The Castle of San Felipe de Lara, located in Guatemala, is a historic Spanish colonial fort situated at the entrance of Lake Izabal, near the town of Livingston. Constructed in the 17th century, it was initially built to protect the region from pirate attacks. The fortress features thick stone walls, a moat, and various defensive structures, including cannons and lookout towers. Over time, it also served as a prison and a customs post.
Quiriguá is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in the department of Izabal in southeastern Guatemala. It is renowned for its impressive collection of stelae, which are tall, intricately carved stone monuments. These stelae, some of the largest ever discovered in the Maya world, provide valuable insights into the political and ceremonial life of the Classic Maya civilization. Quiriguá thrived during the 8th century CE and was a key player in the region's geopolitics, often interacting with and rivaling the nearby city of Copán.
The Dulce River, or Río Dulce, is a significant waterway in eastern Guatemala, known for its stunning natural beauty and ecological diversity. It extends approximately 43 kilometers (27 miles) from Lake Izabal, Guatemala's largest lake, to the Caribbean Sea at the port town of Livingston. The river passes through the dramatic limestone canyon known as El Golfete, which is lined with lush tropical rainforest and is home to a variety of wildlife, including manatees, howler monkeys, and numerous bird species. The Río Dulce area is also culturally rich, with a strong presence of the Garifuna community in Livingston, offering a unique blend of Afro-Caribbean and indigenous influences.
Planning a trip?