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Maya Triangle Odyssey: Ancient Wonders

Guatemala, El Salvador & Honduras in 11 Days, 9 Nights in Destination

From

£ 3,579

£ 2,499

/person

-30%

Valentine, Travel Expert

Valentine
Travel crafter

Explore the mystery and grandeur of the Maya Triangle on this exciting itinerary that will take you to discover ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and stunning landscapes in Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras.

Trip Highlights

  1. map-pin-check-icon
    San Salvador
  2. map-pin-check-icon
    Copan
  3. map-pin-check-icon
    Antigua Guatemala
  4. map-pin-check-icon
    Chichicastenango
  5. map-pin-check-icon
    Dulce River
  6. map-pin-check-icon
    Flores
  7. map-pin-check-icon
    Livingston
  8. map-pin-check-icon
    Panajachel
  9. map-pin-check-icon
    Tikal

Included

  1. All flights

  2. Accommodation

  3. All transfers

  4. Activities

  5. Some meals

Availability

  1. Departures available until March 2026

  2. Available Group tours

  3. Solo travelers from + £ 550

  4. WHAT'S THIS?

Categories available

  1. charm included

  2. WHAT'S THIS?

Book with an expert:

+44 20 76 60 34 10

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Itinerary

Set off on an inspiring adventure through the Maya Triangle. Begin in Guatemala with the awe-inspiring ruins of Tikal and its colorful markets. Then, be enchanted by the colonial beauty of Suchitoto in El Salvador and the fascinating Joya de Cerén. Finally, cross into Honduras to uncover the ancient mysteries of Copán and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture.

1st Day: UK/Ireland - Guatemala City

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Welcome to your adventure in the Maya Triangle! Your first stop will be at Guatemala City International Airport. We will be waiting there to welcome you. After you arrive, we will take you to the hotel. There, you can check in and start enjoying your stay in Guatemala City. Overnight stay in Guatemala City. 

Please note: If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.), you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Clarion Suites Guatemala or similar
tripadvisor rating

537 Reviews

See our full selection

2nd Day: Guatemala City - San Salvador

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, embark on an exciting journey from Guatemala to the Las Chinamas Border in El Salvador. Our first stop is the awe-inspiring archaeological site of Tazumal, one of the oldest and most significant in Central America. Here, delve into the ancient wonders and uncover the mysteries of the civilization that once thrived in this remarkable location.

Next, we will visit Joya de Cerén, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This extraordinary site offers a rare glimpse into the daily life and agricultural practices of the Maya, providing a unique and captivating window into their past. To wrap up this unforgettable day, we will journey to San Salvador and check into our hotel, ready to relax and reflect on the day's incredible discoveries. Overnight stay in San Salvador.

Estimated transfer time and distance: 4 hours, 245 km.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Barceló San Salvador or similar
tripadvisor rating

1706 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Exploring the Joya de Cerén Archaeological Park

Light

See more
included
Tour to the Archaeological Site of Tazumal

Light

See more

3rd Day: San Salvador - Copan

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, we embark on an exciting journey to Santa Ana, also known as "The Brown City," "Heroic City," "Capital of the World," and "Branch of Heaven." This destination is one of the most important in El Salvador. We will explore its historic center, renowned as one of the most beautiful and significant in Central America. The arrangement of its buildings around the charming Libertad Park is almost perfect and truly remarkable. A visit to the Cathedral of Santa Ana is a must; it has been declared a Cultural Heritage site by El Salvador. Nearby, you'll find the stunning National Theater, celebrated for its outstanding acoustics and decoration. Additionally, the City Hall, home to the municipal government, is worth a visit.

Afterward, we will journey towards the El Florido Border, from where we will continue to Copan, Honduras. Here, we will explore the Copan Archaeological Site, one of the most important sites in the Maya World. It is famous for its intricately carved stelae, the staircase adorned with Mayan glyphs, and the ancient ball court. Finally, we will head to our hotel for check-in, wrapping up an adventurous day. Overnight stay in Copan.


Estimated transfer time and distance: 3 hours, 175 km.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Marina Copan or similar
tripadvisor rating

588 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Tour to the Copan Archaeological Site

Light

See more
included
Visit to the city of Santa Ana

Light

See more

4th Day: Copan - Rio Dulce

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you'll embark on an exciting journey starting with a visit to the El Florido Border. From there, you'll enjoy a road trip to Quiriguá. Once you arrive, you'll explore the impressive Quiriguá Archaeological Site in Guatemala, nestled on the banks of the Motagua River. This site features a complex of sculpted sandstone stelae, including the tallest stela in the entire Maya world, standing at a towering 10.60 meters. You'll also marvel at the intricate animal figures, all dating back to the classical Maya civilization. After soaking in the history and beauty of Quiriguá, you'll continue your adventure to Río Dulce, where you'll check into your hotel and settle in for a restful night. Overnight stay in Río Dulce.

Estimated transfer time and distance: 3 hours, 185 km.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Banana Palms Hotel or similar
tripadvisor rating

111 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Visit to the archaeological site of Quiriguá

Moderate

See more

5th Day: Rio Dulce - Flores

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you'll embark on an enchanting boat ride featuring a panoramic tour of the historic San Felipe de Lara Castle. This Spanish fortress, built in the 17th century, was constructed to protect their warehouses from pirate raids along the lake shores. During your tour, you'll be captivated by the lush vegetation and a stunning natural canyon, offering a glimpse into the area's rich biodiversity.

Later, you'll arrive at Livingston, a vibrant Garifuna village known for its unique Afro-Caribbean culture, lively music, and delicious cuisine. After exploring Livingston, you'll return by boat to Río Dulce. From there, you'll embark to Flores, a charming island town on Lake Petén Itzá, known for its colorful colonial buildings and as the gateway to the ancient Maya city of Tikal. Once there, you'll check into your hotel and unwind for the evening. Overnight stay in Flores.

Estimated transfer time and distance: 3 hours, 209 km.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Casona del Lago or similar
tripadvisor rating

306 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Boat ride, visit to town, panoramic tour of San Felipe de Lara Castle

Light

See more

6th Day: Flores - Guatemala City

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Breakfast at the hotel. Your adventure today begins with a journey from Flores to Tikal. As you arrive at one of the most remarkable Maya archaeological sites, Tikal, meaning "Place of Voices," you'll immerse yourself in its rich history built during the Classic period by the Maya civilization. Your guide will lead you through a comprehensive exploration, starting with a glimpse of the Temples and Acropolis model to grasp their monumental scale.

Continuing your journey, you'll visit complexes Q and R, followed by the awe-inspiring Central Acropolis. Here, you'll encounter some of the complex's most iconic structures, including Temple I, known as "The Great Jaguar," and Temple II, dubbed "of the Masks."

If time allows, you'll venture into the enigmatic Lost World, delving deeper into the mysteries of this ancient site. After a morning filled with exploration, you'll indulge in a delicious lunch at the Visitor Center.

In the afternoon, your journey continues as you transfer from Tikal to the Mundo Maya Airport. From there, you'll catch a flight back to Guatemala City. Upon arrival, you'll be escorted to your hotel, where you can relax and unwind after an exhilarating day of discovery. Overnight stay in Guatemala City.

Estimated transfer time and distance: 2 hours, 128 km.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Clarion Suites Guatemala or similar
tripadvisor rating

537 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Visit to the Tikal Archaeological Site

Light

See more

7th Day: Guatemala City - Panajachel

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you'll head to Chichicastenango to explore one of Guatemala's most vibrant destinations: its famous market, located in the central highlands. This market is known for its colors and vitality, and during your visit, you'll have the opportunity to wander through its bustling aisles and admire the diversity of products on offer. You'll also visit the historic Santo Tomás Church, which is a highlight of the city.

Afterwards, you'll journey to the majestic Lake Atitlán, surrounded by the stunning volcanoes Atitlán, Tolimán, and San Pedro. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the natural beauty of the surroundings, creating a truly breathtaking landscape. You'll take a panoramic tour of Panajachel, a charming town on the lake's shores, before heading to the hotel to rest and relax. Overnight stay in Panajachel.

Estimated transfer time and distance: 3 hours, 180 km.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Posada de Don Rodri... or similar
tripadvisor rating

422 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Chichicastenango Market, Church of Santo Tomás & views of Lake Atitlán

Moderate

See more

8th Day: Panajachel - Antigua Guatemala

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you're in for an exciting water adventure. Your journey begins as you board a boat, setting course for San Juan La Laguna, a picturesque village nestled along the lake's serene shores. Prepare to immerse yourself in a panoramic exploration filled with unforgettable experiences.

Upon arrival, your first stop will be the historic Catholic Church, where you'll uncover the intriguing tales of its past and marvel at its architectural grandeur. Continuing your journey, you'll venture into a world of culinary delight at a local chocolate cooperative, witnessing the intricate process behind crafting this beloved treat.

Next, your adventure takes you to the Textile Cooperative, where you'll witness artisans at work, skillfully dyeing threads to create vibrant fabrics. As you marvel at their craftsmanship, you'll also learn about the traditional uses of medicinal plants, adding depth to your cultural immersion.

As the day draws to a close, you'll return to Panajachel, reflecting on the day's discoveries. From there, a journey awaits to your hotel in Antigua Guatemala, where you'll unwind and relive the memories of your enriching adventure. Overnight stay in Antigua Guatemala.

Estimated transfer time and distance: 1 hour, 85 km.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Meson de Maria or similar
tripadvisor rating

475 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Boat ride and visit to the town of San Juan La Laguna, chocolate factory & textile factory.

Moderate

See more

9th Day: Antigua Guatemala

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you're set to immerse yourself in the captivating history, charm, and beauty of Antigua Guatemala, once a pivotal city during the colonial era in America. Your tour promises an exploration of iconic landmarks, including the grand La Merced church, the bustling Central Plaza, and the majestic Cathedral, where you'll bask in the enchantment of this historic city.

Following the guided tour, you'll enjoy leisure time to discover Antigua at your own pace. Whether you're drawn to browsing the vibrant local markets or simply unwinding amidst the colonial ambiance, the choice is yours. With the freedom to tailor your experience, you'll savor every moment. When the time comes, you'll return to the hotel, ready to unwind and recharge after a day of discovery. Overnight stay in Antigua Guatemala.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Hotel Meson de Maria or similar
tripadvisor rating

475 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Walking tour in Antigua Guatemala

Moderate

See more

10th Day: Antigua Guatemala - Night on board

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today marks the end of your Guatemala adventure as you transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK/Ireland. Enjoy your journey home. Night on board.

11th Day: UK/Ireland

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Arrive back in the UK/Ireland and end your trip.

Select a day to go to next step

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Categories Available:

charm

From £ 2,499

Selected

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    Accommodation: 9 Nights

    Included activities

    Included

    Exploring the Joya de Cerén Archaeological Park

    Included activity for day 2

    Discover El Salvador's UNESCO-listed Joya de Cerén Archaeological Park, a preserved Maya village frozen in time by a volcanic eruption. Explore ancient houses, workshops, and communal areas, offering a glimpse into Maya daily life over 1,400 years ago.

    Duration 01:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information
    Included

    Tour to the Archaeological Site of Tazumal

    Included activity for day 2

    Discover the ancient marvels of the Tazumal Archaeological Site in El Salvador. Explore Maya ruins, including pyramids and temples, offering a glimpse into a rich history spanning over a thousand years.

    Duration 01:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information
    Included

    Tour to the Copan Archaeological Site

    Included activity for day 3 in Copan

    Discover the Copan Archaeological Site in Honduras, home to ancient Maya ruins including stelae and pyramids. Delve into the mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and uncover the secrets of the Maya civilization.

    Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information
    Included

    Visit to the city of Santa Ana

    Included activity for day 3

    Experience the city of Santa Ana in El Salvador, known for its colonial charm and vibrant markets. Discover cultural landmarks like the Santa Ana Cathedral and the National Theater, immersing yourself in the local atmosphere.

    Duration 01:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Light

    more information

    Show more

    The price includes

    • Departures from main UK/Ireland departure airports.
    • International flights: UK/Ireland - Guatemala City - UK/Ireland.
    • Internal flights: Flores - Guatemala City. *
      more information
    • 9 nights accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels.
      See hotels included
    • 9 Breakfasts and 1 lunch.
    • Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles.
    • Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary with English speaking guide.
      See itinerary
    • All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
    • ATOL Protection.
    • Bilingual English/Spanish speaking guide during the whole trip.

    Not included

    Drinks, tips and any other services not mentioned in what's included.

    Migratory procedures at the border of El Salvador and Honduras, a tax of 5.00 USD per person to be paid by the passenger at the destination.

    If your destination is in the USA or Canada, or if your selected flights to a different destination have connections in the USA or Canada, it is mandatory to have an ESTA (for USA) or an eTA (for Canada) before travelling.

    ESTAhttps://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/ 

    eTAhttps://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta.html 

    * Documentation of the internal flights will be delivered to you on arrival at your destination. It is essential to fill in the passport information correctly for each passenger in the given boxes at the end of the reservation process.

  • Guatemala
  • Honduras
  • El Salvador
    • Entry requirements

      Passport with a minimum of six months validity.

    • Visa

      No visa is required for stays of up to 30 days.

    • Currency

      Guatemalan Quetzal

    • Language

      Spanish

    • Electricity

      120V, 60 Hz.

    • Health

      Please consult your doctor regarding malaria prophylaxis.

    • Time zone

      UTC - 06:00.

    • Other useful information

      Inches are used to measure small objects in Guatemala. One inch equals 2.54cm

    • Tourist Office website

      http://www.visitguatemala.com/

    Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline’s website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.

    Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same, or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.

    In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or cancelled without prior notice.

    If you have reduced mobility, require the use of a wheelchair, or you would prefer this tour to be a private experience for you and your group, you must contact our Experts at +44 20 8068 3176 before booking to ensure that your needs can be met.

    While on the road, it is highly unlikely that the vehicle will be equipped with wifi or bathroom facilities, though rest stops will be made for long trips. We recommend purchasing a new SIM card at the airport or placing an e-SIM before travel to guarantee internet connection.

    The Foreign & Commonwealth Office offer up-to-date travel advice by visiting www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.

    Pay in installments

    Pay only 60% today to reserve your trip.

    Rest is paid in instalments according to your departure date.

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