Things To Do
in Los Amates
Los Amates is a small Guatemalan town in the Izabal department. It sits among riverine and rainforest scenery, framed by lush green hills and nearby waterways. The town has a laid back pace, with a central plaza, a daily market, and friendly local residents.
Its proximity to the Río Dulce and the Pacific lowlands makes it a practical base for nature and culture pursuits.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Guatemalan dishes such as huevos rancheros. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Los Amates, admiring the colorful colonial architecture and vibrant street art. Don't forget to visit the central park, where you can soak in the local atmosphere and watch vendors setting up their stalls.
In the afternoon, explore the local artisan shops that showcase unique handicrafts, perfect for souvenirs. Stop for lunch at a quaint restaurant, savoring some freshly caught fish from the nearby coast. Afterward, visit the nearby museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the Garifuna people who inhabit this region.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront for a relaxing evening by the sea. Enjoy a local seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant, where the sounds of the waves complement your meal. To end the day, take a moonlit walk along the shore, savoring the tranquil ambiance.
Start your day with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Playa Los Amates. After a quick breakfast at a beachside café, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the serene coastline. The gentle waves and stunning views make for an exhilarating morning of fun and adventure.
For lunch, enjoy fresh ceviche at a beach shack, made with local ingredients and served with a view of the ocean. Spend the afternoon lounging on the soft sand, soaking up the sun, or playing beach volleyball with friendly locals. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying your hand at windsurfing or jet skiing.
As evening approaches, watch as the sky transforms into hues of orange and pink, creating a picturesque sunset. Gather with friends at a beachfront bonfire, sharing stories and laughter as the night unfolds. Indulge in grilled seafood from a local vendor, pairing it with a refreshing drink as you relax by the shore.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🧃Soft drink or juice | $1-3 |
| 🚎Public transport ride | $0.50-2 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet town with easy access to nature
- Warm, friendly local culture and affordable prices
- Good base for river and lake excursions
- Rich mix of Maya and Afro-Caribbean influences
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Basic healthcare facilities in town; travel for advanced care
- Some roads can be rough and transportation infrequent outside peak season
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Me gustaría pedir..." - I would like to order...
Places to Visit in Los Amates
Visit one of these nice places.
The town square with a colonial church and early-market activity, ideal for candid portraits and soft morning light.
Open banks and calm water edges provide reflections and birdlife, especially at sunrise and late afternoon.
Expansive lake vistas and fishing boats offer wide horizons and warm golden hour tones.
Colorful stalls with textiles, produce, and everyday life—great for vibrant street photography.
Food in Los Amates
Los Amates Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, roasted chile and sesame sauce with meat or chicken, served with rice and tortillas.
Must-Try!
Chicken simmered in a green tomatillo and cilantro sauce, typically served with rice.
A coconut milk seafood stew with plantains and rice, reflecting coastal flavors.
Tamales in a red chile sauce with meat and vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning market with fresh fruit, tortillas, tamales, and quick street snacks.
Tostadas, ceviche, fried plantains and other quick bites from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a simple buenos días or buenas tardes; use formal ustedes with strangers and elders.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or villages; remove hats indoors and at religious sites.
Family and community ties are important; ask permission before photographing people, especially children.
Safety
Tipping in Los Amates
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if a service charge isn’t included. Small tips for guides or drivers are appreciated.
Cash in the local currency (quetzal) is widely accepted; some places take USD. Cards are less common in small towns; mobile payments are becoming more common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season brings sunny days, warm temperatures, and pleasant evenings in town. Humidity is moderate near the water, and outdoor activities are most comfortable.
May through October brings frequent rain and lush greenery. Trails can be slippery; plan for flexible outdoor days and rain gear.
Los Amates at Night
Hiking in Los Amates
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, moderately easy hike to a hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping views of the river valley.
Accessible forest paths ideal for wildlife spotting and a relaxed day hike.
Airports
How to reach Los Amates by plane.
Guatemala City's main international gateway; from there you can arrange road transfer to Los Amates.
Small regional airport servicing Izabal; limited flights and connections, often used for quick access to the coast and rivers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A blend of indigenous Maya heritage and Garífuna cultural influences in the region, contributing to language, music, and cuisine variety.
Residents engaged in small-scale agriculture and river/lake fishing form a significant part of daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games are common in community fields and schools.
Played at schools and local community centers; informal games are common in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Los Amates.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be adapted by substituting meat with beans, rice, plantains, and fresh vegetables. Look for veggie stews, salads, and cheese-filled tamales.