Guided Mayan Ruins Tours

One of the main focal points of Caravan Tour’s all inclusive Guatemala vacations is the ancient Mayan ruins.

Mayan culture, as far as we can tell from what has been recovered and the folklore passed down through generations, is a largely impacted diffusion of cultures and trade exchange. Guatemalan Mayan culture is famous for its sophisticated written language, art, architecture and astronomy.

With a visit to Tikal Guatemala, once the most powerful kingdom in the entire ancient Mayan empire, Caravan travelers get a full education in addition to experiencing current Mayan culture firsthand and enjoying a relaxing and tropical Guatemala vacation. Caravan also includes additional stopovers at less visited Mayan hotspots.

All Inclusive Mayan Tours

Tour companies such as Caravan Tours are All Inclusive Guatemala Tour Operators offering exciting and fully escorted travel through Central America’s Mayan ruins. This means that virtually every cost incurred during your Guatemala vacation – including hotels, transportation, activities and meals – is included in the price you pay for the Guatemala vacation.

Because of this, Caravan’s Guatemala Tours are ideal for senior vacation travel or as all inclusive family vacations. Call 1-800-CARAVAN (227-2826) for special information about Guatemala group vacations as well as special travel requirements.

Guatemala Mayan Highlights

The current Guatemala Tikal Tour itinerary contains visits to the following Mayan locations:

National Museum of Archaeology – This national museum located in Guatemala City gives vacationers an education as to how Guatemala’s civilizations existed prior to Columbian cultures entering the country. Here, guests can view an extensive collection of Mayan pottery and jewelry, sure to tweak the interest of the artist and historian in all of us.

Santo Tomas Church in Chichicástenango – A trip north of Guatemala City into the highlands gives visitors the opportunity to visit Santo Tomas Church to experience the unique blending of Mayan culture and Catholic rituals. Inside the church, the floor is covered in rose petals and candles with the scent of incense in the air. In Chichicástenango vacationers have the chance to shop for Mayan souvenirs such as embroidery and hand weavings.

Mayan Villages along Lake Atitlán – While many visit Lake Atitlán in Guatemala simply because of its reputation as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, most Guatemala visitors also get to experience Mayan culture as it exists today. Many Indian villages surround Lake Atitlán and Mayan residents still wear traditional Mayan clothing. Our Guatemala tour offers a pure glimpse into Guatemala Mayan culture.

Villa Maya and The Mayan Temples at Tikal Ruins – One of the best places to stay when up north in Tikal National Park is the Villa Maya, a near 70 acre nature preserve. From here, Guatemala vacationers can set out to explore the ancient Mayan civilizations among the ruins of Tikal. Dating back to 700 B.C. Tikal is one of the most magnificent Mayan cities of all time. Set to a backdrop of tropical rainforests, complete with spider monkeys and tropical birds, Guatemala vacationers have the chance to explore all the famous points in Tikal’s great plaza, including Mayan temples, ball courts, pyramids and more.

Quiriguá Mayan Site – Perhaps a little less visited, Quiriguá is an ancient Mayan archaeological site that has undergone amazing preservation. Here visitors can see some of the world’s longest stone monoliths complete with carvings from ancient Mayan citizens, acting as a historical record of Guatemala’s past.

Caravan offers All Inclusive Vacation Tours of Mayan culture in Guatemala starting at just $1,095 per person for 10 days.

Visit Caravan’s Guatemala Vacation Reviews to hear what others are saying about Caravan’s All Inclusive Guatemala Tours with visits to Antigua and the Tikal ruins.

All Inclusive Guatemala Vacation

Guatemala is one of the top tropical destinations in Central America offering unique adventures, World Cultural Heritage sites, ancient ruins and relaxing resorts.

Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea and filled with mountainous highlands Guatemala vacations offer diverse activities along what has been called a near perfect climate.

Inclusive Guatemala Vacations Are Fully Escorted

Cost conscious travelers wanting all inclusive tours in Central American countries such as Guatemala are finding significant savings through Caravan Tours.

Fully escorted and all inclusive Guatemala vacations satisfy the individual needs of group tours and senior tours as well as those looking for cost effective family vacations.

Caravan vacationers can enjoy a fully escorted Guatemala all inclusive tour for one low price which includes many of Guatemala’s top destinations such as Lake Atitlán, Antigua and the Mayan Tikal Ruins.

Guatemala Tours by Caravan

Caravan Tours is an All Inclusive Guatemala Tour Operator offering inexpensive fully escorted tours in the magical highlands of Guatemala.

Each all inclusive vacation includes everything you need to travel with ease; all you need to do is relax and take in the sights and sounds of Guatemala and its friendly people.

Each Guatemala tour group is assigned a qualified Caravan escort guide for the duration of their entire stay in Guatemala. The cost of the designated tour guide plus all planned meals, accommodations and activities are included in one low Guatemala tour price. Top of the line motor coaches will escort you between cities offering the chance to rest, cool off and drink free bottled water.

Caravan’s Guatemala all inclusive vacation also provides transfers to and from the Guatemala City airport and covers all gratuities typically given to guides, hotel staff and restaurant servers. Virtually everything is included in your Guatemala tour package – all your costs are incurred up front and you don’t need to worry about traveling Guatemala with extra Quetzals (the Guatemalan currency pronounced ket-sahl). Plus, the US dollar is readily accepted in most areas.

Guatemala Vacation Highlights

From the moment your plane touches down in Guatemala City the energy exuberated from the largest urban city in Central America is unforgettable.

You will travel fully escorted to the “must see” historical Mayan sites in Guatemala including the Tikal Ruins. Stand in awe of how giant the pyramids are in comparison to Guatemala’s rainforest canopy. Visit the Temple of the Grand Jaguar, Temple II and Plaza of the Seven Temples plus the Lost World.

Experience Lake Atitlan, named one of the world’s most beautiful and inspiring lakes thanks to the set of three dormant volcanoes close by. Many Guatemala vacation guests have fun in the tropical landscape setting looking for spider and howler monkeys along with tropical birds. Come enjoy the walking tour along designated nature trails and experience Guatemala up close.

Also included in each all inclusive Guatemala vacation are other “off the beaten track” but unforgettable activities such as a Guatemalan coffee plantation tour, the Mayan archaeological Quirigua site and a two night stay at a 67 acre nature preserve along Lake Peten Itza.

Book Your Inclusive Guatemala Vacation Today

Travel Guatemala all inclusive and experience the very best it has to offer at the best value. Visit Caravan’s Guatemala Vacation Reviews page to hear about what others have to say about Caravan’s Guatemala All Inclusive vacation tour.

Call 1-800-CARAVAN to book your Guatemala Vacation today!

Historic New England Mansion Vacations

The glamorous lives of the members of the 400 Club in Newport, Rhode Island have certainly been long admired. In the early 1900’s New England socialites built summer cottages and vacation homes along Rhode Island’s beautiful 400 mile coastline.

These ‘cottages’ are mansions that are unrivalled to this day. At the time, these New England mansions were social hubs for hosting and attending parties each week. Today, vacationers to Rhode Island, New England enjoy guided tours of the Gilded Age mansions and dream of what it would be like to live as one of America’s wealthiest families back in the day.

The Marble House - “Vanderbilt Summer Cottage”

The Marble House probably became one of the most famous mansions in Newport, Rhode Island because of its owners – William K. Vanderbilt and his wife Alva – and their role in Newport society.

Vanderbilt Summer Cottage "The Marble House"

The owners and their hired designer didn’t spare any expense when building the mansion; it cost approximately $11 million to build back in 1892! The mansion was actually built as a 39^th birthday present for Mrs. Alva Vanderbilt. As a leading hostess in Newport Society she dreamed that the mansion would be a “Temple to the Arts” in America.

The Vanderbilt’s summer cottage is named the Marble House because of its incorporation of marble into the design and structure. Nearly $7 was spent on marble – over 500,000 cubic feet – which were used in fountains, statues and carved walls.

Many suggest that The Marble House and the Vanderbilt dynasty played a pivotal role of changing Newport’s quiet colony into a legendary resort filled with opulent, over-the-top stone palaces. Toady, the cliffs on the property provide the same view of the Atlantic Ocean while the Chinese Tea House on the property can be rented for private cocktail events.

The Breakers

The Breakers mansion is perhaps the most popular attraction in the entire state of Rhode Island, hosting nearly 300,000 visitors each year.

The Breakers Mansion on 400 Club

Preserved as a National Historic Landmark, the Breakers mansion was the summer home or cottage of Cornelius Vanderbilt. Built in just 24 months (1893-1895), The Breakers was named for the ocean waves that continually crash or break on the cliffs below. At a cost of $7 million to build ($150 million today) this 13 acre estate withheld nothing – French and Italian Fashion, The Gold Room, a Great Hall with 45 foot high ceilings and over 70 rooms in all.

Although The Breakers is now owned by the Preservation of Society of Newport County, Cornelius Vanderbilt’s great-grandchildren still occupy the third floor of the mansion during summer months.

The Elms Mansion

The Elms has been named the best mansion in Newport, Rhode Island that was once owned by New England socialites other than the Vanderbilt family. Although it is not built on oceanfront property the Elms Mansion shows as one of the best Newport mansion tours.

The Elms mansion was originally built by Edward Julius Berwind and his wife Sarah. It was modeled after the French Château d’Asnières and the house was completed in 1901. The Elms remained in the family for nearly 60 years.

The Elms, Newport Rhode Island

The Elms mansion tour is a must if you spend more than a couple days in Newport, Rhode Island. Many Rhode Island tourists opt for the additional Rooftop/ Behind the Scenes Tour which takes visitors to the servant’s quarters, kitchens and through the underground tunnel system used to transport coal to the basement. The Carriage House, located just a short walk down the lawn, provides visitors with a light lunch during peak season.

Luckily, the Preservation Society of Newport County bought this mansion within weeks of it being scheduled to be demolished. In 1996, the Elms Mansion became a National Historic Landmark with its famous underground tunnel system and rooftop views of Newport Harbor.

Newport’s Historic Mansions are Part of New England Fall Tours

Caravan Tours has been offering fully escorted tours since 1952. Our New England Fall Foliage Vacations include a tour of The Marble House and a drive through the 400 Club where The Breakers and The Elms are built.

Call 1-800-CARAVAN to check availability and reserve your spot today!

Tikal Guatemala Mayan Ruins

The history behind the great Tikal Ruins of Guatemala has its humble beginnings back in 800 B.C. when settlers came to the area and began building on top of a small mound.

Today, the Mayan temples and ceremonial centers are still highly impressive even compared to modern day structures and very popular on Tikal Guatemala tours. The historic plazas and temples of Tikal are well preserved natural and cultural treasures and were cause for declaring Guatemala’s Tikal Ruins a UNESCO Heritage site in 1979 and then in 1986, a World Monument.

Tikal Ruins National Park

A visit to Tikal National Park while on vacation in Guatemala is a must. Located in the northern province of Peten Guatemala, Tikal was the first official National Park in Central America, declared back in 1955. Later in 1970 Tikal was also named a National Monument.

At its height of existence around 500 AD, Tikal was home to 50,000 – 100,000 Mayan people. The growth and construction of this great Mayan city began to slow around 870 AD and Tikal was eventually any mysteriously deserted by the end of 900 AD for unknown reasons.

Guatemala’s Tikal ruins are the largest excavated site in the Americas giving glimpses into Mayan practices pertaining to art, religion, economics, agriculture, mathematics and hieroglyphics.

Tikal Ruins’ Points of Interest

Tour Tikal’s Great Plaza – The Great Plaza of Tikal rests at the heart of Tikal and is one of the most studied Mayan architectural groups. Brochures, pictures and maps cannot do justice to the sheer size of Tikal’s Great Plaza. Within just a 20 minute walk from the gate entrance and many people put the Great Plaza at the top of their “to see” list on their Tikal Guatemala tour.

Temple of the Grand Jaguar – Also known as Tikal Temple I, the Grand Jaguar is one of the major structures at Tikal. Built in typical Peten style with a limestone stepped pyramid dating back to 730 AD. The lintel at the top of the temple is said to represent a king sitting on a jaguar throne. Temple I deviates from traditional Mayan culture of building funerary temples for burials north of the Great Plaza.

Tikal Temple II –Also known as Masks Temple, Temple II was built by Jasaw Chan K’awiil in tribute to his wife. The single wooden sculpture is of a woman who some speculate was Kawaiil’s wife.

Plaza of the Seven Temples –The Plaza of the Seven Temples features three Tikal ball fields, which are unique to the Mayan World. The plaza also features stela with glyphic inscriptions, altars and stucco human heads. Said to be one of the most attractive sites in all of Tikal, the Plaza of Seven Temples is quiet, secluded and reknowned for great bird watching.

El Mundo Perdido (The Lost World) – Tikal’s Lost World is made up of 38 different Tikal structures covering 60,000 square meters of jungle. The main feature point in the Lost World is the Great Pyramid which is a four sided structure with stairways leading up 30 meters. The structure, for whatever reason, never leads to a temple at the summit. The Lost World is also home to building 5C-49, the oldest structure in Tikal with a unique architectural design.

Tikal Wildlife

A visit to Tikal National Park on any Tikal Guatemala tour offers much more than just exploring the Guatemala’s ancient Mayan ruins; the National Park spreads out over more than 200 square miles. The lush tropical jungles of this northern Guatemalan area are home to some 285 species of wildlife including:

• Exotic birds
• Monkeys
• Jaguars
• Pumas
• Tapirs
• Deer

While enjoying Tikal Guatemala tours it is useful to note that many of the wildlife in the area is endangered – giving rare glimpses of animals and birds that many people may never have the opportunity to see. Also, Tikal is a bird watcher’s paradise and considered one of the best spots to bird watch in all of Central America.

Tikal – Facts About the National Park

Once inside Tikal National Park, tourists will be amazed at the grand size of Tikal’s ruins. Keep in mind that:

• Only 40% of Tikal Ruins in Tikal National Park are mapped
• 80% of the structures are still unexcavated sitting as mounds of rock covered by trees
• 220 sq miles of Guatemalan jungle surround Tikal
• Access to the Tikal Ruins is restricted to foot
• There are an estimated 3000 structures in the ruins of Tikal

When visiting Guatemala’s Tikal ruins it is highly recommended by Caravan Tours to come prepared. Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sun protection and mosquito repellant can make your visit much more enjoyable. Binoculars and cameras (with extra batteries) will help you fully take in the setting and capture it for years to come.

All Inclusive Tikal Guatemala Tours Include Tikal Ruins

Caravan Tour’s All Inclusive Guatemala Vacations include a visit to the Tikal ruins at Tikal National Park. The Tikal visit is fully escorted and fully guided so that Caravan travelers get the most out of their ancient Tikal experience.

Contact Caravan Tours to ask about our 10 day Tikal Guatemala Tours or visit Guatemala Tour Reviews page to read what others have said about this all inclusive tour of Guatemala’s ancient Mayan ruins.

Antigua Guatemala Tours

Antigua Guatemala is surrounded by three breathtaking volcanoes including Agua, Fuego and Acatenango volcanoes, making Antigua a near perfect setting for Guatemala tours.

Antigua or “Antique” Guatemala is in close proximity to Guatemala City but is strikingly different. With an economy mainly driven by tourism, Antigua is a much calmer and quieter destination in Guatemala.

Antigua Guatemala History

At its peak, Antigua was among the top three most important Spanish colonies in the Americas.

When Guatemala’s capital of Ciudad Vieja was destroyed by a volcano in 1541 the authorities decided to move the capital just five miles away in the Panchoy Valley – thus founding present day Antigua Guatemala.

Antigua served as the military governor of Spanish Colonial Guatemala (what many consider present day Central America and southern Mexico) for over two centuries. As a political hotspot, Antigua attracted nearly 3 dozen monastic orders to the area. Lavish monasteries, convents and cathedrals along with government buildings and stately homes were constructed in typical Mayan fashion.

Unfortunately, a 7.4 magnitude earthquake in 1717 destroyed more than 3,000 Antiguan buildings.  This devastation followed by the Santa Marta earthquakes in 1773 destroyed most of the town causing authorities to order that the capital city be moved to a safer location.

Present day Guatemala City in the Valley of the Shrine became the new capital and the much damaged Santiago de los Caballeros was ordered abandoned. Even though the city wasn’t completely abandoned, the civilization still became known as la Antigua Guatemala (the Old Guatemala).

Antigua Guatemala UNESCO Heritage Site

Although a good portion of Antigua was destroyed in the 1773 earthquake several major monuments remain today and are usually included in most Antigua Guatemala tours.

The Guatemalan government has chosen to preserve Antigua’s colonial architecture that includes religious, private and government buildings from the past by signing with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO).

The goal of UNESCO is to ensure the protection of the world’s natural and culture heritage sites, regardless of where they are located. This means that tourists from all over the world who book Antigua Guatemala tours can come and enjoy Antigua for years to come since the heritage site is protected from future development.

Antigua Guatemala Today

Thanks to the preservation as a UNESCO World Heritage site, for people who vacation in Antigua today it is like taking a step back in time. To many it seems that nothing has changed in over 300 years in this city. The cobblestone streets are lined by brilliantly colored single-story buildings and surrounded by tropical gardens, plazas and fountains.

Antigua Guatemala is one of the most popular destinations to study Spanish – there are over 75 schools that Spanish students can attend to perfect the language skills while staying in a city that is pivotal to Guatemala’s history.

Although Antigua plight through history has included natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods and fires, the once capital of Guatemala remains a very popular tourist destination. During the two night stay in Antigua, Caravan’s Guatemala tour guests get to fully explore Antigua with an itinerary that includes:

• Walking tour of the Antigua’s Main Plaza
• Cathedral and Fountain of Sirens
• Las Capuchinas Convent and 18 circular living quarters
• Free time to explore Antigua and enjoy Porta Hotel

It should be noted that if one chooses to visit Antigua during Lent and Easter they will have the opportunity to experience the largest celebrations in all of the Western Hemisphere.

Caravan’s Porta Hotel Antigua

Caravan Tours is renowned for offering only the best accommodations on their all inclusive tours. The accommodations while in Antigua are no exception.

Porta Hotel Antigua has been noted as one of the Top 5 hotels in all of Central America. Antigua’s Porta Hotel is located only a couple blocks from the heart of Antigua’s Main Plaza, easily within walking distance for tourists to begin exploring the beautiful city of Antigua. Modern amenities such as solar heated swimming pools and a spa are available for tourists needing to relax in a quiet environment.

Antigua Is Part of Caravan’s All Inclusive Guatemala Tour

Enjoy a 2-night stay at the Porta Hotel in Antigua while on an All Inclusive Guatemala Vacation offered by Caravan Tours. To inquire about this 10 day all inclusive Guatemala Tikal Tour Contact Caravan Tours.

Visit Caravan’s Guatemala Tour Reviews page to read what others have said about this all inclusive tour of Guatemala.

Guatemala Tours

Caravan’s all inclusive and fully escorted Guatemala tours take tourists on a captivating Central American vacation into a country rich in culture and Spanish heritage, highlighting the ancient civilizations at Tikal, Antigua and Atitlán.

Mayan culture and the Mayan influence can be found throughout Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador and almost all of Guatemala. Ancient Mayan people built giant plazas, temples and pyramids with ancient carvings recording their unique history. But perhaps the greatest architectural feat of the Mayan is located at the Tikal Guatemala, in the Northern part of this Central American country.

Despite its greatness and its unique place in our world history, the cause of the collapse of the Mayan civilization in Tikal remains a mystery to this day. Perhaps the mysterious or unknown is what makes exploring the Tikal ruins of Guatemala so intriguing and makes Tikal Guatemala tours so popular. Getting a firsthand experience of what it was like in the Mayan world dating back almost four millennia is a once in a lifetime experience for most.

In more recent years Guatemala tours have become an increasingly attractive alternative as a way for tourists to explore ancient Mayan and Spanish culture in a safe, non-threatening environment.

Guatemala’s Biodiversity

In addition to its cultural and ethnic diversity, Guatemala is a beautiful country to explore in terms of its biodiversity. With nearly one third of Guatemala covered in forests, the country is home to:

• 14 different eco-regions
• 28 volcanoes – active, dormant and extinct
• 7 wetlands
• Over 1,245 known species of amphibians, birds, mammals and reptiles
• 123 protected areas

Guatemala Culture and Tourism

Today over half of Guatemala’s population is considered to be descendants of the old Maya and are commonly referred to as the Indigenous peoples by the locals.

Many woman and children still wear traditional clothing that highlight the Mayan ability to create colorful and vibrant weaving. Many locals create weave baskets, make pottery and carve wooden animals and toys and sell the items at local Mayan markets. In this way tourists on Guatemala tours can help support the local economy by purchasing souvenirs to bring home.

With over 12.7 million people living in Guatemala nearly 60% speak Spanish while the remaining percentage of the population speaks one of 23 officially recognized Amerindian languages such as Guiche, Mam and Xinca.

Regardless of the language that you speak, Guatamala tourist guides are ready to interpret and take you through some of the most popular tourist destinations in Guatemala, including:

• Lake Atitlán
• Chichicástenango
• Antigua
• Lake Peten Itza
• Tikal Ruins
• Quiriguá

Guatemala Climate

Guatemala has a tropical climate favorable for tourism – offering both hot and cool weather.

For those who enjoy warmer weather the lowlands are home to hot and humid climate and for those who enjoy cooler weather the highlands are home to a cooler climate.

The coastal and northeast regions of Guatemala maintain a warm temperature year round, averaging around 68°F with occasional spikes up to 99°F. Clear nights are a common occurrence in Guatemala especially during the rainy season from May to September after the typical afternoon/ evening rainfall.

Guatemala Tours by Caravan

Caravan Tours offers Fully Escorted Guatemala Vacation Tours for a remarkably affordable price, starting at just $1,095. Contact Caravan Tours and ask about our All Inclusive Guatemala Tikal Tour, a 10-day tour of Guatemala’s ancient civilizations and Colonial cities including Tikal and Antigua.

Visit Caravan’s Guatemala Tour Reviews page to read what others have said about this all inclusive tour of Guatemala.

Guatemala Vacation Travel Packages

The historical ruins of Guatemala in addition to the natural beauty and landscape of the country is the focus of Caravan Tours’ all inclusive Guatemala Travel Packages.

Guatemala is a magical place that attracts adventure, nature and history enthusiasts alike. With outdoor adventure activities, World Heritage sites, Mayan ruins and nature reserves, there is something for everyone in our Guatemala travel package.

Travel Suitable for All Ages

Tikal Ruins, Guatemala

Caravan’s Guatemala vacation packages are designed for travelers of all ages. Even the most discerning Guatemala travelers will be satisfied with the added touches Caravan provides such as free bottled water and air conditioned luxury coach buses.

The 10 day vacation tour of Guatemala is set at a comfortable pace allowing for plenty of stops throughout Guatemala and the opportunity to relax and rest along the way.

Caravan chooses only the best resorts and hotels in Guatemala such as the 67 acre Villa Maya resort near Antigua. Guatemala vacation guests are invited relax and enjoy each hotel with a minimum two night stay in each location – there is no need to pack up your belongings each morning!

These Guatemala travel packages are especially suitable for seniors and families with children over the age of 6. For more information or to book a Guatemala travel package for yourself, your family or a large group please call 1-800-CARAVAN (227-2826).

Travel Packages for Budget Conscious

Caravan Tours are All Inclusive Guatemala Tour Operators and are focused on providing the best Guatemala travel packages highlighting the best of Guatemala at an affordable price. Guatemala is known to be a “cheap” country to travel in general but with Caravan Tours guests are always assured safe comfortable travel during their entire 10 day stay in Guatemala.

Caravan’s Guatemala travel packages are all inclusive and fully escorted and include all itinerary meals, accommodations, activities and transportation while on the tour. Even guide and restaurant gratuities are covered in the low all inclusive cost.

These Guatemala vacations fall well within the budget of even the most cost-conscious traveler, with vacations starting at just $1,095 per person for 10-days of travel in Guatemala, which includes all activities and land travel.

Guatemala Travel Package Highlights

Mayan Temple Guatemala

Travel to Guatemala City – Guatemala City is home to over 2.3 million people of diverse ethnic origins such as Spanish and Mestizo. During a two night stay in Guatemala City at the Barcelo Guatemala City Hotel, Caravan travelers experience what Guatemala was like prior to Columbian cultures with a visit to the National Museum of Archaeology. A sightseeing tour of the historical downtown center passes the Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace.

Lake Atitlán, Guatemala – the fact that Lake Atitlán is surrounded by three dormant volcanoes makes it a must see while traveling in Guatemala. The lake is the deepest lake in all of Central America, having been formed over 84,000 years ago. The shores of Lake Atitlán are surrounded by Mayan villages and extensive coffee plantations. After your two day stay at Hotel Atitlán you will understand why this body of water is known worldwide as one of Central America’s most beautiful lakes.

Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua, Guatemala – A two day stay in Antigua at the Porta Hotel Antigua gives travelers the opportunity to stay just two blocks from Antigua’s main plaza. Travelers have ample time to explore the cobblestone streets of Antigua and capture photographs of colonial buildings and purchase exotic native art souvenirs. An official walking tour of Antigua, as guided by a knowledgeable tour guide, provides a live Guatemalan history lesson.

Tikal Guatemala Tours –Virtually every traveler who makes a visit to the Tikal Ruins in Guatemala say it is an unforgettable experience. Once the greatest of all Mayan Cities Tikal is now protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site giving vacationers the opportunity to explore. The highlights of the Tikal tour includes the Temple of the Grand Jaguar, Temple II and the Plaza of the Seven Temples.

Mayan Trips, Guatemala – In addition to Tikal City, other Mayan historical sites are visited, such as Quiriguá. Quiriguá Guatemala has preserved some of the largest stelae (stone monoliths) in the world. Mayan history is inscribed in many of these stelae, telling the stories of Guatemala’s past.

Visit Caravan’s Guatemala Vacation Reviews to hear what others are saying about Caravan’s all inclusive Guatemala Travel Packages.

Guatemala Tour by Caravan Tours

Guatemala is a country rich in heritage where you can spend days exploring ancient Mayan ruins. With a unique cultural heritage stemming from a combination of Spain and native Maya peoples you will be captivated by the locals you meet at each destination point along your Guatemalan tour.

In recent years, many eco adventure tour companies have begun offering guided tours through Guatemala. With experienced tour guides familiar with Guatemala and its people, Caravan Tours offers a very safe, all inclusive Guatemala tours, a great alternative to visiting Guatemala on your own.

Family, Senior & Group Guatemala Tours

Other Guatemala tour companies can’t match Caravan Tours’ All Inclusive Guatemala Tours. These Guatemala tours are fully escorted by an experienced tour guide and all activities, meals and accommodations are covered by one low, affordable tour price.

Antigua, Guatemala

Special travel groups that require individual attention such as family Guatemala tours, Senior Guatemala tour groups or large group Guatemala tours (such as schools or clubs) are especially welcome to book a Caravan Guatemala vacation tour.

Call 1-800-CARAVAN (800-227-2826) to book your family, senior or group Guatemala tour today.

Guatemala & Tourism

Even though Guatemala is smaller than the US State of Louisiana (108,890 sq km), this tiny country known as the “Land of the Eternal Spring” attracts hundreds of thousands of American tourists each year. Tourism is important to Guatemala and each day of Caravan’s Guatemala tour brings you to brand new surroundings with delightful surprises.

Guatemala is bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Mexico, Belize, Honduras, El Salvador and the Caribbean Sea. The Central American country is classified as a biodiversity hotspot thanks to its diverse and unique ecosystems. With economic growth and a recent democratic election in 2011 Guatemala is a growing tourism destination in Central America.

Guatemala Tour Highlights

Grand Jaguar, Guatemala

Guatemala City, the capital of Guatemala, is considered the hub of the country and where most Guatemala tours begin and end. Upon landing at the International airport, tourists will begin their expedition of discovering the sights of Guatemala, as guided by their fully escorted tour company.

Caravan’s all inclusive Guatemala tour spends two nights in Guatemala City while becoming acquainted with the new culture. Here guests have the opportunity to visit the National Museum of Archaeology and take a sightseeing drive of the historic center. The excitement continues as the tour heads north to Chichicastenango, west to Lake Atitlan and east and west to Quirigua, Rio Dulce and and Tikal National Park, home of the world famous Tikal ruins of the Mayan people.

There’s even a visit to a genuine Guatemalan coffee plantation included in the tour!

Affordable Guatemala Tours

Caravan’s fully escorted Guatemala tours are incomparable, priced starting at just $1,095 for a 10-day, all inclusive Guatemala vacation tour. Visit Caravan’s Guatemala Tour Reviews page to hear what others are saying about this popular Central American tour.

Massachusetts Vacation Attractions

Of the six New England states, Massachusetts is the most heavily populated.

Its significant role in the American Revolution makes Massachusetts a very popular vacation destination that features plenty of sightseeing, educational tours and quaint villages where one can relax. Massachusetts tourism has become increasingly more important to the economy and many tourist areas such as Cape Code and Martha’s Island (home to Martha’s Vineyard) are supported by tourists and vacationers who come for the summer.

Things to Do in Massachusetts

Thanks to Massachusetts’s role in shaping America’s early history, the state is filled with historically significant attractions:

Old North Bridge

Old North Bridge – Officially termed the North Bridge, this historical bridge which crosses the Concord River is an historical site where the first day of battle in the Revolutionary War known as the Battle of Concord took place.

Plymouth Rock – A significant symbol in American History, this popular Massachusetts attraction memorializes the arrival of William Bradford and the Mayflower pilgrims in 1620 who would later go on to establish Plymouth Colony.

Oak Bluffs – Situated on the island of Martha’s Vineyard, the Oak Bluffs are dotted by five historic lighthouses that guide ships through dark and foggy nights.

Vineyard Haven – As a small community in the town of Tisbury on Martha’s Vineyard, Vineyard Haven is the access point to Martha’s Vineyard. Home to the Steamship Authority Wharf, steamboats and ferries arrive and depart from Vineyard Haven year-round.

Plymouth Rock MA

Areas to Vacation in Massachusetts

While Boston still attracts the most visitors, there are several other quaint locations suitable for wonderful Massachusetts vacations:

Cape Cod, MA – Long sandy beaches that line Upper, Mid-Cape and Lower Cape Cod are a natural attraction for tourists seeking historical maritime charm.

Hyannis, MA – As part of Cape Cod, Hyannis is a hot spot village that features fish shacks, endless outdoor activities and Cape Cod’s most unique shopping opportunities.

Hyannis Massachusetts

Martha’s Vineyard, MA – A short 45 minute ferry transports Massachusetts vacationers from Falmouth to Martha’s Vineyard. The glacial Aquinnah Cliffs are a sight to behold and the colorful 1800’s cottages reflect the charming lifestyle of many artists, poets and singers come to the island seeking peace and creative inspiration.

Edgartown, MA – Once a prosperous whaling community and port, Edgartown has been transformed into an upscale yachting center, where art galleries, local shops and stately homes line the narrow streets.

Marthas Vineryard MA

Massachusetts Vacation Attractions Are Part of New England Fall Tours

Caravan Tours has been offering fully escorted tours like our New England Fall Tours since 1952. Our New England Vacation packages are filled with visits to many of the Massachusetts historical sites and towns mentioned in this article.

The New England Fall Foliage tour is all inclusive and includes your food, accommodations and transportation while on the Caravan vacation.

Read the FAQs about the New England Fall Vacation Packages and then check availability to reserve your spot today.

Rhode Island Vacations

Although Rhode Island is the smallest state of the six states in New England it is full of historical significance, and architectural buildings. Rhode Island was also home to many historical figures.

Often referred to as “Little Rhody”, the state of Rhode Island is lined by over 400 miles of coastline and is home to 20% of America’s registered historic landmarks, including The Breakers and The Elms along 400 Club and St. Mary’s Church, all located in the heart of Newport, Rhode Island.

Newport RI – Sailing Capital of the World

Bowens Wharf Newport Rhode Island

Newport Rhode Island boasts that it’s easy to “fall” for its natural beauty. Located along the Atlantic Ocean this spectacular coastal town is highly hospitable. Some say it is the shining gem in New England’s coastal crown.

Newport Rhode Island is also famous for its Gilded Age mansions that once were home to prestigious families such as the Astor’s and Vanderbilt’s. Apart from the historical significance of these beautiful mansions, Newport Rhode Island also showcases its many seafaring adventures such as sailing, yachting and fishing. Tours of Coastal Forts, museums and historic sites round off any Rhode Island vacation to the yachting capital of the world.

Vanderbilt Summer Cottage – The Marble House

Vanderbilt Summer Cottage Rhode Island

William Vanderbilt’s summer cottage known as The Marble House is located in the heart of Newport and is one of three highly recommended Rhode Island mansions worth visiting.

William Vanderbilt had William Morris Hunt design this mansion as a gift to his wife Alva on her 39^th birthday. Built to completion in 1892, this extravagant palace totalled about $11 million at the time and features more than 500,000 cubic feet of beautiful marble.

The Vanderbilt’s were prominent members and hostesses during Newport’s Gilded Age and held many parties at the mansion. Unfortunately, the couple divorced just three short years after the completion of the mansion. Only in 1920 after William’s death did Alva reopen the Marble House.

Today the Preservation Society of Newport County opens the Marble House for daily tours of the mansion, including its Chinese Tea House and its immaculate grounds.

The 400 Club

The Breakers Mansion on 400 Club

Some of the cottages built in Newport Rhode Island were eligible for entering the elite country club known as the “400 Club.” The requirements for joining the 400 Club included having $3 million in cash (equivalent to about $100 million today) and a ballroom that was big enough to host 400 people. The Breakers and The Elms are two other popular mansions worth visiting on Rhode Island vacations. They can be found while driving through the streets that were originally home to the 400 Club.

St. Mary’s Church

This Roman Catholic parish is the oldest of its kind in Rhode Island. Established in April 1828 it likely became famous when John Fitzgerald Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier decided to be married in the building in 1953.

Father Robert Woodley, who was newly ordained at the time, was given the task of exploring the possibility of starting a church in Rhode Island. After investigating he decided on Newport because of its enthusiastic residents. Today St. Mary’s is designated as a National Historic Shrine and many Rhode Island tourists admire its second period Gothic style, said to be one of the most beautiful structures in all of New England.

Rhode Island Attractions are Part of New England Fall Tours

Rhode Island vacations are included in Caravan Tours’ New England Vacation packages, which also include a tour of the Vanderbilt’s summer cottage The Marble House as well as a sightseeing tour through 400 Club and St. Mary’s Church.

Caravan Tours has specialized in fully escorted tours since 1952. Check availability for the New England Fall Vacation Packages or call 1-800-CARAVAN to reserve your space today!