Conveniently located only an hour from Tikal, the lovely island village of Flores is a peaceful base from which to tour the area’s surrounding Mayan treasures. The town proper is an island in Lake Peten Itza and is connected by a causeway to the twin towns of Santa Elena and San Benito. All three are commonly referred to as Flores. Most travellers visit Flores in order to marvel at Guatemala’s most famous Mayan ruins, or as a starting point for trips around Petén. However, the town itself has plenty to offer. The charming and often cobblestone streets of Flores are lined with colonial, red-roofed buildings, a historic church, a Spanish plaza, and some wonderful restaurants, cafes, hotels, guesthouses, and handicraft stores. Those who take the time to explore the town are likely to discover that Flores is brimming with hidden treasures and is more than merely a springboard destination, but a memorable attraction in itself.
Situated in the central highlands of Southern Guatemala, Antigua is a small city surrounded by numerous lush coffee plantations and majestic volcanoes. It’s renowned for its is vibrant traditions, well -preserved Spanish colonial buildings, unique beauty and historical significance. It once served as the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Guatemala and today, it has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can look forward to exploring the impressive architecture of the Baroque La Merced Church, wander down pastel-facades lining character-filled streets, browse a bustling local market and people-watch in one of many plazas. Don’t miss the annual famous holy week of Semana Santa Festival featuring colourful parades and sacred rituals.
Nestled between two volcanoes on a bay of the Lake Atitlan, in the Solola department of Guatemala, Santiago Atitlan is a large lake community known for its rich traditional Tz'utujil Maya culture. The local people still wear authentic brightly coloured and decorated clothing, and customs of the Maya Catholicism are celebrated at the numerous sacred sites and churches. Visit the home of the Mayan deity Maximon, which changes location every year; or meander through the Iglesia Parroquial Santiago Apostol, an impressive 16th-century church built by the Franciscans. Honour those who gave their lives in the 1990 massacre, by paying homage at the Parque de Paz Memorial Site. See the monument commemorating Concepcion Ramirez, whose image decorates the 25 centavo coin, at the Parque Central. Discover the incredible art and history of backstrap loom weaving at the Cojolya Association of Maya Women Weavers.
Located in the heart of Central America, Guatemala City is the capital of the country. The largest city in the country is an exciting hub and offers an excellent base from which to explore the spectacularly scenic surrounding area. Visitors can look forward to many lively bars, cafes, and restaurants in the up-and-coming 6a Calle area, pretty tree-lined avenues, and numerous museums and galleries showcasing Mayan history, contemporary art, colonial paintings, religious carvings, and historical artefacts. Hikers and nature photographers will delight in the chance to make the trek up the majestic Pacaya Volcano.
