Traveling from Antigua to Sumpango for the Giant Kite Festival offers a chance to witness one of Guatemala’s most colorful and meaningful traditions. For around $75, you’ll spend about 7 hours exploring local customs, creating your own giant kite, and sharing a meal with a welcoming Guatemalan family. Led by guides who are passionate about local culture, this tour provides a close-up look at a celebration that blends Mayan and Catholic customs on All Saints’ Day.
What we particularly love about this experience is how it combines hands-on participation—building and flying your own kite—with cultural insight, especially during the visit to the cemetery and the chance to taste Fiambre, a traditional dish. The tour’s inclusive nature, with plenty of opportunities for interaction and authentic encounters, makes it ideal for travelers wanting more than just sightseeing.
A possible consideration is the duration and timing—starting early in the morning, the tour is a full day, which might be tiring for those not used to early mornings or long outings. Still, for those interested in a deep dive into local traditions, it’s a rewarding choice. This experience suits curious travelers, culture enthusiasts, families, and anyone keen to see Guatemala’s vibrant community life firsthand.
Key Points
- Cultural immersion: Experience the fusion of Mayan and Catholic traditions during the festival and cemetery visits.
- Interactive: Create and fly your own giant kite—a memorable, hands-on activity.
- Local cuisine: Enjoy a traditional Guatemalan dish, Fiambre, with a local family.
- Authentic insights: Guides share stories and explanations that deepen your understanding of Guatemalan customs.
- Convenient logistics: Round-trip transportation from Antigua simplifies planning.
- Limited group size: Provides a more personal, engaging experience.
A Close Look at What to Expect
Starting Point and Transport
The adventure begins in the morning at the Columbus Guatemala Travel Office in Antigua, located on 2a Calle Poniente, #2 Casa Mandarina. Here, you’ll enjoy complimentary coffee or tea and have access to restrooms before setting off. The drive to Sumpango takes about 40-50 minutes, giving you a scenic glimpse of the Guatemalan countryside. The tour is designed to be relaxed but informative, with a guide who will narrate the journey and answer questions along the way.
Stop 1: Sumpango Cemetery
The first stop is the Sumpango cemetery, where families gather to honor their loved ones on All Saints’ Day. The scene is vibrant and heartfelt: graves are decorated with marigolds, candles, colorful flowers, and food offerings. We loved how this part of the tour offers a window into local beliefs—on this day, it’s believed that spirits of the deceased return to visit. The meticulous preparation and the tangible sense of community create a powerful atmosphere that’s both respectful and lively. As one reviewer, Kathrin, put it, “Everything was perfect,” highlighting how well this segment captures authentic local customs.
Stop 2: The Kite-Making Workshop
Next, you’ll visit a local kite-making workshop—a highlight for many visitors. Here, artisans from generations of families teach you how to assemble a giant kite using materials like bamboo, tissue paper, and string. Expect to learn about the symbolism and techniques behind each design. The guides are friendly and eager to share their stories, making this part both educational and fun. We appreciated the chance to participate actively, which makes the experience more meaningful than just watching from the sidelines. A reviewer noted, “The day, the team, the photos, the food, the information—everything was perfect.”
Stop 3: Flying Your Kite
With your handcrafted kite in hand, it’s time to head to the open festival grounds. Local experts are on hand to help you launch your creation into the sky. Watching your kite soar amidst others of various shapes and colors is truly spectacular—imagine a sky filled with floating art, some as big as a small car. The moment of lift-off is both thrilling and symbolic, connecting the earthly realm with the heavens. We loved how this activity showcases Guatemala’s long-standing tradition of giant kite flying, which dates back generations.
Stop 4: Traditional Lunch with a Local Family
Post-flight, the tour leads you to a local family’s home for a lunch of Fiambre, a traditional Guatemalan dish served during All Saints’ Day. This layered salad includes meats, cheeses, vegetables, and pickled items, reflecting the country’s cultural diversity. Sharing this meal provides a genuine taste of local hospitality and culinary heritage. The host families take pride in explaining the dish’s significance, making it more than just a meal—it’s a cultural exchange. Many reviews mentioned this part as a “highlight,” emphasizing the warmth and authenticity of the experience.
Tour The Sum Up and Return
The day wraps up around 1:30 pm, with all participants transported back to Antigua. The return journey offers time to reflect on the sights, sounds, and flavors of the day. The tour generally ends at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward.
Planning more time in Antigua Guatemala? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Analyzing the Value
For $75, this tour packs in a diverse range of experiences that go well beyond typical sightseeing. The cost includes round-trip transportation, a guided workshop, a personal kite to fly, and a traditional meal, which collectively provide good value. The opportunity to participate actively—making and flying your own kite—and to connect with local families elevates this tour from a simple outing to an authentic cultural encounter.
The small group size ensures you’ll receive personalized attention, and the guides’ knowledge helps deepen your understanding of the customs. With positive reviews, including one that calls it “absolutely recommended,” it’s clear that many find this experience rewarding and well-organized.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. If you enjoy interactive cultural activities, like crafting or participating in local traditions, you’ll find plenty to love. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will appreciate the hands-on kite-making and the chance to witness Guatemala’s unique All Saints’ Day celebrations. It’s especially suited for those interested in Mayan and Catholic cultural fusion, as well as food lovers eager to taste Fiambre in a genuine setting.
It’s worth noting that the tour might not be suitable for wheelchair users, given the nature of the locations visited, but it remains accessible for most able-bodied travelers.
In Summary: Why Choose This Tour?
This tour offers a rare glimpse into Guatemala’s vibrant traditions, blending visual spectacle, participation, and culinary delights. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for how local communities honor their ancestors and celebrate their culture through the incredible art of giant kite flying.
If you’re drawn to stories of community, tradition, and colorful celebrations, this trip will resonate deeply. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting an authentic, engaging, and memorable day outside the usual tourist spots. The combination of hands-on activities and genuine cultural exchange makes it stand out as a truly enriching experience.
More Great Tours NearbyFAQ: Your Questions Answered
How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 7 hours, usually starting around 7:00 am, making it a full-day experience from Antigua.
What is included in the price?
The fee covers round-trip transportation, a guided workshop, your personal kite to fly, a traditional Guatemalan meal (Fiambre), water and snacks, and all taxes.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally family-friendly, some physical activity like kite-flying might be more enjoyable for older children and teenagers. Always check with the provider if you have younger children or special needs.
What should I bring?
Bring cash for any extras, comfortable clothes, and weather-appropriate clothing since you’ll be outdoors. A camera to capture the vibrant views is a must.
Can I participate in the kite-making if I have no experience?
Absolutely. The artisans guide you step-by-step, and the process is designed for beginners. It’s a fun, educational activity that enhances your understanding of local craftsmanship.
Is there any flexibility in the schedule?
The tour operates on set timings, but you can reserve and pay later for flexibility. Check availability for your preferred date.
This Sumpango Giant Kite Festival tour offers a lively, meaningful look at Guatemalan tradition, perfectly suited for travelers eager to experience local culture firsthand. With its mix of participation, cultural insight, and authentic hospitality, it promises a memorable day that leaves you with stories—and a kite—to take home.
You can check availability for your dates here:While you're exploring Antigua Guatemala, here are other experiences we've looked into