AntiguaQuetzaltenangoChichicastenangoHuehuetenangoLivingstonRío DulceSayaxchéFloresSantiago de AtitlánPanajachelSololáSan Franciscoel AltoTodos SantosCuchumatánCobánGUATEMALA CITYTikal NationalParkGUATEMALAHONDURASELSALVADORMEXICOBELIZEThe WesternHighlandsThe VerapacesRío Dulce Lake Petén ItzáLake IzabalLakeAtitlánGulf ofHondurasPacific Ocean TikalYaxháUaxactúnEl CeibalCopánAguateca040 miles064 kilometres Guatemala 33Find out more For suggested itineraries and practical information about travel in Guatemala, please see page 39.www.audleytravel.comInteractive maps and features, further suggested itineraries, accommodation, climate information and articles written by our specialists.Discuss your plans with our Guatemala specialists 01993 838 695%Audley in GuatemalaWith its extraordinary tangle of remnants from the Maya civilisation, indigenous traditions and Spanish culture, Guatemala is one of our favourite Central American destinations. As well as an in-depth knowledge of the main highlights of Antigua, Lake Atitlán and Tikal, we have also researched equally rewarding off-the-beaten-track destinations such as Cobán, Quetzaltenango in the Western Highlands and some lesser-visited Maya ruins in the north. The international airport is located in Guatemala City, but with little there to entice the visitor we recommend transferring directly to Antigua on arrival, which is located just one hour away. We have found some wonderful guides and drivers and can also recommend land routes across to Honduras and Belize for those wanting to explore further, or for those seeking a beach on which to relax at the end of their trip.AccommodationIn recent years some beautiful hotels have sprung up in the colonial city of Antigua and around the shores of Lake Atitlán. These range from family run, good value B&Bs through to luxury boutique properties. In the north of the country, close to the Maya sites, options are often limited to simpler properties but the majority have fabulous locations on the shores of Lake Petén Itzá or deep in the lush rainforest. In the lesser-visited parts of the country accommodation is basic, sometimes you will only find a rustic thatched bungalow, but we keep up with any new additions and can recommend other properties as they become available.1 AntiguaOne of the most atmospheric colonial cities in Central America, Antigua is famous for its gorgeous pastel coloured façades draped in bougainvillea.2 Lake AtitlánA stunning lake set against a spectacular backdrop of three cone-shaped volcanoes and surrounded by traditional villages with colourful markets.3 Tikal and the northAn area of lush lowland jungle concealing countless Maya ruins. The most impressive and famous of these sites is Tikal with its remarkable collection of mighty temples.4 Western HighlandsA beautiful region with small, intricate fields patched onto steep slopes, farmed by communities that have little contact with the outside world. Semana SantaEaster week in Antigua, a lavish religious spectacle which sees the streets lined with an elaborate carpet of flowers in preparation for a procession of floats and local musicians.1234Cathedral, AntiguaLake AtitlánTikal

Santa Catalina arch, AntiguaEl Convento, AntiguaMain square, cathedral and Agua volcano, AntiguaLocal transport, Antigua34AntiguaA colonial gem and the original capital of Guatemala, Antigua has been destroyed many times by earthquakes and mudslides. For this reason the capital was moved to Guatemala City in 1773. Despite everything that nature has thrown at it, Antigua has always sprung back and been lovingly restored. It is now recognised and protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is one is of the most beautiful cities in Central America. Its setting is truly stunning, surrounded by the volcanoes of Agua, Acatenango and Fuego, which still occasionally sends up a cloud of ash. Cobbled streets thread past colourful colonial buildings topped with terracotta tiles and lead to the city's many plazas, which are perfect for sitting back, relaxing and people-watching. A short trip from the city will bring you to Maya villages, colourful local markets, sweet smelling coffee farms and the Pacaya Volcano, an active peak popular with hikers. Hotel Mesón de María, AntiguaSet in a lovingly converted colonial home, the charming Mesón de María is a great value hotel with just 20 characterful rooms, an appealing roof terrace and lots of relaxing seating areas dotted throughout the property. All rooms boast elegant wooden furniture and create a subtle and sophisticated atmosphere for guests. The suites offer the added benefits of a Jacuzzi, shared terrace or patio, and a fireplace. El Convento, AntiguaEl Convento is a beautiful boutique property in a grand colonial-style building located just a short walk from the central plaza. The hotel's 26 spacious suites are adorned with luxurious furnishings and set around a small pool in the garden. The excellent restaurant serves traditional Guatemalan dishes made using local produce with a contemporary twist. Hotel Mesón Panza Verde, AntiguaMesón Panza Verde was established as one of Antigua's first luxury boutique B&Bs. Ideally located on a quiet street, it is a short walk from the city's main plaza and cathedral. There is an inviting courtyard garden and a rooftop terrace with great views of the three volcanoes. All 12 rooms are individually furnished in a colonial style and the restaurant is considered to be one of the finest in the country.Easter procession, Antigua