Guatemala: Exploration of the Mayan Culture

This itinerary is designed for guests visting Antigua for 2 nights prior to staying at Hotel Bolontiku (Petén). Preferable for any type of group from multi-gen families, groups of friends, honeymoons, or solo travelers, guests can expect a blend of culture, nature, exploration, and gastronomy in both regions.

The ancient Maya civilization was one of the most advanced societies in the Americas, known for their achievements in mathematics, astronomy, and architecture. For 7 Days and 6 Nights guests will journey through time to experience how the ancient Mayan culture combines with modern-day life. Beginning at Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, travelers are able to explore historic Catholic churches, restaurants, plazas, and even hiking trails footsteps away from the hotel.

After soaking in the historical beauty of Antigua, venture to Bolontiku Hotel in Flores, located on the shores of Lake Petén Itzá in northern Guatemala. This serene, lakeside retreat offers a peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking a tranquil escape. Flores, a small but picturesque island town, is the gateway to the world-famous Tikal Ruins and the ancient Maya civilization. The hotel’s modern design and lush gardens complement the natural surroundings, providing a restful environment after a day of exploration. Even though there are several Mayan ruins and excursions to choose from at Bolontiku, we recommend spending some time relaxing at the hotel enjoying the amenities such as spa, restaurant open for BLD, fully-stocked bar, kayaks, paddle boats, and a floating swimming dock.

Quick Summary

Day	Description	Accommodation
Day 1	Arrival in Guatemal	Los Pasos
Day 2	Volcano Day	Los Pasos
Day 3	Antigua to Flores	Bolontiku
Day 4	Tikal Tour	Bolontiku
Day 5	Yaxhá and Sunset in the Jungle	Bolontiku
Day 6	Relax Day	Bolontiku
Day 7	End of Trip

Itinerary Detail

Day 1: Arrival in Guatemal

Daily Summary

Transfer: Arrival in Guatemala City / Transfer to Antigua
Accommodation: Los Pasos

Upon arrival in Guatemala City, a driver will be waiting in the terminal. From there, its about an hour or more (depending on traffic) by vehicle to Antigua. Los Pasos is the sister property of Bolontiku, so many travelers will choose that option. However, there are many hotels to choose from in Antigua. We recommend booking through a DMC, or we can help make the connection directly to the hotels.

In the afternoon, free time to explore the historic town of Antigua on your own or with a guide. Below are some of the excursions to choose from:

- Villages Tour of the nearby towns of Antigua
- Lookouts Tour to see the most emblematic viewpoints of Antigua Guatemala and observe the city from the top views.
- Coffee Tour
- Foodie Tour

*For guests staying at Los Pasos, there is an excellent spa to enjoy if you feel like relaxing instead.

Day 2: Volcano Day

Daily Summary

Tour: Explore Pacaya or Acatengo Volcano
Accommodation: Los Pasos
Meals: B, L

Explore Pacaya or Acatengo Volcano

After an early breakfast, full-day excursion to Pacaya Volcano or Volcan Acatengo (optional ascent on horseback). Descent and time to enjoy the views and roast marshmallows on the hot volcanic rocks.

Day 3: Antigua to Flores

Arrival in Petén and Check-in at Bolontiku

Daily Summary

Accommodation: Bolontiku
Meals: B

Arrival in Petén and Check-in at Bolontiku

Depending on the time of your domestic flight from Guatemala City to Flores, take a 1-hour (or more depending on traffic) ride from Antigua to La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. From there, its a 1 hour 20 minute flight to Mundo Maya International Airport in Flores, Petén. Upon arrival, a driver will be waiting to take guests to the lake (a 5-minute drive). From there, private boat transfer from the dock to Bolontiku Boutique Hotel. Check-in and free time to enjoy the natural surroundings of Lake Petén Itzá.

In the afternoon, swim at the lake or kayak, relax by the hotel pool, or book a spa treatment at the hotel's spectacular spa overlooking Lake Peten. For dinner, enjoy Bolontiku’s restaurant with a lake view.

Day 4: Tikal Tour

Daily Summary

Tour: Tikal Tour
Accommodation: Bolontiku
Meals: B, L

Tikal Tour

This morning guests can enjoy a guided excursion to Tikal National Park (depart early to enjoy the cool morning weather). A packed breakfast will be provided in the morning, then guests will take a 15-minute boat ride back to Flores. From there, you'll meet your guide and driver to begin the Tikal adventure. It's about a 1.5 hour drive from Flores to the entrance of Tikal. Upon arrival at the National Park, check-in and begin a day of Mayan exploration. Explore main structures such as the Temple of the Great Jaguar and the Central Acropolis.

Lunch will be provided at a local restaurant near Tikal’s entrance. Return to Bolontiku and free afternoon to rest. Dinner at the hotel and stargazing from the dock.

Day 5: Yaxhá and Sunset in the Jungle

Daily Summary

Tour: Yaxhá and Sunset in the Jungle
Accommodation: Bolontiku
Meals: B, L

Yaxhá and Sunset in the Jungle

After breakfast at Bolontiku, return to Flores by boat where a guide and driver will be ready to take guests to the Yaxhá archaeological site. Guided tour of the area and climb the pyramid to enjoy panoramic views of Lake Yaxhá.

Yaxhá is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in northern Guatemala, near the shores of Lake Yaxhá, in the Petén region. It was a significant city during the Classic period (250–900 AD) and is known for its impressive architecture, including temples, pyramids, and ball courts. Yaxhá is often noted for its role in the regional politics and trade networks of the time, and its well-preserved ruins offer valuable insights into Maya civilization and culture.

After the tour, lunch at a local restaurant near Yaxhá entry. Return to the hotel and free afternoon to enjoy the lake and the amenities of the hotel. Dinner can be served at the hotel, or the concierge can make reservations and late boat transfer if guests would like to have dinner in Flores. We recommend Restaurante Raices.

Day 6: Relax Day

Daily Summary

Accommodation: Bolontiku
Meals: B

After several adventure-filled days through Guatemala, give yourself an extra day to enjoy all that Bolontiku has to offer. We recommend booking a spa treatment, going for a paddle on the lake, and getting a sunset dinner at Restaurante Rais on Isla Flores. Also, Isla Flores has many excellent local stores to shop for gifts and local textiles.

If you're more adventurous and would rather do another excursion rather than relax for the day, below are some other options to choose from:

- Isla Flores to discover the colorful, historic town
- Crater Azul to experience the crystal clear water and see a plethora of wildlife
- El Mirador to visit Central Acropolis, The Friezes, Structure 24, and La Danta Pyramid complex (all Mayan sites)
- El Ceibal to visit various Mayan ruins and historical sites
- Tour to Aguacateca which is situated in the western highlands of Guatemala, near the border of Mexico. This area features mountainous terrain with lush forests, streams, and a temperate climate.

Day 7: End of Trip

Daily Summary

Meals: B

Breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Transfer via boat to Flores for the return flight to Guatemala City. From there, catch your connecting international flight home or to your next destination.

Accommodation

Los Pasos

Antigua, Guatemala

The signature of a colonial property in Antigua. Los Pasos accommodations are excellent for a trip with friends, family, as a couple and also for business plans. The concept and service of the best luxury hotels in Antigua Guatemala in our elegant colonial style Standard, Junior and Master Suite rooms, with the possibility of enjoying a furnished terrace with restaurant services with lovely views to surrounding mountains and volcanoes.

Bolontiku

Flores, Guatemala

At Bolontiku Boutique Hotel, the luxury Suites and Villa are designed for those seeking comfort and relaxation after a day of exploring Tikal. With modern amenities and plenty of space, choose from rainforest and garden views to front-row seats overlooking the shimmering Lake Petén Itzá. Dive straight into the waters of Lake Petén Itzá from the swimming dock, or soak up the sun on the floating dock just a few meters offshore. Paddleboard, kayak, or explore the lake via pedal boat. Relax on the lakeside loungers, where the view transforms the water into a mirror of the sky—calm, reflective, and unforgettable.

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