Things To Do
in Chisec
Chisec is a small town in Alta Verapaz, Guatemala, framed by lush rainforest and river valleys. It's a gateway to nearby natural wonders and Indigenous culture, offering a relaxed pace and rural charm. The town serves as a base for eco-tours, cave visits, and hikes in cloud forests, with warm Guatemalan hospitality.
The area blends Maya heritage with scenic scenery, inviting exploration and photography.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure by wandering through the vibrant streets of Chisec. Visit local markets to experience the rich culture and interact with friendly residents. Don’t forget to sample traditional Guatemalan breakfast, including tamales and atol de elote.
Spend the afternoon visiting the stunning church of San Antonio de Padua, a centerpiece of the town. Explore nearby art galleries showcasing local artisans and their crafts. Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic riverside, soaking in the lush surroundings.
As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the local cuisine at a popular eatery. Try dishes like Kak'ik, a traditional Mayan soup, as you enjoy the lively atmosphere. Wind down your day by listening to traditional Guatemalan music.
Head out early to the Candelaria River for a day of adventure. Engage in activities like kayaking or tubing on the clear waters while surrounded by stunning nature. The sound of flowing water and the lush greenery will energize you.
After a morning of adventure, enjoy a packed lunch by the riverside. Take some time to relax, sunbathe, or even swim in the refreshing waters. Capture the breathtaking views with your camera as the sun glimmers on the river.
Return to Chisec and unwind at a local café. Share stories of your day’s exploits with fellow travelers while sipping on a cup of locally brewed coffee. The evening brings a chance to take in the starry sky, far from city lights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🚌Local bus ride | $0.25-1 |
| 🍺Beer in a bar | $2-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Abundant natural beauty and accessible ecotourism
- Genuine, low-key Guatemalan town vibe
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist services within town
- Rural roads can be rough and connectivity variable
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo inglés" - I speak English
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Chisec
Visit one of these nice places.
Elevated overlooks along the Cahabón River offer dramatic light, lush greenery, and reflections in calm pools at certain times of day.
Colorful town squares and hillside neighborhoods provide warm, golden hour photography opportunities.
Dawn and late afternoon scenes of vendors and textiles capture everyday life and vivid colors.
Food in Chisec
Chisec Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, spicy stew made with roasted peppers, spices, and meat, served with rice or tortillas.
Must-Try!
A traditional turkey soup with a deep red, peppery sauce and aromatic herbs.
Chicken simmered in a bright green tomatillo and cilantro sauce, typically served with rice.
Mashed fried plantains stuffed with beans or savory fillings.
Savory or sweet tamales steamed in corn husks, commonly found at markets and festivals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A center for fresh produce, maize, herbs, and handmade textiles, with stalls to watch cooks prepare arepas, tamales, and chuchitos.
Tostadas, chuchitos, fresh fruit cups, and roasted corn eaten from street vendors around the market square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' and a handshake or kiss on the cheek in familiar settings. Use formal 'usted' with elders or strangers.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in indigenous communities or cultural events.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Remove hats in churches or formal settings and avoid loud public displays of affection.
Safety
Tipping in Chisec
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a small tip of 5–10% is appreciated if service is good. Guides and drivers may appreciate a tip at the end of trips. Carry small bills for rounding up.
Cash in Guatemalan Quetzales is widely used in Chisec. Some hotels, larger restaurants, and tour operators accept credit cards, but many local eateries work on cash. ATMs are more common in bigger towns like Cobán.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally sunny days with cooler evenings. Great for outdoor hikes, but water sources can be lower and trails may be dusty in places.
Frequent afternoon showers and high humidity. Trails can be slippery; pack a rain jacket and waterproof footwear, and expect lush green landscapes.
Chisec at Night
Hiking in Chisec
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous cave system near Lanquín with guided tours and impressive rock formations.
Riverside hiking with viewpoints of the gorge and lush jungle.
Airports
How to reach Chisec by plane.
Guatemala City's main international gateway; longer transfer to Chisec but frequent flight connections and services.
Local domestic airport serving Cobán and surrounding areas; closest air link for interior Alta Verapaz.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A substantial portion of the population belongs to Q'eqchi' communities, contributing language, weaving, and cultural traditions.
Spanish-speaking residents and mixed heritage communities live alongside Indigenous groups.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Guatemala, widely played in towns and schools.
Common in community centers and schools; local leagues sometimes run in larger towns.
A historic sport sometimes demonstrated at cultural events or community gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Chisec.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Chisec you can find vegetarian options like beans, rice, fresh vegetables, and corn tortillas. Request dishes without meat or ask for vegetable stews; many kitchens can adapt traditional stews by omitting meat.