Guatemala is a showcase of natural history and dramatic landscapes, yet its most distinguishing asset is the rich and colorful traditions of the various ethnic communities, such as K'iché, Kaqchiquel and Achi. Each group has its own language, its special folklore, yet they share a common ancestral heritage as expressed in religion, music, dance, foods and even social organization.
If you are interested in the cultural heritage of the Mayan passed down from generation to generation. Here is an opportunity to walk a mile in their shoes.
As with all tours, this is flexible to accomodate your itenerary, budget and desires. This tour takes about four days, but you may want to stay longer or have less time. This you will have to discuss with us prior to going. You will journey to San Antonio Palopo, Guatemala where the village is on the eastern shore of Lake Atitlán. You will have the opportunity to live with a family of Cakchiquel Maya textile producers. They do not speak English, so a little Spanish will go a long way but it's not mandatory to get by. You'll improve your Spanish, just by being around it!! The people of the region are with a distinctive style of clothing. You can learn how to weave and produce a small piece of typica while you visit. Time has had little influence on these proud people and you will eat traditional meals that will be provided for you along with hospitality in the ways of old.
We offer one on one backstrap weaving instruction with local indigenous weavers. You can either take the classes in our instructor's home - which is a fabulous opportunity to not only learn to weave, but also to spend time with a Guatemalan family, experiencing indigenous life in a small village, on a day to day basis. Once again, the instructors do not speak English, so some basic Spanish is very helpful for this class. However, since weaving is something you learn by demonstration, not by explanation, don't let your lack of Spanish stop you from this great experience. Just don't forget your dictionary!
If you are an experienced weaver, you'll learn centuries-old techniques that you've admired in Guatemalan weavings for years. If you are a novice, we've told our instructors to begin at the beginning, and teach you as they do their young daughters - who begin to weave around the age of 9 years. And for those who want to improve or simply maintain their Spanish language skills -- it's a lot more fun than sitting in a classroom for half a day !!
The trip begins in Rio Dulce and takes you to Antigua where we will be met by the family of whom you will stay and learn. From there you will be taken To San Antonio where the first day will be spent living in the traditional ways and learning basic weaving. You can participate or watch, that is your choice. You can be fitted and clothed in typica clothing specific for this reigon and spend the first day easing on in.
The second day there consists of a tour of the village where you can see and/or purchase other art created the area. This is followed by another evening with the family and a good nights rest before continuing on your journey. From there you have the choice of going on your way or returning to Fronteras and the Rio Dulce with your guide.
Key Information:
Tour duration: The minimum time frame is 4 days. This trip can be customized to your time frame.
Accomodations: You will live with artisan families in their homes. If you choose to pay extra there are several hotels to choose from ranging from (advance notice and deposit must be arranged)
Group size: 8 maximum
Departure point: Rio Dulce
Meals: Snacks are provided in transit, but three meals a day will be provided by your hosting family while you are there. BUT if you prefer, there is a fair selection of restaraunts to choose from which is not included in your price.
Transportation: Litegua will be taken to Guatemala City where we will transfer to another headed for Antigua, Private transportation (often a truck) will meet us in Antigua and deliver us to our destination.
Tour Customizable: of course!
Total Cost: Contact me with your specifics, there is a minimum fee for groups of four or less, then prices can be negotiated depending on what else you would like to include in your tour package.
