28 D I S C O V E R N E W W O R L D S enchantingtravels.com/guatemala Cast yourself back in time. Back to an era in which the marvels of the digital world didn't exist. Yet there was much wisdom, acquired from simple observations, and an appreciation of the natural world. Within the former boundaries of the Mayan empire in Guatemala, live the modern-day descendants of this ancient civilization. The Mayan people swapped a hunter-gatherer lifestyle for one that involved cultivating corn, mapping stars, playing ball games and living in the moment. MAYANMYSTERIES OFGUATEMALA Meet the Mayans The Mayans were master astronomers who took existing understanding of the solar system to create the most accurate calendar of the ancient world. The Mayans lived between around 300 and 900 AD and were one of the most advanced civilizations, pushing frontiers in agriculture, architecture, mathematics, engineering and communications, yet their day to day lives were guided by religious ritual. 29 GO SLOW RECOMMENDED ROUTE Mayan Mysteries and Adventure in Guatemala (11 days) Antigua (3) Lake Atitlan (3) Flores (4) Guatemala City (0) Adventure Heritage Landscape Best time to go: NOV to APR From $ 3,575 / person TALK TO OUR EXPERT Jay Harlow jay@enchantingtravels.com Modern Mayans The small colonial city of Antigua in southern Guatemala is surrounded by spectacular landscapes, shaped by volcanoes of yesteryear. Local people remain influenced by their Mayan ancestors, and are adorned in traditional dress as they spend their days herding sheep and cattle in the highlands. Wander to Finca El Pilar through mountains, cloud forests, and coffee plantations on a rainbow-hued bird and butterfly excursion, where you can observe the beating wings of the native hummingbirds. Breathe in the indigenous flavor with a visit to the open-air market of Chichicastenango, where the modern Mayan community flock together to trade their regional, handcrafted wares. In the midst of the market, a local church fuses Catholic and Mayan rituals. With fragrant scents wafting through the air, this is a delightful way to appreciate real Guatemala. Ancient Mayans Surrounded by miles of jungle in northern Guatemala you will find Petén, where the very essence of slow travel breathes. In this district lies Tikal National Park, famed for its ancient Mayan ruins, including Pyramid IV, one of the tallest pre-Columbian structures in the Americas. Head out with your local guide before the sun rises to observe the distinct, enduring architectural marvels that the Mayan civilization created centuries ago. This archaeological treasure trove also hosts the Maya Biosphere Reserve, a wonderland where tropical birds such as woodpeckers, parrots and toucans flit around, and howler monkeys use as their stomping ground. HIGHLIGHTS • Discover the mysteries of Mayan culture through ancient ruins and modern markets • Go volcano trekking, take boat rides and canopy walks in Guatemala’s national parks • Unearth the quaint charm of islands and lakes, and unwind in creative, colonial cities