Mayan Villages and a Cacao Experience.

Discover the authentic rural life of Guatemala by visiting **Santa María de Jesús**, a Kaqchikel Maya community located on the slopes of the Volcán de Agua. Explore its colorful open-air market, learn about its traditions, and enjoy spectacular volcanic landscapes. We will continue to **San Juan del Obispo**, a picturesque village near Antigua, famous for the loquat. We will experience cacao, learning about its process **from seed to cup**, with tastings of cacao and artisanal chocolate. We will end in its plaza, visiting the 16th-century church and the historic Palace of Bishop Francisco Marroquín. You will visit:

Santa Maria de Jesús  Located in Department: Sacatepéquez

Altitude: 2,070 meters above sea level

Registered Maya population in 2018: 21,538 inhabitants

Predominant people: Kaqchikel Maya

Approximate distance from Antigua Guatemala: 10 km

Geographical setting: Slopes of the Volcán de Agua

Languages: Kaqchikel and Spanish

San Juan del Obispo: It is a picturesque community situated on the slopes of the Volcán de Agua, a few kilometers from Antigua Guatemala. Its history dates back to the 16th century and is closely linked to Francisco Marroquín, the first bishop of Guatemala, who established an episcopal residence here. It is notable for its agricultural and gastronomic traditions. It is especially known for the production of loquat, used to make wines, preserves, jams, and other artisanal products. Additionally, small local enterprises keep the tradition of cacao and artisanal chocolate alive, showing visitors its transformation from seed to cup.

We will take public vehicles, so cash is required for the payment of Chicken bus transportation. WE WILL TRAVEL LOCALLY WITHOUT TOURIST STYLE. Total cost of vehicles: US$4.