Solola Market, Panajachel Cloud Forest and Mayan Villages from Antigua
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Solola Market, Panajachel Cloud Forest and Mayan Villages from Antigua
/ Guatemala / Sacatepéquez Department / Antigua Guatemala / Tours & Activities /
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Solola Market, Panajachel Cloud Forest and Mayan Villages from Antigua

1 day
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About this activity
The day begins in Antigua with an early pick up at 8:00am to start your adventure.

Driving along the Pan American Highway so the ride is smooth, although full of mountain curves you will pass through the old growth forest around Tecpan. As you're near the Lake Atitlan caldera, leave the highway, and descend 3,500 feet over 10 miles to one of the most beautiful caldera lakes in the world.

Arriving at the Solola indigenous market at 10:00am, your local guide will meet you to start your guided tour.

The Solola market happens everyday, so this is a perfect alternative to the Chichicastenango market which is only 2 days per week.

Very few tourists visit this market, so do not be surprised if you seem to be the only tourist in the market.

The locals are a bit shy and not used to seeing tourists, but they are friendly and curious. The handicrafts are more authentic and have not been modified for the tourists. Sorry, but you will not find refrigerator magnets or laptop covers for sale here!!

You decide how much time you want to spend at the market, and how much time you want for the remaining destinations.

Your guide will help you choose an appropriate restaurant for lunch (not included). Our guide likes the local taco stand that is popular with students. Or if you prefer a scenic setting, we will suggest a restaurant.

While you are enjoying lunch, discuss your options and choose how you want to spend the reminding time.

You can take a side trip to the mountain farming community Conception. Enjoy the isolated tranquility and fresh mountain air while exploring the pristine Catholic church constructed in 1612. The road to Conception was only paved 10 years ago, but the village seems untouched by the modern world. The drive is along ancient roadways that have been used by the Kachekel Maya for centuries. This rugged and remote area has barely been touched by the outside world.

Next continue further down into the volcanic caldera to Panajachel, the gateway to Lake Atitlan. The streets are lined with handicraft vendors and cafes. Stroll the famous Santander and enjoy the vibe of "Gringo-tenango". Spend your time shopping or enjoying the lake views from the malecon (lakeshore pedistran walk).

Another option is to visit the Sacred Caves a bit above Panajachel. Take a moderate hike in the mountains to see the caves, and learn why the locals make offering at the alters inside the caves. It is very likely you will witness a Mayan shaman performing the Fire Ceremony for a local family. With the help of your guide, you can make you own offering if you like.

No matter which activity you choose, the day will be fun and interesting. Meet back at the shuttle at 4:00pm and say good bye to your guide and to Lake Atitlan.

Rest and relax during the 2-hour drive back to Antigua.
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Included
  • Round trip transport by air-conditioned coach or minivan
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected Antigua hotels only)
Not included
  • Food and drinks
  • Gratuities
Additional
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Features
Tourism
85%
Cultural
70%
Reviews
3.8
4
M
Mary M
5 | 2017-05-01

Since Guatemala was once the center of the Mayan civilization, my friends and I wanted a unique experience that showed us the Mayan culture. The Solola Market, Panajachel Cloud Forest and Mayan Villages offered that and more. Our tour guide, Alvaro Samuel Botan Sen or Sam is Mayan and took us first to the Solola Market where we were the only foreigners. Sam advised us, since we were obvious stand-out visitors, how to be sensitive regarding photography and interactions. Sam next showed us Mayan Villages along Lake Atitlan where we sampled local life and Mayan markets. We ate typical food at a restaurant along side the scenic lake. As a special feature of the tour, we climbed to a cave, high above the lake, to experience a Mayan ritual conducted by a shaman. The climb requires sensible shoes and a brave heart, but with Sam as the guide, this event was the highlight of our trip. If you seek authenticity and a tour you will always remember, I highly recommend this one and Sam as the guide. Our tour was booked through the local contact Los Elementos Adventure Center and Day Spa in Antigua.

Anonymous
Anonymous

Antigua Guatemala

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