Copan, Quirigua and Rio Dulce

Guatemala

More ancient sites then in Egypt, remote villages and interesting indigenous cultures, charming and historic colonial art and architecture. A thousand years away! The Ruins of Copan represent the highest artistic and cultural achievement of the ancient Maya civilisation. The extensive grounds of the archaeological park, along with the surrounding valley and hills, embrace the remains of numerous majestic temples and pyramids embellished with thousands of fragments of architectural sculpture. These great works of art and the peaceful surroundings of the forested Copan Valley seldom fail to touch the hearts of most modern visitors.

Quirigua is a true treasure, so exceptional and noble that it has been designated as Heritage for Humanity. The stelae of Quirigua were carved centimetre by centimetre and are the ultimate proof of the Maya's artistic skills. They meticulously recorded their history and the future, the feats of their kings and lords. The altars are famous, carved in the form of animals that represent deities and, for this reason, this religious center attained great importance in the times of indigenous splendour.

The Itinerary

Day 1:
Early departure from Guatemala City or Antigua to cross the border of Honduras to visit the archeological park of Copan, with ruins of antique buildings, ball courts, steles and plazas of the Mayan city founded in the classic period. Choice of hotel in Copan.

Day 2:
Transfer from hotel to visit the archeological site Quirigua, ceremonial center of the classic period where you can admire the biggest Mayan steles up to 35 feet of height and 65 tons of weight. In the afternoon transfer to Rio Dulce, this river links Lake Izabal with the Atlantic Ocean in a journey of 42 kilometers with abundant vegetation, waterfalls and big cliffs of thermal waters in the outlet. Accommodation at Catamaran Hotel ( 03 ***) or similar. (B D)

Day 3:
In Rio Dulce visit San Felipe Castle, fortress built in XVI century to prevent the attacks of British, French and Dutch pirates that stole the Spaniards refuges. Continue going up river to visit Livingston, a garifuna population of Afro-Caribbean origin, where you will appreciate the Chocon Machacas Biotope, habitat of an aquatic mammal in danger of extinction manatee. In the afternoon you will be transferred to Guatemala City, Antigua or Flores. (B)

General Information

Rated: Easy

Price per person
	Mid Range Hotel		Superior Range Hotel
	Double Room	Single Supp	Double Room	Single Supp
USD	$ 552	$ 82	$ 577	$ 82
EUR	€ 458	€ 68	€ 479	€ 68
GBP	£ 309	£ 46	£ 323	£ 46

(*) Price last updated on 11 April 2004. Current price may vary due to elements out of our control, so please always check by sending us a
quotation request .
Minimum 2 passengers

Accommodation:
* Hotel Marina Copan or Hacienda San Lucas or similar & Catamaran for Superior Range
* Casa de Cafe and Catamaran or similar for Mid-Range hotels.

Included:
Specialised guide, park, ruins and museum admissions, transfers, launch in Rio Dulce, luggage handling, meals mentioned, accommodation.

Not included:
Meals, tips, personal expenses, telephone calls, laundry, drinks, etc.

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