Solo-Ish Guatemala

Dinner Party: Antigua

Please ensure your flight lands by 14:00 and enjoy an included arrival transfer to the start hotel in Antigua. After a brief welcome meeting, discover the secrets of Guatemalan cuisine during a hands-on, private cooking demonstration at a local culinary school. With an experienced chef by your side this sensory immersion into the region's culture will demonstrate just how important food is in bringing people together across the world. From dishes like Pepian and Kak'ik, both of which are deeply rooted in Mayan traditions, to Hilachas, Tamales, and Rellenitos, your taste buds will be in heaven no matter which dish you learn to make. Your local culinary instructors will charm you with their personal stories and expert local knowledge, and you'll make new friends as you enjoy your own creations together. The experience will help you understand how Mayan culture and Spanish Colonial influence have blended together in a perfect harmony through food.

Make sure to arrive by 2:00 pm so that you have time to get settled in and join your CEO and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing and tonight's Dinner Party.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Arrival Transfer

La Aurora International Airport - Antigua Guatemala 1.25h - 1.5h

You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.

Meet Your CEO and Group

Evening

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Guatemalan Cuisine Focused Cooking Class

Antigua Guatemala 2h

Food is a universal language, and there's no better way to get to know a new friend, or a new community, than by breaking bread together and digging in to a delicious meal. Join your fellow Solo-ish travellers in an immersive cooking class with an expert local chef at a culinary school in Antigua. Step inside Guatemalan culture through the aromas and flavours of each dish and its combination of ingredients. Known for dishes like Pepian, a rich stew, and Kak'ik, a turkey soup, both of which are deeply rooted in Mayan traditions. Or other popular dishes like Hilachas (shredded beef stew), Tamales (corn dough with various fillings), and Rellenitos (sweet plantain fritters), this class will allow you to leave with the knowledge of how to bring a few of these delicious dishes back home. It's the perfect way to step out of your comfort zones and mingle with fellow travellers over the delicious food of Guatemala.

• Meals Included:
• Dinner
Accommodations:  Posada San Vicente

We Day: Antigua

Today is all about the history and local cultures of Guatemala. Begin the day with breakfast and a visit to a local macadamia farm, where you'll learn how the cultivation of these trees has created sustainable income opportunities for surrounding communities. Then head to G Adventures-supported Chokojol Juyu for a meaningful cultural experience. Enjoy a traditional Guatemalan lunch prepared by the local community before participating in a Quitapenas Doll workshop, where you'll discover the story behind one of Guatemala's most beloved traditions and create your own keepsake. In the afternoon, stop at Cerro de la Cruz for panoramic views of Antigua before joining your CEO on an orientation walk through the city's cobblestone streets, colonial landmarks, and vibrant plazas. Finish the day with free time to continue exploring this UNESCO World Heritage city at your own pace. A day full of local connections and heartwarming interactions.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Breakfast at Macadamia Farm.

Antigua Guatemala

Visit a local macadamia nut farm and see how these nuts are processed. Try some of the products and learn about the vision behind the owner's farm and dedication to helping indigenous populations in Guatemala have better access to jobs, wages, and well-being that will help support their families and preservation of traditions.

Chokojol Juyu Community Visit & Lunch

Antigua Guatemala

Delve into an unforgettable experience at Chokojol Juyu, a vibrant training center dedicated to preserving the rich textiles and local indigenous culture of Antigua's community. Learn how to prepare Pepian, a traditional Guatemalan dish, alongside talented children and youth who are passionate about their heritage. Then learn from the women of the community as they share insights into their textile traditions which showcases the intricate techniques and stories behind their beautiful crafts, including a Quitapenas Doll workshop. Afterwards, sit down for lunch together surrounded by the warmth of local hospitality.

The History & Local Indigenous Communities of Antigua

Antigua Guatemala

On a CEO-guided orientation walk of Antigua's historic sites, you'll wander through its cobblestone streets and see colonial sites like the vibrant Central Park, the historic Cathedral, and the Palace of the Captains General. Then, stop by the iconic Santa Catalina Arch, perfectly framed by the Agua Volcano. See the striking yellow facade of La Merced Church and the peaceful ruins of the Capuchinas Convent. Finish the walk along Calle de los Pasos to the Church of San Francisco, home to the tomb of Saint Hermano Pedro. In 'gradas del cerro de la cruz" you'll have an amazing view of Antigua.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodations:  Posada San Vicente

G Day: Lake Atitlan

Experience the breathtaking beauty and vibrant culture of Guatemala's Lake Atitlan on an unforgettable G Day. Travel from Antigua to Panajachel before boarding a boat across the lake to the community of San Marcos. Enjoy a delicious community lunch with Konojel. Continue by boat to San Juan La Laguna, where you'll visit the Rupalaj textile cooperative to learn about the traditional natural dyeing process and try weaving on a backstrap loom. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the colorful streets, local markets, and artisan shops of San Juan before returning to Panajachel by boat. Remember to be on the lookout because who knows where you might end up on this epic G Day.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Lake Atitlan Communities & Cultural Immersion

Panajachel

With your Solo-ish travel mates and CEO, explore some of the world's coolest activities alongside new friends. It's not just an epic day of fun, its chock full of incredible experiences and a surprise G element along the way to take your day to an 11. Spend the day exploring the stunning natural beauty of Guatemala's Lake Atitlan and the small local communities along the shores. Board a boat in Panajachel and cruise across the water to the local community of San Marcos. Test your communication and bargaining skills in the colourful local markets before travelling by boat for unforgettable views of the lake and surrounding area. Be on the lookout for a fun surprise along the way.

Rupalaj K'istalin Workshop

San Juan La Laguna

Experience what it takes to create traditional textiles through a natural dyeing demonstration and backstrap loom weaving experience.

Community Lunch with Konojel

Lago de Atitlan - Panajachel

Enjoy a traditional community lunch with Konojel in San Marcos before experiencing a special G surprise inspired by local Mayan traditions. Afterwards, travel to nearby San Juan La Laguna to visit the Rupalaj textile cooperative, where local artisans will demonstrate traditional natural dyeing techniques and invite you to try weaving on a backstrap loom. Enjoy free time to explore the village's markets and artisan workshops before returning to Panajachel by boat.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
• Lunch
Accommodations:  Kamol Bey

Panajachel/Flores

Enjoy the gorgeous views of Lake Atitlan during a liesurely morning. Have breakfast with a view, walk near the lake, and simply enjoy the sounds, smells, and sights of Panajachel. In the afternoon, travel north on a flight to Flores, with its heavy Mayan influence in the northeast jungle Peten region. Flores is situated on an island in Lake Peten Itza, connected to the mainland by a causeway. This unique location offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The town is also considered the gateway to nearby Mayan ruins and towering temples. Upon arrival take time to get settled and enjoy your new surroundings. Choose to find a cozy spot for an authentic Guatemalan dinner this evening with your newest travel friends.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Free Time

Panajachel Morning

Spend a free morning on your own in Panajachel. Enjoy the views from the shores of Lake Atitlan and have a slow, leisurely breakfast among the blue water and rising volcanoes in the distance.

Private Vehicle

Panajachel - Guatemala City 4h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Plane

Guatemala City - Flores 1h

Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.

Free Time

Flores Evening

Get settled in Flores this evening. Choose to go for a walk by yourself if you're craving some alone time, or grab a few pals and find a cute local spot to have an authentic Guatemalan dinner.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
Accommodations:  Hotel Petén

Flores

Step back in time into the life of the ancient Maya with a guided tour today to the Tikal archaeological site. Set in the heart of the jungle, in Tikal National Park, you will see this UNESCO World Heritage site along with your bilingual guide. See some of the temples, plazas, carved stone monuments and public squares dating from as far back as 600 BC. Climb to the top of Temple IV and feel your heart thumping in your chest. Snap some photos and soak in the deep, ancient energy of this place. Return to Flores for more free time to relax, maybe journal, walk along the water, or grab an ice cold beverage to celebrate a day well spent.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Flores - Tikal 0.75h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Tikal Ruins Guided Tour

Tikal 3h - 4h 7km

Put on your walking shoes and prepare for a tiring but memorable day walking through history at the impressive site of Tikal. The Mayan site is set in the heart of the jungle, in Tikal National Park, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Along with our bilingual guide, see some of the temples, plazas, carved stone monuments and public squares, more than 3,000 buildings in all, dating from as far back as 600 BC. Climb to the top of Temple IV, catch your breath, take photos, and then sit and contemplate the magnificence of the site and the tropical rainforest beyond. Look for monkeys, anteaters, armadillos, and deer, as well as macaws and eagles, snakes, and spiders.

Private Vehicle

Tikal - Flores 0.75h 42km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time

Flores

Back in Flores enjoy free time to recharge. Spend it alone or with members of the group. Go for a walk, listen to a podcast along the shores of the lake, or find a fun, local spot to grab a cold beverage and celebrate a day well spent amid ruins and ancient history.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
Accommodations:  Hotel Petén

Flores/Rio Dulce

After breakfast the group will drive from Flores to Rio Dulce, special for its unique combination of natural beauty, Caribbean influence, and diverse wildlife. This river runs through the lush rainforest landscape featuring cliffs, beaches, and hot springs. It is a haven for nature lovers and those wishing to experience adventure off-the-beaten-path. After having lunch on your own in the charming town, the group will enjoy an unforgettable visit to Finca Paraiso. This place is so special because it features a rare, natural phenomenon where hot and cold water sources converge. The waterfall cascades down a rock formation heated by the underground hot springs creating a steamy, warm waterfall combining with the cooler river below. It's an ideal place to swim and find the perfect temperature to float and stare up at the jungle hovering above you. Return to Rio Dulce for free time to grab dinner on your own and recharge your social batteries. There's no doubt that Guatemala will have captured your heart by now.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Flores - Rio Dulce 5h 218km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Finca Paraíso Visit

Rio Dulce

Enjoy a few hours to swim in the hot and cold water of Finca Paraiso. This unique natural phenomenon is well worth a visit. The underground hot springs heat up the water cascading down the waterfall to make a steaming falls that collides with the cold river below creating the perfect temperature to swim and float around beneath the jungle trees.

Free Time

Rio Dulce Evening

Get settled in beautiful Rio Dulce. Enjoy the sounds of the jungle around you and have a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant on your own or with the group.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
Accommodations:  Hacienda Tijax

Me Day: Rio Dulce

It's time for a day that belongs entirely to you! Choose to go on a scenic boat ride to the Caribbean town of Livingston and enjoy a visit to the G Adventures-supported El Manglar Restaurant for an explanation of the women-led community initiative project here. Then, walk around the grounds before a sit-down lunch of delicious local flavours. Or you can join your CEO on a visit to the nearby beach for some downtime by the water and in the sand. The choice really is all yours. You can decide to be as solo or social as you wish for the best of both worlds. Dinner in the evening will be at your leisure. Finding a hip foodie spot with your travel mates sounds like a fabulous idea.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Rio Dulce Me Day

Rio Dulce

Traveling solo alongside your new Solo-ish travel mates means there's always something fun to do and new friends to explore with. But the joy of travel can also be about taking time to yourself to recharge, refresh and reflect on the journey. Today, choose to join your CEO for an incredible activity, or take the time to yourself to enjoy your own company in one of the most incredible places on our planet.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
Accommodations:  Hacienda Tijax
2
Optional Activities for Day 7
Show
Scenic Boat Ride to Livingston
30USD Per Person
Rio Dulce - Livingston
Take a boat down the Rio Dulce toward the Caribbean Sea passing through El Golfete and El Canyon before arriving to Livingston. Float past mangroves and lily pads and the Boqueron Canyon, where a sheer limestone cliff rises 122m (400 ft) out of the river, covered in vines, trees and moss. Arrive at the small fishing village of Livingston known for its unique Afro-Caribbean Garifuna population, with their unique art, music and delicious coconut seafood soup, "tapado".
Caribbean Gastronomic Experience "El Manglar"
Livingston
El Manglar Restaurant in Guatemala is a women-led community tourism initiative founded by the Cayo Quemado Women's Committee with the aim of creating new job opportunities within the community. During your visit you will begin with a welcome given by the women of the committee and receive a brief introduction to the workshop. Then, there will be a short walk around the property, including a full explanation of the project, it's impact, and culture before you all sit down for lunch at the restaurant. Every traveler that visits Cayo Quemado has a direct impact on their community.
If a cost is not listed above for an optional tour, contact us to find out what it is.

Rio Dulce/Antigua

Enjoy breakfast in Rio Dulce before traveling back to Antigua. There will be a stop for lunch on your own along the way. Upon arrival to Antigua your CEO will take the group on an orientation walk downtown and then you will be free to do dinner as you please. Maybe gather together as a group of strangers that have become friends for a fantastic night of delicious food, laughter, and love in a beautiful place you will never forget.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Private Vehicle

Rio Dulce - Antigua Guatemala 6h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Orientation Walk – Antigua

Antigua Guatemala

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Free Time

Antigua Evening

Enjoy a final evening in Antigua. Take photos, walk around the centre of town, and perhaps attend an optional group dinner to commemorate a fantastic Solo-ish experience in Guatemala.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast
Accommodations:  Posada San Vicente

Antigua

You arrived a solo traveller and are leaving with many new friends. Say goodbye to your fellow Solo-ish travellers and depart at any time.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Departure Day

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

• Meals Included:
• Breakfast