About Guatemala
At the heart of this vibrant nation is the legacy of the ancient Maya civilization, which has shaped the region's history and identity.
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The Maya civilization, one of the most advanced in the pre-Columbian Americas, flourished from around 2000 BC to the 16th century AD. Their ingenuity is showcased in the intricate architecture, art, and scientific achievements that still captivate the world today. The ancient Maya cities, such as Tikal and Copán, stand as testaments to their sophisticated urban planning and artistic prowess.
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After the decline of the ancient Maya civilization, their cultural traditions endured through the resilience of modern Maya communities. Today, Guatemala is home to diverse Maya ethnic groups, each with its unique languages, traditions, and customs. The Maya people continue to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of Guatemalan culture, from their distinctive clothing and traditional crafts to their spiritual practices and celebrations.
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As you travel and explore, you will may also find the Maya language underneath Spanish road signs. Maya was outlawed after the Spanish conquest of Guatemala, though the language had been secretly taught regardless. Once the law was lifted, the Guatemalans went back to speaking Maya as well as Spanish. There are different dialects all around their country, which you can explore if you go on a tour of Lake Atitlan.
La Aurora International Airport (GUA)
Guatemala City, Guatemala
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To help make your travel smooth and enjoyable, here are some essential details about La Aurora International Airport:
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Language
Spanish is the primary language at the airport, though there are English speakers if you need help. Learning basic Spanish phrases might come in handy if you're not fluent.
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Currency Exchange
It's a good idea to have local currency (Guatemala Quetzales) for convenience, such as purchases at local shops if you explore. At least a month in advance, go to your bank for the cheapest currency exchange. Check out our Travel Guide tab on this site to learn more about what to expect.
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Safety
You'll be landing in Guatemala City, which is like any other city which is bustling and full of life, except it is still a third-world country. We recommend our tried and true way of utilizing the below transportation options just to ensure you have a smooth route to and from the airport.
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VISIT GUA WEBSITE
Transportation​
To help make your travel smooth and enjoyable, here are some essential details about how to get around:
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To Camino Real Antigua Hotel
A daily shuttle bus operates between the Hotel and the airport at fixed times. For more information please contact the Hotel Concierge 24 hrs. in advance.
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To Other Hotels or AirBnB's
If you're not staying at the hotel, you can arrange for transportation through this link:
Arrange Shuttle Transportation
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Local Antigua Travel
If you’d like to explore Antigua, we recommend renting an ATV, which can be arranged by this link:
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Uber
Another form of transportation within Guatemala City includes Uber. This is not an option within Antigua. If you decide to stay your last night within the city to be close to the airport, you do have this option if needed. Other rideshare apps are currently unavailable.
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Chicken Buses
If you’d like to really get a tour of the Guatemalan experience, you can take a chicken bus. Though remember that petty theft can take place on the buses, so please use caution.
The colors of the buses represent the directions they go across the cities. We'd recommend speaking to the hotel about how best to navigate with the buses.
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Camino Real hotel Antigua
To help make your travel smooth and enjoyable, here are some essential details about La Aurora International Airport:
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Language
Again, Guatemala's primary languages are Spanish and Maya, but the hotel staff all speak English. If you call, just ask to speak in English and they can further assist you.
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Hotel Rooms
Most, if not all, of the rooms have doors to open up to gardens or a beautiful view. When booking your hotel rooms, be sure to inquire about any special requests during your stay.
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Amenities
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel premises, ensuring you can stay connected during your stay.
The rooms do have air conditioning, even though it isn't common to have air conditioning in Guatemala as the temperatures are usually comfortable.
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Dining
The hotel has an on-site restaurant, which offers a variety of delectable dining options, from local flavors to international cuisine. There are also a lot of great restaurants - check out our Tour Guide tab on the site for recommendations.
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Safety
The hotel has security measures in place to ensure your peace of mind throughout your stay.
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Iximche Mayan Ruins
For our planned, group adventure, here are some tips and information for what to expect:
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Transportation
We will have arranged travel to travel from Camino Real Hotel to the ruins then from the Ruins to Casa del mundo Hotel. It is roughly a 2 hour drive total that will be broken up as we travel to the ruins and to a local village for food.
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What to Wear
Wear clothes that are comfortable and easy for you to walk in.
If you get car sick, it couldn't hurt to bring some anti-nausea medication for the drive.
What to Expect
We have arranged for a Shaman to come and perform a ritual for us.
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Casa del Mundo
Located 2 hours away from Antigua, Guatemala, Casa del Mundo is situated on Lake Atitlan and requires a boat to get to the hotel, here are some tips and information for what to expect:
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Transportation
We will be traveling from the Iximche Ruins to the lake where we will be taking a boat to get to the hotel.
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Language
Again, Guatemala's primary languages are Spanish and Maya, but the hotel staff speak English.
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Hotel Rooms
Most of the rooms overlook the beautiful view of the lake.
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Amenities
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel premises, ensuring you can stay connected during your stay.
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Dining
The hotel has an on-site restaurant, which offers a variety of delectable dining options.
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Safety
The hotel is cut off from the cities and has security measures in place to ensure your peace of mind throughout your stay.
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Antigua
Shopping
While you're in Antigua, make sure to indulge in some fantastic shopping. Explore the lively markets to snag souvenirs, local artwork, or take a stroll through the streets to discover boutiques offering beautiful jade jewelry and pottery.
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Dining
While you're in Antigua, make sure to indulge in some fantastic shopping. Expl
