Honduras/Guatemala/Belize

The Maya and More: History and Culture of Copan, Tikal and Lamanai

Program No. 3217RJ
Learn the complex story of the Maya and their enduring legacy as you visit ancient monuments, traditional markets and indigenous villages where Mayan culture remains strong.

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At a Glance

Delve into the history of a people whose sophistication in art, architecture and science rivaled the ancient Egyptians and Greeks. Journeying through the lands that are now Belize, Honduras and Guatemala, gain insight into the contemporary issues of each country and witness the impact of European colonization and the lifestyles and traditions of modern-day descendants of the Mayan people.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking up to three hours at a time over varied terrain. Ascending and descending steep and irregular steps, without railings, in ruins. Elevations up to 6,500 feet.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Discover the extraordinary Maya ruins at Copán, Tikal, Cahal Pech, Iximche and Lamanai.
  • In Honduras, examine traditional chocolate production and visit a local school for insights into the educational system.
  • Embrace the old world charm of Antigua and learn about local handicraft traditions at the famous colorful indigenous market of Chichicastenango, filled with textiles, handicrafts and food.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Eli Gonzalez
Eli Abner Gonzalez was born in Diriamba, a small town in southern Nicaragua. In 1973, at age six, Gonzalez’s family of 10 moved to neighboring Honduras. There, Eli attended the public school Jose Trinidad Reyes in the city of San Pedro Sula. After finishing high school, Eli moved to Tegucigalpa, the country's capital, to continue his studies at a Baptist church seminary school. During his time at seminary, Eli had the opportunity to travel internationally. After obtaining his degree in theology, Eli returned to San Pedro Sula to study at La Universidad Pedagogica Nacional to become a social studies teacher, which he did for many years. In the early 1990s, Eli began to use his teaching background to lead educational adventures, and now considers his many years of excursion leading as precious opportunities to share his country’s many wonders with visitors from around the world. Eli is married to his high school sweetheart and is the proud father of two.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Eli Gonzalez
Eli Gonzalez View biography
Eli Abner Gonzalez was born in Diriamba, a small town in southern Nicaragua. In 1973, at age six, Gonzalez’s family of 10 moved to neighboring Honduras. There, Eli attended the public school Jose Trinidad Reyes in the city of San Pedro Sula. After finishing high school, Eli moved to Tegucigalpa, the country's capital, to continue his studies at a Baptist church seminary school. During his time at seminary, Eli had the opportunity to travel internationally. After obtaining his degree in theology, Eli returned to San Pedro Sula to study at La Universidad Pedagogica Nacional to become a social studies teacher, which he did for many years. In the early 1990s, Eli began to use his teaching background to lead educational adventures, and now considers his many years of excursion leading as precious opportunities to share his country’s many wonders with visitors from around the world. Eli is married to his high school sweetheart and is the proud father of two.
Profile Image of Rodolfo (Fito) Alvarado
Rodolfo (Fito) Alvarado View biography
Rodolfo "Fito" Alvarado is a certified Honduran expedition leader and an expert on the Maya site at Copán. In fact, he grew up near the ancient city and at 15 began earning money leading visitors through the ruins on the weekends. Fito studied industrial engineering at UNAH in Tegucigalpa, but he quickly realized he was happiest when working in Copán during college breaks. He dropped his engineering plans to pursue a career in educational travel and never looked back. Fito speaks English, Italian, and Spanish.
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