New “Mayan People” Ethnic Tourism Program in Guatemala

Guatemala has announced the launch of a new “Mayan People” ethnic tourism program which includes the development of three new tourist routes: The Mayan Universe Trail, the Mayan Calendar Trail, and the Mayan Dualism Trail.

All services and products in the three new routes will be provided by members of the country’s large indigenous Mayan community, including local businesses, cultural associations, artists, craftsmen and tour operators.

The new routes will provide visitors with a true insight into the Mayan culture, and how this survives today. Besides exploring some of the main archaeological sites and sacred places, visitors will also have the opportunity to learn about Mayan food, clothes, crafts, spiritual ceremonies and traditions.

The routes will run through areas where there is a big Mayan population such as Sacatepequez, Chimaltenango, Totonicapan, Quiche, Huehuetenango, Solola, Retalhuleu, Quetzaltenango, Alta Verapaz and Baja Verapaz.

Details of the routes are currently being developed and more information, including a new website, maps and other promotional materials, will be available later this year. There are also plans for a central reservations office to manage all visits on the three trails.