Days 1-2
Depart on Thursday, arriving in Antigua the same day. Transfer to our hotel. The following morning we leave for Panajachel, staying at our hotel overlooking the spectacular Lake Atitlán. We take an afternoon boat trip to the charming town of Santiago de Atitlán, nestled at the foot of three towering volcanoes, and visit the local market.(B)

Days 3-4
Drive to Chichicastenango, a picturesque town surrounded by high mountains. Spend the night in our attractive colonial hotel, and the following day witness the bustling Sunday market, where beautifully dressed locals come from far and wide to sell their colourful wares. Return to Antigua in the late afternoon. (B)

Day 5
A morning visit to the remarkable Mayan site Quiriguá, and on to the impressive ruins of Copán, in Honduras, partly reclaimed from the jungle undergrowth, with sections still half-entangled in roots. We see the stelae with their intricately carved recordings of a bygone age, and take a nature trail to the minor ball court, in this mysterious jungle setting. Overnight at our hotel in the village of Copán. (B)

Days 6-7
Return for 2 nights to Antigua, Guatemala's cultural centre, replete with museums and churches. Time is your own to explore, listen to the traditional Indian music in the bars and cafés and browse the street markets. (B)

Days 8-9
Fly to Flores and visit El Ceibal, an array of fine, well-preserved stone carvings, set amidst thick jungle. Continue to our lodge at Petexbatun lagoon. The following morning takes us to the Aguateca archaeological site, where the jungle still retains its grasp on the partially excavated ruins creating an atmosphere charged with mystery and mysticism. Transfer to our jungle lodge at Tikal for 2 nights. (B,L,D)

Days 10-11
A full day excursion around the vast, magical Mayan site of Tikal. Guided along trails, we come across mighty temples which rise up above cloud-covered tropical forest, in an area of abundant wildlife. (B)

Days 12-13
Return to Antigua for a day at leisure. The following day we transfer out to Guatemala City for our overnight flight, returning home the following day, Wednesday, Day 14. (B)