Things To Do
in Esquipulas

A thick, fragrant meat and vegetable stew with roasted spices and seeds; commonly served in family eateries and recommended at local comedores.

Must-Try!

Fried plantains served with refried beans and cheese — a simple, filling accompaniment found at markets and small restaurants.

Charcoal-roasted chicken often sold at roadside stands or small restaurants; commonly paired with tortillas and salad.

Highland coffee grown around Esquipulas is fragrant and well-balanced — try a finca tour or café tasting to sample fresh brews.

The town market offers fresh produce, prepared foods, local sweets and religious souvenirs; try tamales, atol (warm corn drink) and fried snacks from street stalls.

Around the central plaza you’ll find vendors selling empanadas, grilled meats and local pastries — good for quick bites while sightseeing.

The basilica is a place of deep devotion — dress modestly, speak quietly, ask before photographing worshippers and follow any posted rules during services.

A friendly greeting (Buenos días/Buenas tardes) goes a long way. Using basic Spanish phrases shows respect and is appreciated by locals.

Casual, modest clothing is appropriate in town; avoid loud or overly revealing attire in religious or rural settings. Public displays of disrespect toward religious practices are offensive.

Bargaining is common in markets for crafts and souvenirs, but do so politely and with a smile; accept a firm 'no' without pressuring sellers.

Service staff appreciate tips but they are not always mandatory. In sit-down restaurants a 10% tip is common if service is good (and sometimes included on the bill—check first). For taxi drivers and street vendors small change or rounding up is fine; tip pilgrimage guides or drivers a modest amount for good service.

The local currency is the Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ). Cash is widely used, especially in markets and small eateries; credit/debit cards are accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants. ATMs are available in Esquipulas but carry sufficient cash when heading to rural sites.

Soccer is the most popular sport, with local matches watched enthusiastically in town and neighborhood pitches used for weekend games.

Horse riding is common in rural areas and local fiestas sometimes include equestrian parades and competitions.

Vegetarian options are available but more limited — request vegetable stew, beans, rice, salads and fried plantains. Explain dietary needs in Spanish (e.g., 'soy vegetariano/a') and look for cafés or markets for flexible choices.

Vegan choices require more searching; stick to beans, rice, corn tortillas, fresh fruit and vegetable sides. Bringing snacks or relying on bigger towns for varied options is sensible.

Corn-based foods (tortillas, tamales) are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination can occur. Ask vendors about ingredients and prefer simple preparations.

Use bottled or boiled water for drinking, choose busy food stalls with high turnover and avoid raw produce unless you can wash it with safe water.