Guatemala Archives ⋆ Page 2 of 2 ⋆ The Passenger

February 6, 2025March 1, 2025

Agua Caliente

The Centro Ecoturístico Agua Caliente is located directly next to the Río Dulce and it is a really good reason to stop when you’re passing by boat from the city of Río Dulce to Livingston. It is a natural hot spring that runs directly into to river itself. This geothermal wonder is a result of the area’s volcanic activity, which heats groundwater as it percolates through the earth’s crust. The heated water then rises to the surface, creating the hot springs that have become a popular attraction for both locals and tourists alike.

February 6, 2025March 1, 2025

Pirates of the Caribbean

Castillo de San Felipe de Lara, Río Dulce

The Castillo de San Felipe de Lara, situated at the strategic entrance of the Lago de Izabal in eastern Guatemala, stands as a testament to the Spanish Empire’s struggle against piracy in the Caribbean. Built in the mid-17th century, this fortress was designed to protect vital trade routes and Spanish ships from the persistent threat of buccaneers and pirates who frequently raided the region. The castle’s location at a narrow point of the Río Dulce made it an ideal defensive position, allowing the Spanish to control access to the Lago de Izabal and the important port of San Antonio de las Bodegas.

February 5, 2025March 1, 2025

Quiriguá

The Parque Arqueológico y Ruinas de Quiriguá is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in the department of Izabal in southeastern Guatemala. Situated along the lower Motagua river, about 200 kilometers northeast of Ciudad de Guatemala, the site covers approximately 3 square kilometers, with its ceremonial center positioned about 1 kilometer from the river’s north bank. Quiriguá’s strategic location at the intersection of important trade routes made it a significant player in the Maya world during the Classic Period.

February 4, 2025March 1, 2025

El Bosque

Located in the heart of Antigua Guatemala, El Bosque is a popular beer garden that attracts a diverse crowd, including many expatriates and tourists, often referred to as ‘Gringos‘. This charming spot offers a relaxed atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery, making it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy local craft beers. The beer garden is part of Antigua Cerveza, a local brewery known for its variety of beers, which range from blonde ales to stouts. Visitors can enjoy these brews in a serene setting, often accompanied by live music and delicious food, creating a welcoming environment for both locals and foreigners alike.

February 4, 2025March 1, 2025

Cerro de La Cruz

The Hill of the Cross is a popular viewpoint located on the northern edge of Antigua Guatemala. From this elevated position, visitors are treated to a breathtaking panoramic vista of the colonial city, with its charming terracotta roofs and cobblestone streets sprawling out below. The iconic Volcán de Agua dominates the southern horizon, its symmetrical cone rising majestically to an altitude of 3,760 meters. On clear days, the view extends far beyond Antigua, encompassing the surrounding valleys and even distant volcanoes like Fuego and Acatenango.

February 3, 2025February 27, 2025

Quetzal

The Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ) is the official currency of Guatemala, named after the resplendent quetzal, the country’s national bird. Introduced in 1925 during the presidency of José María Orellana, it replaced the Guatemalan peso at a rate of 60 pesos to 1 quetzal. The currency’s name has historical significance, as quetzal bird tail feathers were used as currency in ancient Mayan culture. The quetzal is divided into 100 centavos, and its plural form is quetzales.

February 3, 2025March 1, 2025

Antigua

Antigua Guatemala, meaning ‘Old Guatemala‘, is a captivating colonial city nestled in the central highlands of Guatemala. Founded in 1543 as Santiago de los Caballeros de Guatemala, it served as the capital of the Captaincy General of Guatemala until 1773, when a series of devastating earthquakes prompted the relocation of the capital to present-day Ciudad de Guatemala. Despite this setback, Antigua has preserved its rich colonial heritage, earning it UNESCO World Heritage status in 1979.

February 3, 2025March 1, 2025

Lago de Atitlán

Nestled in the Guatemalan highlands, Lago de Atitlán is a breathtaking natural wonder surrounded by three majestic volcanoes: San Pedro, Tolimán, and Atitlán. This stunning lake offers visitors a plethora of activities and sights to enjoy. Adventure enthusiasts can partake in kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or even paragliding for an aerial view of the landscape. The lake’s shores are dotted with picturesque Mayan villages, each with its own unique character, where travelers can immerse themselves in local culture, shop for traditional textiles, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Hiking opportunities abound, with trails like the Indian Nose offering spectacular sunrise views over the lake and surrounding volcanoes.

February 2, 2025February 27, 2025

La Aurora

La Aurora International Airport (GUA) serves as the primary gateway to Ciudad de Guatemala, located just 6.4 kilometers south of the city center. This modern facility underwent significant expansion and renovation, completed in 2008, allowing it to accommodate more flights and larger aircraft. The airport features two terminals and for those looking to explore the city and the wonderful country, numerous car rental options are available directly at the airport.