Puerto Quetzal

Drive into the mountains to beautiful old Antigua, once the country's colonial capital, and discover its lovely bougainvilleadraped buildings and breathtaking views of emerald volcanoes. Travel to famed Lake Atitlan and step back in time as you encounter the indigenous people in all their finery still living along the lakeshore. Or better yet, fly to Flores and experience the magnificent and enigmatic Mayan temples and palaces of the Tikal complex, surrounded by jungle.




Auto Safari Chapin (EV, JO)


Starting off from the pier you will enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful forest and along the Pacific coast as you pass several sugarcane fields and take in views of the majestic volcanoes that dominate the distant horizon. 

Arriving at Auto Safari Chapin, you will receive a brief orientation and printed guide of the zoological park before embarking on your journey through this open air zoo. Your visit to the park offers you the chance to see lions, giraffes, jaguars, parrots, various kinds of monkeys and of course, exotic birds and many other exotic animals which you are able to view in their natural habitat from the comfort of your tour bus. 

Following your tour of the park by coach, you will have a walking tour of the more traditional zoo area where you will be able to see additional exhibits of animals and reptiles from around the world as well as those indigenous to Guatemala. Before rejoining your coach for the return transfer to the pier, relax with a snack and refreshing soft drink or beer in the Park's pavilion. 


Please note: Light-weight clothing with long sleeves, flat comfortable walking shoes, sun caps and sunglasses are recommended. There will be insect repellent available on the coach.



Colonial Antigua At a Glance (KE)


Enjoy this opportunity to discover La Antigua, the jewel of the Guatemalan colonial urban development and architecture. This marvelous city served as the capital to all of Central America from 1543 to 1773 until it was destroyed by an earthquake and the capital was moved to its present location of Guatemala City. Amazingly, this historical city has preserved its original features as though time has stood still.

Boarding your coach it's a 90-minute drive to this UNESCO World Heritage site, so named in 1979 because of its immense historical and cultural value. Draped in bright bougainvillea and having breathtaking views of emerald volcanoes in the background, the ruins provide inspiration for artists and tourists alike.

Upon arrival, you'll make your way directly to the Jade Museum and Factory, where you'll learn about the intricate relationship between the Maya and this precious stone. Touring the factory, you'll be able to observe native artisans as they cut and polish this green stone, following the carving traditions of their ancestors. Afterwards, you'll have time to peruse the exquisite jade pieces that are available for purchase.

Next, you'll make the short transfer to the beautifully landscaped Plaza Mayor. Numerous landmarks surround the plaza, including the Fountain of the Sirens, the majestic Cathedral, the Palace of the Captains and the Palacio del Noble Ayuntamiento which houses municipal offices and two museums. After a thirty minute stop in which you are free to stroll about and take in the sights, you'll re-board your coach for a panoramic drive through the city that takes you along cobblestone streets and past vibrant colonial architecture and beautifully restored 17th-century churches and mansions. Following this, you'll retrace your route back to the pier in Puerto Quetzal. 

Please note: Casual clothing to include a light jacket; sun cap; sunglasses; sunscreen; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.