Pacific Lowlands Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful Pacific Lowlands in Guatemala with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and where to stay in this stunning region of Central America.


Introduction to Pacific Lowlands

Nestled in the southern coast of Guatemala, bordered by the Pacific Ocean to the south and the Sierra Madre mountain range to the north, the Pacific Lowlands are a true tropical paradise. This stunning region is home to ancient Mayan ruins, an abundance of wildlife, pristine beaches, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Travelers to Pacific Lowlands can immerse themselves in the rich culture of the country while indulging in outdoor adventures and sampling delicious local cuisine.

List of Places to Visit in Pacific Lowlands

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Takalik Abaj Archaeological Site: This ancient Mayan city offers an insight into the Mayan culture and civilization. Explore the ruins of pyramids, ball courts and tombs, surrounded by lush forests.
  • Isla de las Muñecas: This creepy island is inhabited by thousands of dolls and is believed to be haunted by the spirit of a little girl who drowned in the area.
  • Museo de Santiago: Housed in a 400-year-old Spanish colonial building, this museum displays a wonderful collection of pre-Columbian art objects.

Natural Attractions of Pacific Lowlands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Monte Alto Nature Reserve: This stunning nature reserve provides opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and exploring the unique ecosystem of the region.
  • Los Tarrales Natural Reserve: This private reserve is home to over 300 bird species and boasts beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, and breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline.
  • Hanal Pixan Reserve Forest: One of the last lowland tropical rainforests in the world, this reserve is home to jaguars, pumas, and a variety of rare bird species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Pacific Lowlands

  • Champerico to Tapachula: This coastal route takes visitors through diverse landscapes, stunning beaches, and traditional fishing villages.
  • Mazatenango to Retalhuleu: This route takes visitors through quaint coffee plantations and is rich in local history and traditions.
  • Puerto San José to La Democracia: This scenic route is packed with great views of the Pacific Ocean and a small indigenous community that practices traditional weaving.

Best Things to Do in Pacific Lowlands: Activities and Tours

  • Visit local markets: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting bustling markets like the Chiquimulilla and Retalhuleu markets where you can find traditional crafts and sample delicious street food.
  • Whale Watching Tour: Take a boat trip out to the Pacific Ocean to spot humpback whales between July and November each year.
  • Hot Springs in Fuentes Georginas: This beautiful location features thermal pools, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Week-Long Itinerary for Pacific Lowlands

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Takalik Abaj archaeological site and explore local markets
Day 2 Hiking at Monte Alto Nature Reserve
Day 3 Visit Isla de las Muñecas and take a whale-watching tour
Day 4 Visit Los Tarrales Natural Reserve and relax on a nearby beach
Day 5 Tour of local coffee plantations and weaving villages
Day 6 Soak in the hot springs of Fuentes Georginas and explore the Hanal Pixan Reserve Forest
Day 7 Relax on the beaches of Champerico and enjoy the Pacific sunset

Food and Drink Scene of Pacific Lowlands

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pepián: A traditional thick stew made with chicken or beef, and seasoned with tomato and pumpkin seeds.
  • Chiles Rellenos: Bell peppers stuffed with meat, cheese, or beans and fried in egg batter.
  • Rellenitos: Fried plantain stuffed with sweetened black beans.

Local Beverages

  • Horchata: A refreshing drink made of ground rice and cinnamon.
  • Atol de Elote: Sweet and creamy corn-based drink.
  • Rum: Locally produced Guatemalan rum is a must-try for any visitor.

Where to Stay in Pacific Lowlands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Soleil Pacifico: A luxurious beachfront hotel located in Puerto San José.
  • Monkey Lodge: A rustic eco-lodge situated in the heart of a lush natural reserve.
  • Hotel Pasada del Angel: A charming colonial-style hotel located in the town of Mazatenango.

What to Buy in Pacific Lowlands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Traditional textiles: Guatemala is known for its colorful textiles, so take home bold handmade scarves, bags, and other textile goods.
  • Coffee: Sample and purchase locally grown coffee from one of many coffee plantations in the region.
  • Jade: The world’s best jade comes from Guatemala, and Pacific Lowlands is no exception. Shop for unique pieces at local jewelers.

Local Culture and Customs of Pacific Lowlands

The people of Pacific Lowlands are proud of their Maya heritage, and they celebrate it in their food, dress, and customs. Visitors should show respect for the local culture, such as removing hats when visiting churches and dress modestly when entering sacred sites.

Best Time to Visit Pacific Lowlands

The best time to visit the Pacific Lowlands is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this period, the temperatures are milder and the weather is more predictable, making it easier to plan outdoor activities and sightseeing trips.

Do’s and Don’ts of Pacific Lowlands

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine, which is a mix of Spanish, Mayan, and Afro-Caribbean flavors.
  • Do bargain when shopping in markets and buying souvenirs.
  • Do bring sunscreen, hats, and mosquito repellent, as the sun can be strong and mosquitoes can be present.

Don’t:

  • Don’t wear bathing suits outside of the beach area.
  • Don’t disrespect the local customs and traditions, such as entering a church inappropriately dressed or taking photographs in sacred sites without permission.
  • Don’t walk alone in remote areas at night.

Safety and Health

Safety in Pacific Lowlands

While generally safe for tourists, visitors should take precautions to avoid petty crime such as pickpocketing and robbery. Do not flash expensive jewelry or money around, and avoid walking alone in the evening in remote areas or on the beach.

Health in Pacific Lowlands

Travelers should be aware of the risk of Zika virus in the region and take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Visitors should also be up to date on routine vaccinations before traveling and consider hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines.

Getting to Pacific Lowlands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Pacific Lowlands

  • La Aurora International Airport in Guatemala City, located around 2.5 hours drive from Pacific Lowlands.
  • Puerto San Jose Airport, a small regional airport serving the Pacific Lowlands region.

Bus Stations Near Pacific Lowlands

  • Retalhuleu Bus Terminal services the surrounding region.
  • Xela Bus Terminal in Quetzaltenango, located about 40km from the Pacific coast.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car to explore the Pacific Lowlands region or take a private shuttle service.

How to Get Around in Pacific Lowlands

Taxis are available in larger towns, but credit cards are not accepted, so bring cash. For alternative transport, visitors can rent bicycles or scooters, or hire a local guide to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from Pacific Lowlands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lake Atitlán: A stunning volcanic lake surrounded by Mayan villages, located 3 hours’ drive from Pacific Lowlands.
  • Antigua: A beautiful colonial town located 2 hours’ drive from Pacific Lowlands.
  • Tikal: One of the most impressive Mayan ruins in the world, located 8 hours’ drive from Pacific Lowlands.

Conclusion

The Pacific Lowlands of Guatemala is a hidden gem for travelers seeking an authentic Central American experience. With its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, travelers can find adventure and relaxation in equal measure. From exploring ancient ruins, to hiking in nature reserves, to sampling delicious local food, there is something for every traveler in the Pacific Lowlands.

The many beaches are the main attraction of the Pacific Lowlands The many beaches are the main attraction of the Pacific Lowlands The Pacific Lowlands are overlooked by the volcanic chain of the Sierra Madre to the north The Pacific Lowlands are overlooked by the volcanic chain of the Sierra Madre to the north 19th-century plantation house 19th-century plantation house Takalik Abaj archaeological park Takalik Abaj archaeological park Xocomil water park Xocomil water park


    Mazatenango
    Monterrico
    Puerto San José
    Retalhuleu