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Guatemala and Costa Rica
Central America is home to a multitude of wonderful experiences awaiting discovery - from refined colonial cities, to rich markets full of culture; from close encounters with nature, to the relaxing getaway of sandy beaches. Combining Guatemala and Costa Rica allows you to experience the best of the best. First, traverse the Mayan heritage and living history of storied Guatemala, visiting highland markets and colonial cities. Then, hop on a quick flight to Costa Rica, where nature, adventure, and finally beachside bliss, await.
ACCOMMODATIONS
• 2 Nights Guatemala City
• 1 Night Chichicastenango
• 1 Night Lake Atitlan
• 2 Nights Arenal
• 3 Nights Guanacaste
 
INCLUSIONS
• All Ground Transfers
• Chichicastenango Market and Church Visit
• Santiago Atitlan Tour by boat
• Antigua Tour
• Arenal Hiking Tour and Tabacon Entrance with Dinner
• Artola Canopy Tour
• Daily Breakfast
 
Arrive Guatemala City:

Arrival greeting and transfer to your selected Guatemala City hotel. Overnight.





(Accommodations, Guatemala City)
Guatemala City to Chichicastenango:

Early morning departure from your hotel for a 2 1/2 hour drive to Chichicastenango's fabulous market (held every Thursday and Sunday) where you will see a stunning array of handicrafts, including textiles, wood carvings, and ceramics. Within the market is the historic Church of Santo Tomas, built over 400 years ago on a Mayan temple site. The Church represents a blending of the Christian and Mayan religions. Afternoon at leisure to explore and shop. Overnight at the charming Mayan Inn.



(Breakfast, Guatemala City; Accommodations, Chichicastenango)
Chichicastenango to Lake Atitlan:

In the morning, transfer to Lake Atitlan and join the launch excursion to the picturesque lakeside village of Santiago Atitlan. This local indigenous village features a historic church and is known for the strong Mayan lifestyle of its inhabitants. Beautiful craft markets line the street, creating the perfect opportunity for shopping with gorgeous volcano and lake views in the background.

The afternoon is at leisure for further shopping or to see the town on your own.



(Breakfast, Chichicastenango; Accommodations, Lake Atitlan)
Atitlan to Antigua to Guatemala City:
After breakfast, depart for Antigua. Founded by the Spaniards in 1543, the colonial city of Antigua was once the cultural center for all Central America. You will learn about Ciudad Vieja, Guatemala's first permanent capital, destroyed in 1541 by earthquakes and a flood. Visit the city's famous churches, monasteries, museums, and colonial buildings all of which have contributed to the city being named Monument of the Americas in 1965. Among the most celebrated are La Merced Church, Las Capuchinas and Santa Clara Convent. After lunch, continue to Guatemala City.

(Breakfast, Lake Atitlan; Accommodations, Guatemala City)
Guatemala City to Arenal:
After breakfast, head to the airport for your short flight to San Jose, Costa Rica. After you collect your luggage and clear customs you will be met outside the terminal by our local representative who will be holding a sign with your name on it. You will be transferred by van to Arenal, a scenic 3 1/2 hour drive from San Jose. The road winds through the picturesque little towns of Alajuela province and through rolling green hills of pastureland and coffee plantations. After going through the small town of Fortuna, you will anxiously await your first glimpse of the perfectly cone-shaped Arenal Volcano, which on a clear day is an unforgettable sight. Located at the foot of the volcano is beautiful Arenal Lake, a 24 mile long reservoir. Your transfer will end at your selected hotel. Overnight.

(Breakfast, Guatemala City; Accommodations, Arenal)
Arenal:
After breakfast, spend the morning at leisure, enjoying the hotel pool, or adding on an optional activity. In the afternoon, enjoy the most extraordinary view of the Arenal Volcano on a hike along the base and flanks of this giant on the Arenal 1968 trails. The Colada 68 trail will give you the best of the best hiking over lava flows in all the Arenal Volcano area, walk on rocky ground, feel the power and serenity of nature, enjoy amazing views of the Arenal Lake and the Monteverde mountains, plus an insight contact with the local flora and fauna and a great chance for some bird watching. After hiking the Arenal Volcano, what better way to end the day than by indulging at Tabacon + Spa Hot Springs, Explore the beautiful Rainforest that surround the hot springs, and enjoy the warm thermal waters surrounded by waterfalls and lush tropical gardens.

(Breakfast, Dinner, & Accommodations, Arenal)
Arenal to Guanacaste:
After breakfast (between 8:00 - 9:30 am) transfer by van from Arenal to the Guanacaste beach area. Enjoy a drive into the picturesque lowlands of the North Pacific, the driest region in the country. Continue to the coast to your selected Guanacaste beach resort. Overnight.


(Breakfast, Arenal; Accommodations, Guanacaste)
Guanacaste:
Day at leisure to relax by the pool, walk along the beach, or arrange optional tours and adventures.





(Breakfast & Accommodations, Guanacaste)
Guanacaste:
After breakfast, start off on an adventure! Located on the small village of Artola, approximately one hour ride from the main hotels is a beautiful Tropical Dry Forest surrounded by huge trees, where you will be able to experience the different levels of the canopy on a zip line through different platforms. Expert guides and strict safety measures will allow you to fully enjoy this fascinating adventure. Or, if you prefer, spend the day on the beach or relaxing by the pool.

(Breakfast & Accommodations, Guanacaste)
Depart Guanacaste:
Transfer to the Liberia Airport to continue to your next Avanti Destination!





(Breakfast, Guanacaste)
 
** Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
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