Mon 18 Sep 2023 • Nick Kershaw
Why Guatemala Is the Perfect Adventure Destination for U.S. Trail Runners
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Tired of pounding the same old pavement? Why not switch your backdrop to the lush landscapes of Guatemala? The Guatemala Impact Marathon offers U.S. trail runners an adventure that's not only easily accessible but genuinely life-changing.
Effortless Transit
Direct Flights From Key U.S. Cities
Getting to Guatemala has never been easier. Direct flights are available from major U.S. cities including Miami, LA, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Atlanta, New York, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and Washington. This direct connectivity minimises layovers, making your journey efficient and hassle-free, and with no jet-lag worries.
Ground Transport: Smooth as Silk
We've simplified the logistics for you. Upon landing in Guatemala City, you'll be seamlessly transported to the marathon location. No need for puzzling over maps or negotiating with local taxi drivers; just land, and our team will take it from there. We've been doing it since 2016, and you'll feel the love for you, passion for the nation, our expertise in event creation, and desire to create the most powerful week of your life right from the moment you book your place.
The Affordability Factor: Maximising Every Dollar
Comprehensive Package—No Hidden Costs
Forget the hassle of itemising your expenses. We don't want you to be in any way linked to the decision-making tree you face day in, day out. No. To truly connect with the country, the cause, and the other Impact Runners, we need you totally at ease. So we handle what you're eating (it's bloody delicious, and get's better each day!), we handle all the social impact work, all the connections - we even have a fully stocked fridge of local artisanal beers! This way, it is a super economical set-up as once you're booked on, you have us taking care of everything. You'll need money for extra snacks, beers, and souvenirs - that's pretty much it! There are no hidden charges, giving you total peace of mind.
Customisable Adventures for Added Value
Interested in extending your trip? Optional add-ons like a trek up Acatenango volcano or a restorative sojourn at Lake Atitlan offer fantastic value, letting you make the most of your Guatemalan adventure. We have an amazing network of accommodations, guides, restaurants who are all super welcoming to Impact Runners - let us know how to adapt an add-on for you, extend your time in this incredible country. We will help you all the way.
Regenerative Travel: The Impact Marathon Ethos
An Investment in Community and Environment
Your participation isn't just a commitment to running; it's a pledge to the betterment of communities and the environment. Through our work with local NGOs and sustainable initiatives, every stride you make is a step towards meaningful change. This is the very essence of Impact Marathons, and Impact Running - it's kind of addictive actually, once you've been with us in Guatemala...an adventure in Nepal seems the perfect next step. Don't say we didn't warn you!
Scenic Training Runs Through Antigua
Begin your week with exploratory training runs through the historic streets of Antigua. These aren't just warm-ups; they're an experiential primer, a unique blend of athletic preparation and cultural immersion. We will take you our favourite back-routes, our own little trails that hit all the tourist locations, and the best views. All led by our Guatemalteco runners...
Networking with Local Trail Runners
Our partnership with the Guatemalteco trail running community elevates your experience from touristic to genuinely authentic. Engage with locals who share your passion and gain valuable insights into the region's running culture. This race is the 2nd most popular trail race in the country, and the only one created by an international organisation. It is a race that is brought to life by the passion of the Guatemalteco trail runners who join us year after year, and even put the race on without the UK team back in 2021 when no travel was possible for us. Indeed, the local race sold out that year in just 8 days!!
Conscious Down-Time for Recovery and Reflection
In between the adrenaline surges, we've integrated mindfulness and relaxation into your schedule. Whether it's a yoga session amidst nature or a sip of Guatemala's artisanal coffee, we ensure you're both physically and mentally prepped for race day. Not only this, we consider the impact of every $, your fundraising is not where the social impact ends. Our accommodation providers are Guatemalan-owned; our food is sourced from within the fincas surrounding us; our medals are made by a local coconut artist; our finish-line is stitched by a tailor who lives in El Hato, just above Antigua. We are conscious in all our choices to maximise the impact our events have: our Guatemala Impact Marathon is a real example of this.
Conclusion
For U.S. trail runners seeking an adventure that transcends the regular running event, the Guatemala Impact Marathon provides a compelling proposition. Accessible, economical, and genuinely transformative, this experience is a one-stop-shop for athletic, cultural, and social enrichment.
