Mayan Journeys

Guatemala and Hondouras

Travel with Luminous and Mayan Elders to Sacred Sites

Including Tikal & Copan
February 4 - 14 - 2010
11 Day Tour as outlined below

February 14 - 17 Antigua Extension
   February 17 - 20 Lake Atitlan Extension

Detailed Itinerary

Guatemala is a land of towering temple pyramids that reach toward the sky, jaguars, quetzal birds, of waterfalls, volcanoes and rainforests seething with life.  Guatemala is a land of precious history and was homeland to the ancient Maya civilization whose roots lead back to sites as early as 2000 BC.  During the classic period (250-900 AD) the fabled sites of Copan, Quirigua and Tikal were born. The ancient carved stone stelae proclaim the glories and stories of the kings whose names we now know – since the ancient script of the Maya has been deciphered.   Could it be that these ancient people have knowledge and information that would be of value to us today?  People visiting these ancient sites often have a unique experience, a memory, a feeling or an insight to strengthen their connection with the Maya.

The Maya civilization was crushed by the Spanish Conquistadors during the 16th Century.  These invaders imposed their own symbols, art and religion on the Mayan people. Today we find glimpses of the beauty of Spanish Colonial architecture and art objects in Guatemala City and Antigua.

In the mountains and remote areas of Guatemala, the old costumes, traditions and customs remain.  Maya is still the predominant language in much of Guatemala – at Lake Atitlan and Chichicastenango and life goes on in ways that have remained unchanged for centuries.   As we travel from ancient Mayan sites to mingle with the present day Maya, a tapestry over centuries of time is woven for our pleasure.

Thursday, February 4: Guatemala City

Plan to arrive in Guatemala City as early as possible.  Depending upon what time you arrive and what time we can check in to the hotel, there may be some time to see a little of Guatemala City or rest before our Welcome Dinner and Orientation.

The starting point for our journey - is a blend of old and new with distinct Latin charm.  Here we will visit the Ixchel Museum of Indigenous Textiles and Clothing.  Popol Vuh Archaeological Museum, National Museum of Archeology and Ethnology.   These visits will prepare us for some of the sites we will be visiting on the journey.

Friday, February 5: Guatemala City

Today we visit the Popul Vuh Museum, named for the mythical history of the Quiche Maya.  Here we will find excellent examples of Maya art and ceramics as well ad fine religious art dating from the 16th to 18th centuries.  Today we will also visit the Museo Ixchel to view its superb collection of Maya textiles.  Time permitting we will visit the Museo Nacional de Arqueologia y Etnologia housing immense collection of Maya treasures. The information we gather here will be helpful in identifying regional weavings we see in our travels.  We may take an evening tour of the city after dinner.

Saturday, February 6:  Lake Atitlan

We leave our hotel early this morning for the journey to Lake Atitlan where we check into our hotel.  After lunch we will take a relaxing cruise across the 900 foot deep lake to Santiago Atitlan.  Lake Atitlan, surrounded by small villages and three volcanoes, is considered by some to the most beautiful lake in the world.  It is said that the wonderful energy at Lake Atitlan has spiritual and healing energy like Sedona.  After dinner we can stroll the lively streets of Panajachel.

Sunday, February 7:  Chichicastenango

Enjoy breakfast and beautiful Lake Atitlan.  Today we will visit the largest indigenous market in Central America which has operated continuously for over 1000 years.  Dance masks, hand woven huipiles, artifacts and goods of every description brought from surrounding Indian villages fill this colorful marketplace

We will also witness a strange combination of Maya and Catholic rites as the local Indians burn incense and present offerings to their Maya gods outside on the church and then perform Catholic rituals inside.  The incense smoke is thick and fragrant in the air.

We return to Lake Atitlan for our dinner and have free time in the evening.

Monday, February 8:  Copan, Honduras

We leave Lake Atitlan early and descend from Guatemala’s Highlands into the Central Valley amidst spectacular scenery as we make our way to Copan.  Hillside terraces thrive with hand-tilled crops, small Mayan Villages still intact, lakes and pine forests are some of the views we take in along the way.

We cross the border into Honduras, check into our hotel in Copan.   Copan is one of the greatest and best preserved Mayan Cities of the Classic period.  Excavation is still taking place at Copan and there are always new discoveries. This afternoon there is free time to explore the city and relax at the hotel. Tonight, we will be introduced to the shaman who will accompany us to the Copan sites tomorrow and enjoy the wisdom and teachings.

Tuesday, February 9:  Copan, Honduras

We will spend today’s tour with our honored indigenous elder who will educate us from a Mayan perspective and introduce ceremony into our experience.

Our tour of the Copan ruins includes the Grand Plaza, Ball Court, the legendary Hieroglyphic Stairway and the Archeological Museum.  Rich stone sculptures and intricate hieroglyphics are striking against the backdrop of the verdant jungle.  The Hieroglyphic Stairway includes the longest single glyphic text found at any Mayan site.  There are over 1000 glyphs on 63 stone steps.

Later today we will continue our tour at the Copan Acropolis the fabulous Sepulturas section of elite residences.  Here we will visit the tunnels where excavations have revealed deeply buried and beautifully preserved architecture for earlier periods. These ruins have a very wonderful feel.   We

This evening we are in for a very special treat with a visit to the Hacienda San Lucas in the hills overlooking Copan for an authentic homemade dinner under the stars.  Our tables are out on the lawn and the food is prepared to perfection.  This special celebratory dinner is included in our tour.  Alcoholic beverages are not included.

Wednesday, February 10: Rio Dulce -Tikal

We depart from Copan early this morning and cross the border back into Guatemala, cross the Rio Dulce and have lunch.  Time permitting, we may explore the area before we continue on to Tikal and check in at our hotel for dinner and a rest.  Tonight we will meet the shaman who will be our ceremonial leader at Tikal and enjoy the wisdom and teachings.

Thursday, February 11: Tikal

Sunrise today we go to the Tikal site a Mayan Elder and perform a sunrise ceremony amidst the sounds and sights of colorful tropical birds and howler monkeys.  This unforgettable site was settled in 700 BC.   We will visit palaces, steep pyramids, ball courts, huge plazas, temples, shrines and paved causeways.

See El Mundo Perdido (the lost world), The Temple of the Grand Jaguar and Temple II, the Plaza of the Seven Temples and the great towering temple of Lord Chocolate.

All this, under a jungle canopy teeming with wildlife and natural wonders. A haven for archeologists and naturalists - these magnificent ancient temples are considered to be one of the most spiritually powerful spots on Earth.

Excavation at Tikal began around 1950, yet only a small portion of the 40 square mile city has been revealed.  The extensive finds from these excavations are housed in two museums which we will visit.  There will be additional time to explore on your own.

Friday: February 12: Tikal – Quirigua – Antigua

Early today we travel toward Antigua – with a stop at the amazing site of Quirigua.  Here the intricately carved Stelae tell the stories of the ancient Maya.  This site is an artistic beauty.

Our stay in Antigua will be at Casa Santo Domingo, a five star luxury hotel that is built around three centuries of history, art and mysticism - adds an exquisite flavor to our time here.

Saturday:  February 13: Antigua

Happy Valentines Day!  And what better place to spend it than one of the world's best conserved colonial cities.  As you stroll through the cobblestone streets, enter courtyards, shops, galleries and museums - you will have an experience of ancient times.

A walking tour of the city will introduce you to some of the city, and then spend your day where you please.

Tonight we have a farewell dinner at the wonderful Wilton with an opportunity to share our experiences with our new found friends.

Sunday:  February 14: Antigua

Breakfast this morning and those who are leaving today will be shuttled to the airport for their flight.   Those who will be staying on may transfer to another Antigua Hotel.

Sunday, February 14 - 17: ANTIGUA EXTENSION

Enjoy more time in Antigua, a colonial city that has much to offer.  Spanish Language Lessons for four hours a day (if you would like) and 2 half day local tours are included.

This part of the journey is set up to allow more free time and independent exploration.  The group that stays for this portion of the trip will be offered optional activities and tours and you can expect some planned activities and lots of free time.   Inquire about your specific interests.  You will love Antigua.

Saturday, February 17-20:  LAKE ATITLAN EXTENSION

Relaxation is the keynote of this extension.  We will take two two day trips.

We will travel by private car to Zunil and the beautiful Las Fuentes Georginas Hot Springs for a rejuvenating day in the mineral waters.

On another day we will visit the ancient site of Takalik Abaj.  The name translates to standing stone is K’iche (Mayan language).  Among the treasures, we will view an un-looted grave of a Mayan King who was buried in full regalia.  Many of the carved stone monuments and sculptures show an Olmec influence (Mexico) and it is speculated that the Maya and the Olmec may have inhabited this site at the same time.  There is also a mini-zoo on the grounds where rescued animals reside. We will have the services of a guide to introduce us to this site.

Spanish Language classes are included in this segment of the trip, should you desire to learn or improve your Spanish.  This portion of the journey leaves plenty of time for independent and group exploration.  We will have transportation for the group.

On the 28th we will be taking our shuttle to the airport for our home destinations.

Frequently Answered Questions

Travel Light!  We Recommend and permit only one suitcase - similar to an Eagle Creek - on wheels - about the size of a large backpack.  This bag will be with you the entire time.

You will definitely buy things to bring back - so a foldable duffle type bag is good to bring along.  If you are a power shopper, you may want that second bag to have wheels as well. 

Cellphones - Cell phone service in Guatemala is stellar - over the mountains and through the hills you will have reception.  It does not pay to bring your phone from home even if you have a GSM enabled device.  You can purchase a cell phone in Guatemala for around $13 and purchase minutes as well.  Calls to the U.S. are .10 cents a minute.  By using this method, you will have the convenience of a cell phone at a very reasonable price.  Highly recommended.  You can acquire a cellphone at the airport.  MovieStar network and phones are the least desirable.

Money - It is highly recommended that you bring cash and exchange your money in Guatemala at a small hotel or other local exchange.  You may also exchange in the US in banks before you leave.  If you use a credit card at their banks, you will receive a much less generous exchange rate.  This adds up when we get into hundreds of dollars.  When I was there in December the rates for cash exchange gave about $30 more per hundred than the bank using a credit card from an ATM.

Shoes - This could be the most important item you bring on this journey.  There is plenty of walking to be done.  Cobblestone streets and sidewalks in Antigua make their demands.  Choose a very comfortable walking shoe with nice thick soles...you will be glad you did.   You will enjoy walking and want to walk more than you may be accustomed to - the beautiful weather is really inspires you to walk more.  The shoes you choose can double for the time we spend walking through the jungle and ancient temples - you are set. 

You may also want to bring a pair of sandals....or something lighter for dinner, or other times when the walking shoes may feel like too much.   The two pair of shoes should do it.

GET FIT!  Start now walking every day.  You will want to see so many of the beautiful places we will visit, you will be inspired to walk day and night.  Getting fit will give you the stamina to fulfill your travel desires. e will

AIRLINE TICKETS TO GUATEMALA CITY:  We recommend you check prices frequently and buy your plane tickets early. The flight to Guatemala City from Phoenix with a stopover in either Los Angeles or Texas is usually around $500.00 round trip. Keep checking – prices change frequently.  If you live in a Hub City like LA, Chicago, Miami, Houston, your flights will probably cost less.

TRAVEL INSURANCE - Travel insuran+c

HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENT - Maya Dream, LLC requires that you sign a Hold Harmless Agreement concerning any losses, injuries or other possibilities that may occur on the journey.

Packing - Things to bring - Travelling Light

Expect the absolute best trip you have ever taken!

We welcome you to the journey during a dinner at a fine restaurant.  At this time we will discuss the itinerary and answer questions.  You will meet the people with whom you will travel.  This is an evening where you can break out the dress up wear of your travel wardrobe. 

We build our trips for comfort and ease of transition.  All hotels are 4 and 5 Star - transportation arrangements are comfortable.  We employ bi-lingual guides and/or translators.  Having made the journey before we can make tried and true recommendations.

We know you will appreciate the comfort of a fine hotel after a day of exploring temples in the jungle, walking the cobblestone streets, shopping or enjoying yourself as you see fit.

We will be interacting with Mayan Elders and other interesting indigenous people.  We will prepare you for these interactions and customs.  We will receive teachings and participate in ancient ceremonies. 

Bring a camera, journal or other methods of documenting your journey.  We will have time together to share our experiences - ask questions and generally benefit from what others have learned. 

SPECIAL OFFER:

If you are a person who has relatives, friends, clients or associates who may enjoy this trip - please do let them know.  If you are able to gather five (5) other people you can take the journey for half price.  If you are able to gather ten (10) others you can go for free.  In the event you have a group that wants to share the wealth, there will be a 10% discount for each person (5 or more).  Airfare from your home destination is not included in this offer.  All group participants must register and complete payment for the journey for this offer to be valid.

What's IIncluded? ded?

Transfers to and from Airport 4 & 5 Star Hotels Ground Transport Bi-Lingual Guides & Drivers Welcome Dinner at Fine Restaurant Dinner at Hacienda San Lucas in Copan All Breakfasts 2 Lunches (to and from Tikal) Farewell Dinner at in Antigua Teachings & Ceremonies with Mayan Elders Spiritual & Historical Teachings  Spiritual Life Reading with Luminous Boat Transport on Lake Atitlan Museum and Park Entrance Fees

NOT INCLUDED: Alcoholic Beverages Personal Items -Laundry etc. Some Lunches & Dinners Gratuities Airfare from/to your home location

Mayan Church, Chichicastenango	Handmade Weavings at Chichicastenango	Overlooking Antigua, Guatemala

Guatemala & Honduras - 11 Days - February 4-14 .....................................................$2,600

Antigua Extension - 7 Days - February 14-17.................................................................$575

Lake Atitlan Extension - 8 Days - February 17-20......................................................... $625

THE COMPLETE JOURNEY - 16 DAYS - INCLUDING BOTH EXTENSIONS ....................$3,800

$250.00 discount for complete journey if paid in full by October 15, 2009............... .$3,550

Single Supplement is calculated at $125 per day.

A Portion of the proceeds from the Guatemala Journey in February will be donated to the Institute for Cultural Awareness for their continued support of indigenous cultures.

    Join us!

Payments can be made with check, money order or credit cards. Please make checks payable to Maya Dream, LLC. There is a further discount for cash, money order or check payments of $100.

Deposit is Non-Refundable. We recommend you obtain travel insurance to protect you against all the unpredictable events that might hinder you form taking the journey.   We will be happy to recommend a travel insurance company to you. 

While we do not expect any incidents, life is unpredictable.  Maya Dream, LLC, its associates, affiliates and service providers are not responsible for any loss, theft, injuries or damages incurred before, during or after the travel event.  Again, we do recommend travel insurance to our participants.

RESERVATIONS, DEPOSITS & PAYMENTS

Space is limited!  Reserve your place as soon as possible. 

Reserve my Place.......................................................................................................... $1,000

50% of the journey to be Paid by November 1, 2009.....................................................$300

Balance Paid in Full by December 1, 2009.....................................................................$1,300

I prefer to pay for the Journey in full.............................................................................$2,600

I Would like to add the Antigua Extension to the Journey.............................................. $575

I Would Like to add the Lake Atitlan Extension to the Journey...................................... $625

Single Supplement for the main journey...................................................................... $1,375

Single Supplement for Antiqua Extension........................................................................ $375

Single Supplement for Lake Atitlan Extension................................................................. $425

Complete 16 Day Journey............................................................................................. $3,800

Complete 16 Day Journey paid by October 15th......................................................... $3,550