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Guatemala - A Mayan EncounterThose who travel say that Guatemala is the jewel of Central America. If you are into Mayan, mountains, markets, coffee and ruins you are bound to be captivated by this trip.This photography excursion isn't strenuous and is geared to the photographer who enjoys shooting people as they conduct their daily lifes. We will be experiencing different topographical regions and be moving around by boat, minibus and plane. Guatemala is visually stunning and the photographer will have a real opportunity to capture this picturesque and easily travelled country. We will begin the trip in colonial Antigua which is surrounded by three volcanoes. Narrow cobblestone streets, brightly painted buildings and 17th century architecture all lend itself to the photographer. Drinking great coffee in the central plaza is a nice way to start the trip. Lake Atitlan has been described in literture as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. The volcano ringed shores of the bright blue lake are surrounded by indigenous villages populated by weavers and craftsmen. Visiting Chichicastenango on market day we will be able to see local ritual, observe the campesinos from surrounding villages conduct commerce and shoot the best market in Central America. Travelling west to Quetzaltenango, the second largest city in Guatemala we will visit the vegetable market in Almolonga and the Zunil textile market. Photograph and buy clothing like you've never seen before. On November 1st we will be in Sumpango and attend the annual kite festival. Elaborate and brightly painted huge kites are flown in a competition to see which can go highest. Our trip will also be enhanced as we will have a chance to meet anthropologist Francisco Sandoval and Richard Mata a famous Guatemalan photographer. Staying a night at the eco friendly and locally run hotel Uxlabil makes this photo tour unique. Tikal, declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1979 and has over 500 structures. The two main pyramids can be scaled and these Mayan ruins are comprised of temples, courtyards and are easily phographed. As the sun rises these Mayan temples seem to rise above the jungle canopy and howler monkeys and tropical birds can be seen in abundance. Exploring the ruins at Tikal is a true travel experience that will always be remembered. Lead photography instructor John Rizzo will provide individual and group instruction. How to interact with the local population, shoot architectural ruins and deal with changing light will take the trip participants to a new level. Daily life in Guatemala is very colorful and John loves shooting chicken busses, food stands and brighly hued clothing. If you don't know what chicken busses are, join us and find out. Group cohesion is important and we strive to make this a really enjoyable trip.
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Experiences
Visit Antigua, the former colonial capital of Guatemala. The Spanish colonial style permeates its houses, churches, squares, parks and ruins. Photograph the colorful and vibrant market of Chichicastenango as the indigenous members of the local mountain villages come down to conduct commerce. Explore the many villages on the banks of Lake Atitlan. Shoot the textile weavers as they work in the village of San Juan La Laguna. Learn about ancient Mayan ritual and spiritualism. Climb, photograph, and experience the Mayan temple site of Tikal. An incredible opportunity to photograph the Mayan ruins as they rise above the jungle canopy. Attend the annual Sumpango Kite Festival and shoot this famous Guatemalan event DetailsDates Fee Deposit Group Size Guatemala Tour Director |
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