Outdoor and cultural activities
While Kawoq Forest is a sanctuary in itself, we understand that some seek to connect with the broader tapestry of Guatemala's natural beauty and rich culture. Our Outdoor and Cultural Activities are tailored for those who wish to venture beyond the sanctuary's embrace, embarking on explorations that are both enriching and enlightening.
Local Arts, Crafts and Cuisine Adventures
Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and crafts scene of the region. Engage with local artisans and witness their creative processes as they craft traditional textiles, ceramics, and more. Take home not just souvenirs, but stories of cultural exchange.
Delight your taste buds with the flavors of Guatemala through culinary adventures of traditional dishes and savor delectable meals that reflect the essence of the region.
San Juan artisan Tour
$45 per person, 4 person minimum
Discover the rich culture and artistry of San Juan La Laguna on this private tour! Explore the vibrant world of local artisans, renowned for their stunning handmade textiles, traditional weaving techniques, and artisanal crafts.
What’s Included:
Visit to a women’s weaving cooperative
Coffee tour
Bee tour
Scenic lookout point
A walk through colorful murals
Insights into local history and culture
Duration: Approximately 4 hours.
Included: Transportation.
Not included: Meals.
Coffee Tour in San Marcos, La Laguna
$30 per person (4-person minimum)
Dive into the fascinating world of coffee production on this private tour in San Marcos, La Laguna.
What You’ll Experience:
Guided walk from Kawoq Forest to the factory.
Learn about harvesting, drying, grinding, and roasting processes.
Duration: 1.5 hours.
Tour Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
Lake Atitlán Villages Tour
$55 per person (4-person minimum)
Immerse yourself in the charm of Lake Atitlán’s villages with a guided visit to San Juan, San Pedro, and Santiago Atitlán. Experience the unique traditions, crafts, and spirituality of each location.
Highlights:
San Juan: Cocoa factory, textiles, natural dyes, coffee tour, natural medicine, and honey factory.
San Pedro: Explore the town center and local market.
Santiago Atitlán: Witness Mayan ceremonies and veneration rituals in a town steeped in religious mysticism.
Duration: Approximately 4 hours.
Included: Transportation.
Not included: Meals.
Coffee Tour in San pedro, La Laguna
$35 per person (4-person minimum)
Expand your coffee knowledge with a tour of a private coffee factory in San Pedro.
Details:
Includes a boat ride from San Marcos La Laguna to San Pedro.
Learn about the full coffee production process, from bean to cup.
Duration: 1.5 hours.
Tour Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
Paragliding Adventure in Panajachel
$120 per person (1-person minimum)
Soar above the majestic Lake Atitlán with a paragliding experience like no other!
What’s Included:
Round-trip boat ride from San Marcos La Laguna to Panajachel.
Experienced instructor and all necessary gear.
Transport to the paragliding hill in Panajachel.
Flight Duration: Approx. 20 minutes (weather permitting).
Nature Treks & Hikes
Step into the heart of Guatemala's lush landscapes with guided nature treks and hikes. Traverse pristine trails, discover hidden waterfalls, and witness the breathtaking beauty of Lake Atitlán's azure waters and the surrounding volcanoes.
Mayan Face Sunrise Hike
$35 per person (4-person minimum)
Embark on an early morning adventure to witness the breathtaking sunrise from the Mayan Face, a stunning viewpoint over Lake Atitlán.
Details:
Begin in Santa Catarina La Laguna and hike to the viewpoint.
Guided hike from Kawoq Forest and transportation included.
Duration: Approximately 4 hours.
Included: Transportation.
Not included: Meals.
San Pedro Volcano Hike
$75 per person (4-person minimum)
Challenge yourself with a hike up the iconic San Pedro Volcano, offering incredible views of Lake Atitlán and beyond.
Details:
Start with a boat ride from San Marcos La Laguna to San Pedro, then transport to the trailhead.
Approx. 3 hours up and 2.5 hours down.
Coordination required at least 15 days in advance to ensure group security arrangements.
Not included: Meals.
Canopy Adventure in San Pedro
$50 per person (4-person minimum)
Experience an adrenaline-filled canopy tour in San Pedro, featuring stunning views and an exhilarating zipline adventure.
What’s Included:
Boat ride from San Marcos to San Pedro (transport to canopy center included).
A short 30-minute hike to the zipline area.
A thrilling 500-meter canopy ride.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
cultural encounters
Forge connections with the indigenous communities of the area. Engage in meaningful cultural exchanges, participate in traditional ceremonies, and gain insights into the spiritual wisdom of the Mayan people.
Mayan Theater
$1000 per performance, 45 minutes
Ajchowen is the first female theater group from Sololá. They share the abundance of their heritage to different communities through theater to honor the customs and cosmogony of the Maya-Kaqchikel population.
As indigenous artists they create, research and perform different plays that represent the role of women in the mayan communities using ancient stories with a modern twist.
Their offering will infuse your retreat with a cultural experience that will educate and inspire your groups' understanding and connection to Guatemala and its people. We offer to arrange and create your theater experience based on your needs and expectations.
To learn more about their work, see the link here.
“It was the most beautiful week & exceeded all of my expectations. Peaceful, calm - it provided me with an opportunity to reflect & breath. The yoga was perfect for me - each teacher brought their own personality to the practice & they were knowledgeable & generous. The food is wonderfully fresh & varied. I had no stomach issues! My cabin was spotlessly clean with a comfortable bed, lovely bedding & a balcony with a hammock that I took advantage of each afternoon.
The location is very special & I didn't venture from the place all week - content to look at the views, listen to nature & relax. Other guests were friendly & respectful. Compost toilets & showers worked for me & the shower & loo that I frequented had the most incredible views of the lake. I left feeling recharged & believing that it's a once a year trip from now on. Very special. Thank you to all of the staff for making it a special week.”
~ Edward Dafnis