Private Tour Highlights
- Strolling through the cobblestone colonial town of Antigua, with its many ruined churches, convents and cathedrals rubbing shoulders with brightly-colored facades.
- Crossing the shimmering Lake Atitlan by boat, gazing up at the imposing volcanoes of Toliman, San Pedro and Atitlan.
- Climbing to the summit of the Two-headed Serpent, a temple at Tikal which is 70m high and offers sublime views above the jungle canopy.
- Luxuriating on the soft white sands of Cancun, admiring views of the turquoise sea and letting any sign of stress melt away.
- Staring in awe at the iconic Mayan-Toltec pyramids of Chichen-Itza, which dates back around 1,000 years and is an emblem of Mexico’s heritage.
- Picturing life as a Mayan noble while stepping through the regal ruins at Tulum, perched dramatically on the cliffs above the Caribbean Sea.
Tour Overview
Take A Snapshot Tour of the Maya Empire! Let Yampu guide you through Guatemala, to the coast of Mexico and the deep blue waters of Riviera Maya. Starting in Antigua, we tour the colonial city. From there, we boat across Lake Atitlán and visit its surrounding volcanoes and Mayan villages. We then fly to Flores to visit Tikal, the largest of the ancient Mayan ruins. Finally we travel to Riviera Maya to visit Chichen-Itza and Tulum, the only Mayan ruins site located on the azure waters of the Caribbean.
Inclusions
Package Price: From £$ 6464
Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
Flight to Guatemala
Upon arrival in Guatemala City, private transfer to your hotel in Antigua Guatemala (commonly referred to as La Antigua or just Antigua).
Upon arrival in Guatemala City, private transfer to your hotel in Antigua Guatemala (commonly referred to as La Antigua or just Antigua).
Private Tour of Antigua
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For more than 200 years, Antigua was the seat of the Spanish military governor in much of Central America. Travelers will be met at their hotel at 9 a.m. by a private guide to begin a half-day walking tour of Antigua. This tour will cover the architectural and historical highlights of this colonial city with a behind-the-scenes look at some of the many ruined churches, convents and cathedrals. Entrance fees are included to the Iglesia San Francisco, the Cathedral, Central Park and La Merced Church. This tour is flexible, and if there are specific places that one wishes to see please let Yampu know. At the end of the tour, transfer privately to the hotel in Lake Atitlan. ...read less
Santiago Atitlan
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Be picked up from the hotel for a scenic boat ride across the lake, passing by the three impressive volcanoes of Toliman, Atitlan and San Pedro. Upon arrival in Santiago, walk with the guide to find the house where the Maya God Maximon is living. Each year a different “brotherhood” has the privilege of taking care of their God, so his location changes. Once with Maximon, one may see local shamans performing rituals for local people. If one so wishes, they can ask their guide to help hire the services of a shaman for a personal ceremony. After visiting Maximon, visit the local church and learn about the history of this very traditional town, and also see the market and learn about the distinctive textiles and the area’s famous primitive art. Take a ride in the back of a “flete” (a pickup truck in which people stand in the bed and are taken around town, often at high rates of speed) to get to Hotel Posada Santiago for lunch. After lunch, private transfer to Antigua for overnight. ...read less
City of Tikal
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Early morning, private transfer to Guatemala City airport to take the flight to Flores. Upon arrival, private visit to the impressive and mystical Maya city of Tikal. One of its largest buildings is the Temple of the Two-headed Serpent, which measures up to 70 meters high. From its peak, one can hear the sounds of the rainforest: more than 300 species of birds, howler monkeys, ocelots, jaguars and toucans echo throughout the forest. Due to its immense value, Tikal was declared a World Heritage Center by UNESCO in 1979. Overnight in Peten. Lunch included. ...read less
Day at Leisure in Flores
Optional guided canopy tour to Ixpanpajul and sunset tour to Yaxha.
Optional guided canopy tour to Ixpanpajul and sunset tour to Yaxha.
Cancun
Transfer to Flores airport for flight to Cancun. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel in Cancun.
Transfer to Flores airport for flight to Cancun. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel in Cancun.
Chichen Itza
In the morning head to the ancient archeological site of Chichen-Itza. The famous Mayan pyramids of Chichen-Itza are more than 1,500 years old. The site is divided into three sections. The north grouping of structures is distinctly Toltec in style. The central group appears to be from the early period. The southern group is known as “The Old Chichen.” Find a large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok, full of symbolism and drama. Breakfast and lunch included.
In the morning head to the ancient archeological site of Chichen-Itza. The famous Mayan pyramids of Chichen-Itza are more than 1,500 years old. The site is divided into three sections. The north grouping of structures is distinctly Toltec in style. The central group appears to be from the early period. The southern group is known as “The Old Chichen.” Find a large ball court where Mayan men played a game called pok ta pok, full of symbolism and drama. Breakfast and lunch included.
Tulum
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In the morning, head to the archaeological site of Tulum. Mounted on the edge of a cliff, this abandoned city towers above the deep turquoise of the Caribbean and a beautiful white sandy beach. Although the site dates back to earlier times, Tulum reached its peak in the Post-classic period between 1,000 and 1,600 AD. Originally called Zama or City of the Dawn, the sun rises from the sea above the city walls and for the ancient Maya, begins her dance across the sky. The city within the walls was only inhabited by the nobles, high priests and esteemed citizens such as astronomers, whereas the lower classes lived in simple, wood and thatch huts beyond. The buildings in the city were originally covered with brilliant paintings and carvings – stark white, deep red or vibrant blue, but only faint remnants of these now remain. ...read less
Day at Leisure
Enjoy a day of leisure to explore on one’s own or add additional optional activities.
Enjoy a day of leisure to explore on one’s own or add additional optional activities.
Flight Home
Transfer to the airport for the flight home or overlap with the add-on of choice.
Transfer to the airport for the flight home or overlap with the add-on of choice.
Guatemala City, Guatemala
Lake Atitlán, Solola, Guatemala
Antigua Guatemala, Sacatepequez, Guatemala
Tikal, Peten, Guatemala
Cancún, Mexico
Tulum, Mexico
Places You'll See
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Cancun
From historical relics of Mayan civilization, to sandy beaches, Cancun has it all. Visit El Meco, a substantial archeological site on the mainland, or The Interactive Aquarium of Cancun where you can get acquainted with all sorts of aquatic life, and even swim with dolphins. If an aquarium isn’t exciting enough, dive into the sea with some of Cancun’s best scuba diving instructors.
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Peten
Dotted with many Mayan Archaeological sites the area of Peten, once the hub of Mayan civilization, is full of history and ancient mysteries. Deep in the rainforests of Peten is the ancient city of Tikal, among other lost Mayan cities that have begun restoration.
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Antigua
Founded by the Spanish in the 17th century, Antigua city follows traditional layout and Spanish Baroque Style architecture. Enjoy chocolate making classes as you learn about the culture of the area or, For the more adventurous, there is the option to hike up several active volcanos in the region. With a walking coffee tour, one can learn about the process of picking and roasting one’s own coffee.
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Lake Atitlan
Surrounded by several volcanoes and with a once volcanic basin, Lake Atitlan is Central America’s largest and deepest lake. The villages around the edges of this gigantic body of water offer many places to enjoy eating as well as activities. From hiking the volcanoes and kayaking along the massive body of water to culture and coffee tours, there are many activities to take in.
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Guatemala City
Visit the capital and the largest city of its country with the same name, Guatemala. Take in the local life and explore the surrounding area learning about the city’s history and its culture through the many museums and markets. One stop that can be made is at the giant relief map of the city that must be viewed from a tower because of its massive size, all onstructed before aerial photography!
Media Gallery
Hotel Options
3 Star Properties
Guatemala City : Vista Real (Master Suite)
Vista Real (Master Suite)
Guatemala City , GUATEMALA
Discover Guatemala City’s most luxurious getaway at the Vista Real Hotel. From elegant colonial architecture to breathtaking outdoor gardens, the property was designed to make every guest feel like royalty. All of the spacious suites feature plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, Cable TV and fully stocked minibars. Guests seeking an added touch of luxury can choose even larger suites with jetted tubs and personal butler service on the Business Class Floor. The hotel also offers an array of first-class amenities, including a fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, sauna and massage services.
Guatemala City : Westin Camino Real (Std deluxe Room)
Westin Camino Real (Std deluxe Room)
Guatemala City , GUATEMALA
The Westin Camino Real Hotel guarantees a unique and comfortable experience, with each of its services being designed according to the needs presented by the customers, which is which allows guests to relax and enjoy the luxuries offered. The rooms are simple and elegantly designed, and are equipped with Cable TV, Wi-Fi, minibar, and private marble bathrooms. The hotel also features a tennis and squash court, a modern fitness center, an art gallery, a steam bath and Jacuzzi, and a spa with a variety of massage and facial treatments.
Crowne Plaza Guatemala
The Crowne Plaza Guatemala hotel, located in beautiful Zona 13, offers both comfort and convenience. The cozy rooms are equipped with TVs, Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom. The hotel has numerous features for guest’s health, wellness, and entertainment. The on-site fitness center offers top equipment and free weights, and the Terraza Spa Club offers amenities such as steam bathing, a masseuse, a sauna and hydro therapy, and treatments such as therapy baths, mani and pedis, and facials. Los Volcanes Restaurant offers gourmet cuisine, and the Bar el Trapiche offers a selection of snacks and beverages such as tasty cocktails and lite bites.
Lake Atitlan : Bambu Santiago Atitla
Bambu Santiago Atitla
Lake Atitlan , GUATEMALA
The Hotel Bambu Santiago Atitlan is the perfect place to enjoy an excellent stay in Santiago Atitlan, Solola Guatemala. The hotel is fused with the landscape, preserving and beautifying with a gorgeous garden in which are the comfortable rooms and the swimming pool. The rooms have a rustic feel, and are equipped with private bathrooms with hot water, and have views of the beautiful lake and volcanoes. The hotel’s restaurant offers an extensive international menu with a traditional wood burning oven and a comfortable environment and friendly atmosphere.
Lake Atitlan : La Casa del Mundo (Jaibalito)
La Casa del Mundo (Jaibalito)
Lake Atitlan , GUATEMALA
La Casa del Mundo, or the World’s Home is a place where diverse cultures come together to relax, share experiences and enjoy the gems of Lake Atitlan. The 17 rooms, each with unique architecture, were built one by one into the lake’s cliff sides. They’re equipped with top quality beds, hot water, restrooms, traditional Mayan decorations, and spectacular lake views from their 100-250 feet high perches. Guests can make their way down the steps to find the pleasant swimming balconies overlooking the serene waters of the lake. When in need of delicious indulgence, climb the steps to the café to enjoy a fruit smoothie or a famous breakfast burrito, fruit salad, nacho chips or avocado sandwich.
Cancun : Beach Scape Kin Ha Villas & Spa
Beach Scape Kin Ha Villas & Spa
Cancun , MEXICO
Beachspace Kin Ha Villas & Suites Cancún is an exclusive resort on the best beach in Cancún, the heart of the hotel district, ideal for vacations full of relaxation and entertainment in the Caribbean. With its personalized service, this fully-equipped resort with standard rooms and suites offers one a unique experience that is especially designed for guests looking for new experiences, wanting to enjoy a stay here as much as possible. The resort features a large outdoor pool, a fitness center, beautiful gardens, and a spa with a variety of massage treatments.
Cancun : Presidente Intercontinental
Presidente Intercontinental
Cancun , MEXICO
Discover Cancun’s luxurious side. From the largest stretch of beach in the area, to the white powdery sands and an oceanfront shared only with private villas, Presidente InterContinental Cancun Resort is the perfect place for an unforgettable getaway. Unwind with a massage in the warm ocean breeze, sip a signature Sunset Presidente cocktail in between sunrays, or take on the calm turquoise sea parasailing, kayaking or jet skiing. At sunset,enjoy a beachside dinner, and head to town for a bit of dancing.
4 Star Properties
Guatemala City : Vista Real (Master Suite Business Class Floor)
Vista Real (Master Suite Business Class Floor)
Guatemala City , GUATEMALA
Discover Guatemala City’s most luxurious getaway at the Vista Real Hotel. From elegant colonial architecture to breathtaking outdoor gardens, the property was designed to make every guest feel like royalty. All of the spacious suites feature plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, Cable TV and fully stocked minibars. Guests seeking an added touch of luxury can choose even larger suites with jetted tubs and personal butler service on the Business Class Floor. The hotel also offers an array of first-class amenities, including a fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, sauna and massage services.
Guatemala City : Real Intercontinental Guatemala (deluxe Room)
Real Intercontinental Guatemala (deluxe Room)
Guatemala City , GUATEMALA
The InterContinental Real Guatemala hotel is located in the dynamic Zona Viva at the heart of Guatemala’s entertainment and business district. La Aurora International Airport is just 4 mi. away from the hotel. All the rooms and public areas have been recently renovated. The rooms are designed to ensure the best rest, with LCD TVs, streaming speed internet, soundproof windows, Egyptian cotton sheets and more. The Real InterContinental Guatemala offers a culinary experience with an array of gastronomic options with a bar and four restaurants that will indulge the senses. The hotel also features a modern fitness center, a heated pool, and a luxurious spa.
Lake Atitlan : Lomas de Tzununa (Santa Cruz La Laguna)
Lomas de Tzununa (Santa Cruz La Laguna)
Lake Atitlan , GUATEMALA
Lomas de Tzununa is located in Tzununa, Lake Atitlan. The Hotel has 10 traditionally decorated rooms all with wonderful views on the Lake Atitlan and its villages, private bathrooms and a private balcony. Lomas de Tzununa has a restaurant serving delicious national and international food, Wi-Fi internet connection in public areas, a swimming pool and access to the Lake Atitlan. Guests can also enjoy a wonderful continental breakfast served daily. The hotel is also eco-friendly, and uses a network of solar panels to heat the water, composts organic waste to use as fertilizer, collects rainwater during the rainy season, and more.
Lake Atitlan : Posada de Don Rodrigo (Panajachel)
Posada de Don Rodrigo (Panajachel)
Lake Atitlan , GUATEMALA
Gazing across Lake Atitlán in the majestic Guatemalan Highlands, Hotel La Posada de Don Rodrigo Panajachel Atitlán is an intimate retreat surrounded by lush gardens and lawns. The hotel is situated at the end of Calle Santander, Panajachel’s main shopping and dining thoroughfare. In addition to 39 individually decorated guest rooms with spectacular lake views, special touches include a beautifully landscaped pool with slides, an intimate restaurant serving local and international cuisine, live folkloric Marimba music and dance performances, and the “Museo Lacustre” featuring displays on the history of Lake Atitlán and the volcanic activity that created its breathtaking landscapes.
Westin Resort & Spa
Cancun , MEXICO
The Westin Resort & Spa Cancun is a beachfront resort nestled between a quarter mile of the Caribbean Sea and the tranquil Nichupte Lagoon on Punta Nizuc, at the southern end of Cancun Island. The resort offers 379 guest rooms and suites all promising exquisite views of brilliant turquoise waters. They are all equipped with air conditioning, Cable TV, Wi-Fi, minibar, and a private bathroom. The resort features private Caribbean beaches or beautiful outdoor pools, a fitness studio, tennis courts, and the Heaveny Spa by Westin offering indoor and outdoor services such as a sauna and steam room, Jacuzzi, and massage treatments.
Krystal Grand Cancun
Cancun , MEXICO
Krystal Grand Punta Cancun is located in what is known as Punta Cancun hotel zone and just a short walk from the touristic and commercial center of the destination. Krystal Grand Punta Cancun offers 295 guest rooms designed to create an aura of tranquility, relaxation and comfort. All rooms have private balcony to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea or Nichupté Lagoon. The hotel offers a wide variety of services including a fitness center, a swimming pool divided by a beautiful waterfall, and a spa offering a variety of massage and body treatments.
5 Star Properties
Guatemala City : Vista Real (Suite Gran Clase Business Class Floor)
Vista Real (Suite Gran Clase Business Class Floor)
Guatemala City , GUATEMALA
Discover Guatemala City’s most luxurious getaway at the Vista Real Hotel. From elegant colonial architecture to breathtaking outdoor gardens, the property was designed to make every guest feel like royalty. All of the spacious suites feature plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, Cable TV and fully stocked minibars. Guests seeking an added touch of luxury can choose even larger suites with jetted tubs and personal butler service on the Business Class Floor. The hotel also offers an array of first-class amenities, including a fitness center, outdoor swimming pool, sauna and massage services.
Guatemala City : Westin Camino Real (Executive Premier)
Westin Camino Real (Executive Premier)
Guatemala City , GUATEMALA
The Westin Camino Real Hotel guarantees a unique and comfortable experience, with each of its services being designed according to the needs presented by the customers, which is which allows guests to relax and enjoy the luxuries offered. The rooms are simple and elegantly designed, and are equipped with Cable TV, Wi-Fi, minibar, and private marble bathrooms. The hotel also features a tennis and squash court, a modern fitness center, an art gallery, a steam bath and Jacuzzi, and a spa with a variety of massage and facial treatments.
Lake Atitlan : Hotel Atitlan (Panajachel)
Hotel Atitlan (Panajachel)
Lake Atitlan , GUATEMALA
Hotel Atitlan is one of Guatemala’s finest and most charming boutique hotels surrounded by Botanical Gardens. The hotel is situated 10 minutes from the main town of Panajachel. It is wonderfully decorated with wood hand-carved furnishing combined with ornate ceramic tiles. Outside, amidst meticulously cultivated Botanical Gardens abundant with roses, orchids, bougainvillea and azaleas. An infinity pool gazes onto Lake Atitlán and the majestic Atitlán, Toliman and San Pedro volcanoes in the distance. Rooms and suites appointed with lake-view balconies and fireplaces (in select rooms) overlook the hotel’s lush grounds.
Cancun : Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun
Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun
Cancun , MEXICO
At the Fiesta Americana Condesa Cancun, guests can enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere with accommodations, dining, entertainment, and cultural and recreational activities-all included at an affordable rate. A fresh and contemporary Mexican style imbues all 476 of these spacious deluxe rooms and 26 suites, all equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. The hotel features a beautiful outdoor pool with poolside bar, a rooftop terrace, a health club and a full service spa offering a sauna, Jacuzzi, and indoor and outdoor massages and body treatments. There is also a variety of delicious dining options, including ten restaurants and four bars.
Hotel Casa Turquesa
Cancun , MEXICO
Intimate, secluded, and fashionable, guests come to Hotel Casa Turquesa to relax, rejuvenate, and go unnoticed in the midst of the Mexican Caribbean playground of Cancun. Reminiscent of a Mediterranean mansion, Casa Turquesa rests on one of the area’s most pristine beaches and features only 30 suites, providing an atmosphere of privacy and tranquility, all equipped with air conditioning, TVs, and private bathrooms. The hotel features a gorgeous outdoor pool with a swim up bar, an outdoor tennis court, and a luxurious spa offering a variety of treatments. Fine Dining at Casa Turquesa is a true experience with three delicious restaurant options.
Luxury Properties
Guatemala City : Real Intercontinental Guatemala (Executive Floor Room)
Real Intercontinental Guatemala (Executive Floor Room)
Guatemala City , GUATEMALA
The InterContinental Real Guatemala hotel is located in the dynamic Zona Viva at the heart of Guatemala’s entertainment and business district. La Aurora International Airport is just 4 mi. away from the hotel. All the rooms and public areas have been recently renovated. The rooms are designed to ensure the best rest, with LCD TVs, streaming speed internet, soundproof windows, Egyptian cotton sheets and more. The Real InterContinental Guatemala offers a culinary experience with an array of gastronomic options with a bar and four restaurants that will indulge the senses. The hotel also features a modern fitness center, a heated pool, and a luxurious spa.
Lake Atitlan : Casa Palopo (Santa Catarina Palopo)
Casa Palopo (Santa Catarina Palopo)
Lake Atitlan , GUATEMALA
Casa Palopó, perched above spectacular Lake Atitlan with a view of three volcanoes and located in the Guatemalan Highlands, offers two distinct brands of romantic relaxation for the sophisticated traveler. Choose from the charming and colorful accommodations in the main building, which features seven spacious rooms decorated with contemporary and indigenous artwork. A large living room with fireplace, gourmet restaurant, elegantly set tables are set in intimate clusters inside the relaxed dining room and on the glassed terrace, additional tables spread along the wide veranda, Casa Palopó is the place to catch an uninterrupted view of spectacular sunsets.
Hyatt Zilara Cancun
Cancun , MEXICO
Situated on the widest stretch of beach in Zona Hotelera, Hyatt Zilara is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort in Cancun where guests experience traditional Mexican warmth in an intimate setting on the Caribbean Sea. Inspired by local architecture and culture, the luxury resort features magnificent suites with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea, and chef-inspired dining. Feel the vibe around the infinity pool that blends into the Caribbean, or lounge on the soft white sands. Hyatt Zilara Cancun offers a myriad of resort activities, including refined culinary experiences at six gourmet restaurants, DJ driven pool parties, and rejuvenating treatments at Cancun’s only ocean view spa.
Cancun : Sandos Cancun Luxury Experience Resort
Sandos Cancun Luxury Experience Resort
Cancun , MEXICO
A refined and yet welcoming sense of personal service pervades Sandos Cancun Luxury Experience Resort. Guests can enjoy an intimate setting on the sands of Cancun, combining a great all-inclusive Total Gourmet Experience with pleasure and relaxation in 187 spacious rooms, 26 luxurious suites. The visitors may enjoy a world-class spa with massage and beauty treatments, saunas, a solarium, a fitness center, two fine-dining restaurants, three tiered pools, and the Caribbean beach with private cabanas and beachside attendants.
Testimonials
Greg B., United Kingdom
Traveled February, 2013
When a problem was encountered, Yampu worked with local tour operators to sort out the issue very quickly
After working with Yampu to provide me with my second holiday to the America’s, I am delighted to say it has been another success. We have now travelled to Peru, Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras with routes dictated by my needs to see sites that may not be on other people standard routes. Yampu have twice worked with local providers to make my unique routes possible. When a problem was encountered, Yampu worked with local tour operators to sort out the issue very quickly. I am already thinking ahead to my next trip with Yampu.
Traveled To
Reinhard
Traveled March, 2010
Everything went very smoothly on our private tour
Everything went very smoothly on our private tour, many thanks. We were able to see many different regions and aspects of Mexico making it a simply fascinating experience. We had a great time in Mexico City and Taxko (sadly Puebla was flooded and had to be taken out of the itinerary), and were able to take in the Aztek culture and Spanish colonial architecture. Then in the north, Copper Canyon (bigger than the Grand Canyon in the US) and the amazing train journey. The trip at the end to Baja California we managed to see the grey whales and the Yucatan and beautiful Maya ruins. The exposure to these very different areas in a short time made this a truly memorable journey.
Traveled To
Mary and Dave
Traveled January, 2007
It was especially nice having our own private tour
We had a wonderful time in Guatemala. It was especially nice having our own private tour. The tour guides were all excellent, and we appreciated the promptness of the driver or guide each morning. The hotels were good too.
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