Signature Guatemala, Honduras & El Salvador: Mayan ruins, colonial cities and Pacific beaches
15 days from £3,950
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.
Most flights arrive in the evening and it’s just a 15-minute drive from the airport to your hotel in Guatemala City.
You see plenty of traditional Mayan themes throughout Guatemala, but this refreshing little boutique-style hotel in the capital, Guatemala City, is uncompromisingly contemporary. With just 11 guest rooms and two suites it offers a comprehensive service, and excellent attention to detail. There are high-end bathroom amenities, top quality bedlinen, and, for a special treat, in-room spa services.
There is a tranquil central courtyard where you can take breakfast or relax and a restaurant serving lunch and dinner – you can also receive your meals in your room. The hotel is situated in the central Zona Rosa district where there are many other eating options, shopping and entertainment.
Leave Guatemala City behind and continue by private transfer to Lake Atitlán, a journey of 3-4 hours. The final dramatic descent to the lakeshore reveals a succession of wonderful views.
Lake Atitlán is one of the most captivating lakes in the world. On a still, sunny day, the surrounding volcanic cones are perfectly mirrored in its cobalt-blue waters. Traditional villages and indigenous agricultural communities line its fertile shores, each with its own character, dialect, and often a distinctive traditional costume still proudly worn by local inhabitants.
Designed along the lines of a colonial-style hacienda, Hotel Atitlan was the first major hotel to open on the shores of Guatemala’s iconic highland lake. Its original appeal still shines through more than half a century later.
At dawn and dusk, when the dramatic skies above Lake Atitlan are reflected in the glassy sheen of its waters, the incomparable setting of Hotel Atitlan is beyond words. Whether you’re relaxing on your own balcony or terrace, by the infinity pool or amidst the glorious sub-tropical gardens, you are just a stone’s throw from some of the finest views of the lake’s three volcanoes. Whilst it is no longer luxurious by today’s standards, this well-established hotel brims with typically understated Guatemalan charm, reflected throughout in its 60 or so guest rooms, general décor and service. The bar and well-regarded restaurant are a delight to come back to after a day out exploring the lakeshore towns and markets. Meanwhile, the buzzing little resort of Panajachel – the lake’s original backpacker hangout – is just a short cab ride away if you fancy a change of scene.
Take a boat across the lake to Santiago Atitlán, a Tz’utuhil Mayan town set on the southern shore beneath the San Pedro, Atitlán and Tolimán volcanoes. Santiago’s inhabitants wear some of Guatemala’s finest traditional costumes and pay homage to Maximón, the drinking and smoking saint of Folk Catholicism.
Industrious yet relaxed, the village’s main street is lined with weaving shops, and a lively market takes place on Fridays and Sundays. With as many as 40 churches, the town reflects a blend of evangelical, Roman Catholic, and Tz’utuhil beliefs.
Continue across the lake to San Antonio Palopó on the eastern shore. Set in a natural amphitheatre, the village rises from the dock through narrow streets of adobe houses roofed with thatch or tin, and features a fine 16th‑century church. Residents are known for their colourful attire and headdresses. After exploring, return to Panajachel.
Designed along the lines of a colonial-style hacienda, Hotel Atitlan was the first major hotel to open on the shores of Guatemala’s iconic highland lake. Its original appeal still shines through more than half a century later.
At dawn and dusk, when the dramatic skies above Lake Atitlan are reflected in the glassy sheen of its waters, the incomparable setting of Hotel Atitlan is beyond words. Whether you’re relaxing on your own balcony or terrace, by the infinity pool or amidst the glorious sub-tropical gardens, you are just a stone’s throw from some of the finest views of the lake’s three volcanoes. Whilst it is no longer luxurious by today’s standards, this well-established hotel brims with typically understated Guatemalan charm, reflected throughout in its 60 or so guest rooms, general décor and service. The bar and well-regarded restaurant are a delight to come back to after a day out exploring the lakeshore towns and markets. Meanwhile, the buzzing little resort of Panajachel – the lake’s original backpacker hangout – is just a short cab ride away if you fancy a change of scene.
Traditional markets abound in Guatemala, each with its own charm and rhythm. Two of the most notable – Chichicastenango and Sololá – are within easy reach of Lake Atitlán, though which one you visit will depend on the day of the week.
Chichicastenango – ‘Chichi’ for short! – lies 1½ hours from the lake, and its bustling Thursday and Sunday markets attract visitors from far and wide. Wander the labyrinth of streets in search of textiles, clothing and tapestries of striking colour and extraordinary intricacy, along with extravagant hand‑carved masks and good-quality leather goods. Local farmers also sell or barter an array of produce from the surrounding villages.
Sololá, just a 30‑minute drive away, is known for some of the country’s most colourful traditional clothing. Its Tuesday and Friday market is less tourist‑oriented and an excellent place to find superior crafts and textiles.
Designed along the lines of a colonial-style hacienda, Hotel Atitlan was the first major hotel to open on the shores of Guatemala’s iconic highland lake. Its original appeal still shines through more than half a century later.
At dawn and dusk, when the dramatic skies above Lake Atitlan are reflected in the glassy sheen of its waters, the incomparable setting of Hotel Atitlan is beyond words. Whether you’re relaxing on your own balcony or terrace, by the infinity pool or amidst the glorious sub-tropical gardens, you are just a stone’s throw from some of the finest views of the lake’s three volcanoes. Whilst it is no longer luxurious by today’s standards, this well-established hotel brims with typically understated Guatemalan charm, reflected throughout in its 60 or so guest rooms, general décor and service. The bar and well-regarded restaurant are a delight to come back to after a day out exploring the lakeshore towns and markets. Meanwhile, the buzzing little resort of Panajachel – the lake’s original backpacker hangout – is just a short cab ride away if you fancy a change of scene.
Continue by private transfer (3 hours) to the country’s former capital, Antigua.
Antigua is a masterpiece of the Spanish colonial grid system with cobbled streets, overhanging tiled roofs and a beautiful, leafy central plaza. Its many ruined churches, convents and monasteries stand as reminders of the era when it served as Guatemala’s capital and was the main religious centre.
It’s a welcoming place to relax and unwind, browse the boutiques and art galleries, and sample some of the country’s best restaurants.
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.
Coffee has been produced in Guatemala since the late 1800s, and today you’ll visit a coffee farm overseen by the Café de la Gente project – an organisation that champions the interests of small‑scale coffee producers. Revenue from tourist visits helps support the initiative, and during your time on the farm you’ll learn about the coffee making process from bean to brew, and of course, you’ll be offered a fresh cup or two before returning to Antigua.
Antigua’s rich historical legacy is best explored on foot, wandering through its grid of shaded cobbled streets and flower‑filled courtyards. Although now very much a vibrant, living city, the remains of this compact colonial centre – designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site – are dotted with monuments of the Spanish conquest. Known as Santiago de los Caballeros during colonial times, it served as Guatemala’s capital until a devastating earthquakes struck in 1773.
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.
Continue by private transfer (6–7 hours depending on border formalities) to Copan, a quaint colonial town just over the border in Honduras.
Surrounded by verdant hills dotted with coffee plantations, Copan serves as your base for exploring one of the most important archaeological sites of the ancient Maya world.
This friendly, family-owned Marina Copan hotel is situated on the corner of the main square in the quaint little town of Copán Ruinas, less than 15 minutes’ walk from the impressive archaeological ruins. The grand old building, built in the 40s, has the feel of a historic townhouse in the same vein as the predominant local style, with rustic terracotta roofs and shady colonnaded walkways.
Guestrooms are adorned with paintings by local artists, and are neutrally decorated with ceiling beams and tiled floors. Suites are particularly roomy and include extras such as a Jacuzzi bath and kitchenette.
The hotel has a second floor restaurant with an outside terrace overlooking the attractive free-form swimming pool which flows invitingly through the central courtyard. There are numerous small alcoves where guests can relax amongst tropical plants and fountains. Live Marimba music is regularly performed at weekends.
Copan is believed to have been in its ‘golden era’ between 553AD and 738AD, before falling into decline soon after.
Although not as immense as Tikal or Chichen Itza, the Mayan’s craftsmanship has survived the passing of time – most impressively evident in the intricate carvings of 21 stone stelae.
These 3-metre-high columns stand among temples, ball courts and the renowned hieroglyphic stairway with 1,250 blocks carved with glyphs – the longest inscribed text in the New World.
This friendly, family-owned Marina Copan hotel is situated on the corner of the main square in the quaint little town of Copán Ruinas, less than 15 minutes’ walk from the impressive archaeological ruins. The grand old building, built in the 40s, has the feel of a historic townhouse in the same vein as the predominant local style, with rustic terracotta roofs and shady colonnaded walkways.
Guestrooms are adorned with paintings by local artists, and are neutrally decorated with ceiling beams and tiled floors. Suites are particularly roomy and include extras such as a Jacuzzi bath and kitchenette.
The hotel has a second floor restaurant with an outside terrace overlooking the attractive free-form swimming pool which flows invitingly through the central courtyard. There are numerous small alcoves where guests can relax amongst tropical plants and fountains. Live Marimba music is regularly performed at weekends.
Continue by private transfer to Suchitoto in El Salvador (5-6 hours depending on border formalities).
Suchitoto is a charming colonial town whose name in the native Nahuatl language means “place of birds and flowers” – and for good reason – vibrant flowers adorn every building and nearby Lake Suchitlán provides an important sanctuary for birdlife.
During El Salvador’s brutal civil war, Suchitoto was heavily affected. Fortunately, since the signing of the peace accords, extensive reconstruction has taken place, and today its cobblestone streets are a delight to wander.
The 200-year old building housing Hotel Los Amendros de San Lorenzo blends colonial features with stylish design, just one block from Suchitoto’s main square.
This former hacienda was lovingly renovated by the French-Salvadorian owners. From the classic colonial exterior, a grand wooden door leads to a cool tiled reception and shady, tropical courtyard, around which the individually decorated guestrooms are arranged.
Rooms are adorned with local artwork, antiques, colonial-style wooden furniture, high ceilings and original stonework, while the palatial suites are huge and impeccably decorated.
There’s a library, bar and free form stone pool in the rear garden. The highly-regarded restaurant serves French cuisine with local touches. The welcoming French owner also has an art gallery opposite the hotel, exhibiting the work of local artists.
On a leisurely 2–3-hour walking tour, you’ll explore the town’s principal attractions, including the striking white Santa Lucía Church, which dominates the main square. You’ll also discover Suchitoto’s rich cultural identity with visits to the Arte Para la Paz (Art for Peace) Museum and the Teatro Alejandro Cotto – named in honour of the filmmaker, writer, and poet who played a key role in shaping the town’s cultural life.
In the evening, you’ll frequent a local restaurant and learn how to make El Salvador’s most popular traditional dish, the humble pupusa, a thick corn pancake typically filled with cheese, refried beans, or meat.
The 200-year old building housing Hotel Los Amendros de San Lorenzo blends colonial features with stylish design, just one block from Suchitoto’s main square.
This former hacienda was lovingly renovated by the French-Salvadorian owners. From the classic colonial exterior, a grand wooden door leads to a cool tiled reception and shady, tropical courtyard, around which the individually decorated guestrooms are arranged.
Rooms are adorned with local artwork, antiques, colonial-style wooden furniture, high ceilings and original stonework, while the palatial suites are huge and impeccably decorated.
There’s a library, bar and free form stone pool in the rear garden. The highly-regarded restaurant serves French cuisine with local touches. The welcoming French owner also has an art gallery opposite the hotel, exhibiting the work of local artists.
Start by driving to the fascinating archaeological site of Joya de Cerén. Drawing comparisons with Pompeii, the pre-Hispanic farming community of Joya de Cerén was buried in up to 20 feet of ash when the Laguna Caldera Volcano erupted in AD 600, and the incredibly well preserved remains offer an insight into the day to day lives of rural communities of the time: how they cultivated their crops, built their homes and cooked and stored their food. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993 and houses an excellent museum with multilingual information boards.
Continue to Santa Ana, El Salvador’s second city, taking time to admire the National Theatre and the impressive Gothic cathedral that dominate the vibrant main square, before visiting the archaeological site of El Tazumal, El Salvador’s most significant ceremonial Mayan centre. Set in the heart of the small town of Chalchuapa, it’s a place where everyday life continues along the very streets once trodden by the Maya. Just outside the ruins stands a bust of Che Guevara, commemorating his visit in 1954.
In a colonial house that is over 200 years old, Casa Degraciela is a small but atmospheric hotel, evoking its 19th century roots with antiques, wooden rocking chairs, a horse-drawn cart and stained glass windows. The hotel retains many original features of brick and tile, wooden furniture beloved of the Spanish colonial era, and a fountain in the garden.
The property is just off the main square of Concepción de Ataco, convenient for this pleasant colonial El Salvador town’s craft shops, restaurants and market, but nevertheless offering guests a peaceful ambience.
The original owners’ private bedrooms are among the guest rooms with white adobe walls, stone features and colonial-style wooden furnishing. Standard rooms are compact while suites are more spacious with bath tubs, and the master suite has a balcony overlooking the garden.
The hotel has a pleasant terrace, library, restaurant with an extensive dinner menu and bar serving cocktails and tapas.
Set off and explore the Ruta de las Flores, a 36‑kilometre winding mountain route linking Sonsonate to Ahuachapán and offering wonderful views at every turn. As the name suggests, you’ll pass fields of tropical flowers and nurseries that thrive in the cool, pleasant climate.
Steeped in cultural tradition, the Ruta de las Flores is worth visiting any day of the week, though its towns truly come alive at weekends. Your tour is flexible so you can make the most of the day and tailor it to your interests, whether that’s browsing craft markets, visiting historic churches (including one with a 16th‑century black statue of Christ), or joining the lively weekly food fair in Juayúa.
In a colonial house that is over 200 years old, Casa Degraciela is a small but atmospheric hotel, evoking its 19th century roots with antiques, wooden rocking chairs, a horse-drawn cart and stained glass windows. The hotel retains many original features of brick and tile, wooden furniture beloved of the Spanish colonial era, and a fountain in the garden.
The property is just off the main square of Concepción de Ataco, convenient for this pleasant colonial El Salvador town’s craft shops, restaurants and market, but nevertheless offering guests a peaceful ambience.
The original owners’ private bedrooms are among the guest rooms with white adobe walls, stone features and colonial-style wooden furnishing. Standard rooms are compact while suites are more spacious with bath tubs, and the master suite has a balcony overlooking the garden.
The hotel has a pleasant terrace, library, restaurant with an extensive dinner menu and bar serving cocktails and tapas.
Continue by private transfer (2 hours) to Barra de Santiago, a peninsula tucked away on El Salvador’s western Pacific coast, bordered by a calm estuary on one side and the Pacific ocean on the other.
It’s also home to one of the country’s most important protected areas: the Barra de Santiago Mangrove Reserve, a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance spanning more than 11,500 hectares of rich, biodiverse mangrove forest.
Barra de Santiago is a remote peninsula on El Salvador’s western Pacific coast. Bordered by an estuary on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, it’s also home to one of the country’s most important protected areas: the Barra de Santiago Mangrove Reserve, a designated Ramsar Site.
Tucked among coconut palms and mango trees, La Cocotera is a small rustic chic property featuring palm thatched teak wood casitas inspired by traditional palapas. There are just six rooms, spread across three two-storey casitas, each with one room upstairs and one downstairs. Two casitas face the beach and Pacific, while the third overlooks the estuary with the mountains of El Imposible National Park beyond. All rooms are spacious and well appointed, featuring Salvadoran artwork, air conditioning, and either a balcony or terrace.
Dining in Barra de Santiago is limited, aside from a few beachside restaurants ideal for fresh seafood lunches, but the lodge has an open air restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The peninsula’s black sand beach is beautiful and expansive, though not suitable for swimming. Instead, the hotel offers a generous free form pool and a smaller pool beside the bar overlooking the beach, both with ample loungers for unwinding at the end of your trip. Guests can also rent kayaks or book boat trips through the estuary’s calm, wildlife rich mangroves. The lodge is deeply involved in conservation efforts, including a sea turtle release programme.
Explore the Barra de Santiago Mangrove Reserve by boat and learn about the mangroves and their vital role in the local ecosystem. Glide through winding channels that teem with wildlife – from crocodiles and endangered blue crabs to fish darting beneath the roots – and spot a wide range of bird species including Boat-billed Herons, pelicans, egrets, and the American Pygmy kingfisher.
Barra de Santiago is a tranquil place to unwind at the end of a trip. Lounge by your hotel’s swimming pool, take long walks along the beach, make use of the hotel’s complimentary kayaks or stop for a fresh seafood lunch at one of the beachside restaurants.
Barra de Santiago is a remote peninsula on El Salvador’s western Pacific coast. Bordered by an estuary on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, it’s also home to one of the country’s most important protected areas: the Barra de Santiago Mangrove Reserve, a designated Ramsar Site.
Tucked among coconut palms and mango trees, La Cocotera is a small rustic chic property featuring palm thatched teak wood casitas inspired by traditional palapas. There are just six rooms, spread across three two-storey casitas, each with one room upstairs and one downstairs. Two casitas face the beach and Pacific, while the third overlooks the estuary with the mountains of El Imposible National Park beyond. All rooms are spacious and well appointed, featuring Salvadoran artwork, air conditioning, and either a balcony or terrace.
Dining in Barra de Santiago is limited, aside from a few beachside restaurants ideal for fresh seafood lunches, but the lodge has an open air restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The peninsula’s black sand beach is beautiful and expansive, though not suitable for swimming. Instead, the hotel offers a generous free form pool and a smaller pool beside the bar overlooking the beach, both with ample loungers for unwinding at the end of your trip. Guests can also rent kayaks or book boat trips through the estuary’s calm, wildlife rich mangroves. The lodge is deeply involved in conservation efforts, including a sea turtle release programme.
It’s a three-hour drive to San Salvador’s airport for your flight back home.
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 - 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.
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.
Honduras - Copan
Copán holidays centre on one of the Americas’ most remarkable Maya sites, where intricately carved stelae, towering temples and the New World’s longest hieroglyphic inscription reveal the story of a once-powerful civilisation. Set among jungle-clad hills, it remains Honduras’ greatest cultural treasure.
El Salvador - Suchitoto
Cobbled streets, whitewashed churches and red-tiled rooftops give Suchitoto a distinctive charm. Suchitoto holidays focus on this colonial town, now one of El Salvador’s leading centres of arts and culture, just north of San Salvador and known as the “place of birds and flowers”.
El Salvador - Ruta de las Flores
The Ruta de las Flores winds through El Salvador’s principal coffee-growing region, linking a string of highland towns renowned for artisan traditions, gastronomy and mountain scenery. Connecting Ataco, Nahuizalco, Juayúa and Apaneca, it offers one of Central America’s most rewarding road trip experiences.
El Salvador - Pacific Coast
Volcanic black sand beaches, soft white bays and sleepy fishing villages line El Salvador’s Pacific coastline, backed by some of the best surf breaks in Central America. Stretching along most of the country’s southern edge, El Salvador Pacific Coast holidays combine beach days, wildlife and some of the most striking ocean scenery in the region.
After flying into Guatemala City, head to Lake Atitlán, framed by volcanoes and traditional lakeside villages, with the opportunity to visit the markets of Chichicastenango or Sololá. Continue to Antigua, one of the Spanish Empire’s most beautiful colonial cities, filled with elegant mansions, ornate churches and leafy plazas.
Travelling east into Honduras, you’ll explore Copán, one of the Mayan civilisation’s most remarkable archaeological sites. Your journey then carries you into El Salvador, beginning in the charming colonial town of Suchitoto before following the Ruta de las Flores, dotted with quaint towns and artisan communities. Round off your trip in Barra de Santiago, a peninsula on the western Pacific coast and home to one of the country’s most important protected areas, before flying out of San Salvador.
With all three countries well connected by road, this is an ideal itinerary for travellers who don’t like flying. Watch towering volcanoes, cobalt‑blue lakes, rolling highlands and sweeping Pacific beaches unfold from the comfort of a private vehicle.
Paul Winrow-Giffin
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.
15 days, 14 nights: Guatemala City 1; Lake Atitlan 3; Antigua 2; Copan 2; Suchitoto 2; Ataco 2; Barra de Santiago 2.
This trip features a mixture of colonial‑style and modern mid-range hotels.
This trip includes 7 long distance road journeys (ranging from 3-7 hours). There are no internal flights.
Breakfast: daily
Lunch & dinner: days 13 & 14
Our local, trusted and carefully selected partners understand the expectations of our customers very well, and their staff and guides are consistently singled out for praise by clients on their return.
On this holiday, you will be joined by different guides for each activity and or region, ensuring you benefit from specialised expertise and knowledge, often from someone local to the area.
As well as any included activities, most Private Journeys include some free time for optional excursions. As optional excursions are often subject to availability, we recommend you discuss and arrange them with your Travel Expert as early as possible before you depart.
- 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 Honduras?
Honduras holidays are possible at any time of the year. The coastal lowlands have a hot tropical climate all year round with temperatures approaching 30oC. The mountainous interior has a milder climate and in Dec – Jan temperatures hover around 18oC and it is cool at night. The rainy season runs May – Nov with afternoon showers – although precipitation is more persistent on the north coast. Sep – Nov is the season when rainfall may be heavy and hurricanes are possible.
- What's the official language of Honduras?
Spanish is the official language of Honduras.
- What is the official currency in Honduras?
The currency of Honduras is Lempira. You can change US dollar cash or travellers cheques locally in banks and may be able to obtain cash advances via the few ATMs in larger towns and cities. You may have ask your bank to authorise withdrawals before you leave the UK, and withdrawals may be limited. However these ATMs do not always accept foreign cards, which are also not usable in many smaller hotels and commerce. You can obtain cash advances in most banks throughout the country. NB: a charge of $US40 is made at the airport upon leaving the country (you can pay with a credit card).
- What is the time difference between Honduras and UK?
The time difference between Honduras and the UK is GMT-6 hours.
- Do I need a visa for Honduras?
As of 15 August 2024, UK passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to Honduras. 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 Honduras?
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 Honduras?
A visit to neighbouring Central America countries, such as tiny, friendly El Salvador; wildlife-rich, slickly organised Costa Rica and the Mayan cities of Guatemala, all easily accessed by land or air.
- How do you get to Honduras from the UK?
There are flights via US and European hubs, the journey from London takes around 15 hours.
- What are the festivals and cultural events in Honduras?
Semana Santa, Easter, throughout Honduras. Celebrated from Thursday through to Easter Sunday.
Festival Lluvia de Peces (Rain of Fish), Yoro, start of rainy season in Jun. Parades and carnival. It’s a puzzle for scientists, but the dark clouds are accompanied by very heavy rain which will last upwards of 3hrs. Once the rain has stopped, the city streets are littered with living fish. Commemoration of the arrival of the Garifuna communities, 12 Apr. Presentations by music and dance groups including the Ballet Folklórico Garifuna.
- When is the best time to visit El Salvador?
The coastal lowlands have a hot tropical climate all year round with temperatures peaking at well over 30°C. The mountainous interior has a milder climate and in Dec-Jan temperatures hover around 18°C and it is cool at night. The best time to visit is during the drier months of Nov-Feb – it gets very hot thereafter. The rainy season runs May-Oct with short tropical showers – it is cooler, but some of the back roads may be impassable. Sep-Nov is the season when rainfall may be heavy and hurricanes are possible.
For more detailed information visit our When To Go section.
- What is the official language of El Salvador?
The official language spoken in El Salvador is Spanish.
- What is El Salvador's official currency?
The official currency of El Salvador is the US dollar. The former local currency (colon), was phased out in 2003. You can obtain US dollar cash or exchange travellers cheques locally in banks and money exchanges (casas de cambio) and may be able to obtain cash advances via the few ATMs in larger towns and cities. You should authorise your bank first, and withdrawals may be limited.
- What is the time difference between El Salvador and the UK?
The time difference between the UK and El Salvador is GMT-6 hrs.
- Do I need a visa for El Salvador?
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 El Salvador?
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 El Salvador?
A visit to neighbouring Central America countries, such as Nicaragua with its splendid colonial cities and coral island beaches; wildlife-rich, slickly organised Costa Rica and the Mayan cities of Guatemala, all easily accessed by land or air.
- What are the festivals and cultural or sporting events in El Salvador?
Semana Santa, Easter is celebrated throughout El Salvador. It is celebrated from Thursday through to Easter Sunday.
Towns and villages all celebrate the feast days of their local saint, sometimes with protracted celebrations, as in San Miguel and Sonsonate with programmes of artistic events.Arts and Culture Festival takes place in February in Suchitoto. The pretty colonial town hosts a world-class arts and culture festival with music and dance groups.
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 part in timeless scenes of rural life at an authentic Mayan market.
Hunt for souvenirs at a colourful Mayan market and visit the mystical church of Santo Tomás.
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.
Visit an impressive Mayan archaeological site renowned for its intricate stelae.
Explore the cobbled streets of a charming colonial town before taking a boat tour of Lake Suchitlán, a haven for bird life.
Explore the cobbled streets of a charming colonial town before taking a boat tour of Lake Suchitlán, a haven for bird life.
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
A secluded getaway in Barra de Santiago, a remote peninsula on El Salvador’s western Pacific coast.
Friendly, comfortable and well-located hotel, following the design of a historic townhouse but with the addition of a free-form pool flowing through its leafy central courtyard.
Papagaio
Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.
Featured Articles
To round the corner of a mountain and see the lost citadel of Machu Picchu unfold beneath you remains one of the most awe-inspiring experiences in Latin America, one of those dreamlike experiences that makes travelling here truly extraordinary.
The Pantanal wetlands cover an area almost the size of the British Isles and offers better wildlife opportunities than the Amazon. Writer and photographer Alex Bellos discovers them.
Small, breathtakingly beautiful Costa Rica is a treasure trove for the nature lover. Trees laden with orchids are home to quetzals and hummingbirds, while the Caribbean shore hosts volcanic beaches and palm-sheltered coves.
