Things To Do
in Cabañas

Cabañas sits in Guatemala's eastern lowlands, offering a lush tropical landscape of rivers, forests, and coffee-friendly slopes. The town serves as a gateway to nearby reserves and rural Mayan communities, delivering a relaxed, small-town vibe. Visitors experience friendly locals, colorful markets, and easy access to nature-filled day trips.

It’s a solid base for exploring waterfalls, coffee farms, and scenic river excursions beyond the town center.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Lakeside Welcome
morning
:

Arrive at La Aurora Airport and transfer to the tranquil lakeside village of Cabañas. Settle into your charming bungalow perched on wooden stilts above the water. Listen to gentle waves lap against the shore as you unpack and unwind.

afternoon
:

Stroll along the water’s edge to discover hidden coves and rustic fishing boats. Sample fresh mango juice and handmade tortilla chips at a roadside stall. Engage in friendly conversation with local vendors as you browse woven bracelets.

evening
:

Dine at a family-run paladar overlooking the lake, savoring traditional pepián or kak’ik stew. Watch the sun dip behind distant volcanoes, painting the sky in fiery hues. End the night with a steaming cup of Guatemalan coffee under a blanket of stars.

day 2
Village Market and Crafts
morning
:

Head to the bustling Cabañas village market where colors and aromas collide. Admire weavers on backstrap looms creating intricate designs with natural dyes. Pick up hand-embroidered textiles and curious trinkets as locals greet you with warm smiles.

afternoon
:

Join an artisan-led pottery workshop by the plaza to learn basic clay-shaping techniques. Mold your own small bowl or mug under patient guidance, enjoying tamales and guava juice between turns at the potter’s wheel. Exchange stories with fellow travelers and local artists in this cooperative creative space.

evening
:

Return as dusk falls to catch a lively marimba performance in the central square. Let the rhythmic melodies inspire you to dance alongside villagers under lantern light. Share plates of chuchitos and toasted corn while laughter fills the air.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-8
🛏️Night in a budget hotel$25-40
🚗Local taxi ride (short trip)$2-6
Coffee at a cafe$2-4
🍽️Three-course dinner at mid-range restaurant$15-25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed, small-town vibe with friendly locals
  • Strong access to nature and short day trips
  • Affordable food and accommodations compared to many destinations
  • Genuine cultural experiences with Mayan and mestizo communities
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options
  • Healthcare facilities can be basic; serious issues require travel to larger cities
  • Rural roads can be rough, especially in rainy season
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Cabañas

Visit one of these nice places.

Central Plaza and colonial church

A classic Guatemalan plaza scene with a church, colorful market stalls, and locals going about daily life, especially photogenic at dawn or dusk.

Río Dulce riverside

Riverbank views with small boats and reflections of trees and hills; ideal for golden-hour photography.

Coffee finca terraces

Terraced coffee farms on the hillsides offer lush green rows, misty mornings, and atmospheric backdrops.

Hilltop viewpoints over the valley

Elevated lookouts that capture the town, surrounding forests, and distant mountains—great for panoramic shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cabañas

Guatemalan cuisine in Cabañas centers on maize, beans, fresh produce, and regional specialties. Expect hearty, flavorful dishes made with local ingredients, often served with tortillas or rice.

Cabañas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pepian

A rich, roasted-spice chicken or pork stew with a thick, flavorful sauce made from chilies, seeds, and spices, served with rice and tortillas.

Must-Try!

Kak'ik

A traditional Mayan turkey stew with distinctive red sauce and herbs, typically served with tortillas and rice.

Paches

Tamale-like parcels made from masa of corn and beans or meat, wrapped in plantain leaves and steamed.

Tamales Colorados

Corn dough stuffed with meat and peppers, wrapped and steamed, often enjoyed as a hearty lunch or snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

The central market where you can sample fresh fruits, tortillas, tamales, fresh cheese, and street snacks from local vendors.

Street-side stalls

Casual spots offering fresh fruit cups, roasted maize, tostadas, and other quick, affordable bites along the main streets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cabañas enjoys a tropical climate influenced by altitude. Expect warm days and cooler evenings, with higher humidity during the rainy season. Seasons are characterized more by precipitation than temperature shifts, with occasional cool mornings on higher ground.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' and a handshake; smiles are common. Use polite language and address older people with respect.

Photography consent

Ask before photographing people, especially in rural or traditional communities.

Respect in communities

Be mindful of local customs and ceremonies; dress modestly when visiting villages and sacred sites.

Dress modestly in public spaces

Casual, neat attire is appropriate; avoid overly revealing clothing in more conservative areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of petty theft, especially in crowded markets; keep valuables secure and use registered taxis or rideshares. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night and be cautious near rivers or remote trails after dark. Carry a basic first-aid kit and stay informed about weather and road conditions, especially during the rainy season.

Tipping in Cabañas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In sit-down restaurants, a 10–15% tip is appreciated if a service charge isn’t included. Small tips for guides and drivers are common practice and welcome.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, and US dollars are often accepted in shops and hotels. Cards are increasingly accepted in larger establishments; carry local currency for markets and smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November–April)

Long sunny days with little rain; excellent for outdoor activities, hiking, and river trips. Trails are drier but can be dusty; bring sunglasses and sun protection.

Rainy Season (May–October)

Lush landscapes and frequent afternoon showers; mornings are often clear. Trails can be slick, so wear sturdy shoes and carry a light rain jacket and quick-dry layers.

Nightlife Guide

Cabañas at Night

Nightlife in Cabañas is low-key, with casual cafes and small bars often featuring local music or live performances on weekends. Expect a relaxed pace, friendly conversations, and opportunities to meet locals in the town center. For late-night options, head to larger nearby towns or hotels in the area; always prioritize safety by traveling with a trusted companion and using registered transport.

Hiking in Cabañas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cascadas Trail near the foothills

A forested trail leading to a waterfall with opportunities for birdwatching and refreshing swims; suitable for most hikers with basic fitness.

Mirador de la Valle

Hilltop viewpoint offering sweeping valley vistas and sunset photography opportunities; a short, moderate climb.

Reserva Forestal cercana

Regional forest reserve with guided walks emphasizing flora, fauna, and conservation; best explored with a local guide.

Airports

How to reach Cabañas by plane.

La Aurora International Airport (GUA)

Guatemala City’s main international gateway; major connections and long-distance domestic flights. Ground travel to Cabañas will take several hours by road.

Puerto Barrios Airport (PBR)

Small regional airport serving domestic flights; convenient for shorter trips to the eastern region, with road connections to Cabañas.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is walkable with short distances between plazas, markets, and eateries. Some areas, especially on hills, involve modest elevation changes, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mestizo and Indigenous communities

A mix of Mestizo residents and Maya-descendant communities, contributing to a diverse cultural landscape and languages, including Spanish and local Mayan dialects.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Futbol (Soccer)

The dominant sport in Guatemala; local leagues and informal games are common in town plazas and fields.

Basketball

Visible in schools and community centers; casual games and pickup matches occur in the evenings.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in the town center is light to moderate, with occasional congestion around markets and plaza events. Long-distance travel relies on buses or private cars; roads can be narrow and windy in surrounding hills, particularly during the rainy season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cabañas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most dishes can be adapted to be meat-free; look for beans, rice, corn-based dishes, and vegetable sides. Request oil instead of lard and ask for no meat stock; fruit and fresh salads are reliable options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There are basic clinics and private practitioners in the area, with more advanced care available in larger nearby towns or Guatemala City. For emergencies or specialized treatment, plan transfers to regional hospitals or the capital.

Discover Guatemala

Read more in our Guatemala 2025 Travel Guide.

Guatemala Travel Guide