Things To Do
in San Agustín Acasaguastlán
San Agustín Acasaguastlán is a small Guatemalan town in the El Progreso department, tucked into the Motagua River valley. It offers a window into rural Guatemalan life, with friendly residents, colorful markets, and a laid-back pace. The surrounding hills, farmland, and rivers provide a scenic backdrop for everyday village activities and short nature outings.
Visitors can experience authentic local culture, traditional foods, and warm hospitality just a short ride from larger urban centers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by visiting the main plaza where you can admire the stunning architecture of the colonial buildings. Stop by the local church, Iglesia La Asunción, and learn about its rich history and significance in the town. Don't forget to grab a traditional Guatemalan breakfast at a nearby café to fuel your day.
After lunch, stroll through the artisan market where you can find local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Engage with the friendly vendors and discover the stories behind their creations. As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
For dinner, head to a local restaurant offering traditional Guatemalan dishes, enjoying flavors unique to the region. Afterward, take part in a cultural performance if available, to immerse yourself in the local music and dance. Wrap up your evening by sipping on a cup of local coffee, reflecting on the day's experiences.
Set out early to explore the nearby Mayan ruins of Quiriguá, known for its impressive stelae and history. Spend your morning navigating through the site, guided by an expert who can share fascinating tales about the ancient civilization. Capture photographs of the unique stone carvings and lush surrounding nature.
After your archaeological adventure, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the nearby park where you can relax amidst nature. Spend some time observing the various bird species that inhabit the area, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching enthusiasts. Later, head back to San Agustín to rest and refresh.
In the evening, visit a local eatery specializing in seafood, an often overlooked delight in the region. Take the time to engage with the locals, who are usually warm and welcoming, sharing insights about their customs and cuisine. Conclude your day with a night stroll through the surrounding streets, enjoying the cool evening breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🥪Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $2-6 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic cultural experiences and warm hospitality
- Affordable prices and plentiful fresh produce
- Beautiful rural scenery and relaxed pace of life
- Access to hiking, rivers, and countryside activities
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Rural infrastructure can be inconsistent
- Public transportation can be time-consuming or basic
- Medical facilities are basic; plan for larger cities for serious care
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Buenas tardes" - Good afternoon
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Hablo poco español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "¿Se acepta tarjeta de crédito?" - Is credit card accepted?
- "Ayuda" - Help
- "Estoy perdido" - I am lost
Places to Visit in San Agustín Acasaguastlán
Visit one of these nice places.
A colonial-style church and the surrounding plaza provide classic angles for architecture and street photography, especially during morning light.
Vibrant facades, daily market activity, and locals in traditional dress offer dynamic street photography opportunities.
River views along the valley provide wide-screen landscapes and sunset silhouettes over water and fields.
Rural hillside viewpoints give panoramic shots of the valley, farmland, and distant ranges, especially at golden hour.
Food in San Agustín Acasaguastlán
San Agustín Acasaguastlán Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick, rich sauce made with roasted spices, chilies, and meat served over rice or tortillas—deeply flavorful and emblematic of Guatemalan cooking.
Must-Try!
A traditional, bright-red turkey soup with chili peppers and coriander; typically enjoyed with corn tortillas and fresh lime.
Chicken simmered in a vibrant cilantro-based sauce with tomatillos and served over rice; a refreshing contrast to spicier dishes.
Tamales wrapped in plantain or corn husks, often filled with beans, meat, or peppers, and steamed until fragrant.
Plantain dumplings stuffed with sweet bean paste or chocolatey fillings, a popular sweet and snack across the region.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main municipal market where you can sample fresh fruit, grilled corn, beans, cheeses, and ready-to-eat snacks from local vendors.
Portable refreshment stands offering freshly made corn tortillas, tamales, roasted corn, and seasonal fruit cups.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello or buenos días; address adults with señor/Señora or Don/Doña when appropriate, especially elders.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and rural communities. Avoid loud public displays of affection and respect local customs when talking about family and tradition.
Polite bargaining is common in markets, but always with a smile and patience; ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural settings.
Safety
Tipping in San Agustín Acasaguastlán
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants a 10%–15% tip is customary for good service. In smaller eateries, rounding up the bill is appreciated. For guides and drivers, a small tip for a full day is common.
Cash is widely used in town markets and eateries. Some larger establishments may accept cards; ATMs are more common in bigger towns and cities nearby.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies, sunny days, and lower humidity make hiking and outdoor photography easier. Nights are cooler, and roads are generally drier.
Afternoon showers are common; the landscape turns lush and green, with dramatic skies. Trails can be muddy, so wear sturdy footwear and bring rain gear.
San Agustín Acasaguastlán at Night
Hiking in San Agustín Acasaguastlán
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rural trails offering scenic overlooks, birdlife, and opportunities to observe agricultural life up close.
Gentle to moderate trails along the Motagua River with open landscapes and sunset views.
Airports
How to reach San Agustín Acasaguastlán by plane.
Main international gateway to Guatemala; serves as the primary access point for long-distance travelers reaching the region.
Regional airport offering domestic flights; a practical option for reaching the central highlands from the area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents identify as Mestizo or Ladino, reflecting mixed Indigenous and European heritage.
Smaller communities in surrounding areas may include Q’eqchi’ and other Indigenous groups engaged in farming and local crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Guatemala, with local teams and informal matches common in towns and schools.
Played in schools and community centers; informal games are common in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Agustín Acasaguastlán.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat, focusing on beans, corn, rice, and vegetables. Ask for egg- and cheese-free options, and confirm whether stock or fats contain animal products.