Southern Exposure Tours - Mexico, Guatemala & Cuba Highlights

Usually when I tell people that I lead tours in Latin America, they only ask about Peru. Not many kiwis are familiar with those countries “somewhere between the States and South America”.  People are getting curious though and especially about Cuba, but most still have no idea how to get there or what there is to see. That’s why each year around November and May I run a 21 day small group tour that takes in the best sights, sounds and adventures, of Mexico, Guatemala and Cuba.

For me, having lived in Central America for close to three years I always felt that Guatemala has so much to offer the traveler. Much like Peru is to South America with Inca ruins, Quechua and Ayamara cultures. Guatemala seems to be the cultural gem of Central America, with Mayan temples and beautifully diverse villages, many still speaking their Mayan languages. Visiting the Guatemalan highlands, you will see perfect volcanic cones, the bustling chaos of Sunday markets, cobblestone streets in stunning hillside villages with locals wearing the colorful traditional dress, and impossibly crowded local buses. 

My local friendships there have lead to our support of a community project involving around 15 families who are bead work artisans. Every tour participant has $100 of their tour cost donated to the project. We visit the village and artisans to directly donate whatever is most needed at the time. This may range from water filters to smokeless stoves, eye exams or school supplies.












The 3 day stop in Antigua Guatemala, is a popular highlight.  One of the prettiest colonial towns I’ve seen and home to friend, fellow kiwi, Gail Rogers. Over the years Gail has become involved in fair trade and aid projects  in Guatemala and its a fabulous chance for tour participants to really get to see life in Guatemala through an expat kiwi’s eyes and also to find out about voluntary work in the area. We visit another Mayan community of women who are proud to share their life stories and rich culture with our groups. Again a portion of the trip cost is donated towards what the community needs most at the time of our visit.















A short flight takes us to my all time favorite, Mayan site of Tikal, with towering pyramids stretching up through the jungle canopy. Wildlife abounds with noisy howler monkeys, parrots, spectacular Tucans and cheeky coates (a Central American raccoon) all making regular appearances. Tikal is unique in that it’s set deep in the jungle and as you walk from temple to temple under the forest canopy, the experience of jungle sounds, sights and smells gives you a complete sensory experience.

Another flight with a transit in Cancun, delivers us to Cuba. Starting in the bustling capital Havana with its many contrasts of old and new. We visit a cigar factory, rum distillery and of course the city itself. Then on to a the highlight of any trip to Cuba, a home stay with a local family in the picturesque tobacco growing area of Vinales. Here we enjoy walks through the tobacco fields to a waterfall, wonderful local hospitality and the chance to let your hair down in the Salsa clubs.

With such a varied and sometimes demanding schedule it’s only fair that we include a bit of relaxation at the end so the last couple of days are dedicated to the beaches of the Mayan Riviera. Fly back to Cancun, relax and dig you toes into the sand of Playa del Carmen, snorkel or dive, shop for that silly sombrero or watch the sunset with an icy Margarita in your hand.  

In 2012 the trip leaves from Cancun on October 22nd.

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