Things To Do
in San Pablo Jocopilas

Classic shots of everyday town life, colonial-style church facades, vendors and local gatherings—especially photogenic early morning or late afternoon.

Colorful scenes of produce, textiles and food stalls; close-up opportunities with patterns, ingredients and smiling vendors (ask permission before photographing people).

Sweeping rural landscapes, rows of coffee bushes, drying patios and mountain backdrops create excellent landscape and documentary images during golden hours.

Fields of sugarcane, banana groves or open farmland at sunrise and sunset offer atmospheric rural photography and silhouettes of workers during harvest seasons.

A rich, spicy meat and vegetable stew with roasted seeds and tomatoes; hearty and widely available at family restaurants and market stalls.

Must-Try!

Small, firm tamales made with corn dough and filled with savory meat and sauce—common snack or light meal at the market.

Fresh tamales (various types) served with warm atol (corn-based hot drink) for breakfast—easy to find from morning vendors in the plaza.

Locally grown and often freshly roasted beans; enjoy as a morning pick-me-up at small cafés or farm stalls.

The central market is where you’ll find fresh produce, prepared foods, tamales, chuchitos, and small eateries serving traditional breakfasts and lunches; it’s the best place to try multiple dishes affordably.

On market days and weekends, pop-up street-food stalls appear around the plaza offering grilled meats, fried plantains, atol and sweets—perfect for casual sampling.

A friendly handshake and a simple 'Buenos días' goes a long way; use courteous language and address elders with respect.

Casual, modest dress is appropriate—avoid revealing clothing in religious settings and rural communities. Public displays of intoxication or loud behavior can be frowned upon.

Always ask before photographing people, especially in markets or around individuals performing religious duties; a small conversation or showing photos after taking them is polite.

Local religious festivals and processions are important community events; observe quietly, follow directions from organizers and participate respectfully if invited.

Tipping is appreciated but not always mandatory in small town eateries—leave small change (5–10%) for good service at restaurants and larger tours. Tip local guides, drivers and helpful porters directly in cash.

The local currency is the Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ); cash is preferred in markets, buses and small businesses. ATMs may be limited—withdraw cash in larger towns (Mazatenango or Retalhuleu) and carry smaller bills and coins for markets. Credit cards are accepted in few places outside larger towns.

Guatemala City’s main international airport—approximately 2.5–4 hours by road depending on traffic and route. Best entry point for international travelers, with car rental and bus connections to southwestern Guatemala.

A smaller regional airport serving the coastal/southern Guatemala area—closer than Guatemala City for accessing the Pacific coast and certain parts of Suchitepéquez. Services and connections are limited compared to GUA.

Soccer is the dominant sport—local pickup games and community teams are common, and matches at weekends draw local supporters.

Basketball, rodeo-style equestrian events and other community sporting activities appear at local festivals and school competitions.

Vegetarian options are available but limited—ask for vegetable stews, rice, beans, fresh tortillas and salads. Clarify that dishes should not include chicken or pork stock; market stalls can often adapt simple plates.

Vegan meals require more care; plain rice, beans, fresh vegetables and fruit are safe choices but verify the cooking fat (lard is common). Bring snacks if you have strict requirements.

Corn-based staples (tamales, tortillas, atol) are naturally gluten-free, but check sauces and fried items for cross-contamination; communicate needs clearly in Spanish if possible.

Eat cooked foods and fruits you can peel; bottled water is recommended for drinking. Use caution with ice and street salads if you have a sensitive stomach.