How to Plan Your Iximche and Antigua Day Tour

Are you planning a trip to the Central Highlands of Guatemala and looking for an exciting day tour? If yes, then the Iximche and Antigua Day Tour is the perfect choice for you. This tour offers the perfect blend of Spanish Colonial and Mayan influence, showcasing the history and charm of three of the four major cities of Guatemala.

In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your Iximche and Antigua Day Tour step-by-step. From the highlights of the tour to what to expect, we will cover everything to make your tour experience exceptional.

Experience

This tour is offered by a third-party company and promises an immersive experience that will take you through the enthralling history of the Central Highlands of Guatemala. During this tour, you will visit sites that will leave you spellbound with the Mayan culture’s richness and antiquity. You will also witness the indigenous people visiting Iximché, which is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.

Highlights

The Iximche and Antigua Day Tour offers a variety of highlights that will make your trip memorable. Here are some of the top highlights of the tour:

1. Iximche

Iximche is the first capital of Guatemala and is an essential archaeological site in Mayan history. A guided tour of this ancient city will give you insights into the Mayan community’s lifestyle and culture. You will also have a chance to witness the indigenous people’s visit to the site and, if you’re lucky, witness a Mayan ceremony that takes place at Iximche.

2. Ciudad Vieja

Ciudad Vieja is the second capital of Guatemala and was destroyed by an enormous and erratic mudslide in 1541. The town has been rebuilt, but the original town’s ruins, including the church, can still be seen.

3. Antigua Guatemala

Antigua Guatemala is a beautiful colonial city that has retained much of its original Spanish colonial charm. The tour takes you to visit the San Francisco Church Calle del Arco, Casa del Jade, and many other historic buildings that display the city’s history.

Full Description

Now let’s dive into the full details of the tour. The Iximche and Antigua Day Tour is a day-long tour that starts in the morning and promises to take you on a journey through the Central Highlands of Guatemala.

1. Pick-up from Your Hotel

The tour starts with a pick-up from your hotel in either Guatemala City or Antigua Guatemala. Once you’re picked up, you will be taken to the archaeological site of Iximche.

2. Guided Tour of Iximche

Upon arrival at Iximche, a professional tour guide will take you on a guided tour of the ancient city. The guide will give you detailed insights into the Mayan culture’s lifestyle and history, including the significance of Iximche in Mayan history.

3. Transfer to Antigua Guatemala

After the guided tour, you will be transferred to the colonial city of Antigua Guatemala, where you will enjoy lunch at a restaurant in the city.

4. Tour of Antigua Guatemala

Post-lunch, you will be taken on a tour of Antigua Guatemala. Here, you will visit the San Francisco Church Calle del Arco, Casa del Jade, and many other historic buildings that showcase the region’s beautiful colonial architecture and cultural richness.

5. Drop-off Back at Your Hotel

The tour culminates with a drop-off back at your hotel in either Guatemala City or Antigua Guatemala.

Booking

The Iximche and Antigua Day Tour can be booked via GetYourGuide, a trusted third-party company. The tour costs $72.00 per person and includes transport, professional tour guide, entrance fees to Iximche, and lunch at a restaurant in Antigua Guatemala.

Conclusion

The Iximche and Antigua Day Tour is an exceptional tour that offers an immersive experience through the Central Highlands of Guatemala. With its blend of historic Mayan culture and Spanish colonial influence, this tour is bound to delight tourists of all ages. By using our guide, you can easily plan your day tour to ensure you have an unforgettable experience. So why wait? Book your Iximche and Antigua Day Tour today!

Insider’s Guide to Antigua, Guatemala: Discovering Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Antigua, Guatemala, is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning nature. If you are planning your next travel adventure and want to explore the city’s hidden gems, this insider’s guide will offer you some unexpected surprises. Get ready to immerse yourself in the city’s traditions, cuisine, and little-known sites for an experience you’ll never forget.

Hidden Gems: Explore a Different Side of Antigua

While Antigua is a UNESCO World Heritage site, there are many off-the-beaten-path gems that you won’t find in most guidebooks. Head to the Capuchinas Convent or the La Recolección Ruins to see impressive and lesser-known historical sites. For an unusual art exhibit, visit Casa Santo Domingo’s Museum of Ceramics with a massive collection of indigenous pottery from the region. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike up Volcán de Agua, which offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes.

Local Cuisine: Taste the Flavors of Guatemala

Guatemalan cuisine has been shaped by the country’s diverse indigenous communities with influence from Spanish colonialism and Africa. Try the famous Pepián – a thick, hearty stew with chicken or beef stew made with local spices and vegetables. For seafood lovers, the grilled snapper at renowned restaurant Casa Escobar is its claim to fame. Don’t miss the local coffee, known for its unique flavor and high quality, and try a cup at Fat Cat Coffee House, which offers coffee made from beans roasted in-house.

Cultural Experiences: The Rich Tapestry of Antigua’s Art, Music, and Festivals

Explore Antigua’s vibrant art scene featuring the artists’ work in Jose Luis Alvarez Gallery and fun T-shirts, and affordable visiting options the Flea Market. Catch live music performances at local favorites like Café No Sé and La Sin Ventura. If you’re there in October, don’t miss the All Saints’ Day celebrations and the famous kites at Sumpango. For an immersive experience into the city’s Mayan culture, visit the Choco Museo, where you can learn all about the cacao bean, Mayan chocolate recipes, and even make your own chocolate.

Local History: Explore the Secrets of Antigua’s Past

Antigua was once the center of the Spanish colonial empire in Central America. Head to the Casa K’Ojom Museum, dedicated to Guatemalan culture and history, including colonialism and indigenous traditions. The Palace of the Captains General, once the governor’s residence, now displays a mix of Spanish colonial and indigenous artifacts. To learn about the city’s significant religious heritage, don’t miss La Merced, an impressive Baroque-style church with ornate frescoes.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures: Unique Experiences to Make Your Visit Unforgettable

Get off the beaten path and experience the city’s unique offerings, like the ChocoMuseo, where you can make your chocolate. Experience a real working coffee farm, learn about the production process, and taste the final product at Finca Filadelfia Coffee Farm, located on the outskirts of Antigua. For families and friends, escape rooms offer a unique adventure, with options such as Your Lucky Day and Laberinto. For an otherworldly experience, visit the Laguna de Calderas, a volcanic crater lake that will leave you in awe.

With this insider’s guide, you can explore Antigua Guatemala, discover unique sites, and participate in unexpected activities. Explore the rich history and culture of the city while immersing yourself in local cuisine and traditions. Your visit to Antigua is sure to be unforgettable, with memories that will last a lifetime.