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The Atlantic Lowlands Travel Guide

  • Photo: Alain Lauga / Shutterstock

Plan Your The Atlantic Lowlands Vacation

Guatemala's short Caribbean shoreline doesn't generate the same buzz as those of neighboring Belize and Mexico. The coast—Guatemalans all call it the Atlántico, even though it's the Caribbean you're seeing—stretches a scant 123 km (74 mi). But whatever you call it, there's plenty to keep you occupied in the lowlands on this side of the country.

Top Reasons To Go

  1. Cruise through a canyon A boat trip up or down the canyoned Río Dulce is Guatemala's signature eco-excursion.
  2. Groove to the punta Toto, I don't think we're in the highlands anymore. The region's most popular music has its roots in far-away Africa.
  3. Ponder the intricacies of the Maya Quiriguá, in Guatemala, and Copán, just over the Honduran border, are two of the Mayan world's best preserved ruins complexes. The minutiae of their stelae are still intact to this day.
  4. Soak those aching muscles The hot springs at various points along the Río Dulce make perfect places for a dip, and all the boat excursions make a stop.
  5. Take a walk on the wild side Some of the country's best birding and wildlife observation strings along the Río Dulce and Lago Izabal.

When To Go

When to Go

This side of the country has less distinct rainy and dry seasons; rains are more evenly spaced throughout the year. Ironically, June and July, w...

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