EXPLORE & PHOTOGRAPH THE BEAUTY OF GUATEMALA Saturday, April 25th to Monday, May 4th, 2015
Charming colonial towns, lush green rainforests, abundant wildlife, ancient lakes and volcanoes, colourful village markets, a culture influenced by early Mayan civilization…this is Guatemala!
Sharing in Rainforest Reef Escapes' philosophy of green and sustainable travel, Helen Paryniuk, photographer and world traveller, has once again partnered with this boutique adventure company to offer you a unique trip experience in the incredible country of Guatemala. In this adventure you will experience old world Mayan culture, natural landscapes, tropical wildlife, colonial lifestyle and archeological ruins all rolled into one. You’ll be offered the opportunity to explore and photograph many diverse environments to your heart’s content.
Less travelled than many parts of Central America, Guatemala is a country steeped in natural and cultural mysteries. It’s home to the ancient and famous archeological ruins of Tikal, a once great and vast Mayan metropolis. Surrounded by verdant rainforest full of wildlife, with some of the tallest pyramids in Mesoamerica, Tikal was a city that rivalled the Mayan world. Further south lies the hidden gem, Semuc Champey National Park, where waterfalls cascade within terraced pools in azure & turquoise coloured blues, dotted by surrounding caves waiting to be explored. Further away lies the most beautiful colonial city of Antigua, former capital of the country. Despite countless floods, earthquakes and fires, Antigua thrives to this day filled with beautiful architecture and energy. Guatemala truly has a bit of everything and is a place we will explore together.
ITINERARY OF THE TRIP
Saturday April 25
Arrive Guatemala City. Transfer to hotel in Antigua. Meet with group. Overnight in Antigua City.
Sunday April 26
Half day in colonial Antigua. Visit city viewpoint and unique outdoor Contemporary Art Museum (included) then travel to Semuc Champey in the afternoon. (3.5 hours) Overnight in Lanquin.
Monday April 27
All day exploring waterfalls, natural pools & caves at Semuc Champey National Park (Entrance and transportation included). Overnight in Lanquin
Tuesday April 28
Head to the beautiful little island town of Flores (5 hour drive). Enjoy afternoon and evening in Flores. (Optional boat tour) Overnight in Flores.
Wednesday April 29
Head to Tikal National Park Walk among the ruins and discover an ancient Mayan city. Experience the sun setting behind the great pyramids. (Guided tour included) Overnight in Tikal.
Thursday April 30
Early morning visit of Tikal, with sunrise option. Return to Flores mid-afternoon for overnight stay.
Friday May 1
Early morning flight from Flores to Guatemala city. (1 hour plane ride included) Shuttle to Lake Atitlan. Explore the surroundings. Overnight in Atitlan.
Saturday May 2
All day at Atitlan Lake to further explore villages and volcanoes around the lake (Boat tour included). Overnight in Atitlan.
Sunday May 3
Shuttle to Chichicastenango Market. Immerse yourself in the colourful marketplace filled with indigenous arts & crafts made by local artists. Enjoy the eye candy of beautiful costumes of the Mayan descendants. Shuttle to Antigua (90 minutes). Evening and overnight in Antigua
Monday May 4
Antigua - Departure via Guatemala City
YOUR PHOTOGRAPHY ESCAPE INCLUDES...
All land transfers starting in Antigua on Sunday April 26th.
All of your accommodation for 9 nights (10 days)
Visit to Contemporary Art Museum in Antigua
Visit to Semuc Champey National Park (includes entrance fee and transportation)
Visit to Tikal National Park (includes entrance fees, transportation and one professional guided tour)
Flight from Flores to Guatemala City
Boat tour on Atitlan Lake
Photographic opportunities throughout...
DOES NOT INCLUDE...
Your international airfare (+/- $750USD)
Transfers to & from International Airport & Antigua (+/- $30USD)
Meals (Some hotels may offer breakfast. Budget approx $40 per day. Food is quite inexpensive in Guatemala.)
Alcoholic beverages
Departure tax
COST $1675USD (taxes included)
Accommodations are based on single occupancy in standard hotel rooms. On some nights, only shared accommodations will be available. A discount will be provided to anyone who wishes to share double occupancy throughout the trip. (Please indicate your preference). Price will be adjusted +/- once all hotels have been booked and therefore the price is subject to change. A minimum of 8 travellers is needed to confirm this trip. Deposit fully refundable if trip is cancelled.
Booking deadline: March 1st, 2015.
WHAT NEXT...
Be one of the few to experience the beauty of Guatemala. Join our small group of adventurous photographers and discover a world full of colour, culture and natural wonders.
Contact info@rrescape.com to join this escape and to receive additional information on sending your deposit and more about this unique photography adventure.
Helen and the RR Escape Team
