Mayan Temples of Gran Plaza or Plaza Mayor at Tikal National Park - Guatemala

...Just back from

Guatemala and Belize

Having just returned from an exploratory trip around Guatemala and Belize, Stephanie puts together this intriguing itinerary using her first-hand expertise.

Guatemala, Belize

Central American Discovery

The birthplace of the Maya civilisation, Guatemala is still unearthing ancient ruins from dense jungle while its cities buzz with culture, volcanic lakes glimmer, rivers dissect dense rainforest and Maya villages rub alongside colonial charm. Guatemala pairs well with neighbouring Belize, allowing for a relaxing finale at a luxurious tropical hideaway.

Take a trip to uncover an abundance of wonder from jungles to volcanoes, barrier reefs to shimmering lakes, ancient Maya sites to colourful culture.

Lake Atitlan with view to Volcano San Pedro in highlands of Guatemala, Central America

“Guatemala and Belize are characterised by immense experiences and vibrant nature; you won’t find exceptionally luxurious properties here, but certainly lots of rustic-chic charm."

Stephanie Carthy

Highlights

  • Explore both Guatemala and Belize and enjoy a journey full of cultural colour
  • Stay in characterful hotels in colonial cites, by lakes and on the beach
  • Enjoy a guided walking tour of Antigua’s colonial sights and vibrant markets
  • Visit the atmospheric, jungle-clad Maya site of Tikal
  • Interact with pristine mountain scenery in Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve in central Belize
  • End the trip in tropical bliss on Belize’s Caribbean coast

 

WHEN TO GO:

Although technically the wet season runs from May to October and the dry from November to April, it is possible to enjoy Guatemala’s temperate climate year-round.

HOW TO GET THERE:

With no direct flights to Guatemala, we recommend flying via a European or a US hub.

WHO FOR:

This is a destination that appeals to a wide range of travellers – from curious couples to adventurous families.

Antigua

Antigua, Guatemala

Start your Central American adventure in colourful Antigua – a reminder of Guatemala’s colonial past where characterful cobbled streets lined with pastel-hued houses lead to impressive plazas, churches, monasteries and a romantically ruinous cathedral. Once an important city for the Spanish Empire, today it buzzes with café-culture – get to know the city on a street food tour with a private guide for an introduction to Antigua’s diverse cuisine.

Enjoy curio shopping too, with markets selling handcrafted jade jewellery, vivid tunics and Maya weaving. Stay in serene Villa Bokéh, a luxury Relais & Chateaux hacienda set within six-acres of lush gardens with wonderful views of Volcan de Agua.

Lake Atitlán

Lake Atitlán, Guatemala

A scenic drive brings you to one of Guatemala’s most evocative natural sights – ancient Lake Atitlán, framed by three dormant volcanoes: Toliman, Atitlán and San Pedro. Explore the tranquil waters by boat to discover lakeside communities thriving with colourful culture, like the ceramic arts of San Antonio Palopo village or San Juan’s natural dyes and handwoven textiles.

Stay at the small and characterful Casa Palopo, another Relais & Chateaux property that sits on the lake with volcano views and excellent dining including ancient Maya grills and fresh Guatemalan flavours. We also recommend a stop at vibrant Chichicastenango market, which shows local life in myriad colour from flowers to fruit, wooden crafts to ceramics.

Tikal. Guatemala

Lake El Peten, Guatemala

Tracing your steps back to Antigua, take a short flight to arrive in Flores. From here, be ensconced in the natural surroundings of one of Francis Ford Coppola’s properties: La Lancha. Sitting by the mirror-like water of Lake El Peten, the Rainforest Suites are clad in the sights and sounds of the jungle and come decorated in local crafts and vibrant textiles.

Take a day trip to visit the world-famous Maya ruins at Tikal where encroaching forests cloak the mysterious towering temples and structures. Sit atop the looming Temple of the Jaguar and muse on the wonder of the ancient Maya civilisation, accompanied by roaring howler monkeys and screeching parakeets.

Blancaneaux Lodge, set in Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve in central Belize

Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve, Belize

Leaving Guatemala behind, start your explorations in Belize. Within four hours, arrive at Blancaneaux Lodge, set in Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve in central Belize. Perched on a hillside with a scenic riverside setting, it’s easy to relax and do very little. Yet Blancaneaux’s pristine surroundings call for interaction.

Float down the river on an inflatable tube, rise at dawn for birdwatching, hike or horse ride to a waterfall for a swim or visit mysterious Caracol, a Maya site that’s off-the-beaten-track and shrouded in jungle. Back at Blancaneaux enjoy delicious dining – pick between classic Italian cuisine or the inventive Garden restaurant which starts with a tour of the organic vegetable plot.

Placencia, Belize

The perfect place to round off your trip, coastal retreat Turtle Inn is reached in three hours, with a stop at the atmospheric cave network of Barton Creek, accessed by canoe to view ancient Maya burial sites. Arriving at Turtle Inn, be welcomed to an idyllic beachside hideaway which opens out onto white sands and lazulite waters, with spacious cottages offering stylish tranquillity and tropical comfort.

Head out onto the inner reef for prolific snorkelling or fly-fish for permit on the flats on a fishing trip; come evening enjoy an excellent fusion of Italian culinary concepts and seafood at Mare restaurant. Another triumph from Francis Ford Coppola, Turtle Inn is a laid-back Caribbean gem.

Have questions? Our knowledgeable team of experts are on-hand to take your call or if you prefer by Zoom. Talk to us about your holiday dreams or challenge us with your travel conundrums.

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