mayan culture, vibrant community, incredible artistry, cobblestone alleys and a festival of giant kites
N E X T D E P A R T U R E :
Oct 26-Nov 2, 2022
(w/ optional Tikal extension Nov 2-4)
EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW
This week long trip explores the colorful streets of Antigua and the surrounding villages to the rural communities of Lake Atitlan. Guatemala is brimming with color, art, history, and diverse culture. This small country has a big heart and Guatemalans are incredibly hospitable and welcoming.
Textiles are intrinsically woven into the fabric of Guatemala. This journey through the central regions delves into the cultural and historical significance of textiles in Guatemala.
Most importantly this itinerary highlights the women that make these incredible textiles. We discover the movement initiated and started by Mayan women to protect and preserve the rich tradition of weaving and learn about the importance of textiles in relation to Mayan culture and history. We will see the various styles and patterns from different communities and witness the painstaking labor it takes to make one piece.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Participate in a hands-on workshop where you will use the loom with instruction from an expert Mayan weaver
Witness and partake in the unbelievable Dia de los Muertos Giant Kite Festival
Hear the different stories of Mayan weavers and learn about their daily lives.
Relax on the shores of beautiful Lake Atitlan
investment | $2845 pp
This price is based on double occupancy room (2 beds) | Payment plan: $569 in 5 installments
*$425 for single supplement (if you want your own room)
* $850 for 3-day extension to Tikal National Park
W H A T ‘ S I N C L U D E D ?
ACCOMODATIONS
4 nights in hotel in Antigua, 3 nights in bed & breakfast
MEALS
7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 3 dinners
NOT INCLUDED
International airfare, drinks other than water, guide and driver tips, a few meals.
ALSO INCLUDED
Bilingual guide
Private transportation
Driver
Airport transfers
Community experiences
Cooking class + Dyeing workshop
Entrance fees + Excursions
Boat ride
“Wonderful group of women and an eye-opening cultural immersion. A must for those interested in more than just the ordinary tourist trip!”
- SHARON BAKER | 2019 PARTICIPANT
T R I P D E T A I L S
A R R I V A L + D E P A R T U R E ( F L I G H T I N F O )
Unless you are purchasing the airline insurance it is a good idea to wait until departure is confirmed to buy plane tickets. Please plan to arrive into Guatemala City International Airport on Day 1. Our airport transfer to our hotel in Antigua will be confirmed once everyone has their flights.
T H E I T I N E R A R Y
D A Y O N E | ARRIVAL
After arriving into Guatemala City in the morning we will immediately transfer to Antigua. Settle into the hotel and grab lunch on your own. Afternoon walking tour + visit the famed Museo Casa Santo Domingo. A welcome dinner will follow at the delicious Welten restaurant. (D)
D A Y T W O | MANOS DE FE
Head to the small community of San Antonio Aguas Calientes. We will spend the day with the ladies of Manos De Fe a co-op of women weavers supporting each other and preserving the rich traditions of weaving. We will head back to Antigua in the late afternoon where you will have time to explore this incredible town. Dinner is on your own. (B,L)
D A Y T H R E E | XENACOJ
We head to a small textile school and try our hand at weaving! After lunch with the community, we will head to a local school to help put the finishing touches on the giant kites that will be flown on November 1st for the Dia de los Muertos festival. (B,L)
D A Y F O U R | SANTIAGO ATITLAN
Today we leave Antigua for the beautiful shores of lake Atitlán. After a 2 hour drive we take a boat ride from Panajachel to Santiago Atitlán. After lunch at our Posada we head to Batz Textiles, known for their intricate weavings of birds. (B,L,D)
D A Y F I V E | SAN JUAN DE LA LAGUNA
Today a hands-on demonstration on natural dyeing, learn how they create so many vibrant colors from things found in nature. Following lunch at a local home you will have time to wander and do some shopping. Short boat ride over to San Marcos. (B,L)
Sleep | San Marcos La Laguna
D A Y S I X | SAN MARCOS LA LAGUNA
Visit a nearby coffee farm to see one of Guatemala’s robust exports. After lunch in a local restaurant you can choose from a variety of activities to do such as hiking, bird-watching, kayaking, or a painting workshop. Dinner is on your own. (B,L)
Sleep | San Marcos La Laguna
D A Y S E V E N | KITE FESTIVAL!
We will rise early to take our boat transfer back across lake Atitlán. Today is the famed Giant Kite Festival and we will get to see the kites we helped make. This is truly an experience you will see no where else! We will have our farewell dinner back in Antigua. (B,L,D)
D A Y E I G H T | DEPARTURES + GUATEMALA CITY
After breakfast transfers will be on hand to take you to the airport. (B)
OPTIONAL 3 DAY EXTENSION:
Day 1: Flight to Peten
From Guatemala City we will take a regional flight up to Peten and settle in to our hotel.
Day 2: Visit to Tikal National Park
We will head out with a local guide and spend the whole day exploring the ruins around Tikal.
Day 3: Flight back to Guatemala City
We’ll transfer back to Guatemala City where you can catch your flights home.
Included in price is all lodging, 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, local guide, regional flight to and from Guatemala City, all transportation and entrance to Tikal.
“Great trip. It was fascinating, beautiful, expertly organized. Highly recommend it.”
-ANN MILLS | 2019 PARTICIPANT
G U I D E S + PARTNERS
IVANIA SIBRIAN FROM GUATE4YOU
Ivania is one powerhouse female guide who has been leading adventures in Central America for more than 20 years. Guate 4 You is a community based tour operator in Guatemala. They promote sustainable tourism in the communities of Guatemala and are committed to make a low impact on the environment and local culture. They give travelers a deeper reality of the country and a authentic cultural exchange. They specialize in offering once in a lifetime experiences that will create lasting memories and friendships.
MANOS DE FE
Manos de Fe is a cooperative of women weavers in a small town outside Antigua Guatemala. Their mission is to preserve the rich traditions of weaving in their community. They work together as a group to promote community activities, tourism and women empowerment.
A D D I T I O N A L R E S O U R C E S
H A V E Q U E S T I O N S ?
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T R A V E L I N S U R A N C E
Here at Purposeful Nomad we do our best to ensure that every program is a success. However, in the event of something unexpected we want you to be fully protected. We REQUIRE that you purchase international insurance. Purposeful Nomad is an affiliate partner with World Nomads but you may choose any company.
Click here to purchase insurance through World Nomads.
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B O O K I N G T E R M S + R E F U N D P O L I C Y
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V A C C I N A T I O N S
Be an informed traveler! Ultimately it is up to you to consult a physician.
We are here to help but can not legally provide medical advice. Here is a great website to review.
P A CK I N G L I S T
Click here to access our packing list designed specifically for this trip. There’s also information about tips and currency.