Jade Factory and Museum (Jade Maya) Tours and Activities
282 reviews
Free admission
Jade is a rare and precious stone dating back to the pre-Columbian era in Mesoamerica. Some of the world’s best jade was found in Guatemala. Historically, it was used in culturally significant ways, including in hieroglyph inscriptions and carvings of symbolic figures.
There are two types of jade — Jadeite and Nephrite. Jadeite is more dense and renowned for its rich colors. Nephrite is more of a carving stone, found in many places around the world. Jadeite contains the bright green and apple colors you find in quality jade jewelry. Those colors were prized by both Chinese emperors and Maya kings.
To learn more about jade, visitors to Antigua can visit the Jade Factory and Museum, also called Jade Maya, founded in 1974 by archaeologist Mary Lou Ridinger and her husband, Jay. Fine jadeite is mined here in the same manner of the Olmec, Maya and Aztec people. Guatemalan workers at Jade Maya cut and polish the mined jade following the same traditions of their ancestors.
The jade is transformed into pre-Columbian-style, museum-quality replicas and beautiful handmade fashion jewelry and accessories. There is an online catalog that shows some of the designs Jade Maya has created to date. The small museum has a nice chronological timeline on the history of jade and various displays depicting jade artifacts discovered on excavations. Visitors to Jade Maya will appreciate the knowledge Ridinger shares with visitors as an expert in mining jade. She and her husband discovered the jade mining zone, an area lost for more than 500 years after the start of the Spanish conquest.
Daily 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
4a. Calle oriente No. 34, Antigua, Guatemala
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21 results
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Private Antigua Walking Tour
126
Step onto the cobblestone-clad streets of colonial Antigua for this flexible-length walking tour. Stroll the streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site as you visit top landmarks like the ‘Ayuntamiento’ (City Hall Palace), Palace of the Captain’s General, the main cathedral, and Santo Domingo, a well-known hotel and cultural center. A final stop at a local jade factory provides additional insight into Guatemala’s Mayan culture.
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From
USD40.00
From
USD40.00
Carve your own jade in Antigua!
31
You will put to work your creativity by designing, cutting and carving your own jewel of Jade.
You will be guided by one of our expert jade carvers so you can take home a unique creation, made with your hands.
You will take with you a piece of our land and our culture.
An incredible and unique experience, you can not miss!
We await for you.
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From
USD49.00
From
USD49.00
Iximché Ruins and Antigua City Tour from Guatemala City
16
Take a tour from Guatemala City that showcases the mix of Spanish and Mayan traditions that have influenced this incredible nation. Journey into the Iximche ruins—one of Guatemala’s most famous archeological sites—and then make your way to the iconic Spanish colonial town of Antigua. Follow your expert guide to all of the local sites, including churches, plazas and shops—before making your way back to Guatemala City after this exciting day trip.
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From
USD85.00
Price varies by group size
From
USD85.00
Price varies by group size
Antigua Guatemala & Guatemala City Tour
15
Explore the old and new capitals of Guatemala on this full-day sightseeing adventure that combines both vehicle and walking tours of Guatemala City and Antigua. You’ll see major highlights like the Civic Center, Metropolitan Cathedral and the Central Market in Guatemala City, before heading to the World-Heritage listed city of Antigua. Wander the historic streets of this picturesque colonial town and stop at La Merced Church, Central Park and other highlights before enjoying a traditional lunch.
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From
USD65.00
From
USD65.00
Antigua City Tour from Guatemala City
14
Unlock the beauty and history of one of the oldest cities in the Americas during this Antigua City Tour from Guatemala City. Your full-day excursion includes stops at some of the colonial town’s top attractions, including the Museo del Jade, La Merced Church, and even a picturesque coffee plantation that’s still in operation. Take in epic views of the cityscape from Cerro de la Cruz and learn about the former capital’s colorful past while you listen to your friendly local guide as they lead you through the cobbled streets.
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From
USD69.35
Price varies by group size
From
USD69.35
Price varies by group size
Experience Antigua Walking Tour
11
Visit several Antigua highlights in one convenient walking tour, ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time in the region. There’s no need to worry about getting lost or overlooking lesser-known spots, as your guide will escort you from point to point, providing context for each attraction along the way.
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From
USD32.00
From
USD32.00
Antigua City Sightseeing Tour
9
Explore the UNESCO-listed colonial capital of Antigua, one of Guatemala’s most enchanting cities, on this full-day sightseeing tour – ideal for first-time visitors. Learn how Antigua is one of the oldest cities of the Americas as you follow your guide to landmarks like the San Francisco Church, the arch of Santa Catalina, Casa Santo Domingo and Plaza Central. After a typical Guatemalan lunch (own expense), admire the priceless gems on display at the Museo del Jade (Jade Museum), then visit a local coffee plantation to learn more about Guatemala’s most famous export.
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From
USD69.00
Price varies by group size
From
USD69.00
Price varies by group size
Iximché Ruins and Antigua City Tour
9
Explore the fascinating Spanish and Mayan history of Guatemala on this family-friendly 8-hour tour to Iximché and colonial Antigua. Wander the atmospheric archaeological site of Iximché to discover the history of the Mayans. Then head to Antigua, former colonial capital, where you’ll visit the San Francisco Church, Calle del Arco, La Merced Church and the central plaza. Your excursion also includes round-trip transportation from your hotel, a guide and all entrance fees.
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From
USD85.00
Price varies by group size
From
USD85.00
Price varies by group size
LA ANTIGUA SIGHTSEEING TOUR from Puerto Quetzal (Group)
6
Don’t let limited mobility hold you back from exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city of Antigua when in Guatemala. This Puerto Quetzal shore excursion is specially designed for those who are only able to walk short distances and want to see top Antigua sights without the difficulty of walking down too many cobbled, narrow roads. Visit the popular Jade Factory and Museum, Plaza Mayor, Central Park, and more with the ease of included transportation and the benefit of a guide.
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From
USD109.00
From
USD109.00
Antigua walking tour from Puerto Quetzal
6
Maximize your limited time on dry land with a private sightseeing tour of Antigua. Meet your guide at Port Quetzal and then hop on your private air-conditioned transportation to the city. Along the way, take in the natural beauty of Guatemala. The day continues with a tour around the UNESCO listed city center of Antigua. Finally, unwind as your van returns you to your cruise ship
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From
USD135.00
From
USD135.00
UNESCO JEWELS: Antigua Half Day Tour from Guatemala City
5
Experience the Spanish-colonial charm of Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage site, during this 5-hour morning tour from Guatemala City. This atmospheric city was the country’s capital for more than 200 years, creating a wealth of historic architecture and gorgeous scenery for you to discover during your walking tour. Tread on Antigua’s cobblestone streets as you explore sites like the Cathedral of Santiago, Central Park and Palace of the Captain Generals. Your Antigua visit also includes a guide and round-trip hotel transport.
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From
USD38.00
Price varies by group size
From
USD38.00
Price varies by group size
Antigua Walking Tour
5
Get a glimpse of Guatemala’s colonial past with this walking tour of Antigua. This former capital is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beloved for its cobblestone streets and majestic church ruins. Meet your guide in the Central Plaza and visit sites like a jade factory, City Hall Palace, and Santo Domingo, an elegant hotel and cultural center. As you walk, your guide will share information on Antigua’s history and architecture.
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From
USD10.00
USD10.00 savings
From
USD10.00
USD10.00 savings
Antigua on your own!!! from Puerto Quetzal
4
Experience the history and natural surroundings of Antigua on a private tour from Puerto Quetzal. Upon arrival, your chauffeur is waiting to whisk you away in private transportation. The drive is part of the adventure, as you take in the mountainous landscapes. Explore the UNESCO listed city center independently or hire a private guide to dig deeper into the city’s history. Return to the cruise terminal with time to spare.
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From
USD69.00
From
USD69.00
Private Walking tour of Antigua Guatemala
4
Get a more intimate glimpse into the colonial richness of Antigua’s culture on a private walking tour that offers a great introduction for first-time visitors. You’ll visit a diverse mix of cobblestone streets, colonial churches, vibrant markets and volcanic backdrops on this tour, which you can customize to cover the things that interest you the most. Plus, the short duration of this tour makes it ideal if you’re short on time.
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From
USD30.00
Price varies by group size
From
USD30.00
Price varies by group size
Full-Day Tour: Colonial Antigua, Jade Factory and Textile Experience from Guatemala City
2
Immerse yourself in the colonial history of Antigua and the idyllic landscape of the small villages and farms just outside of town on this 10-hour excursion from Guatemala City. Explore the centuries-old traditions of tiny hamlets like San Antonio Aguas Calientes, Ciudad Vieja and San Juan del Obispo just outside of Antigua, where you’ll also stop to visit a macadamia nut plantation. Then tread the cobblestone streets of Antigua on foot, visiting city landmarks including the Arch of Santa Catalina, Cathedral of San Jose and much more. This Antigua small villages and walking tour also covers lunch (optional), a guide, and round-trip hotel transport.
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From
USD60.00
From
USD60.00
¡LA ANTIGUA GUATEMALA CITY TOUR! from Guatemala City
2
Escape the streets of Guatemala City with a visit to Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just an hour outside the city, Antigua feels like another world with its tranquil cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. Explore on foot, walking from the central park to sites like cathedral ruins and a local jade factory. After your tour, you’ll have time to lunch and souvenir shop before your return to Guatemala City.
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From
USD98.00
From
USD98.00
Antigua Guatemala Walking Group Tour
1
As one of the oldest cities in Guatemala, Antigua is brimming with history, legends, and plenty of sightseeing. This guided tour of Antigua gives you a taste of all the city has to offer—wander through the cobbled colonial streets with your guide to get the local perspective on key sights and attractions like La Merced, plus get recommendations on great restaurants and fun activities to check out while you're in town.
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From
USD25.00
From
USD25.00
Half Day Antigua Guatemala Tour
Visit Antigua highlights in just a few hours on this half-day tour from Guatemala City. It's the perfect amount of time to hit key sights like La Merced and the San Francisco Convent without spending all day. As you tour, your guide provides plenty of information about the sights, giving you a fuller picture of all that Antigua has to offer.
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From
USD17.00
From
USD17.00
From Bean to Bar Chocolate Class + Antigua Guatemala Private Tour
This tour revolves around chocolate. Learn about the history and importance of chocolate for the ancient Mayans, the importance it has in today's world, and its entire harvesting process. After that, you will learn how to make your own chocolate bar from the bean.
In the morning we will take you to know all the iconic places of Antigua Guatemala. Marvel at its cobbled streets, its churches, convents, and beautiful landscapes. This was the third city in Guatemala after the previous city was buried by a landslide caused by Volcàn de Agua. The 400+ years of history of this colonial city will enchant you!
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From
USD150.00
Price varies by group size
From
USD150.00
Price varies by group size
Cultural Antigua Guatemala
When visiting Antigua, a walking tour is the way to go. Admire views of colonial structures and colorful churches as you wander down the city's cobbled streets with your guide. As you walk, your guide shares a local perspective on top sights like La Merced and Plaza Mayor.
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From
USD55.00
From
USD55.00
Macadamia Farm & Facial Massage + Antigua Guatemala Private Tour
Antigua Guatemala is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Central America, you'll enjoy a guided tour throughout the most iconic places of interest and in the end, have fun with one of the main exports of Antigua Guatemala.
The macadamia Farm offers the opportunity of knowing more about this very healthy and useful nut such as massages, health, and more. You will love knowing all that Antigua has to offer!
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From
USD120.00
Price varies by group size
From
USD120.00
Price varies by group size
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- ChocoMuseo Antigua
- Catedral de Santiago (Antigua Cathedral)
- Museum of Colonial Art (Museo de Arte Colonial)
- Antigua Central Park (Parque Central)
- Palace of the Captains General (Palacio de los Capitanes Generales)
- Las Capuchinas (Convento de Las Capuchinas)
- Santa Catalina Arch (Arco de Santa Catalina)
- La Merced Church (Iglesia de la Merced)
- Church of San Francisco (Iglesia de San Francisco)
- Casa Santo Domingo (Monasterio de Santo Domingo)
- Antigua City Hall (Palacio del Ayuntamiento)
- Cerro de la Cruz (Hill of the Cross)
- Acatenango
- Pacaya Volcano
- Iximché