expedition to Guatemala Honduras Mayan festival pyramids of El Mirador Copan

Witness the sunset from the bastions of Granada’s fortress, where the walls of colonial churches glow in the fading light, and feel the spirit of pirate battles that once shaped the destiny of the region.

Ascend to the crater of Masaya Volcano to peer into its boiling abyss - a glimpse into the heart of the underworld.
The "Pompeii of the Americas," Joya de Cerén, is a marvel. Beneath layers of volcanic ash lie Mayan dwellings frozen in time, preserving the essence of ancient daily life.

Feel the serenity of Lake Atitlán, where three volcanoes stand like deities guarding its tranquil mirrored surface. Set off in search of Maximón, the enigmatic Mayan deity wrapped in mystery.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chichicastenango’s indigenous market. Beneath the arches of its church, ancient prayers mingle with the vivid colors of textiles and the rich scents of spices, bringing history to life.

This journey is for those who seek the brilliance of myths hidden beneath volcanic ash, the whispers of legends echoing through colonial streets, and the secrets of an ancient world waiting to be uncovered.

sunset Granada fortress colonial churches pirate battles Masaya Volcano crater boiling abyss Pompeii of the Americas Joya de Cerén volcanic ash Mayan dwellings ancient daily life Lake Atitlán three volcanoes Mayan deity Maximón Chichicastenango indigenous market ancient prayers colorful textiles spices colonial streets myths legends ancient world
SCHEDULE & COST:
Dates: November 20 – December 6, 2026

Duration: 17 days / 16 nights

Number of participants: 9 - 12

Cost per person:
  • 5 590 USD subject to 12 participants,
  • 5 690 USD subject to 11 participants,
  • 5 890 USD subject to 10 participants,
  • 6 090 USD subject to 9 participants.

10% discount for early booking of participation (until May 20th, 2026)

Everything is included except for:

  • international flight to Managua (Nicaragua) and back from Belize City (Belize),
  • medical insurance for traveling abroad,
  • Belizean visas (for Russian citizens, a Belizean visa is obtained at the Belize High Commission in London by mail for 200 pounds.
  • visas for Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador (not required for Russian citizens),
  • lunches and dinners.

Single occupancy: 1080 USD (single occupancy is available on the entire route, except for day 10 at the base camp on the volcano).


TRAVEL PROGRAM:
Tour to Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Belize
Day 1. November 20, 2026 (Friday). MANAGUA (NICARAGUA) – GRANADA

Arrival in Managua, the capital of Nicaragua. Meeting with a guide and transferring to Granada, the most beautiful and romantic city in Nicaragua. During the colonial era, Granada became one of the richest cities in the region, which in turn attracted pirates who regularly staged attacks. Here we will stroll along the cobbled streets, visiting colonial churches and monasteries along the way, take a carriage ride through the city center, and explore the fortress of La Polvora, which offers a picturesque view of the city center from its bastions. We will observe the life of the city in the shade of the mango trees of Central Park.
Overnight at the Hotel Casa San Francisco 3*.

Meals: none
Accommodation: Hotel Casa San Francisco 3* or similar

* Recommended flights to Managua:
– any flight from any city arriving in Managua no later than 9:00 a.m. on March 27.


Day 2. November 21, 2026 (Saturday). GRANADA – MOMBACHO VOLCANO – CATARINA OBSERVATION DECK – MANAGUA – MASAYA VOLCANO – GRANADA

Explore Mombacho Volcano National Park, which offers wonderful views of Granada and Lake Nicaragua. Then we will go to the Catarina observation deck, from where you can see the entire Apoyo lagoon, the city of Granada and Lake Nicaragua.
On the way to the Masaya volcano, we will stop briefly in the capital of the country, Managua, to explore its few attractions.
Masaya Volcano National Park is an active volcano that is open and easily accessible to travelers, where you can climb to the top and, if conditions allow, look into the bubbling mouth. The park area includes two volcanoes, Masaya and Nindiri. It is best to come to the park after sunset, when the probability of seeing bubbling lava is the highest. Return to Granada.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Casa San Francisco 3* or similar


Day 3. November 22, 2026 (Sunday). GRANADA – FLOR DE CAÑA LEON RUM FACTORY

Transfer to the Pacific coast of Nicaragua, where, near the town of Chinandega, there is a factory of one of the world's most famous brands of rum, Flor de Caña. This is the best rum in the country. A visit to the factory includes an excursion exploring the full production cycle of this drink, as well as tasting the best varieties of Flor de Caña rum.
After lunch we will arrive in Leon, the colonial capital of Nicaragua. Founded in 1524 at the foot of Momotombo volcano by conquistador and national hero Francisco Hernandez De Cordoba, the city was destroyed by an earthquake and volcanic eruption in the early 17th century and subsequently moved to its present location, safer in terms of the seismic features of the region. The main attraction of Leon is the Catedral de la Asuncion, the largest in Central America, where prominent citizens of Nicaragua are buried.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: hotel El Convento or similar

Day 4. November 23, 2026 (Monday). LEON VUKLAN CERRO NEGRO ESTELI

In the morning, we will have an extreme adventure and the Nicaraguan "knowhow" – volcano boarding. Not far from Leon is the youngest volcano in Central America, Cerro Negro, which first appeared in 1890. Its last eruption occurred in 1999. The descent along the halfkilometer 45degree black slope of the volcano will be one of their most vivid impressions from visiting the country. To make the descent, it is necessary to overcome a simple ascent, which takes about 1 hour.
After descending from the volcano, we will return to the hotel to change clothes and go to the town of Esteli near the NicaraguanHonduran border.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Los Arcos or similar

Day 5. November 24, 2026 (Tuesday). ESTELI – CIGAR FACTORY – TEGUCIGALPA (HONDURAS)

The Esteli region is one of the main tobacco growing regions in Central America. There are many cigar factories here, some of which conduct guided tours demonstrating the full production cycle. We will visit one of the oldest factories dating back over 150 years in Cuba. Today, the factory, run by the fifth generation of the family, produces more than 40 million cigars per year, including a unique type of cigars made from 100% organic tobacco.
Crossing the border with Honduras and moving to the capital. Sightseeing in Tegucigalpa, the capital and largest city of the country. Being the silver capital of Central America in colonial times, the city grew rapidly and became rich. But, unfortunately, natural disasters (earthquakes and hurricanes) and internal political problems often interfered with the peaceful course of life in Tegucigalpa, and therefore most of the city was rebuilt and lost its colonial charm.
Overnight at the Hotel Plaza Juan Carlos 4*.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Plaza Juan Carlos 4* or similar


Day 6. November 25, 2026 (Wednesday). TEGUCIGALPA – LOS TERCIOS FALLS (EL SALVADOR) – SUCHITOTO

One of the main attractions of Tegucigalpa is the Suyapa Church, a place of pilgrimage for all Hondurans, as well as many Central Americans. A huge Gothic basilica, famous for its stained glass windows and dedicated to the Virgin Mary of Suyapa, the main patroness of Honduras. Many people believe that this small wooden statuette, only about 6 cm high, works wonders, helps those in need and heals the sick.
After Tegucigalpa, we are going to the next country – El Salvador. Let's start with the amazing Los Tercios waterfall, which appeared as a result of cooling lava flows. Due to its geological origin, the waterfall is a cluster of basalt prisms of varying sizes.
Suchitoto is a small town that has preserved the atmosphere and rhythm of life of the colonial era better than others in El Salvador. It is not for nothing that, during the trip to Central America, Queen Letizia of Spain included Suchito in the list of cities whose appearance and heritage she personally monitors. Located on the shore of a lake and surrounded by greenery, Suchitoto is a city where you come for a day and stay for a month.
Overnight at the Casa 1800 Suchitoto Boutique 4* hotel.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Casa 1800 Suchitoto Boutique 4* hotel or similar


Day 7. November 26, 2026 (Thursday). SUCHITOTO SAN SALVADOR – HOYA DE SEREN SANTA ANA ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE

We will continue our acquaintance with El Salvador with a brief tour of the country's capital, San Salvador. We will visit the most interesting historical monuments that have been preserved.
Transfer to the archaeological area of Hoya de Seren. As a result of the volcanic eruption, this Maya settlement was buried under a layer of ash. Thus, now there is an opportunity to find out how the ancient Maya lived, not on the basis of guesses and assumptions of scientists, but by seeing their "way of life" with their own eyes. Hoya de Ceren is called the "Pompeii of America," and it is the only site in El Salvador listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Arrival to the second largest city of El Salvador, Santa Ana, which is surrounded by a trident of volcanoes: Cerro Verde, Santa Ana and Izalco. The cool climate, colonial architecture and beautiful views attract local oligarchs here, who prefer this city to the more developed San Salvador.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Remfort Hotel Antigua or similar


Day 8. November 27, 2026 (Friday). SANTA ANA – ANTIGUA (GUATEMALA)

Transfer to Antigua, Guatemala. It can confidently be called the most beautiful colonial city in Central America. Baroque architecture is combined with churches and monasteries, many of which were destroyed during severe earthquakes and which were not restored, but carefully preserved in the form in which they remained after natural disasters, thus reminding that nature is stronger than human.
The city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so there are practically no modern buildings here. Upon entering the city, we immediately enter the historical center.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: hotel Las Marias or similar


Day 9, November 28, 2026 (Saturday). ANTIGUA – COFFEE PLANTATION – LAKE ATITLAN – CHICHICASTENANGO

The day begins with a visit to a coffee plantation near Antigua. Central America, and Guatemala in particular, is famous for its coffee, grown on the slopes of the mountains and exported worldwide. Here, you will see the entire process of coffee cultivation, harvesting, and processing, learn about roasting, and have the opportunity to taste different varieties while enjoying the unique aroma of Guatemalan coffee.

Next, we travel to the stunning Lake Atitlan, situated at an altitude of 1,500 meters above sea level. The lake is surrounded by three picturesque volcanoes – San Pedro, Toliman, and Atitlan. Along its shores are numerous villages of the Maya Kaqchikel and Maya Tz’utujil peoples. We will take a motorboat ride across the lake to the Tz’utujil capital, Santiago Atitlan, where we will explore the town, including a viewpoint, a traditional Maya laundry, and the Peace Park, dedicated to the victims of the civil war.

We will also visit the local Catholic church, the Cathedral of St. James, where Catholicism and Maya beliefs merge. A walk past the town hall will give us a glimpse of the town elders, dressed in traditional white striped shorts embroidered with birds along the hem. Men wear the striped shorts, while women wear the huipil with bird embroidery.

A special highlight will be the search for the main sacred idol of the locals, Maximón, which regularly “moves” from one family home to another. The family hosting Maximón does not work – their sole responsibility is caring for the deity.

In the evening, we return to Chichicastenango, where we will experience local preparations for Easter and join in the festive activities, soaking in the lively atmosphere and traditions of the town.

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: Museo Mayan Inn or similar


Day 10, November 29, 2026 (Sunday). CHICHICASTENANGO – LA SOLEDAD – ACATENANGO BASE CAMP

The morning begins with a short sightseeing walk around Chichicastenango to explore the local market, festive atmosphere, and Easter preparations. Afterward, we depart for the foothills of the famous Fuego and Acatenango volcanoes, passing through the village of La Soledad.
About an hour after transferring to jeeps, we leave them behind and hike the final stretch to the base camp at 3,560 meters above sea level. The ascent to the base camp does not require mountaineering experience, but it offers breathtaking views of Fuego volcano and the surrounding mountain ranges.

In the evening, we enjoy dinner at the camp and, weather permitting, witness the lava emissions of the neighboring active Fuego volcano. Its name, meaning “fire” in Spanish, speaks for itself – it is one of the most active volcanoes on the planet. Small bursts of gas and ash occur every 10–20 minutes, creating an unforgettable spectacle. Larger eruptions are rare, but over the past three years, at least one has occurred each year.

This is one of the most thrilling and unforgettable moments of our journey, providing the experience of a true volcanic adventure.

Meals included: breakfast, dinner
Accommodation included: NOMA Base Camp, tent, basic conditions


Day 11, November 30, 2026. SUMMIT OF ACATENANGO – ACATENANGO BASE CAMP – LA SOLEDAD – ANTIGUA, GUATEMALA

An early pre-dawn ascent begins. The final 400 meters of elevation gain (just over 1 km) to the summit (3,976 m) is best done in the early morning to witness the sunrise from the top, with spectacular views of the active Fuego volcano. The panoramic vista from the crater stretches in all directions, reaching from the Mexican border to San Salvador. After enjoying the sunrise and taking photos, we return to the base camp for breakfast and descend to the jeep.

Transfer back to Antigua, Guatemala via La Soledad.

Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation included: Las Marias Hotel or similar


Day 12. December 1, 2026 (Tuesday). ANTIGUA – ARCHAEOLOGICAL ZONE OF COPAN (HONDURAS) – COPAN RUINS

Transfer to the border with Honduras (about 5 hours).
Visit the archaeological zone of Copan, the ruins of the ancient Mayan city, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At one time, the city was the capital of a large state that occupied part of the territory of modern Guatemala and Honduras. Due to its magnificent monumental architecture, Copan is called the "Athens of the ancient Maya." More than 3,500 different structures of the classic Maya period were discovered on the territory of the city, as well as a majestic hieroglyphic staircase, on which the longest known inscription in the ancient Maya language is carved.
We will stay overnight in the pretty little colonial town of Copan Ruinas.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Plaza YatBalam hotel or similar


Day 13. December 2, 2026 (Wednesday). COPAN RUINAS – ARCHAEOLOGICAL AREA OF QUIRIGUA (GUATEMALA) – LAKE IZABAL AND THE RIO DULCE FLORES RIVER

Return to Guatemala. Transfer to the archaeological area of Kirigua, where the largest man–made monument in the western hemisphere is located, the 10meterhigh stele of the ruler of the city.
Then we will go to Lake Izabal, the largest in the country. In accordance with its peculiar geological history, which began at least 400 million years ago, Izabal is a complex mixture of karst caves and hills, rivers, lakes, swamps and large plains. Possessing the highest biological diversity in the country, with an abundance of vegetation on the banks of rivers, the forest of Lake Izabal is rightfully called the jade coast.
Transfer to a boat and a scenic walk along the Rio Dulce River: the sheer walls of the river canyon, thermal springs, and the beauty of the tropical jungle will leave an unforgettable impression.
Transfer to the small colonial town of Flores on Lake Peten Itza.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Casona del Lago hotel or similar


Day 14. December 3, 2026 (Thursday). FLORES – TIKAL – SAN IGNACIO ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE (BELIZE)

Visit the majestic city of Tikal, one of the largest and most influential Mayan cities. Today we are leaving in advance to see the stunning sunrise at the highest (70 meters) of the Mayan pyramids known today – Temple No. 4. Explore the city and walk through the surrounding virgin jungle. Observing the awakening of tropical nature, including a large number of animals: howler monkeys and spider monkeys, rhinoceroses, foxes, toucans, pheasants and many others.
Tikal – in the Mayan language, “a place where the voices of spirits are heard.” All the largest temples were built as funerary ones. The Maya considered the pyramids to be analogous to the mountains on which, according to their beliefs, the spirits of the dead live. Compared to other cities of the classical period, Tikal seems huge — it is the largest settlement of preColumbian America. Tikal's population is believed to have been up to 200,000 people.
It was inhabited from 800 BC to 900 AD, only to be conquered by tropical jungles again, from the early 11th century to the early 20th century, when Tikal was discovered and restoration work began. Archaeologists have called Tikal the "New York of the Maya civilization." Tikal National Park covers 575 square kilometers and has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as a cultural and natural heritage of mankind.
After getting to know the Mayan culture, you need to refresh yourself and go to a new country — Belize.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Midas Belize or similar


Day 15. December 4, 2026 (Friday). SAN IGNACIO – ACTUN TUNICHIL MUKNAL CAVE – BELIZE CITY KEY CAULKER ISLAND

Today we will visit the most interesting archaeological area of Belize. Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave (ATM Cave) is an archaeological site of the Maya civilization, where skeletons, ceramics and stone products were discovered. For the Maya, this cave was an important ceremonial center, as it symbolized the entrance to Xibalba, the world of the dead. To get to the sacred cave, you need to walk along a simple path (about 45 minutes), wading and swimming through three narrow rivers. The cave consists of a number of interconnected halls, which will take about 3 hours to visit. The entire route will take about 5 – 5.5 hours.
After the cave expedition, we will go to Belize City, from where we will take a ferry to one of the most interesting Caribbean islands belonging to the territory of Belize, Key Caulker. Key Caulker Island is notable for the fact that it still retains a real Caribbean vibe: the absence of asphalt, the slow passage of time, the azure sea and snow–white sand, the beautiful tropical nature, natural food, everything that makes a stay so desirable.
Transfer, border crossing and overnight at the Island Magic Beach Resort 3* hotel on the Caribbean coast.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Jan's Hotel or similar


Day 16. December 5, 2026 (Saturday). KEY KOLKER ISLAND – HOL CHAN NATURE RESERVE – BIG BLUE HOLE

This day will be dedicated to exploring the Belize Barrier Reef and its beauties. In the morning we will go to the open sea by boat to get to know the flora and fauna of the main marine reserve of the country – Khol Chan. In addition to a variety of corals, we will have the opportunity to see a wide variety of fish, rays and even sharks.
The Great Blue Hole is the main attraction of Belize, luring travelers and divers from all over the world. This is a large sinkhole in the center of Lighthouse Reef, an atoll in the Belize Barrier Reef, formed at the end of the Ice Age. The hole is a circular sinkhole with a diameter of 300 meters, extending to a depth of 124 meters. JacquesYves Cousteau named it one of the 10 best dive sites on the planet.
Diving requires certificates and training, so we will take a look at this wonder of the world from an airplane — the best view is from above. After completing a few laps over the Great Blue Hole, we will return to Key Kolker Island and enjoy a beach vacation.
(For diving at the Big Blue Hole, you need to plan an extra day on Key Caulker Island).

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: Jan's Hotel or similar


Day 17. December 6, 2026 (Sunday). KEY CAULKER ISLAND – BELIZE CITY – RETURN FLIGHT

After breakfast, transfer by ferry to Belize City.
Return international flight from Belize.

Meals: breakfast
Accommodation: None

* Recommended flights from Belize:
– any flight from Belize to any city, departing from Belize City no earlier than 10:30 a.m. on December 6.


* The order of visits and excursions can be changed depending on local conditions (road conditions, ferry/flight schedules, actual weather and sea conditions). If some visits and/or tours could not be carried out due to external reasons, they will be replaced if possible.
Cost includes:
  • Accommodation in 3*, 4*, 5* hotels based on a double room
  • Shared accommodation in a tent at NOMA Glamping at Acatenango Volcano Base Camp
  • Breakfast according to the program and dinner on the volcano
  • Welcome transfer from Managua Airport and transfer back to Belize City Airport All transportation according to the program: Toyota Hiace minibus for a group of up to 8 people (7 participants + 1 team leader), or Toyota Coaster bus for a group of 9 people (8 participants + 1 team leader), in good condition, with air conditioning and experienced drivers
  • Gasoline, parking, toll roads
  • Guided tours and entrance fees along the entire route
  • Private boat rental on Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
  • Private boat rental on the Rio Dulce River, Guatemala
  • Visit to the cigar factory in Esteli, Nicaragua
  • Visit to the Flor de Caña rum factory in Leon, Nicaragua
  • Volcano Boarding in Cerro Negro, Nicaragua
  • Acatenango Volcano Tour with an offroad 3/4way climb (the rest of the way on foot) Ferry tickets from Belize City to Key Caulker and back
  • Airplane flight over the Big Blue Hole in Belize
  • Excursion to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve (as part of a group)
  • Tour to the Actun Tunichil Muknal cave (as part of a group depending on the number of participants)
  • All permits and financial support for local communities
  • All entrance tickets to museums and parks
  • Experienced English speaking and Russian speaking guide, local guides
  • Russian and English speaking teamleader


Cost excludes (to be additionally paid) :

  • International flight to Managua (Nicaragua) and back from Belize City (Belize)
  • Medical insurance for traveling abroad
  • Belize visa (for Russian citizens, a Belize visa is obtained at the Belize High Commission in London by mail for 200 pounds. The cost may change. A visa to Belize is not required for Russian citizens if they have a valid Schengen visa, or a US visa, or a Canadian visa),
  • Vsas for Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador (not required for Russian citizens)
  • Lunches and dinners
  • Drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Tips and personal expenses
  • Single occupancy
  • Border taxes and fees (applicable in some countries, at entry or exit)

To take with:

  • sets of clothing suitable for weather conditions, including light clothing (trousers, shorts, T-shirts, long sleeve clothing, hoodie)
  • one set of warm clothes for climbing the volcano: thermal underwear, windproof trousers and jacket, light down jacket, gloves and a hat with a windstopper
  • sun hat / panama hat
  • bathing suit / swimming trunks
  • raincoat
  • comfortable and windproof trekking shoes for climbing a volcano
  • light shoes (sneakers)
  • beach shoes
  • sleeping bag at +5 degrees comfort temperature (it may be cool on the volcano)
  • personal hygiene items
  • individual first aid kit (analgesics, antiseptics, antibiotics, antiviral, intestinal, multivitamins, rehydrone, patch, your personal medicines)
  • sun protection (cream, spray)
  • repellents
  • sunglasses
  • buff
  • head lamp
  • a large backpack (either a travel bag or a small suitcase) for things
  • small backpack for radial exits (25 - 30 liters)
  • photo and video camera, tripod
  • power bank, batteries, accumulators
Why with MZUNGU EXPEDITIONS?
  • UNIQUENESS
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  • ADVENTURISM
    Wherever we go, we look for challenging activities and adventures, filling the journey with absolutely different spirit and emotions. That is why people join us over and over again.
  • SAFETY
    In our trips we pay special attention to safety. All our travels are based on personal experience, equipped with the best gear, involving proved providers and experienced local guides who perfectly know local features.
  • EXPERIENCE
    We have a unique experience of the most offbeat expeditions and ascents, deep knowledge of countries and peoples, and are ready to share it with you. All the expeditions and climbs are tested by Mzungu himself and guided by seasoned team-leaders, guaranteeing exciting traveling and your comfort.
  • REASONABLE PRICE
    All our trips are reach in adventures, with high quality accommodation, transportation and meals included. We do not save on it. Thanks to solid contacts with reliable providers we offer really good prices and high quality.

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