Easter A Different View

March 22- April 8, 2007
March 6-23, 2008

18 days/ 17 nights
Emphasis on the cultural traditions of HOLY WEEK- EASTER.

Join Tammy Ridenour in a “Different Look at Guatemala”. This small group tour will emphasize the unusual in a country that is unusual in itself. Guatemala is a small yet topographically diverse country…in a relatively short time distinct and beautiful vistas unfold…and unfold. Guatemala has the highest percentage of indigenous peoples in the Americas…each small village with its own traditional dress, and often, own language. All of this, clothed in an aura of “magic”, lends an unforgettable experience.

We will “base” in Antigua, staying in a small colonial hotel in downtown Antigua. Antigua is a colonial jewel of the Americas, and is host to one of the most spectacular Holy Week (Semana Santa) celebrations in the world. Thousands come from around the world to see the magnificent processions of religious figures from the local churches paraded through handmade “carpets”…crafted by the townspeople from colored sawdust, flowers, pine needles, etc.

However, we will not be among the thousands. We will visit Antigua in the pre-Holy Week processions where we will see the observance of the “Virgen de los Dolores” processions. Fascinating and beautiful, but without the crowds.

For Semana Santa itself we will be in the Maya Highlands, near or on Lake Atitlan, in Mayan villages observing the ancient Mayan traditions with the veneer of Catholicism overlay. The Fascinating mix of the Mayan worldview with ours is wonderful.
In between Antigua and Lake Atitlan, we will visit the Atlantic Coast of Guatemala to visit the archaeological site of Quirigua, and the beautiful river scenery of the Rio Dulce. From there we will go to the cloud forest country of Coban and the sanctuary of the rare and resplendent Quetzal bird.

This tour is designed to give a balance of sightseeing, and relaxation. For the most part we will be in each place 2-3 nights at a time so we will not be traveling each day. When we are on the road, it will be 2-4 hours of travel with roadside stops for photographs. We will see the main travel destinations of Guatemala…Antigua, Lake Atitlan, Chichicastenango…as well as unusual side trips.

Please click here for more details and a schedule of the trip.