Learn About Mayan Textiles with Thread Caravan

Guatemala is a country rich in traditions, not least in terms of Mayan textiles. With Thread Caravan, you’ll get a chance to learn about the designs from Mayan weavers themselves.

Thread Caravan offers week-long trips for small groups in conjunction with the Maya Traditions foundation, teaching participants how to back-weave in the traditional way. Groups are taught the whole process, from coloring the fabric with natural dyes, to spinning the fibers and finally weaving a product. It’s a fascinating look at a cultural tradition which still provides an income for a large number of families throughout the country.

After arriving in Guatemala City, participants are whisked to the mystical Lake Atitlan, where they learn about the weaving process. Evenings are spent at Pamakanya Villa, a relaxing lakeside property perfect for chilling out after a long day.

From the lake, it’s off to Antigua, the former colonial capital of Guatemala which is now a thriving tourist hub. Here the group will observe traditional handicrafts on sale, and see how traditional textiles are being incorporated into modern designs by a number of local businesses.

To round out the trip, participants are offered an excursion to either the Pacaya volcano or the Iximche ruins before heading back to the airport to catch their flight.

The next Guatemala trip costs $1,600 and runs from October 10–17. Book online at the Thread Caravan website.