Things To Do
in Sanarate
Sanarate sits in the rolling highlands of Guatemala, a friendly town known for its warm hospitality and agricultural roots. It's a practical base for day trips to nearby coffee farms and rural markets. Streets bustle with colorful market stalls, bakeries, and family-run eateries that honor traditional Guatemalan flavors.
With a laid-back pace and scenic valley views, Sanarate reveals a different side of Guatemalan life away from the more touristy hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Sanarate and settle into your accommodations. Spend the morning exploring the local area, taking in the picturesque scenery that surrounds this vibrant town. Don’t forget to sample some traditional Guatemalan breakfast dishes at a nearby café.
After lunch, visit the local market where you can find colorful textiles, fresh produce, and various artisan goods. Engage with the local vendors and practice your Spanish while discovering the charming traditions of the community. It’s a perfect opportunity to buy unique souvenirs that capture the essence of Guatemala.
Enjoy dinner at a family-run restaurant serving authentic Guatemalan cuisine. As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking in the local ambiance and admiring the unique architecture. End your evening with some live music from local musicians who often perform in the town square.
Begin your day with a visit to the nearby Sierra de las Minas Biosphere Reserve. Prepare for an invigorating hike through lush forests and breathtaking landscapes as you discover diverse flora and fauna. Take time to appreciate the serenity of nature and perhaps have a picnic breakfast surrounded by its beauty.
After the hike, return to Sanarate for lunch and then explore the surrounding villages to experience indigenous culture first-hand. Visit local artisans and learn about traditional crafts such as weaving and pottery-making. This afternoon is all about connecting with the local community and understanding their way of life.
In the evening, participate in a cooking class where you will learn to prepare popular Guatemalan dishes with the guidance of a local chef. As you cook, share stories and experiences with your fellow participants, making the evening memorable. Conclude your day by enjoying the fruits of your labor, dining on the dishes you’ve created.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🍺Local beer | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi start (within town) | $1-3 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Affordability and good value for money
- Gateway to rural and coffee-country experiences
- Limited nightlife compared to major cities
- Facilities and English proficiency can be variable in smaller venues
- "Buenos dias" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Donde esta el baño" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de espanol" - I speak a little Spanish
Places to Visit in Sanarate
Visit one of these nice places.
Historically rich plaza framed by colonial church architecture and colorful market life.
Vibrant stalls, textiles, and farmers offering produce—great for candid photography.
A scenic bridge with golden-hour lighting and silhouettes of locals crossing.
Food in Sanarate
Sanarate Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich Guatemalan stew made with roasted peppers, spices, and meat, typically served with rice and tortillas.
Must-Try!
Chicken in a bright green tomatillo and cilantro sauce, usually served with rice and potatoes.
Sweet fried plantain pockets filled with beans or meat, a popular street snack.
Steamed corn dough wrapped in banana leaves with meat, olives, and peppers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A colorful, bustling market where locals buy fresh produce, herbs, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Mobile snack vendors offer fresh tortillas, empanadas, fruit cups, and aguas frescas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm Buenos dias or Buenas tardes; address elders with polite forms and avoid confrontation in public.
Ask consent before taking peoples photos, especially of children; dress modestly in religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Sanarate
Ensure a smooth experience
In cafes and restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is appreciated; guides and drivers often receive tips in the 5-10% range.
Money accepted: Guatemalan quetzal (GTQ), US dollars in some venues; cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments; carry cash for markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny days, cooler evenings, and minimal rain; ideal for outdoor walks and long photography sessions.
Afternoon showers are common; mornings can be pleasant, with lush greenery and more dramatic skies.
Sanarate at Night
Hiking in Sanarate
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, scenic hike with valley views and village scenery.
Natural area with short trails, birds, and a tranquil setting for a half-day outing.
Airports
How to reach Sanarate by plane.
Guatemala City's main international gateway; drive to Sanarate in about 1.5 hours depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of urban residents and nearby rural farming communities; strong family ties and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues, informal matches, and school teams.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sanarate.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat or with vegetables; ask for no meat stock and rely on bean, corn, and cheese options.