Things To Do
in Jerez
Jerez, Guatemala is a small town in the southern highlands renowned for its warm, welcoming communities and traditional markets. It sits amid green hills and coffee farms, offering a glimpse into rural Guatemalan life. The central plaza and Iglesia Parroquial anchor daily activity, while nearby countryside invites short hikes and farm tours.
A peaceful base for exploring southern Guatemala, Jerez blends simplicity with authentic local culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a guided walking tour through the colorful streets of Jerez, where you'll witness the traditional architecture and vibrant local life. Make sure to visit the central plaza, where locals gather, offering a perfect snapshot of everyday life. Enjoy a fresh cup of Guatemalan coffee at a local café, surrounded by the sounds of the morning hustle.
In the afternoon, visit the Museo del Chocolate, where you can learn about the history of chocolate in Guatemala and enjoy a hands-on chocolate-making workshop. After indulging your taste buds, take a stroll to the nearby artisan market to browse handcrafted goods and pick up souvenirs. Don't forget to engage with local artisans to learn more about their craft.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy restaurant to enjoy authentic Guatemalan cuisine, perhaps trying dishes like Pepian or Kak'ik. The lively evening atmosphere will offer performances of traditional music that will add to the cultural experience. End your day with a leisurely walk along the streets, soaking in the charming ambiance as the town lights up.
Begin your day with a hike to the nearby Los Siete Altares, a series of breathtaking natural pools and waterfalls. As you ascend, take in the lush greenery and diverse wildlife that make this area truly picturesque. You'll have the chance to cool off in the clear waters before it gets too crowded.
After your refreshing morning, spend the afternoon exploring the local biodiversity at the Jerez Botanical Gardens, a perfect escape for nature lovers. Wander through meticulously curated plant displays and enjoy the serene environment. Keep an eye out for unique bird species and take in the fragrant flowers that surround you.
As evening approaches, visit a local mercado for a taste of street food, offering a variety of delicious options from tamales to garnachas. Share a table with friendly locals who are more than willing to share their stories and snacks with you. Cap off your evening by watching a local cultural performance, immersing yourself in the traditions of the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or drink at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚕Local taxi or ride within town | $2-6 |
| 🧵Souvenir or craft | $3-20 |
| 📶Prepaid SIM data | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Guatemalan town experience
- Access to coffee culture and hillside scenery
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Rural roads can be bumpy and weather-dependent
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The bill, please.
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Jerez
Visit one of these nice places.
A colonial church with whitewashed walls, a bell tower, and a tranquil plaza—great for architectural photography.
A vibrant market scene with colorful textiles, produce, and daily life as your backdrop.
Panoramic views over green valleys and distant hills, especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Jerez
Jerez Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, spice-laden stew made with roasted peppers, herbs, and meat or vegetables, typically served with rice or tortillas.
Must-Try!
Corn dough stuffed with meat or beans and herbs, wrapped in plantain leaves and steamed to a fragrant finish.
A hearty black bean soup flavored with onion, garlic, and cilantro, commonly enjoyed with warm tortillas.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, herbs, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Quick bites like tortillas, tamales, y agua fresca, offering a casual glimpse of local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake and a courteous greeting; show respect to elders by using señor/señora and last name where appropriate.
Ask permission before photographing people or private homes; avoid photographing ceremonies or religious rituals without consent.
Dress modestly when visiting churches and markets; comfortable footwear for walking on uneven streets.
Safety
Tipping in Jerez
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of 5-10% is customary if no service charge is included; guides and drivers welcome small tips.
Cash is widely accepted (Guatemalan quetzal, USD in some spots); credit/debit cards at larger establishments; ATMs are common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with abundant sunshine and high temperatures; ideal for outdoor exploration, but stay hydrated and wear sun protection.
Warm, humid conditions with regular afternoon showers; trails can be slippery—bring rain gear and quick-dry clothing.
Jerez at Night
Hiking in Jerez
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible trails around the town offer coffee plantation views and scenic valley panoramas; typically 1–3 hours for a round trip.
Airports
How to reach Jerez by plane.
Main international gateway for Guatemala City; about 1.5–2.5 hours by road from Jerez depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous Maya communities and mestizo residents form a diverse local population, reflecting Guatemala's cultural tapestry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; locals play and watch games in town and nearby fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jerez.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Jerez you can navigate by ordering bean- or corn-based dishes, rice and vegetable stews, and tortillas; ask for dishes without meat stock or lard and for oil-free preparations.