourful Chichicastenango Market.

Cruise up the Rio Dulce to your waterfront jungle lodge, where you’ll head out on a birdwatching walk and relax while the sounds of nature fill the air.

Public transport is better for the environment, and you’ll get an authentic look at daily life, but keep in mind that local transport between specific locations on this trip can be pretty basic. Crossing the borders between various countries is usually straightforward, but you may need patience. Books, podcasts and car games will be your best friend.

The tropical climate of Central America means conditions can be really hot and humid. It makes the beers even more refreshing but consider what time of the year you wish to travel in if you’re easily affected by the weather.

The homestay is a wonderful opportunity to witness everyday local life. In San Juan La Laguna, you will stay with a local family in small groups. Conditions are simple but comfortable. A hearty homecooked dinner will be served during your stay, which can be a lot more basic than what you're used to.

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Day 1 • Playa del Carmen

Day 2 • Playa del Carmen

Day 3 • Chetumal

Day 4 • Caye Caulker

Day 5 • Caye Caulker

Day 6 • Caye Caulker

Day 7 • San Ignacio

Day 8 • San Ignacio

Day 9 • Tikal National Park

Day 10 • Rio Dulce

Day 11 • Rio Dulce

Day 12 • Antigua

Day 13 • Panajachel

Day 14 • San Juan La Laguna

Day 15 • Antigua

Day 16 • Antigua

Day 17 • Antigua

1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm on Day 1 in Playa del Carmen. There are no activities planned for the final day so you may depart at any time.

2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 14 (San Juan La Laguna homestay) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

3. Please be careful with relation to flights from Antigua; make sure you fly out of Guatemala City Airport [GUA]. Guatemala City Airport is the closest airport to Antigua. Our travel experts are here to help with your arrangements, please ask.

Ask about our Premium Comfort Experience Tours.

What makes a Premium Tour different?

• PREMIUM ACCOMMODATION: Our best accommodation and highest level of service.
• PREMIUM EXPERIENCES: Unusual, exceptional and authentic on-trip experiences.
• PREMIUM KNOWLEDGE: Led by our most experienced and highest rated local leaders.

Subject to availability, Premium Tours can also include:

• Arrival airport transfer
• Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport
• Luggage transfer
• Daily breakfast and signature local meal experiences
• 24/7 on-ground support

Ask us for more information: call 021 4277094, email info@shandontravel.ie, or fill out the enquiry form below.

Price per person is based on 2 adults sharing and includes:

• 17 day Maya Encounter Tour
• Meals: 5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
• Transport: Private vehicle, Public bus, Taxi, Shared Boat, Ferry
• Accommodation: Hotel (13 nights), Lodge (2 nights), Homestay (1 night)

Included activities:

• Playa del Carmen - Cenote Azul visit
• Bacalar - Beach club entry
• Caye Caulker - Leader-led orientation walk
• Caye Caulker - Cooking Class
• San Ignacio - Leader-led orientation walk
• Tikal National Park - Archaeological site (Entrance fee, Guide & Transport)
• Rio Dulce - Guided jungle nature walk
• Chichicastenango - Market Visit
• Chichicastenango - Shaman Visit
• Panajachel - Leader-led orientation walk
• San Juan La Laguna - Traditional Maya Homestay
• Antigua - Leader-led orientation walk
• Santa Apolonia - Traditional Pottery Demonstration

Please ask us about:

• Flights- we'll find the best options for your desired departure airport and travel dates
• Solo traveller? Single rooms available with a supplement (does not apply to homestay or multistay nights)
• Travel insurance

Subject to availability. Terms & conditions apply. Prices are live and only guaranteed at time of booking.

For more information please call us on 021 4277094 or 01 6965135, email info@shandontravel.ie, request a call back using the red button, or submit an enquiry through the form below.