Things To Do
in Chicacao
Chicacao is a small agricultural town in Guatemala’s Suchitepéquez department, tucked in the Pacific lowlands. Its streets are a mix of modest colonial architecture, vibrant market stalls, and friendly locals who greet visitors with warmth. The surrounding valley is carved by cacao, coffee, and sugarcane plantations, giving the town a rich rural character.
Although off the main tourist path, Chicacao offers authentic Guatemalan experiences, from bustling mercados to scenic rural vistas.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the scenic town of Chicacao and settle into your accommodations, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the local community. Stroll through the town square, where you can admire the unique architecture and interact with friendly locals. Grab a traditional Guatemalan breakfast at a nearby café to energize yourself for the adventures ahead.
After lunch, visit the Chicacao Lagoon, a stunning natural wonder surrounded by lush vegetation. Here, you can rent a kayak or simply walk along the scenic trails that offer breathtaking views. Spend some time relaxing by the water, taking in the tranquility of this peaceful environment.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant where you can sample regional dishes rich in flavor. Reflect on your first day in Chicacao while mingling with locals and fellow travelers. End your evening with a leisurely walk around the town, taking in the illuminated streets and the sounds of evening life.
Wake up early and head to the bustling local market where vendors sell an array of fresh produce, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Engage with the sellers, learn about the items they offer, and purchase some souvenirs to take home. Enjoy a light breakfast at one of the market's food stalls, offering authentic Guatemalan snacks.
Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby coffee plantations to learn about the coffee-making process, from bean to cup. Participate in a guided tour that includes tastings of some of the finest local brews. Appreciate the rich agricultural landscape that contributes to Chicacao's exquisite coffee region.
Return to Chicacao for dinner at a cozy eatery, where dishes are made with ingredients sourced from the region. Allow the flavors of the local cuisine to transport you to a place of comfort and nostalgia. For a perfect end to your day, participate in a small cultural dance or music event if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🍽️Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short city trip) | $2-5 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic cultural experiences and warm locals
- Affordability and slow-paced charm
- Rich agricultural surroundings with scenic countryside
- Less crowded than major tourist destinations
- Limited tourism infrastructure and English-speaking guides
- Fewer dining and nightlife options within town
- Longer travel times to major attractions and airports
- Rural roads can be bumpy, especially in rainy season
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Buenas tardes" - Good afternoon
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Chicacao
Visit one of these nice places.
The main parish church with colonial architecture and a colorful plaza backdrop.
Vibrant market stalls full of textiles, produce, and daily life—great for candid life photography.
Terraced cacao fields catching early light; ideal for wide-angle landscape shots.
Food in Chicacao
Chicacao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, earthy stew with meat and vegetables in a warm corn-based sauce, typically served with rice and tortillas.
Must-Try!
Chicken simmered in a green recado with herbs and tomatillo flavors, often served with rice.
Sweet corn tamales wrapped in corn husks, a popular snack or breakfast option.
Mashed plantain stuffed with beans and fried, a classic Guatemalan comfort dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Colorful stalls selling produce, herbs, tortillas, fresh juice, and local snacks.
Tostadas, elotes asados, tamales, and other quick bites prepared on the spot.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a smile and 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes.' Use polite forms like 'usted' with elders; avoid interrupting while others speak.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural communities and always ask permission before photographing people, especially children.
Safety
Tipping in Chicacao
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is common if service is good; in tourist spots 10-15% may be given for standout service. Small tips for guides and drivers are appreciated.
Cash (Guatemalan Quetzal) is widely accepted; some larger restaurants and hotels take USD or cards. ATMs are common in Mazatenango and larger towns; carry local currency for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and sunny with warm days; excellent for outdoor exploration and photography. Light clothing, sun protection, and plenty of water are essential.
High humidity with frequent afternoon showers and occasional tropical storms. Trails can be slippery; carry rain gear and plan earlier departures for hikes.
Chicacao at Night
Hiking in Chicacao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic waterfall hike with a short to moderate trail, suitable for a half-day excursion.
An elevated viewpoint offering sweeping views of Chicacao’s valley and surrounding farmland.
Gentle to moderate trails that showcase the countryside, wildlife, and farm scenery.
Airports
How to reach Chicacao by plane.
Guatemala City’s main international gateway, about 4-6 hours by road from Chicacao depending on traffic and road conditions.
A smaller regional airport serving domestic flights and charters; useful for reaching the coastal-southwestern region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Mestizo residents and Indigenous communities, with cultural influences from Maya traditions in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played in schoolyards and local matches throughout the region.
Common in schools and community centers, with informal games in the evenings.
Played in community centers and on school teams, especially in the dry season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chicacao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are meat-focused, but you can find beans, rice, corn, and vegetable preparations. Ask for vegetarian versions or broth-free soups; request no meat broth and sauces without animal stock.