travel photography with purpose

Guatemala

Nine Days

*Sample of our Guatemala Trip

Day 1

Arrive at Guatemala Airport before 1 p.m. We will greet you with a sign out the doors where everyone is waiting. (We will wait for you to get through customs so no stress). We then whisk you away to the quaint colonial town of Antigua. If you cannot find an arrival that fits the time we suggest arriving a day/night ahead of time. We will help you book a nearby hotel we are familiar with and we can also pick you up.

Check-in at our hotel in the colonial town of Antigua.  

Evening:  We will gather in the hotel lobby for greetings and head out to a local restaurant for dinner. We'll stroll around the main plaza after dinner, where you can take photos and enjoy the bustling night market with local Guatemalan artisans.

DAY 2

Breakfast at Hotel

Find your secret photo challenge (you’ll share it later)

Let’s shoot some street photography on the lively charming and photogenic cobblestoned streets of Antigua

Discover the breathtaking architectural marvel of the Casa Santo Domingo Monastery, a site that boasts an astonishing display of craftsmanship dating back to its construction in 1538. This historical gem showcases awe-inspiring architectural elements that continue to captivate visitors to this day.

Up we go to a stunning vista point overlooking the city by vehicle. You'll be treated to an unobstructed view of one of Guatemala's most active volcanoes and a museum of sorts.

Special Lunch We are thrilled to have the chance to indulge in delectable, homemade cuisine thoughtfully prepared by a warm and welcoming family in the comfort of their Guatemalan home. After lunch enjoy some time on your own

Evening we will enjoy our first photo share in a common hotel area. Great time to see how others see and ask questions about photography.

• DAY 3

Pre Sunrise Photo Fun for early risers

Explore the most captivating spots around La Merced Arch before the town awakens

Consider bringing a lightweight tripod for capturing the best photos.

Breakfast at our hotel after the photography shoot

Today we will experience a “Chicken Bus” ride to a nearby village

Get ready for a truly authentic experience as we journey to a nearby village just 15 minutes away via the famous "chicken bus". This colorful and lively mode of transportation offers a glimpse into the local way of life.

Wander the village and learn how the locals live outside of the town.

Photograph in a local food market where you can buy whole fresh fruit and photograph vendors.

Late Afternoon Explore Antigua on your own. Hook up with others and be serendipity before we gather for dinner

Dinner together

Short photo share and editing this evening

Lake Atitlan

DAY 4

Breakfast at hotel
Embark this morning on our 3-hour journey with our driver to breathtaking Lake Atitlan, a sight of unparalleled beauty and tranquility.

Renowned writer, Aldous Huxley, famously referred to Lake Atitlan as the “most exquisite and picturesque lake in the world”, a testament to the breathtaking beauty and natural wonder of this magnificent destination.

We'll journey into sacred Mayan sites and delve into their rich history, granting you a rare glimpse of rituals typically hidden from outsiders.

  DAY 5

We stay in the bustling Mayan town of Panajachel tonight and take a day trip to one of the most renowned Indian markets in Latin America.

     CHICHICASTENANGO

A thrilling short-day trip to explore one of the most ancient and vibrant Mayan Indian markets in all of Latin America. The intoxicating scents of animals, incense, and candles intermingle with the sacred atmosphere of ancient churches, creating an unforgettable sensory experience that simply cannot be missed.

Return to Lake for Lunch

Time on your own to roam

DAY 6

Morning - we visit the lovely village of Santa Catarina which boasts the most gorgeous blue/purple Mayan clothing

Motorboat ride across the lake to San Pedro and San Juan. So much to photograph *you are so glad that you brought lots of extra photo storage

We stay at a sweet Mayan-owned hotel on the lake with a lovely family. You only get one towel but the atmosphere and the people are worth it.

Lunch is at an outdoor cafe which just happens to have the best coconut soup I have tasted.

Free Time: relax on your own or Choose your fun -Canoes are available, hammocks, and there is lots to photograph and buy on the streets.

Photo sharing this evening at the roundtable overlooking the lake

DAY 7

Artesian village -Early breakfast and a boat trip/ or tuk-tuk ride to San Juan de Laguna

Explore a Mayan Coffee Farm and learn about how coffee is grown and enjoy a cup of Guatemalan organic coffee.

 Mayan weavers show you demonstrations on the backstrap loom

Taste and learn about herbal healing teas.

Lunch in the village of San Juan   

Mayan priest visit this evening to see, taste hear, and photograph a special private ritual. The priest or priestess decides on the ritual (you do not need to partake to witness it).

Dinner together at one of the fine outdoor restaurants

  DAY 8

The Volcano Hike option begins at 4 a.m. for those who want to do it. It is 5 hours and the view is majestic. You can also choose to canoe, walk the meandering streets, or relax in your hammock with a book and your camera.

Afternoon -Time on your own.

Boat ride across the lake to meet our driver in Panajachel for the journey back to Antigua

Antigua dinner together, photograph flowers and festivals on the streets

Photo share your best images of the trip

  DAY 9

·Antigua -Breakfast at the hotel and get ready for the driver to escort you to the airport. (TBA If your departure is at an odd time we suggest you stay in Antigua and we’ll help you hire your private Uber or cab to the airport).

Trip costs are $2900 for 9 days in Guatemala. We pick you up at the airport where we begin our journey together. All group ground transportation is included. Professional photographer leading group and always available.

·       MINIMUM GROUP -5

·       MAXIMUM GROUP -10

· If you are traveling solo and want we can possibly you up with a traveler to room share.

Laughing Planet Journeys

Guatemala 2024

$3400.

What is included:

Pick up and return at Guatemala Airport

8 breakfasts

All on-ground transportation

Boat Transportation

Hotels double occupancy

Single occupancy available

(we will match you with a room share if you like)

Minimum Group -5

Maximum group 10

At Laughing Planet Journeys our focus on grassroots travel ensures an authentic and meaningful experience that connects travelers with the people and places they visit.We provide travelers with unparalleled opportunities to capture breathtaking photos of Guatemala's stunning landscapes and vibrant communities while making a positive impact on communities. Whether it's exploring the bustling markets, visiting remote villages, or engaging in community service projects, travelers are sure to come away with incredible memories and stunning photo

We've intentionally left some meal times free so that you can choose your menus and have a more personalized dining experience.

Not included

Please note that airfare is not included, but we're happy to assist you with your flight arrangements.

Lunches and dinners are not included. We find it is much easier and less time-consuming for each person to order and pay for exactly what they want. Don’t worry food is extremely inexpensive in Guatemala.
Any special transportation you choose for yourself that is not in the group plan is not included.

Come discover the Mayan Guatemala Highlands with us, make new friends, and unforgettable memories!

VISAS and PICKUP

Discover Guatemala A 9-Day Travel Photography Expedition with Purpose We will guide you through Passport and Visa requirements. We will meet you at the airport or a nearby hotel. Immerse yourself in Guatemala's culture and create genuine connections with its warm-hearted locals and fellow travelers.

Group Photo Review: Enhance your skills through collective learning. Join our nightly gatherings to review and discuss your photos, gaining valuable insights from fellow travelers and leader’s experience

Photography with Purpose: Go beyond photography – participate in sustainable tourism and support the communities you visit. Contribute to local well-being with purposeful photography.

Create Deep Friendships: This adventure offers not just incredible photos but also heartwarming stories, enduring friendships, and a deep connection to Guatemala. Secure your spot today and prepare for the purposeful journey of a lifetime! Join us in 2025 to make photographs, build bonds, and explore Guatemala

INSURANCE

Travel insurance for your Laughing Planet Journeys trip to Guatemala or Cuba is necessary.
It's important to have coverage for cancellations, delays, illness, and loss of luggage and personal belongings. With insurance, you can recover your deposit and trip balance through a claim if you need to cancel your trip due to unforeseen circumstances. Google to compare prices and options. Check out https://safetywing.com/nomad-insurance but check with your local insurance agent for a travel insurance comparison for a trip with Laughing Planet Journeys.