This is your official invitation to join me on an extraordinary journey through landmark destinations in Guatemala.

Temples of Tikal Tower above the jungle canopy — Guatemala — Karina Noriega

Join us on this Extraordinary Journey around Guatemala! For more information, please contact:

Karina @ karinasextraordinarylife@gmail.com

April @ aprilberesford@hotmail.com

Path to Agua — Guatemala — Karina Noriega

I want to take fear, uncertainty and hard work out of going to a foreign land (specially if it’s your first trip). I have the research, connections and the know-how. Unlike big, established tours, traveling with me means traveling with a friend who is eager to explore, share, and help you travel safely. Our small group will result in more freedom, flexibility and a personalized experience.

Preserving Culture: Guatemala’s Inspiring Alfombra Tradition

Before you come

I can help you with every aspect of planning your journey before you even arrive. From ‘what to pack’ to ‘books to read’. I can guide you through purchasing ‘travel insurance’ and help you book flights (cheapest price or most direct route is up to you).

Travel Tips:

Canadian, US and most European citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.
There are no obligatory inoculations for Guatemala.

Observing a Maya woman weave traditional textiles — Guatemala — Karina Noriega

While you are here

I have put together itineraries to explore key landmarks in Guatemala. I want to take all the hassle out of the overwhelming trip planning. Reservations. Schedule. Transportation. Where to go? How to get there? And of course, SAFETY! (Guatemala has received a bum rap, but with right knowledge, danger can be avoided. Much more on that for interested parties.)

10 Must-Read Tips for Eating Street Meat

In other words, leaving you to simply enjoy the best this country has to offer.

When

Tentative dates are for the second and/or third week of April 2015. (My dates are flexible so we can find what works best for everyone.)

1. Semana Santa is the first week of April – see below for more info.

Chichicastenango Church — Guatemala — Karina Noriega

Average daily temperatures in April (dry season)are in the high 20’s (Celcius) or 80’s (Fahrenheit).

Please note that I am currently available to help you plan your very own trip to Guatemala with personalized dates, locations and budget (with or without a guide).

Contact: karinasextraordinarylife@gmail.com

How Long

Planning for roughly 8 to 10 days to visit highlights of Guatemala with the possibility of extension for those who can extend their stay.

Local Species of Guatemala — Karina Noriega

Cost

There are so many possibilities for every type of traveler. As a worldly backpacker I am a super efficient shoestring traveler ($10/day in hostels and eating street food if that’s how you like it), but in a country like Guatemala $100/day means you travel like royalty. I know most of you will land somewhere in the middle.

I created a very general breakdown here to give you an idea. Actual cost will depend on the number of people and what level of comfort and adventure your group wants.

Chicken Buses for the Soul, Guatemala

Where To Go/Itinerary

Months or years would not be enough to fully explore this amazing country.

Here is just a sampling of the exemplary places you could discover in Guatemala. (I wish I had the time to write my own stories on each of these places. Stay tuned on the blog for more each week 🙂 (Start your own research with the links provided below.)

Arco de Antigua — Guatemala — Karina Noriega

Antigua – World Heritage Center and travellers haven.
- The old Spanish colonial capital of Baroque churches, and cobblestone streets is the place to introduce this country. Historic sites mingling with local villagers and lively nightlife infused by expats.
- Perhaps You Need a Little Antigua, Guatemala
- The Charm of Street Vendor Culture: Antigua, Guatemala
Atitlan
- Magnificent volcano fringed lake spotted with villages with a strong presence of Mayan culture.
- http://atitlanliving.com
  Breathtaking views, relaxing in San Pedro, Atitlan. This penthouse suite cost us $5/night for 2 people!!! — Guatemala — Karina Noriega
Chichicastenango
- Thriving Mayan tradition and market epicentre for thousands of isolated villager coming to trade handmade goods every Thursday and Sunday.
Monterrico
- Volcanic sand gets pounded by the powerful Pacific Ocean. Mangrove swamps harbour turtles. Perfect setting for catching rays and relaxing with a Gallo (Guatemala’s foremost beer).
  The exquisite water of Rio Dulce — Guatemala — Karina Noriega
Rio Dulce/Livingston
- An Extraordinary Guide to Caribbean Coast of Guatemala: Livingston (Part I)
- Guatemala’s Caribbean coast. Follow the sweet river between a 100ft walls of jungle studded precipice to white sand beaches, hot springs, waterfalls and the town of Livingston where Latin/Caribbean fusion thrives. Also home to Casa Guatemala.
- (2. See below for more info)
Semuc Champey
- The secret is out, unrivalled natural beauty of turquoise pools surrounded by virgin jungle.
- Revisiting the temples of Tikal — Guatemala — Karina Noriega
  
  Semuc Champey, Guatemalan Heaven on Earth
Tikal
- Epic Mayan city of magnificent pyramids towering above the jungle canopy
- http://www.tikalpark.com/generalinfo.htm
- World Heritage Center

Group preferences and time limitations will determine itinerary.

There is no better opportunity to make this journey happen. I am enlivened to introduce my friends (and yours), first timers or seasoned travellers to the beauty of Guatemala. Need more reasons?

An incredible New Years spectacle in Antigua. Most events like these are free to public — Guatemala — Karina Noriega

Mayan tradition mix with Catholic influence to create unique customs and beliefs like this Maximon in Atitlan — Guatemala — Karina Noriega

I am bilingual in English and Spanish so I can function as an excellent translator and deal maker.

I am familiar with the country, the culture and I can create more intimate situations for those looking to get up close and personal with the places and its people.

Join us on this Extraordinary Journey around Guatemala!

For more information

karinasextraordinarylife@gmail.com

Or leave a comment below with your email and I will contact you.

~ An Extraordinary Story by Karina Noriega ~

Guatemalan (Or Chapina, as Guatemalans are known here) Pride — Guatemala — Karina Noriega

Footnotes

1. Semana Santa

The first week is Semana Santa, Holy Week, leading up to Easter. These extravagant celebrations are the most impressive cultural event in the country. Naturally, prices skyrocket and most reservations are made a year in advance. April and I will are intent on going already and several people have mentioned joining us for this week as well. I am not including this here because costs will be more prohibitive, and the planning is complicated. If you are still willing, it would be an unforgettable adventure – roughing it may be necessary. This is not a tour.

2. Casa Guatemala

For those wishing to stay longer to make a difference in the lives of the orphans of Guatemala, I can help arrange your stay with Casa Guatemala. I have previous experience (four times over) and would highly encourage it.

Story: Heroes for Guatemala

Film: Casa Guatemala Fundraiser and Volunteer Mission