Things To Do
in Cubulco

Cubulco is a charming town located in the Baja Verapaz department of Guatemala, characterized by its stunning landscapes and rich indigenous culture. The town is nestled in the mountains, offering picturesque views and a cool climate. Cubulco is known for its vibrant markets and traditional festivals, where visitors can experience the local culture firsthand.

It serves as an excellent base for exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding region, including hiking trails and coffee plantations.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cubulco
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market where you can enjoy a traditional breakfast of 'huevos a la mexicana' (Mexican-style eggs) and fresh tortillas.

afternoon
:

Explore the local church and the surrounding plaza, then take a guided tour of the nearby coffee plantations to learn about the coffee production process.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then take a leisurely walk around the town to soak in the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

After breakfast, head out for a hike to the nearby waterfalls, a great spot for taking in nature and capturing beautiful photographs.

afternoon
:

Visit a local artisan workshop to see how traditional crafts are made, and pick up some souvenirs.

evening
:

End your trip with dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the town, enjoying local dishes while watching the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$1
🚌Bus Ticket$0.50
🛍️Souvenir$3
🍺Local Beer$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Transportation can be challenging in rural areas.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Spanish speakers.
  • "Buenos días" - Good morning
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "" - Yes

Places to Visit in Cubulco

Visit one of these nice places.

Central Plaza

The heart of Cubulco, featuring colonial architecture and vibrant local life, perfect for capturing everyday scenes.

Cascadas de Cubulco

Stunning waterfalls surrounded by lush forest, ideal for nature photography.

Coffee Plantations

Picturesque views of the rolling hills covered in coffee plants, especially beautiful during harvest season.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cubulco

Cubulco offers a delightful array of traditional Guatemalan cuisine that reflects its rich cultural heritage.

Cubulco Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pepián

A hearty meat stew made with a variety of spices, vegetables, and sometimes served with rice.

Must-Try!

Tamales

Corn dough filled with meats or vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cubulco Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cubulco experiences a temperate climate, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations. The dry season (November to April) brings sunny days, while the rainy season (May to October) features afternoon showers. Temperatures can range from 15°C (59°F) at night to 25°C (77°F) during the day.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A handshake is common; for closer acquaintances, a hug and a kiss on the cheek may follow.

Respect for Traditions

Be respectful during local festivals and ceremonies; observe quietly.

Dress Modestly

When visiting rural areas or churches, dress modestly to respect local customs.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cubulco is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions apply. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in less populated areas, especially after dark. Always use registered taxis or trusted transportation services.

Tipping in Cubulco

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated, typically around 10% in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred; ATMs are available, but not all accept foreign cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - April)

Expect warm and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and hiking.

Rainy Season (May - October)

Frequent rain showers; perfect for lush landscapes but may limit some outdoor activities.

Festive Season (December)

Experience local festivals with vibrant parades and traditional food; a great time to visit.

Coffee Harvest Season (November - March)

Witness the coffee harvest and enjoy fresh coffee experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Cubulco at Night

Cubulco has a relaxed nightlife scene, with a few local bars and cafes that offer live music on weekends. Most locals enjoy socializing in public squares rather than in clubs. It's a great opportunity to mingle with locals and experience the laid-back atmosphere.

Hiking in Cubulco

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail to El Chorro

A scenic trail leading to a beautiful waterfall, suitable for all fitness levels.

Trail to Cerro de la Cruz

A more challenging hike that rewards with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Cubulco by plane.

La Aurora International Airport

Located in Guatemala City, approximately 120 km from Cubulco, this is the main international airport serving the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cubulco is quite walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within a short walking distance. The streets are generally safe, though some areas may be hilly, requiring moderate physical ability to navigate.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mayan Descendants

The majority of the population is of Maya descent, preserving rich cultural traditions and languages.

Ladino Population

A smaller group that identifies as Ladino, often more influenced by Western culture and language.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport, with local teams playing regularly and many community events centered around the sport.

Volleyball

A popular recreational sport in schools and local communities, often played in parks.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cubulco is minimal, with most residents walking or using bicycles. Public transportation options include shared minibuses (microbuses) that connect the town to nearby areas. Roads are generally well-maintained but can be steep and winding.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cubulco.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be customized to be vegetarian, just ask the staff.

Gluten-Free

Corn-based dishes like tamales are usually gluten-free, but check for additives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Cubulco is limited, with a few clinics available for basic care. For serious medical issues, it's advisable to travel to larger cities like Cobán or Guatemala City. Travelers should have health insurance that covers medical evacuation if necessary.

Discover Guatemala

Read more in our Guatemala 2025 Travel Guide.

Guatemala Travel Guide