El Chal

Day Trips

Arrive at La Aurora International Airport and take a scenic drive to El Chal, soaking in the beautiful landscapes of Guatemala. Check into your hotel and refresh yourself before heading out to explore the town. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Guatemalan dishes.

Visit the nearby Lago de Izabal, where you can take a boat tour to appreciate the stunning views and diverse wildlife. Explore the small fishing villages along the shore, interacting with locals and learning about their way of life. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the water before heading back to El Chal.

Return to El Chal and unwind at your hotel. Savor your first dinner in the town at a cozy restaurant, trying out local specialties such as pepián. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps taking a stroll through the market and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Start early and head to Tikal National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to witness one of the largest archaeological sites in Central America. As you walk through the trails, marvel at the towering ancient pyramids and diverse flora and fauna. Take a guided tour to learn about the rich Mayan history that unfolds in every corner of the park.

Continue your exploration of Tikal, visiting main temples like Temple I and Temple II. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the ancient ruins, allowing the surroundings to transport you back to the Mayan era. After lunch, climb to the top of Temple IV for a panoramic view of the jungle canopy stretching as far as the eye can see.

Return to El Chal, reflecting on the awe-inspiring sights you've encountered throughout the day. Dinner in town will be a delightful affair, perhaps sampling some grilled meats from a local vendor. End the evening with a relaxing walk, enjoying the tranquil ambiance of the town.

Travel to Yaxhá National Park, another ancient Mayan site known for its stunning lakes and ruins. Enjoy an early hike through the lush rainforest as you make your way to the impressive Yaxhá temples. Encounter various wildlife along the way, including monkeys and exotic birds.

After exploring the archaeological site, relax by the shores of Lake Yaxhá, where you can take a refreshing swim or savor a meal at a lakeside eatery. Engage with local guides to learn about Yaxhá’s historical significance and unique ecosystem. In this tranquil setting, take some time to reflect on the beauty of nature and ancient history.

Return to El Chal, where you can unwind at your accommodation for a restful evening. Share stories with fellow travelers over dinner at a local restaurant. As the sun sets, enjoy the peaceful ambiance that envelops the town.

Set out early for Semuc Champey, known for its stunning turquoise pools and impressive limestone bridge. Arrive and begin your adventure with a guided tour of the area, exploring the natural beauty and unique geological formations. Take a refreshing dip in the enchanting pools to start the day on a high note.

After swimming, embark on a trek through the surrounding jungle, enjoying breathtaking views from the lookout point. Have a packed picnic lunch in a scenic spot surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon either lounging by the pools or experiencing a thrilling cave tubing adventure in the nearby caves.

Return to El Chal, recounting the day's highlights and sharing laughs with new friends. Treat yourself to a hearty dinner, perhaps tasting a variety of traditional dishes from the region. Stroll through the quiet streets, where you'll find locals enjoying the evening, leading to an atmosphere of community warmth.

Take a trip to the vibrant Chichicastenango market, known for its lively atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. Explore the colorful stalls filled with handcrafted goods, textiles, and unique souvenirs. Engage in friendly negotiations with local vendors, learning about their crafts and traditions.

After shopping, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Santo Tomás Church, a blend of indigenous and Catholic traditions. Savor lunch at a nearby café, taking in the aromas and flavors of traditional Guatemalan cuisine. Continue to explore the town, visiting additional artisan shops and enjoying the lively street performances.

Return to El Chal, where you can relax at your hotel after a bustling day. Treat yourself to dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the vibrant experiences encountered at the market. Cap off the day with a quiet night, perhaps journaling about your adventures.

Embark on an exciting day in the natural wonder of Cascadas de Los Amates, where stunning waterfalls and lush scenery await. Spend the morning hiking and exploring the trails that lead to various cascading falls. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking beauty and playful moments by the water.

After lunch, engage in activities like swimming or rock climbing, making the most of the adventurous spirit of the waterfalls. Benefit from the expertise of local guides who can show you hidden spots and the best viewpoint options. Relax in the cool water while taking in the tranquility of the surrounding nature.

Return to El Chal for a well-deserved dinner, relishing fresh fish dishes caught from nearby waters. Enjoy your final evening in the town at a local bar, sharing stories over drinks and soaking in the friendly atmosphere. Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful memories created during your stay in this enchanting region.

Spend the morning engaging with the local community through a cultural exchange program. Participate in traditional cooking classes, where you'll learn to prepare popular Guatemalan dishes under the guidance of experienced locals. Enjoy the aromatic and vibrant flavors as you create your own breakfast.

Experience a guided tour through a local village, witnessing daily life and traditional customs firsthand. Engage with community members and share stories about your culture while learning about theirs. Enjoy lunch made with the ingredients you prepared earlier, celebrating the new connections you've made.

As the sun sets, gather with your new friends for a farewell dinner featuring local cuisine, honoring the bonds formed throughout the cultural exchange. Share laughter and anecdotes, savoring the flavors of Guatemala one last time. Reflect on the journey and friendships made as you prepare to depart.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take a final walk around El Chal to soak in the serene morning atmosphere. Visit any last-minute shops to pick up souvenirs that will remind you of your unforgettable journey. Take in the views of the surrounding landscape one last time before preparing for departure.

Check out of your hotel and begin your journey back to La Aurora International Airport. Reflect on your adventures and the beauty of Guatemala as you drive through the scenic countryside. Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to check in and relax before your flight.

As your flight takes off, look back on the incredible experiences you've enjoyed in El Chal and the surrounding areas. Consider plans for returning, as this captivating region surely leaves a lasting impression. Share your memories and stories with friends and family, inspiring others to explore the magic of Guatemala.