Tour to Zaculeu, an Ancient Mayan Kingdom + The Viewpoint of Dieguez Olaverri
Visit an archeological site + one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Guatemala and a small town, all in one day with the best company by your side.
Our first stop will be the archeological site of Zaculeu, known for its restored ruins. This place belonged to the Mam Mayan kingdom but was conquered by the Spanish and their allies in 1525 after an intense war.
Then we will visit El Mirador Juan Dieguez Olaverri. Get amazed by all the beauty surrounding this place. This is one of the highest points in Guatemala and has some of the best views. There is an abandoned country house in the mountain, and it is a great stop for a picture, as well as the views of the entire valley.
Lastly, don´t miss the chance to visit a small town in between Zaculeu and El Mirador Juan Dieguez Olaverri, it is a picturesque town that you will definitely like.
This is the perfect circuit if you´re looking to do different activities in one day.
Options
Tour to Zaculeu, an Ancient Mayan Kingdom + The Viewpoint of Dieguez Olaverri
Pickup included
What's included in Tour to Zaculeu, an Ancient Mayan Kingdom + The Viewpoint of Dieguez Olaverri
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Guatemala has hundreds of archeological places and sites, some are well known, and some others have not been even explored, however, we know about their existence. Many people are familiar with the archeological sites in the northern, such as Tikal, El Mirador, Yaxhá, and others, but what most people don´t know is that Guatemala has many sites almost everywhere, even in Guatemala City. Today, we want to take you to an important archeological site in the western, we are talking about Zaculeu. Zaculeu is in the department of Huehuetenango, around 3-4 hours away from the Central Park of Xela, however, the trip is worth it. We recommend it 100%, not only because of the archeology, but the Mayan culture, their history, and the other places we will visit on this tour. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!
Ruinas de Zaculeu
Zaculeu´s original name was Xinabajul which means “In Between Ravines” in the Mam Mayan language. This kingdom was conquered by the Spanish in 1525 with help of Quiches and Tlaxcalan warriors. The Quiches were a Mayan ethnic group that was enemies of Xinabajul´s kingdom. The Tlaxcalans helped with the conquest of some Guatemalan Mayan kingdoms as a union of power between them and the Spanish conquerors. However, the conquest of this kingdom was not easy, it took them 30+ days of the war to finally defeat them. A big portion of their defeat was caused by the famine of the Xinabajul´s warriors as they didn´t have any way to get food while in the war. After the conquest, the Quiches named this place Zaculeu which means “White Land” and that is the name that is maintained until nowadays. This is just a portion of all the history behind this archeological site like no other. Come with us and have an expert tourist guide by your side, explaining every detail, so you don´t miss a thing.
Chiantla
After our visit to Zaculeu, we will get back to the road and head to a nearby town called Chiantla. This is a very small but cozy town. Visit its church, saddleries, and streets.
Inclusions
- Guided tour through the town of Chiantla + The viewpoint of Dieguez Olaverri
- Private transportation
- Entrance Fee to Zaculeu + The Juan Dieguez Olaverri Viewpoint
- Bottled water
- Certified tour guide
- Air conditioning in the vehicle
- Gratuities
- Lunch
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Bring comfortable walking shoes, a windbreaker jacket, mosquito repellent, sun protection, nausea medicine, and some snacks
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 15 minutes before departure time.
Additional Information
We offer hotel pick up and drop off. Our staff will meet you at the lobby of your hotel and will ask for you at the front desk.
