INDEPENDENT BUS TRAVEL IN NORTH, CENTRAL, SOUTH AMERICA AND ASIA - BAMBA EXPERIENCE

Approximately 40% of the population of Guatemala is made up of indigenous groups, the majority from Mayan descent.  Mixed into the country are a small number of Garifuna and the rest is comprised of Mestizos.  Everywhere you go it’s impossible not to notice the huge influence that the different Mayan cultures have on the country.  Simply looking out the window from your bus as you cross the border you will notice the colorful dress and bustling marketplaces that pop up out of nowhere.  You may glimpse a spiritual Maya ceremony being held on the steps of a Catholic church.  The sounds of Mayan dialects will ring in your hearts as you wander the streets of small villages far from city’s capital and the popular touristy towns, one of the best reasons to get off the beaten track.  Guatemalans are shy yet curious people.  Groups of school girls may giggle as you walk by and as a general rule not many people allow having their photo taken so ask politely first.  

Guatemala is also home to one of the largest and most impressive archaeological sites in Mesoamerica.  Tikal’s imposing pyramids and giant monuments will sneak up on you in the midst of the steamy lush jungle, lost in the depths of the Peten Jungle.  Take all the time you want to explore the site and hike up to the top of the pyramids to look out over the vast jungle canopy.  Listen to the deep calls of howler monkeys and native birds singing back and forth in a priceless symphony of sounds.  

Don’t miss out on other natural wonders such as Lake Atitlan surrounded by towering volcanoes in a peaceful and serene atmosphere.  Hike the Pacaya volcano from Antigua and walk next to a flowing river of lava.  Go for a swim in the refreshing limestone waterfalls of Semuc Champey.  Complete your Guatemalan experience with a visit to Chichicastenango on market day where women and families from surrounding villages bring their handicrafts and home-woven textiles to sell.  Don’t forget your camera!