Explore the Lost City of El Mirador with Anaiz Sandoval Piña
Your TourHero
Hola, I’m Anaiz! I’m a young traveler who loves to explore new places with new people. I believe traveling Is essential in life to expand our horizons. I usually like to explore big cities but I’m always up for a new adventure. That being said… exploring the depths of what seems to be an endless jungle to reveal the world’s largest pyramid is definitely going to be a dream come to life!
Duration
12 days · 11 nights
Travel Date
Mar 1 – 12, 2022
Activity Level
Strenuous
Group Size
10 - 20
Transportation
Van, Pullman bus, boat
Tour Prices
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
18 – 30
Travel interest
Adventurous, hiking, camping, photography, friendships
Your Local Guide
Guides from Maya Cosmos Ascension will make your trip truly unforgettable. With a passion for creating transformational experiences that focus on a sustainable, cultural, educational, environmental and social approach, they pride themselves on offering a holistic experience in the Mayan lands. The team is equipped with valuable education, training and experience to ensure your safety and comfort in Guatemala. Genuinely friendly, passionate and eager to enrich your immersive experience, they’ll take care of the nitty gritty details for you and make your trip as smooth as possible.
Embark on an immersive and transformative journey through Guatemala’s most treasured destinations. A multi-day expedition takes you right into the deepest part of the Mayan Biosphere Reserve, where you’ll discover the lost city of El Mirador nestled within the lush jungle. Learn the ancient secrets of the great Maya civilization by exploring several impressive archeological sites, including the giant Temple of La Danta, one of the largest pyramids in the world! In between your expedition, you will also explore the majestic Tikal, the charming city of Antigua, and even hike the active Pacaya Volcano! This is an unforgettable trip specially designed for natural explorers with adventurous spirits.
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for balance payment
Your place is guaranteed at the time of full payment. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to offer any refunds for the amount paid.
Your TourHero
Hola, I’m Anaiz! I’m a young traveler who loves to explore new places with new people. I believe traveling Is essential in life to expand our horizons. I usually like to explore big cities but I’m always up for a new adventure. That being said… exploring the depths of what seems to be an endless jungle to reveal the world’s largest pyramid is definitely going to be a dream come to life!
Duration
12 days · 11 nights
Travel Date
Mar 1 – 12, 2022
Activity Level
Strenuous
Group Size
10 - 20
Transportation
Van, Pullman bus, boat
Embark on an immersive and transformative journey through Guatemala’s most treasured destinations. A multi-day expedition takes you right into the deepest part of the Mayan Biosphere Reserve, where you’ll discover the lost city of El Mirador nestled within the lush jungle. Learn the ancient secrets of the great Maya civilization by exploring several impressive archeological sites, including the giant Temple of La Danta, one of the largest pyramids in the world! In between your expedition, you will also explore the majestic Tikal, the charming city of Antigua, and even hike the active Pacaya Volcano! This is an unforgettable trip specially designed for natural explorers with adventurous spirits.
Timeline
- Day 1 · Guatemala City and Antigua
- Arrive at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City
- ~ 1 hr van
- Check-in at Hotel Convento Santa Catalina (or similar according to availability)
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Explore Antigua — free and easy
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 2 · Antigua
- Breakfast
- Explore Antigua — free and easy
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Check out of accommodation
- Journey to Guatemala City
- ~ 1 hr van
- Dinner
- Overnight in luxury Pullman bus
- Day 3 · Isla de Flores and Lake Peten Itza
- Early arrival at Isla de Flores — have local breakfast
- Explore Isla de Flores — free and easy
- Check-in at Los Amigos Hostel (or similar according to availability)
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Boat ride on Lake Peten Itza
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 4 · Mayan Biosphere Reserve
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Journey to Carmelita shire
- ~ 4 hrs van
- Lunch
- Trek to El Tintal and jungle exploration
- Check-in at El Tintal campsite
- Dinner
- Day 5 · Mayan Biosphere Reserve
- Breakfast and check-out of campsite
- Trek to El Mirador and jungle exploration (with lunch en route)
- Check-in at El Mirador campsite
- Dinner at the campsite
- Day 6 · Mayan Biosphere Reserve
- Breakfast
- All-day El Mirador exploration — includes La Danta pyramid
- Lunch at the campsite
- Continue El Mirador exploration
- Dinner at the campsite
- Day 7 · Mayan Biosphere Reserve
- Breakfast and check out of campsite
- Trek to El Tintal and jungle exploration (with lunch en route)
- Check-in at El Tintal campsite
- Dinner
- Day 8 · Mayan Biosphere Reserve and Isla de Flores
- Breakfast and check out of campsite
- Trek to Carmelita and jungle exploration
- Lunch
- Journey to Isla de Flores
- ~ 4 hrs van
- Check-in at Los Amigos Hostel (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 9 · Isla de Flores and Tikal
- Breakfast
- Journey to Tikal
- ~ 1 hr 18 mins van
- Tikal exploration
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Journey back to Isla de Flores
- ~ 1 hr 18 mins van
- Check out of accommodation
- Dinner
- Overnight in luxury Pullman bus
- Day 10 · Guatemala City and Antigua
- Breakfast in Guatemala City
- Journey to Antigua
- ~ 1 hr van
- Antigua walking tour
- Check-in at Hotel Convento Santa Catalina (or similar according to availability)
- Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
- Day 11 · Pacaya Volcano and Antigua
- Breakfast
- ~ 1 hr 18 mins van
- Hike the trails around the Pacaya Volcano
- Lunch
- Journey back to Antigua
- ~ 1 hr 18 mins van
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 12 · Departure
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Journey to airport
- ~ 1 hr van
- Journey ends at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City
Details
Day 1
Welcome to Guatemala, the heart of the Mayan world; discover the heritage-listed Antigua
Upon arriving in vibrant Guatemala City, a warm welcome awaits at La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City. You’ll be whisked away by private transportation to the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage city of Antigua. Nestled in forested hills and surrounded by volcanoes in southern Guatemala, this much-visited city is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and well-preserved culture and history. With plenty of ruins and colonial edifices to discover, enjoy an afternoon of exploration and sightseeing after checking into your accommodation — you’ll get the rest of the day to yourself to spend however you please. Connect with the local people, absorb the good vibes of the city, and have a relaxing time on your first day.
Day 2
Continue exploring the World Heritage city of Antigua
More alert and refreshed after a good night’s rest, you’ll have another chance to explore the World Heritage city of Antigua this morning. After a hearty breakfast, spend your free time walking the famous cobblestone streets and discovering the charms of its central plaza, cathedral, art museums, handicraft shops, and more! Visit the busy markets, come across stores selling jade (the sacred stone of the Mayans), or step into local cafes to try the finest Guatemalan coffees available. Don’t forget to wander the famous Calle del Arco (Arch Street) and, of course, catch fantastic panoramic views from Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross). In the afternoon, say goodbye to Antigua and return to Guatemala City. Board a fully-equipped luxury Pullman bus that will take you on an overnight journey to the Mayan lowlands of Peten, home to the most iconic sacred sites of Guatemala.
Day 3
Discover the picturesque Isla de Flores and go on a boat ride on the lake
Rise and shine! Open your eyes to the Mayan lowlands of El Peten. You’ll arrive early at the small and charming Isla de Flores, located in the middle of Lake Peten Itza, to enjoy a typical local breakfast before you explore your beautiful surroundings. Isla de Flores is full of cool little cafes, shops, and boutique hotels, so take your time discovering this little island. You will also have some time to check into your accommodation. In the afternoon, a boat ride on the lake awaits! Fun fact: Lake Peten Itza is the third-largest in Guatemala. You’ll be taken to some hotspots in the area and, if you’re up for it, cool off with a quick swim in the lake’s crystal waters. Throughout the day, you’ll absorb the history of the ancient Mayans who inhabited the surrounding areas — learn about the Itzaes and their different Mayan dynasties. As the day comes to an end, enjoy a breathtaking sunset.
Day 4
Begin your journey onto the incredible Mayan Biosphere Reserve — trek to the sacred site of El Tintal!
After fueling yourself with breakfast, embark on a guided ride through the Mayan jungle until you reach Carmelita. This is the starting point of your incredible expedition into the magical depths of the Mayan Biosphere Reserve to discover the sacred site of El Tintal and the lost city of El Mirador. Adventurous spirits only! You’ll be straying far from civilization — there’s no cell phone or internet connection out in the jungle. Don’t worry, you will be accompanied by a professional team of tour leaders, survival guides, pack mules to help carry your camping gear and supplies, and trained chefs who will prepare your meals for the next few days. Today, you will trek through the dense virgin rainforest all the way to El Tintal. Here, uncover a unique archaeological site that encompasses a Mayan football courtyard (the largest found to date in the Mayan lowlands), an acropolis, and the 47-meter Henequen pyramid. After your exploration, set up camp at the El Tintal campsite, have dinner surrounded by the jungle wilderness, and drift to sleep under a canopy of stars.
Day 5
Trek to the heart of the Mayan Biosphere Reserve and discover the unusual La Muerta site
Wake up to an early breakfast before continuing your journey into the middle of the jungle. Along the way, you’ll have snacks and lunch en route. Come across the archaeological site of La Muerta, located between El Tintal and El Mirador. Inhabited in the early-to-late Classic Period, the site is unusual in its construction as it has two subterranean labyrinths, which is considered rare in the northern Peten region. Continue your trek all the way to the lost city of El Mirador just in time to appreciate the sunset at the top of the 55-meter El Tigre pyramid before settling in at the El Mirador campsite and having a well-deserved dinner.
Day 6
Explore El Mirador’s impressive La Danta, one of the largest pyramids in the world
Good morning! Wake early to the sounds of the Mayan jungle coming to life and witness a splendid sunrise. Have breakfast at the campsite and make sure you have plenty of energy today! You will be spending your entire day exploring El Mirador’s wonders, including the incredible La Danta pyramid and its incredible complex, which reaches a height of more than 70 meters from the base and takes up an unbelievable 2.8 million cubic meters, making it one of the largest pyramids in the world. Also spend time decoding the stone writings on the Jaguar Claw Temple. Have lunch back at the campsite, witness another fantastic jungle sunset, and let your guides regale you with the histories and myths of El Mirador and the Mayan civilization. Have dinner and camp once again under the stars.
Day 7
Start your return — trek your way back to El Tintal
After breakfast, prepare for your return trek. You will backtrack to the El Tintal archaeological site, following the same path that led you to El Mirador. It’s another adventure as you make your way through the dense jungle and catch fleeting glimpses of hidden wildlife. Along the way, fuel up with snacks and lunch in the heart of the forest. Once you reach the El Tintal campsite, settle down for the night and enjoy another dinner and storytelling session with your guides.
Day 8
Say goodbye to the ancient world of the Mayan Biosphere Reserve — welcome back to civilization!
Your Mayan Biosphere Reserve adventure is coming to an end. Have your last jungle breakfast at the El Tintal campsite before you trek all the way back to Carmelita to enjoy a much-deserved local lunch! Then, board your transportation back to Isle de Flores for a free afternoon all to yourself. You will probably want to recover from your multi-day expedition out in the wilderness! Check into your accommodation and spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
Day 9
Visit UNESCO World Heritage site of Tikal
Have a filling breakfast and head out on a trip to the sacred Mayan archaeological site of Tikal (the City of the Voices). Dating back to 2,000 C.E., Tikal was one of the most powerful Mayan kingdoms in its day. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is full of magic and mystery; in fact, its secrets are still being uncovered today by archaeologists! Bask in the wonder of this ancient civilization as you explore some of the tallest pre-Colombian structures of all the Americas. Return to Isla de Flores for dinner, then board your luxury Pullman bus and embark on an overnight journey back to Guatemala City.
Day 10
Have breakfast in Guatemala City and return to Antigua for a walking tour
Upon your early arrival in Guatemala City, you’ll have some time to stretch your legs and indulge in breakfast downtown before continuing onwards to Antigua. Back in this charming city, you’ll be taken on a walking tour to explore the cobbled streets. The tour will focus on the city’s art, culture, and great history. Come across Antigua’s most emblematic places and visit some local living legends!
Day 11
Visit the Pacaya Volcano and explore various hiking trails
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the pacific coast and reach the rugged terrain of the Pacaya Volcano and Calderas Lagoon National Park. Get ready for a hiking adventure — the trails you will explore will lead you to a dynamic ecosystem of dried lava fields, magma stones, and steaming vents. The ascent is not too difficult, and you will be surrounded by magnificent and breathtaking views of the Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango volcanoes. If you’re lucky, the Pacaya and Acatenango (both active volcanoes) might even decide to put on a thrilling lava show for you! After your hike, return to Antigua and spend the rest of the day at your leisure. Tomorrow is your last day in Guatemala!
Day 12
Head back to Guatemala City and say goodbye at the airport
How time flies! After a final breakfast, you’ll be transferred back to Guatemala City to catch your flight at the airport. Say goodbye to the team and have a safe trip home. Until next time!
Accommodation
Hotel Convento Santa Catalina (or similar according to availability)
Hotel Convento Santa Catalina has plenty of history and character, being a majestic convent founded by the Augustinian Order in 1609 and originally functioning as a monastery. The historic property has been carefully preserved and today stands as a hotel that offers you a unique accommodation experience in Antigua. It is conveniently located in the heart of the city, right under the iconic Santa Catalina Arch on 5th Avenue, and provides plenty of old-world charm blended with modern touches to make your stay special. Room type: Quadruple or more — sharing.
Los Amigos Hostel (or similar according to availability)
Los Amigos Hostel is located on the beautiful Isla de Flores, offering guests a cozy place to rest and recharge. The hostel is famous for its spacious restaurant surrounded by lush gardens, ensuring a communal culinary experience that can be shared with other like-minded travelers. Much thought is given to the rooms, with spaces decorated in vibrant colors and amenities ensuring your comforts are met. Room type: Quadruple or more — sharing.
Luxury Pullman bus (overnight — day 2 and 9)
Board your luxury fully-equipped Pullman bus for your overnight journeys between Guatemala City and Isla de Flores (on day 2) and Isla de Flores back to Guatemala City (on day 9). Amenities are included to guarantee a comfortable ride.
Campsites at El Tintal and El Mirador
You’ll be sleeping in the heart of the jungle on your expedition into the Mayan Biosphere Reserve at El Tintal and El Mirador. You’ll be provided with fully-equipped tents (blankets, pillows, sleeping bags, mosquito nets, etc) and campsites will have the necessary sanitary facilities (dry toilets) and a shower space (with collected rainwater). During the expedition, you will be accompanied by an experienced team and trained chefs who will provide your group with three full meals per day plus daily snacks and water.
Included
3 nights in Hotel Convento Santa Catalina (or similar)
2 nights in Los Amigos Hostel (or similar)
2 nights in luxury Pullman bus (overnight journeys on day 2 and 9)
2 nights at El Tintal campsite (Mayan Biosphere Reserve)
2 nights at El Mirador campsite (Mayan Biosphere Reserve)
Shared occupancy in accommodation
All breakfasts
Day 4 to 8, and day 11 lunch
Day 2, 4 to 7, and 9 dinner
El Mirador expedition camping gear (including tents, sleeping bags, blankets, pillows, etc) and supplies
El Mirador expedition team (including 1 tour leader, 2 assistant guides, 2 chefs in charge of meals, 2 persons in charge of the mules, 5 loading mules, 2 chair mules)
All transfers between hotels and activities
Round trip luxury Pullman bus (GUA – FRS)
Boat ride at Lake Peten Itza
24/7 guest support
Not included
International flights
Day 1 to 3, 9, 10, and 12 lunch
Day 1, 3, 8, 10, 11, and 12 dinner
All drinks at restaurants
Personal expenses
FAQ
Is Guatemala open to tourists?
Yes! Most international tourists can now fly into Guatemala.
Exception: If you have been in United Kingdom, Brazil, or South Africa in the last 14 days prior to arrival, you will not be allowed to board Guatemala-bound flights due to a temporary travel ban.
Do I need to take a COVID-19 test before I fly into Guatemala?
This is not necessary if you are fully vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19. Your vaccination must have been completed at least two weeks before arrival and an official vaccine card should be presented as proof. If you were previously infected within the last three months, a COVID-19 recovery certificate issued at least 10 days after the positive test result can be presented.
Otherwise, you must take a COVID-19 antigen or PCR test within 3 days before departure and provide proof of your negative result.
Do I need to quarantine upon arrival?
There is no quarantine period. However, travelers may need to take a COVID-19 test upon entry if they are randomly selected or show signs of COVID-19 symptoms, and may need to undergo quarantine depending on results. Therefore, we recommend that you obtain travel insurance before you travel into Belize.
Is there anything else I need to prepare?
You will need to fill out a Health Pass online before your departure to Guatemala.
Do I need to apply for a tourist visa to enter Guatemala?
Standard visa regulations apply. US nationals do not require an entry visa into Guatemala. Travelers from other countries can check whether they can enter Guatemala without a visa here.
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.
Refunds for balance payment
Your place is guaranteed at the time of full payment. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to offer any refunds for the amount paid.
- Connect with the local people, absorb the good vibes of the city, and have a relaxing time. - Unsplash: Angello Pro
- Visit the busy markets, come across stores selling jade (the sacred stone of the Mayans), or step into local cafes to try the finest Guatemalan coffees available. - Unsplash: Jeison Higuita
- Arrive early at the small and charming Isla de Flores, located in the middle of Lake Peten Itza, to enjoy a typical local breakfast and explore your beautiful surroundings. - Unsplash: Michiel Ton
- Then, return to Isle de Flores for a free afternoon all to yourself — you will probably want to recover from your multi-day expedition out in the wilderness! - Unsplash: Michiel Ton
- The tour will focus on the city’s art, culture, and great history. Come across Antigua’s most emblematic places! - Pixabay: jeisonpicture
- Discover the stunning terrain of the Pacaya Volcano and Calderas Lagoon National Park. Here, you'll embark on a hiking adventure to witness a dynamic ecosystem of dried lava fields, magma stones, and steaming vents. - Unsplash: レオネル ラム
- Back in the charming city of Antigua, you’ll be taken on a walking tour to explore the cobbled streets. - Pixabay: vhcardenas
- Be surrounded by magnificent and breathtaking views of the Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango volcanoes. If you’re lucky, the Pacaya and Acatenango (both active volcanoes) might even decide to put on a thrilling lava show! - Unsplash: Dimitry B
- Hotel Convento Santa Catalina, Antigua, Guatemala - Hotel Convento Santa Catalina
- Hotel Convento Santa Catalina, Antigua, Guatemala - Hotel Convento Santa Catalina
- Hotel Convento Santa Catalina, Antigua, Guatemala - Hotel Convento Santa Catalina
- Los Amigos Hostel, Isla de Flores, Guatemala - Facebook: Los Amigos Hostel
- Los Amigos Hostel, Isla de Flores, Guatemala - Los Amigos Hostel