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Chichicastenango Festival: Maya Heritage Celebration
Los Encuentros
Join the celebration of Chichicastenango’s Patron’s Day on December 21st, where Saint Thomas is honored through lively dances, Mayan rituals, and traditional music, showcasing the vibrant Maya heritage and culture.
Join the celebration of Chichicastenango’s Patron’s Day on December 21st, where Saint Thomas is honored through lively dances, Mayan rituals, and traditional music, showcasing the vibrant Maya heritage and culture.
Duration:
8 hours
Cancellation:
24 hours
Highlights
- Interamerican Highway - During the journey from Antigua to Chichicastenango, there will be a 15-minute stop to stretch, relax, and take in the stunning views of Lake Atitlán, one of Guatemala’s most revered and historic lakes, encircled by magnificent volcanoes. This brief pause is an ideal opportunity to breathe and connect with the natural and…
- Interamerican Highway - During the journey from Antigua to Chichicastenango, there will be a 15-minute stop to stretch, relax, and take in the stunning views of Lake Atitlán, one of Guatemala’s most revered and historic lakes, encircled by magnificent volcanoes. This brief pause is an ideal opportunity to breathe and connect with the natural and spiritual beauty of the highlands.
- Iglesia de Santo Tomás - Upon arrival, walk approximately 6 blocks to the Church of Santo Tomás, constructed atop a pre-Columbian temple. Here, admire the devotion shown in honoring the saints and the joy of the 14 cofradías (religious brotherhoods). Arriving early allows for witnessing the expressions of faith and devotion before it becomes crowded. With over seven Mayan altars, each believer offers prayers and lights candles, symbolizing their words reaching the Creator. Each brotherhood presents an altar that later becomes part of the procession, showcasing a remarkable syncretism of colorfully decorated altars with images of saints.
- Hotel Santo Tomas, Chichicastenango - Enjoy breakfast at Hotel Santo Tomás, the most beautiful hotel in Chichicastenango, with à la carte options available.
- Plaza y Mercado Santo Tomás - Experience the Tzijolaj, a dance representing Santiago Apóstol (Saint James) on a white horse. The ritual includes fireworks and concludes with the Tzijolaj being tied to a rope from the bell tower to the “palo volador” (flying pole). After the Tzijolaj, the cofradías march out, accompanied by “Baile de los Mexicanos,” dancers who perform an adaptation of an ancient Maya fertility ritual and traditional music, creating a lively, colorful procession that fills the streets.
- Cemetery - Visit the local cemetery, where families gather to honor their ancestors with heartfelt offerings of flowers, incense, and prayers, a deeply rooted expression of reverence for the spirit world.
- Plaza Baktun - Explore the sacred Oxlajuj B’aktún plaza, the 13 Bak’tun ceremonial site, where traditional Mayan rituals are performed, connecting past and present in a powerful celebration of ancestral wisdom and cosmic cycles.
- Capilla del Calvario - After visiting the cemetery, enjoy the festivities in the central plaza and visit the Church of El Calvario. This stunning church offers a unique insight into the vibrant spiritual life of the local community, blending indigenous Mayan traditions with Catholic doctrines. Be captivated by the serene atmosphere.
- Interamerican Highway - The return journey to Antigua Guatemala includes a suggested stop in Tecpán for lunch.

What's Included
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Entrance fees
- Local Tour Guide
- Breakfast
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- Entrance fees
- Local Tour Guide
- Breakfast
- In-vehicle air conditioning
What's Not Included
- Lunch
- Lunch
Location
Interamerican Highway
Pan-American Highway
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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