Things To Do
in San Felipe
San Felipe is a small town located in the department of Retalhuleu in southwestern Guatemala. It is known for its agricultural activities, particularly coffee production. The town has a mild climate, with temperatures typically ranging from 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C).
San Felipe is surrounded by lush green hills and offers beautiful views of the nearby mountains.
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful beaches of San Felipe. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm waters.
Explore the local market and try authentic Guatemalan dishes for lunch. Don't forget to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Stroll along the beach at sunset for breathtaking views. Grab dinner at a seaside restaurant to enjoy fresh seafood.
Hike up to the nearby hills for a guided trail morning. Take in the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding areas.
Pack a picnic and relax at a scenic spot by the lake. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or simply enjoying nature.
Return to town for a relaxing evening walk. Enjoy a casual dinner at a local café.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with vibrant local traditions.
- Access to beautiful natural landscapes, including lakes and mountains.
- A growing tourism sector that supports local businesses.
- Cost of living is relatively low compared to urban areas.
- Friendly and welcoming community.
- Delicious local cuisine and fresh produce available.
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities.
- Infrastructure challenges, including road conditions.
- Higher levels of poverty and unemployment compared to other regions.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters, such as floods or landslides.
- Limited educational opportunities and resources.
- Concerns about safety and crime in certain areas.
Best Activities in San Felipe
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural scenery and enjoy panoramic views of San Felipe and its surroundings by going on a hiking adventure in the nearby mountains.
Take a trip to Lake Izabal to engage in activities such as boating, fishing, or simply relaxing by the lakeshore while enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Embark on a historical and cultural journey by visiting the ancient Mayan ruins of Quirigua, located near San Felipe, and discover the rich heritage of the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Felipe with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Felipe
Visit one of these nice places.
Located on a hill offering panoramic views of San Felipe and the surrounding area.
A viewpoint offering stunning views of the town and Lake Izabal.
Historic fort with excellent views of the town and lake, ideal for photography.
Food in San Felipe
San Felipe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pepián is a traditional Guatemalan stew made with meat, vegetables, and a rich, flavorful sauce that features a blend of roasted spices and seeds. It's a must-try dish that can be found in local eateries and restaurants across San Felipe, with authentic versions often served in family-run establishments.
Must-Try!
Tamales are a beloved staple of Guatemalan cuisine, consisting of seasoned meat or other fillings encased in masa (corn dough) and wrapped in banana leaves. Look for street vendors or markets in San Felipe to savor these delicious, portable treats that are often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack.
Rellenitos are sweet, fried plantain and black bean patties, often dusted with sugar, making for a delightful dessert or snack. These can be found at local bakeries or food stalls, especially around markets and plazas in San Felipe.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Felipe better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling San Felipe Market is a treasure trove of local produce, spices, and artisanal goods. Visitors can sample an array of street food offerings such as grilled meats, fresh fruit juices, and handmade tortillas from the various vendors in the market.
The streets around the central plaza are lined with street food stalls and carts offering a wide variety of authentic Guatemalan snacks and dishes. From grilled corn to tamales and empanadas, exploring the street food scene around the plaza is a delightful gastronomic adventure.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In San Felipe, Guatemala, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal language and addressing them with proper titles.
Punctuality is highly valued in San Felipe, Guatemala. It is respectful to arrive on time for social or business engagements.
Greetings in San Felipe typically involve a handshake and maintaining a respectable distance. Physical contact, especially between unrelated men and women, should be approached with sensitivity and respect.
Safety
Tipping in San Felipe
Ensure a smooth experience
In San Felipe, Guatemala, tipping is not always expected but is appreciated, especially in tourist areas. It is common to leave a small tip of around 5-10% at restaurants and for tour guides.
In San Felipe, Guatemala, cash is the primary form of payment and is widely accepted. Some places may also accept major credit cards, but it's always best to have some cash on hand. ATMs are available in the town for withdrawing cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit San Felipe, Guatemala as the weather is generally warm and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploration.
During the rainy season, expect frequent showers and higher humidity. While this season may not be ideal for outdoor activities, it offers lush green landscapes and fewer tourists.
San Felipe at Night
Hiking in San Felipe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and a challenging trail.
This national park features diverse ecosystems and a variety of hiking trails through lush forests and along rivers.
Famous for its scenic views, this hike takes you up a volcano where you can enjoy breathtaking vistas of Lake Atitlán.
A lesser-known hiking destination that offers stunning views and a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region.
A moderate hike that rewards adventurers with views of the city and surrounding mountains, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Aiports
How to reach San Felipe by plane.
Located in Guatemala City, approximately 150 km from San Felipe, La Aurora is the primary international airport serving Guatemala.
Located in David, Panama, this airport is about 300 km from San Felipe and serves as a regional hub for Copa Airlines.
Located in Catacamas, Honduras, this airport is approximately 250 km from San Felipe and serves international flights within Central America.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary demographic group in San Felipe, predominantly of indigenous descent, primarily speaking various Mayan languages.
A mixed group of descendants of indigenous people and European settlers, often speaking Spanish and integrating into mainstream cultural practices.
A smaller demographic group that includes descendants of African slaves brought to Guatemala, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
A minimal group that includes expatriates or descendants of Spanish settlers and migrants who have settled in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in San Felipe, Guatemala, with a passionate local following and community teams competing regularly.
Basketball has been gaining popularity, especially among the youth, with many local courts available for play.
Volleyball is a common recreational sport, played both indoors and on beaches, attracting many participants.
Baseball has a presence in San Felipe, particularly among youth, with informal games often organized.
Cycling is a popular activity for both sports and recreation, with local routes attracting cyclists of various skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Felipe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Guatemalan cuisine traditionally features meat-centric dishes, many restaurants and cafes in San Felipe offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, such as plant-based tamales, hearty vegetable stews, and flavorful bean-based dishes.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can find some relief in San Felipe, as several establishments provide gluten-free versions of traditional dishes, along with options like corn-based tortillas and rice-based meals.