Kinkajou: Best of Guatemala and Belize
12 days from £3,217
Explore the tour day by day, from the highlights to the quieter moments in between. Here’s how each day unfolds and what to expect along the way.
Those passengers arriving on an international flight will be met by the tour leader and escorted to the group hotel in Antigua. It’s a journey of about an hour along a winding paved road. This popular city is well-endowed with art galleries, restaurants, bars, coffee shops and boutiques.
There are many pretty Spanish colonial-style hotels in Antigua, and this is one of the most evocative. Situated in a refurbished residence from the colonial era, it has cosy, exquisitely decorated guest-rooms of varying size, set around little patios with terraces and balconies dripping with tropical vegetation. Antiques are dotted round the property which also features exposed brickwork, wicker chairs and open fires which come together in a kind of upmarket rustic chic.
There’s a roof terrace on which to relax and enjoy the sun and views over the city from a lounger, massage and babysitting services on request and a restaurant opposite owned by the hotel . Part of its appeal is its location, as it is close to the city’s iconic arch, as well as the main square and the principal attractions.
The city is a colonial work of art, with cobbled streets, overhanging tiled roofs and a beautiful, leafy central plaza. There’s an abundance of huge ruined churches, convents and monasteries, testament to a time when Antigua was the country’s capital and its main religious centre.
A dramatic backdrop of smouldering volcanoes and ruined churches and convents surrounded by parkland are testament to the city’s destruction by a volcanic eruption in 1773. You’ll have plenty of time to absorb this fascinating city, including a walking tour of the historic centre and a chance to taste some of the country’s famed coffee.
There is plenty of free time so you can explore the surrounding volcanoes, visit nearby traditional villages or simply browse the markets and art galleries of Antigua.
There are many pretty Spanish colonial-style hotels in Antigua, and this is one of the most evocative. Situated in a refurbished residence from the colonial era, it has cosy, exquisitely decorated guest-rooms of varying size, set around little patios with terraces and balconies dripping with tropical vegetation. Antiques are dotted round the property which also features exposed brickwork, wicker chairs and open fires which come together in a kind of upmarket rustic chic.
There’s a roof terrace on which to relax and enjoy the sun and views over the city from a lounger, massage and babysitting services on request and a restaurant opposite owned by the hotel . Part of its appeal is its location, as it is close to the city’s iconic arch, as well as the main square and the principal attractions.
Travel by a gradually-ascending road to Lake Atitlán. The landscapes in the highlands west of Antigua are dominated by watchful volcanoes and compact, busy farming villages.
Stop off en route at Chichicastenango (2 hours). This chilly mountain town, which has a decidedly mystical air, is where the symbols and practices of overt Catholicism sit side by side or even amalgamate with esoteric Mayan religious ceremonies, centred around the simple, whitewashed façade of the church. Here there is a vast, bustling market, and you can wander the labyrinthine streets lined with textiles, clothes and tapestries of striking colour and extraordinary intricacy, as well as extravagant hand-carved masks and good-quality leather goods. Local farmers also bring an array of fruit and vegetables from the surrounding villages, which they both barter and sell.
Later in the day continue onto Lake Atitlán (1 hour), one of the most captivating in the world, its beauty eulogised by poets and travellers. On a sunny day, the closely forested volcanic cones are reflected in cobalt waters. Traditional villages and indigenous agricultural settlements skirt its fertile shores, each with its own character and identity, its own dialect and often a unique costume still worn by the proud inhabitants.
This friendly, secluded hotel has a pool terrace, a warm pool fed by hot springs and beautiful views of Lake Atitlán. Villa Santa Catarina is located a few metres from the lakeside in the village of Santa Catarina Polopó, 4km from tourist resort Panajachel. It’s a good choice for a quiet retreat away from the busy resorts.
The property has an attractive colonial style and peaceful setting overlooking the docks with a small landscaped garden, good-sized swimming pool and relaxing, warm pool fed from nearby springs. The grounds are overlooked by an open-air terrace restaurant, bar and games room.
There are bright, comfortable rooms set on two floors with terraces or balconies. Activities including boating, fishing, windsurfing, water-skiing and tours to other lakeside indigenous villages can be arranged from the hotel.
You are based in the peaceful village of Santa Catarina de Polopó, a few kilometres from the lively tourist centre Panajachel.
Take a motor launch across the lake to Santiago de Atitlán. Cruising over the calm and silent morning waters, you’ll have wonderful views of the various shoreline hamlets and pocket-sized cultivated fields alongside some grand houses, and beyond to the gently sloping bottle-green volcanoes that encircle the water. You are greeted as you alight at Santiago by enthusiastic children, and the town is an excellent place to buy brilliantly coloured textiles. The children may also offer to guide you to the current resting place of the smoking, drinking, be-hatted and roguish local idol, Maximón, who is moved to a different house each year, and looked after by a diligent entourage. He’s certainly not politically correct but he will help you with your problems in exchange for a suitable financial donation.
This friendly, secluded hotel has a pool terrace, a warm pool fed by hot springs and beautiful views of Lake Atitlán. Villa Santa Catarina is located a few metres from the lakeside in the village of Santa Catarina Polopó, 4km from tourist resort Panajachel. It’s a good choice for a quiet retreat away from the busy resorts.
The property has an attractive colonial style and peaceful setting overlooking the docks with a small landscaped garden, good-sized swimming pool and relaxing, warm pool fed from nearby springs. The grounds are overlooked by an open-air terrace restaurant, bar and games room.
There are bright, comfortable rooms set on two floors with terraces or balconies. Activities including boating, fishing, windsurfing, water-skiing and tours to other lakeside indigenous villages can be arranged from the hotel.
At leisure to explore the lake and its shores, peppered with tiny agricultural and fishing communities.
Each of the villages around the lake has its own traditional dress and speaks its own Mayan dialect. There is plenty of time here to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet or you can take to the lake by canoe, hire a bicycle or visit one of the nearby butterfly or animal parks.
This friendly, secluded hotel has a pool terrace, a warm pool fed by hot springs and beautiful views of Lake Atitlán. Villa Santa Catarina is located a few metres from the lakeside in the village of Santa Catarina Polopó, 4km from tourist resort Panajachel. It’s a good choice for a quiet retreat away from the busy resorts.
The property has an attractive colonial style and peaceful setting overlooking the docks with a small landscaped garden, good-sized swimming pool and relaxing, warm pool fed from nearby springs. The grounds are overlooked by an open-air terrace restaurant, bar and games room.
There are bright, comfortable rooms set on two floors with terraces or balconies. Activities including boating, fishing, windsurfing, water-skiing and tours to other lakeside indigenous villages can be arranged from the hotel.
Drive back to the capital for an hour-long flight from Guatemala City that takes you to Flores, in the dense sticky jungles of northern Guatemala, and from here you continue to your lodge by road. It is situated on the shores of tranquil Lake Petén. There are many well-marked tracks to explore and lots of wildlife including monkeys to see, or you can relax by the swimming pool.
This tranquil jungle lodge is located on a private nature reserve on the shores of shady Petenchel and Monifata lakes. Villa Milla is ten minutes’ drive from Flores and 45 minutes from the majestic Mayan site of Tikal.
The lodge has bright rooms within octagonal blocks or cabins, each with air-con, ceiling fan, private bathroom and small balcony. In keeping with the tranquil atmosphere, there are no TVs.
The hotel is surrounded by beautiful, tropical gardens and benefits from magnificent lake views. Facilities include an attractive swimming pool, thatched restaurant and a bar overlooking the lake, which is home to crocodiles so strictly no swimming allowed.
There are over 10km of well-marked trails to explore and the lodge also has its own deer enclosure. Mountain bikes and horses can be hired.
Today there is a guided tour of the archaeological site at Tikal, an hour’s drive away. Steep, stepped and vertiginous temples penetrate the forest canopy; the timeless rainforest views over the site from one of these temple-tops are unforgettable. Spend the day wandering through the palace complexes. Tikal was one of the largest and most important Mayan city states, reaching its peak in around AD800 prior to its mysterious demise. The pyramids and temples seem frozen in time, but you’re brought back to the present by the roar of curious howler monkeys and lithe spider monkeys as they swing through the low branches of the trees, and flashes of colour as toucans and parrots take flight.
This tranquil jungle lodge is located on a private nature reserve on the shores of shady Petenchel and Monifata lakes. Villa Milla is ten minutes’ drive from Flores and 45 minutes from the majestic Mayan site of Tikal.
The lodge has bright rooms within octagonal blocks or cabins, each with air-con, ceiling fan, private bathroom and small balcony. In keeping with the tranquil atmosphere, there are no TVs.
The hotel is surrounded by beautiful, tropical gardens and benefits from magnificent lake views. Facilities include an attractive swimming pool, thatched restaurant and a bar overlooking the lake, which is home to crocodiles so strictly no swimming allowed.
There are over 10km of well-marked trails to explore and the lodge also has its own deer enclosure. Mountain bikes and horses can be hired.
This morning you depart for the little known Mayan ceremonial site of Yaxha, situated on the shores of a lagoon before enjoying a beautiful drive across the border and into Belize, passing through the town of San Ignacio and on into the low-lying Cayo district.
Spend a couple of days in the country’s lush, unspoilt and sparsely populated hilly interior, based on the rain-forested banks of the Macal river.
The Lodge at Chaa Creek is a delightful jungle hideaway owned by an Anglo-American couple. It is set deep within a valley, in a large private area blanketed in lush rainforest, close to the picturesque Macal River. The atmosphere is extremely peaceful and relaxing, and service exemplary.
The accommodation is particularly attractive for families, with thatched cottages and villas scattered throughout the grounds, offering space and privacy.
You can relax by the infinity pool surrounded by flower-filled gardens or in the blissful spa, or explore the surroundings on organised activities led by naturalist guides. Choose between a canoe trip down the river, horse riding, mountain biking, nature trails and a tour of the butterfly farm. Other adventures include bird watching, canopy ziplining, cave canoeing or even an overnight excursion to visit the Mayan ruins at Tikal in neighbouring Guatemala.
Your stay at Chaa Creek includes a contribution to the good causes of Chaa Creek Cares, a social and environmental initiative supporting various projects including summer camps for local kids, scholarships, clean-up campaigns and conservation.
Stay at the Lodge at Chaa Creek, one of the first of its kind in Belize. This tranquil jungle hideaway, set in its own rainforest, was opened by an Anglo-American couple in 1981. The focus here is on the area’s natural attributes, and activities available include a stroll along some of the many orchid-lined trails, a canoe ride through the mustard-coloured waters of River Macal watching waterside creatures and birdlife emerge from its shoreline habitat.
If you’re feeling more active you can explore the area on horseback or by bike. (Note: some of these excursions may incur an extra charge.) However, you may simply want to relax and enjoy the splendid tropical gardens, or be pampered in the spa. It’s a little piece of paradise here, and the atmosphere is welcoming and informal. You might visit Mountain Pine Ridge where waterfalls, rivers, lakes and caves are surrounded by savannah and pine forest. Other excursions from your hotel include visits to Mayan archaeological sites at Xunantunich and Caracol.
The Lodge at Chaa Creek is a delightful jungle hideaway owned by an Anglo-American couple. It is set deep within a valley, in a large private area blanketed in lush rainforest, close to the picturesque Macal River. The atmosphere is extremely peaceful and relaxing, and service exemplary.
The accommodation is particularly attractive for families, with thatched cottages and villas scattered throughout the grounds, offering space and privacy.
You can relax by the infinity pool surrounded by flower-filled gardens or in the blissful spa, or explore the surroundings on organised activities led by naturalist guides. Choose between a canoe trip down the river, horse riding, mountain biking, nature trails and a tour of the butterfly farm. Other adventures include bird watching, canopy ziplining, cave canoeing or even an overnight excursion to visit the Mayan ruins at Tikal in neighbouring Guatemala.
Your stay at Chaa Creek includes a contribution to the good causes of Chaa Creek Cares, a social and environmental initiative supporting various projects including summer camps for local kids, scholarships, clean-up campaigns and conservation.
The places you’ll stay and explore on this tour. Here’s a closer look at each one and what makes it worth the trip.
Guatemala - Antigua and the highlands
Once one of Spanish America’s greatest cities, Antigua is now a beautifully preserved colonial gem of cobbled streets, shady plazas and pastel-coloured façades. Surrounded by three volcanoes and within easy reach of the Highlands’ vibrant markets and traditional villages, Antigua Guatemala holidays offer one of Central America’s most captivating introductions to the country.
Guatemala - Lake Atitlan and villages
Lake Atitlán holidays showcase one of the world’s most captivating lakes, where volcanic peaks rise above shimmering waters and traditional Maya communities preserve centuries-old customs and distinctive dress. Combining spectacular scenery, indigenous culture and a relaxed pace of life, it offers one of Guatemala’s most memorable travel experiences.
Belize - Maya mountains and jungle
Dense jungle, ancient Maya cities, winding rivers and rugged mountain landscapes create one of Central America’s most rewarding adventure destinations in the wild heart of Belize. From hidden archaeological treasures to wildlife-rich forests and spectacular waterfalls, these Belize jungle holidays offer unforgettable experiences far beyond the Caribbean coast.
This variety-packed escorted group journey combines two countries which couldn’t be more different. Guatemala is steeped in native Mayan indian and Spanish colonial tradition plus religious mysticism. Belize, a truly Caribbean country, is English speaking, utterly laid-back, and a popular destination for some outdoor adventure. It’s a real treat to be able to combine the two into one experience-packed holiday.
Start off in Antigua, Guatemala’s colonial masterpiece, and continue to the serene setting of Lake Atitlán, encircled by volcanoes, – pocket handkerchief sized fields and time-warped indigenous villages.
Continue to Tikal, the vast Mayan city where ancient temples and pyramids penetrate the rainforest canopy. Crossing the border into Belize, stay at a remote countryside lodge surrounded by tropical foliage rich in wildlife; enjoy the thrills and spills of outdoor activities, or just relax. Overall, you’ll be enchanted by the friendly people, extraordinary architecture and diverse flora and fauna.
César Pineda
All of our experts have lived or travelled extensively in Latin America, so you will receive unrivalled advice based on unique personal experiences.
The practical detail for this tour, all in one place. Transport, accommodation, what’s included and what to pack, so you know exactly what to expect before you go.
- About Our Group Tours
To find out more about how our group tours including group sizes, solo travellers and why to choose us. Please click here.
- Tour Leader
On this tour, you’ll be accompanied by one of our exceptional Journey Latin America tour leaders. From the moment you land in Latin America they will deal with all the practicalities, expertly adapting to the circumstances and individual needs of the group. Rather than different guides in different cities, your leader will get to know the group and keep you informed and entertained as you go. They will spend the first night with you at your final destination Chaa Creek before leaving you with the experienced guides and staff at the exclusive lodge.
- Summary of Nights
12 days, 11 nights: Antigua 3, Lake Atitlán 3; Tikal 2; Chaa Creek 3.
- Accommodation
We use the following mid-range and upper-mid range hotels on this tour. In Belize we stay in a first class lodge.
• Antigua: Meson de Maria
• Lake Atitlán: Villa Santa Catarina
• Lake Petén: Villa Maya
• Belize: Chaa Creek LodgeOn very rare occasions these hotels can change, however please speak to one of our consultants who can provide full details for each departure if you have any doubts. Address and contact details will be sent out with your final documents.
- Transport
1 flight (1 hour), 4 land journeys (longest 4 hours). All land transport is operated privately for the group.
- Meals
Breakfast daily, lunch day 8, half-board days 9-11.
- Optional Excursions
On this tour the price includes excursions in all the places you visit as per the itinerary. There will however likely be some free time when you may choose to take part in an optional excursion. These are booked locally through your tour leader once you are in Latin America, however we are more than happy to advise you of what is on offer in advance of your holiday so you can best plan the excursions that suit you.
- Travelling Alone
There is no extra cost for single travellers who are willing to share a room. You will be accommodated with another same-sex member of the group who is also travelling solo. For single travellers who wish to have their own room there are a limited number of single rooms available, which carry a surcharge.
- Trip Suitability
This journey moves at a gentle pace and there is plenty of time to relax in each location. All walks and excursions are optional, so speak to your tour leader if you have any doubts about their suitability. There are some early mornings, and in the lowlands temperature and humidity are high, and the sun is strong.
- Climate
Situated well within the tropics, Guatemala and Belize have a typical tropical climate with high temperatures all year round. May-Nov is rainy season but this wet season is characterised by short afternoon downpours rather than constant rain which relieve the heat somewhat. We therefore run this tour throughout the year.
Areas of Guatemala and Belize (including Antigua, Lake Atitlan and Chaa Creek) experience a much more comfortable spring-like climate with sunny days and cooler evenings.
- Clothing, Equipment and Luggage
A daypack is essential for carrying rainwear, snacks, books/tablet and a water bottle. For day-to-day wear you should take loose-fitting, breathable clothes. Comfortable shoes are important and sandals are useful. A sun hat, sun block and sunglasses are necessary, and you should take warmer layers for the cooler evenings, as well as swimwear, a towel and insect repellent. Binoculars are useful for wildlife spotting.
- Money
Please see the Country Info tab on this holiday for our latest currency information and advice about how to take your spending money. Tipping in Latin America is almost always done using cash. It is customary to tip tour leaders, local guides, drivers, boat crews and other service providers such as restaurant staff and porters. Full tipping guidelines are sent with your confirmation documents as is advice on local costs.
- Health, Entry Requirements and Insurance
For health information on travelling to Guatemala and Belize including recommended vaccinations, please see https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/
All Latin American countries have specific entry regulations related to Covid 19. Please also check our Travel Hub for further information.
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports should be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Other nationalities should enquire with us or check with the consulates.
Travel insurance is essential. Details of our recommended policy can be found on the Travel insurance website.
Our full briefing dossier contains more information on vaccinations, visas and insurance and will be provided with your final travel documents or can be requested from your travel consultant at any time.
- When is the best time to visit Guatemala?
The best weather conditions in the upland areas are during the dry season Dec – May. It can be cold in the highlands in winter, while the jungle areas are hot and humid all year round. Culture lovers may opt to spend Easter in Antigua.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What is the official language of Guatemala?
The official language spoken in Guatemala is Spanish and indigenous indian languages mainly derived from Maya.
- What is the official currency of Guatemala?
The official currency in Guatemala is Quetzal. Notes can be withdrawn using a UK credit or debit card from the many ATMs. There’s at least one in most main towns. You may have ask your bank to authorise withdrawals before you leave the UK and each transaction is limited to about £100.
- What is the time difference between the UK and Guatemala?
The time difference between the UK and Guatemala is GMT-6 hours.
- Do I need a visa for Guatemala?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application. - What vaccinations do I need for Guatemala?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- Which other countries combine well with Guatemala?
A visit to neighbouring Belize, where there are luxury eco-lodges, superb diving and snorkelling all embraced in British Caribbean cultural heritage; Copán, the ruined Mayan City of northern Honduras with its intricate carvings, accessible from Guatemala by road.
- What are the festivals, cultural and sporting events in Guatemala?
Semana Santa, Easter. Celebrations throughout the country; especially impressive in Antigua.
Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, 1-2 Nov. Celebrated throughout the country.
Traditional fiestas: There are many festivals in Guatemala from giant kite flying near Antigua to wild horse racing in remote Todo Los Santos.
- When is the best time to visit Belize?
The best weather conditions are during the dry season Dec-May. It can be cool in the highlands in winter, while the jungle areas are hot and humid all year.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What's the official language of Belize?
The official language of Belize is English but many of the population also speak a creole patois.
- How do I get local currency in Belize?
The Belizean dollar is the currency in Belize. Notes can be obtained from money exchanges and also from banks which will supply advances on a debit or credit card. There are ATMs in Belize City where you can use a UK credit or debit card. You may have to get authorisation from your bank first, and withdrawal amounts may be limited.
- What's the time difference between Belize and UK?
The time difference between the UK and Belize is GMT -6 hrs
- Do I need a visa to visit Belize?
Holders of a full British passport do not require a visa, although passports must be valid for at least 6 months after the trip begins. Anyone with a different nationality should enquire with us or check with the relevant consulate.
If flying to the US, or via the US you will need to fill in your online ESTA application. - What vaccinations do I need in Belize?
Please check Travel Health Pro for information on health recommendations and vaccinations for the destinations you are visiting. Please note that many Latin American countries require proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever if you have recently travelled to another country where Yellow Fever is present.
- What places combine well with Belize?
A visit to neighbouring Guatemala, with its Latin and Maya cultural heritage, is good to pair with a Belize holiday as there’s a road link to the Mayan ruins at Tikal in the Petén jungle. Southern Mexico is also easy to visit from Belize, as you can cross the land border at Chetumal.
- What are the festivals and cultural and sporting events in Belize?
Belize Carnival, (Feb/Mar). Lively celebrations especially in San Pedro, on Ambergris Caye.
Lobster season: Lobster season starts Jun-Jul, with lobster on offer in all its forms, with drinking and partying.Belize Independence Day: throughout the country, 21 Sep. Parades, processions and parties.
Garifuna Settlement Day, Dangriga, 19 Nov. Includes parades, live music, drumming, dancing, and prayers in celebration of the first Garifuna Afro-Caribbean settlers.
- How long is the flight to Belize from UK?
There are flights via US and European hubs, the journey from London taking around 15.5 hours.
Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
Things to do
We proudly offer the widest range of activities, excursions and one-of-a-kind experiences across all our destinations, tried and tested personally by our travel experts.
Take a guided walk around the colonial city of Antigua, the country’s former capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit a coffee farm.
Hunt for souvenirs at a colourful Mayan market and visit the mystical church of Santo Tomás.
Explore the most impressive of all Mayan sites with a knowledgeable guide to bring the ruins to life.
Stop off at a jungle-shrouded Mayan ruin en route between Tikal and Belize.
Accommodation
Browse our unrivalled portfolio of accommodation. Every option has been carefully chosen by our team of travel experts, so you can rest assured that you will relax in utter comfort
Quiet hotel with a landscaped garden and pool, at a remove from the bustle of Panajachel.
Secluded and tranquil lakeside lodge with stylish modern décor and decked relaxation areas overlooking the lagoon.
Meson de Maria is a cosy property in Antigua evoking the colonial era with antiques and pretty foliage-filled courtyards.
If there’s somewhere you particularly want to go that isn’t included in this tour, we can add on an extension to take you there.
Ambergris Caye
Fly to the coral island of Ambergris Caye and spend a few days based at the first-class plantation-style Victoria House. The hotel has its own narrow beach and a small swimming pool. Diving, snorkelling and fishing can be arranged locally. Day 1: Fly from Belize City to Ambergris Caye by light aircraft. This is the…
A former Journey Latin America tour leader, Sally spent 7 years working, travelling and living throughout Latin America before returning to the UK to help people arrange their own adventures to this wonderful destination.
Papagaio
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