Half-Day Lost Cities of the Almolonga Bike Tour in Antigua Guatemala

Exploring Antigua Guatemala is a must when visiting the Central American country, and a great way to discover the old city is to hop on a bike and join the Half-Day Lost Cities of the Almolonga Bike Tour. With its historic colonial feel, cobblestone roads, and welcoming locals, Antigua is the ideal place to take a peaceful ride of discovery. Whether you’re visiting as a family, a group of friends, or even traveling alone, this experience will be one to remember!

What to expect on the tour?

As the tour’s name implies, you’ll be visiting some of the lost cities of the Almolonga region that were devastated by multiple earthquakes during Antigua Guatemala’s colonial period. You’ll be guided by an experienced local who will explain the history of each place you visit and share fun stories about life in Antigua. The tour takes about four hours and follows a relatively flat riding path. While there are some inclines along the way, the ride is suitable for cyclists of all fitness levels.

Highlights

The highlight of the ride is definitely the ancient ruins of Las Cuevas. These ruins date back to around 1524 when the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Antigua. As you admire the grandeur of Las Cuevas, take a moment to imagine what life was like back then, and appreciate the history of these remarkable structures. In addition to Las Cuevas, you’ll get to experience other stunning sights such as Casa de los Universos and La Iglesia de San Francisco. The tour also includes a stop at an organic farm, where you’ll get to sample locally grown fruits and vegetables.

The Route

The tour begins in Antigua at 8am and ends at the beautiful Lago de Atitlan. The journey takes around 4 hours, with several stops along the way. The route follows a relatively flat terrain with some inclines – nothing too challenging for experienced cyclists. You’ll pass through quaint villages and villages as you make your way to Lago de Atitlan. This is a great way to explore the local culture and get a sense of how the people of Antigua live. Once you arrive at your destination, you can explore the lake’s incredible scenery and take a break before heading back to Antigua.

The Tour Guides

During your tour, your experienced guide will show you the best sights in Antigua Guatemala without taking too much time away from your exploration. You can expect your guide to provide detailed information about each of the sites you visit, with interesting stories from local life woven in between each stop. Your guide will also be happy to answer any questions you have about the area or its history. On top of that, they’ll provide assistance wherever needed along the way.

What’s included?

The Half-Day Lost Cities of Almolonga Bike Tour includes:
– A knowledgeable local guide
– A bike and safety equipment
– Refreshments along the way
– Visit to organic farm
– Sample local fruits and vegetables

What To Bring

You should bring;
– Sunscreen
– A sun hat
– Water bottle
– Snacks
– Money for souvenirs
– Comfortable shoes/bike shoes
– Camera/smartphone

Overall Experience

The Half-Day Lost Cities of Almolonga Bike Tour is an amazing opportunity to explore one of Central America’s most beautiful cities, while discovering its history, culture, and local life. With an experienced guide leading the way, you’ll feel safe and secure as you cycle through some of Antigua Guatemala’s most stunning sites. Plus, the visit to an organic farm will give you an insight into local life and give your taste buds a treat as you sample some delicious locally grown fruits and vegetables! For a memorable exploration experience, join the Half-Day Lost Cities of Almolonga Bike Tour in Antigua Guatemala!

To book your tour and discover all that Antigua Guatemala has to offer, visit GetYourGuide. GetYourGuide offers easy online ticketing so you can book your tour with ease and peace of mind knowing that your booking process is secure. Plus you also get access to exclusive discounts and offers when you sign up as a member! So what are you waiting for? Stop dreaming—and start exploring today!

Insider’s Guide to Antigua Guatemala

If you are looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path destination, Antigua Guatemala is a city that should be on your bucket list. This stunning colonial town radiates charm and is home to many hidden gems that every adventurer should explore. Here’s an insider’s guide to Antigua Guatemala that will take you to the most authentic and least discovered parts of the city.

Local Attractions

While Antigua Guatemala is known for its beautiful colonial architecture and historical ruins, there are many other fascinating places in the city that are not typically on the tourist map. One of them is Finca Los Nietos, a small coffee farm located just outside the city. Take a tour of the plantation and learn about the coffee-making process, starting from growing the beans to brewing a delicious cup of coffee. Another hidden gem is La Merced, a colorful and authentic market where you can find everything from textiles to exotic fruits.

Dining Spots

Guatemalan cuisine is a fusion of European, African, and indigenous Mayan flavors, and Antigua Guatemala is no exception. One of the best places to try local food is Doña Luisa Xicotencatl, a bakery where you can taste traditional sweet bread and pastries. For a heartier meal, go to Pollo Campero, famous for its delicious fried chicken, or Antigua Brewing Company, a cozy brewpub that serves mouth-watering burgers and craft beer.

Cultural Experiences

Antigua Guatemala is a city rich in traditions and festivities. One of the most important events is Semana Santa, the Holy Week before Easter, when the town comes alive with colorful processions and religious celebrations. If you are visiting during this time, make sure to witness the famous alfombras, intricate carpets made of colored sawdust and flowers that line the procession’s route. Another way to experience the local culture is by visiting the Centro de Formación de la Cooperativa MonoLito. This cultural center hosts workshops on traditional Mayan music, weaving, and other art forms that are uniquely Guatemalan.

Local History

Antigua Guatemala has a fascinating history that dates back to the Spanish conquest of Latin America. One of the most interesting stories is that of the Santa Catalina Arch, a beautiful structure that spans a busy street in the city’s center. Legend has it that nuns used to cross the street via this arch to avoid being seen by men on the streets. Another must-visit historical site is the Casa del Jade, a museum that displays intricate Mayan artwork and ancient jade artifacts.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

To make your trip to Antigua Guatemala truly unforgettable, try one of the city’s off-beat activities like the Lost Cities of the Almolonga Bike Tour. This half-day tour takes you through local villages and hidden ruins, discovering the city’s lesser-known treasures. If you are feeling adventurous, try climbing the active Pacaya volcano, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. And for a unique evening experience, visit El Tenedor del Cerro restaurant, located on the outskirts of the city, for a panoramic view of Antigua Guatemala at night.

In conclusion, Antigua Guatemala has many hidden treasures, from historic architecture to unique restaurants, and cultural experiences. By exploring off-the-beaten-path locations, you can create unforgettable memories of this charming colonial city.