Reefs, Ruins and Rainforest

Guatemala’s premium treasure, cobbled-street Antigua is a quaint colonial city set in the Guatemalan highlands. Staying at El Convento, a former convent that sits adjacent to a traditional church, you’ll spend your first few days exploring the ancient ruins and vibrant streets of the old town. Take a horse and carriage ride through the historic centre, soaking up the grandeur of what was a former colonial capital during the height of the Spanish Empire. Alternatively, climb up to the Cerro de la Cruz in the northern hills to get the best panoramas of the city, or hike one of the many volcanoes that encase the city.

One of the world’s most famous Mayan sites, the next leg of your trip will take you to the ancient ruins of Copán. After a day flight, you’ll cross the border into Honduras in order to reach the road less travelled, which is a four to five hour drive away. You’ll spend two nights at Hacienda San Lucas, a family owned hideaway nestled high up in the hills that border Copán Valley. During your stay here, you’ll tour the UNESCO listed archaeological site, which once served as Mayan capital between the 5^th and 9^th century AD, and visit Macaw Mountain to see rescued and endangered bird species.

It’s onwards and upwards to the rainforest, with a transfer to Pico Bonito National Park. Located in Honduras’ northern territory, this protected land is home to dense forest and a vast collection of wildlife. You’ll take up residence at Pico Bonito Lodge, an eco-friendly inn that sits tucked away at the foot of the national park. From here, you’ll get the chance to trek through wild jungle, with possibilities of spotting sloths, reptiles, tropical birds and many other furry friends. The area is also renowned for its fierce rapids, making it a fantastic white water rafting spot.

Round off your trip with a five-night stay in Honduras’ Bay Islands: paradise found. Situated off the country’s northern Caribbean Coast, Roatán is the largest of the three Bay Islands, and considered a scuba-diving mecca, where you’ll get the chance to dive the world’s second largest coral reef, swimming alongside all sorts of tropical species, including turtles and rays. Staying on the beachfront at Palmetto Bay Plantation, you’ll be utterly secluded and at peace; spend your final days lounging poolside, or tanning on the white sands of the beach on your very doorstep. If you fancy getting out and about, the island is particularly pleasant to explore by car – made easier by the fact that there’s only one road – and pioneer your way around its unspoiled white-sanded coastline.