Guatemala, Belize and Mexico: Jungles to lagoons

You're practically shaking with excitement! Green mountain landscapes, bubbling volcanoes, beautiful lakes and deep green rainforests – did you know that Guatemala has one of the richest ecosystems in the world? One minute, you're fantasising about the adventures that await you there, and the next, you're right in the heart of Guatemala City. The tropical warmth envelops you, and your curiosity about Antigua Guatemala grows greater and greater. Even the journey to the former capital is a true highlight.

You head through the central highlands past small villages, and then the mighty Agua Volcano appears on the horizon, towering majestically over Antigua Guatemala. And the Agua isn't the only volcano here. The Acatenango and Fuego twin volcanoes, as well as the Pacaya, surround Antigua and provide what's perhaps the most spectacular backdrop for a city you've ever seen. But now it's time to settle in and put your feet up.

It's high time you plunged into Antigua Guatemala's urban tumult – and travelled back in time! The city is bursting with colonial-era architecture, and you can find traces of the former Spanish conquest on every corner. Stroll through the narrow cobbled streets, past quaint gardens and historic churches, to the local market. And then? A hike to the Cerro de la Cruz is practically a must-do in Antigua. The reward for the 30-minute ascent? An incredible view of Antigua, the countryside and the smoking volcanoes – which means your camera is a must-have! A perfect day in Antigua Guatemala naturally includes coffee, and of course you've just got to try some. After all, Guatemalan coffee beans are among the best in the world. You'll find lovely cafés around the Parque Central, so pick one you like and enjoy of steaming cup of the country's black gold.

Want to take a ride on the chicken bus? It's an absolute must-do in Antigua! The old yellow US school buses have been transformed into true, colourful works of art that are now the heart of regional transport here. Sound fancy enough to temp you aboard? All you've got to do to get a ticket is get on and buy one (optional, payable on site). Then roll off to San Juan del Obispo, and after a short ride, you'll be there. The small village seems rather sleepy, but it hides a few treasures – chocolatey ones! During the week, you can visit the small chocolate factory in the village (optional, payable on site) and watch how the best chocolate ever is made from just three ingredients. Pro tip: the chocolate with chili is next level! Right next door, you'll find is a small artisanal wine shop that makes its wine from loquats. Pop in, sample the different varieties and let them show you the production process while you’re at it (optional, payable on site). Then when you're done, hop back on the chicken bus, ride to Antigua and dive back into the hustle and bustle! 

It's time to say goodbye. Today, you're leaving Antigua with a heavy heart. But don't worry; the next town is already waiting for you. Off to Flores! After quickly boarding the plane, the green highlands of Guatemala shine beneath you, and you can't get enough of the beautiful landscape. A moment later, you're already on descent to land and then make your way through the spectacular jungle scenery to your stay.

With its colonial-era buildings and an island in the middle of Lago Petén Itzá, the small town of Flores knows how to impress. You check into your hotel and enjoy the sunset on the shores of the lake when suddenly, your stomach starts to rumble. It’s clearly time to try the delicious cuisine you’ve heard so much about, so you set out on the hunt for some street food. You find the local women offering typical local specialities, such as tacos, bean stew and enchiladas, and think to yourself, 'Why choose one, when I can just try them all?!'