Traces of the past in Guatemala

From the capital, road for Cobán, then Chisec.

From Chisec, visit the ruins of Cancuén, a large trading center where royal dynasties built one of the largest palaces in the Maya world. This site is still being excavated and restored. Night in Sayaxché.

Sayaxché is located on the Río de la Pasión, which leads to the Laguna Petexbatun, a area with many Maya sites. We start with that of Dos Pilas, the oldest military city in the lagoon. The remains of the palaces and temples bear witness to the terrible war that destroys the region.

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Discovery of the second capital of the region, Aguateca, hidden in the jungle. The city, a former centre of power inhabited by the royal families, was destroyed around 800. The archaeological research there is interrupted at the moment, but there is a breathtaking view of the surrounding area from the site.

By boat along the Río River, you can reach the famous El Ceibal site. This ceremonial centre was built at the top of a hill. His constructions bear witness to Mexican influence.

Coming down the river, we arrive at the site Altar de los Sacrificios (Altar of Sacrifice), one of the oldest Mayan lowlands, but it is not restored. Travel to Piedras Negras on the Río Usumacinta, below Yaxchilán.

Visit of the huge site of Piedras Negras, in full jungle, near the Mexican border. Piedras Negras was particularly well preserved: its thermal baths, palaces, stalls... These buildings are, however, little restored since excavations and searches only resumed after the civil war (1996) during which the guerrilla occupied the scene. Return to Sayaxché.

Continue exploration.

Road for Tikal in good morning, day on the Mayan site most known and most impressive. Visit of the Great Pyramid, acropolis, temples 1, 2 and 6, twin pyramids, etc. Night on site.

Return to the capital, Guatemala Ciudad, to take your return flight.