The beautiful 16th century city of Antigua Guatemala is home to an impressive display of traditional, brightly coloured Spanish colonial buildings and architecture. The UNESCO World Heritage Site has retained its authentic architecture which can be explored while walking the cobblestone streets through colourful squares. There is plenty to discover including local art galleries, jade workshops, fascinating museums and many traditional markets packed with bright, locally made textiles and craftwork.

Head out on a privately guided hike up the active Pacaya Volcano, starting in the surrounding pine forest before heading up the trickier molten rock area, where hot steam seeps through crevices in the base of the volcano. Learn about Pacaya's formation and evolution as you traverse its ever-changing face and take in views of neighbouring volcanoes, pacific lowlands and even El Savador.

Visit the market town of Chichicastenango, three hours from Antigua Guatemala, where you can purchase some local artisan crafts. En route you will pass through the beautiful central highland region, watching local Mayan people going about their daily lives. Visits are best on Thursday and Sundays when indigenous Mayans from surrounding villages come to trade at the market.