Things To Do
in San Antonio La Paz
San Antonio La Paz is a tranquil highland town in Guatemala’s Baja Verapaz region, known for its coffee farms, friendly locals, and colonial charm. Set at elevation, the area offers lush green hills, colorful markets, and easy access to nature. The town serves as a gateway to nearby cloud forests and traditional crafts, inviting visitors to slow their pace and soak in Guatemalan hospitality.
Expect warm village vibes, fresh coffee, and opportunities for meaningful rural experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the Parque Central, where you can soak in the vibrant atmosphere and savor a local breakfast at one of the nearby cafes. Observe the local daily life as vendors set up their stalls and children play amidst the historic buildings. Don't forget to snap pictures of the stunning La Paz Cathedral that stands majestically in the center.
In the afternoon, visit the Museo de Arte de San Antonio La Paz to appreciate traditional and contemporary Guatemalan art. Afterward, wander through the bustling market, where you can find handmade crafts and local delicacies. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a restaurant serving typical Guatemalan cuisine.
As evening approaches, take a stroll along the town’s charming streets and experience the local nightlife. Find a cozy spot to unwind with a drink while listening to live music that reflects the rich culture of La Paz. End your night with a delicious dinner at a local eatery where you can indulge in regional flavors.
Embark on an adventure to the nearby Parque Nacional Aluxes, where you can immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of Guatemala. Start with a guided hike through lush forests and observe the diverse flora and fauna that inhabit this incredible park. Bring along a hearty breakfast to enjoy amidst nature.
Spend your afternoon exploring the various ecological trails and wildlife viewing opportunities within the park. Opt for activities such as canoeing or fishing to experience the serene waters. Take a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake before heading back to town.
Return to San Antonio La Paz for a relaxed evening filled with storytelling at a local café, where you can share your experiences from the day. As the sun sets, engage with locals who are eager to share their tales and traditions. Savor a light dinner featuring fresh, local ingredients.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🌮Street food snack | $1-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or hostel per night | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee shop or internet cafe (hourly) | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming locals and a relaxed pace
- Access to coffee culture and nearby nature reserves
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Smaller tourism infrastructure than major destinations
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "¿Tiene menú vegetariano?" - Do you have a vegetarian menu?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in San Antonio La Paz
Visit one of these nice places.
Colonial church with simple lines and a backdrop of green hills; good for architectural photography and golden-hour shots.
A narrow, colorful alley capturing everyday life and vibrant wall murals typical of highland towns.
Bustling market with colorful textiles, produce, and candid street scene photography opportunities.
Terraced landscapes on a nearby hillside; ideal for landscape and macro shots of coffee chains.
Food in San Antonio La Paz
San Antonio La Paz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, ground-spice stew with meat and vegetables; a Guatemalan classic often served with rice and tortillas.
Must-Try!
Tamales colorados or other regional variations wrapped in plantain leaves or corn husks.
Sweet plantain dumplings filled with bean paste or chocolate, a popular snack.
A flavorful guinea hen or turkey soup with a deep red broth and spices; comforting and aromatic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local produce, fresh fruit, and prepared snacks from daytime stalls.
Tortillas, tamales, elotes, freshly squeezed juices, and small savory bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly “Buenos días/tardes” and a handshake; address elders with respect and use polite language.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in Indigenous communities; some may request a small fee.
Dress modestly when visiting churches or formal spaces; light layers are good for temperature changes.
Safety
Tipping in San Antonio La Paz
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; 5-10% in sit-down restaurants, more for exceptional service. Carry small bills for street vendors.
Cash (Guatemalan Quetzal) is widely used; many shops and cafes also accept cards in town centers, but smaller vendors mostly take cash. ATMs are common in town; small vendors may not take cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny days with cooler nights; pleasant for hiking and outdoor activities; evenings can be chilly.
Regular afternoon showers and higher humidity; lush greenery and dramatic skies, but trails can be muddy.
San Antonio La Paz at Night
Hiking in San Antonio La Paz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle-to-moderate hike with hillside views and coffee-farming scenery; suitable for most hikers.
Cloud forest trails with birdwatching opportunities and scenic overlooks.
Morning walk on a working farm, including coffee production demonstrations and viewpoints over valleys.
Airports
How to reach San Antonio La Paz by plane.
Main international gateway; approx. a few hours by road from San Antonio La Paz; frequent flights to the region and beyond.
Small regional airport serving domestic flights; convenient for quick access to the highlands.
Regional airport offering domestic connections; another option for reaching the highlands with a longer drive or short flight.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant presence of indigenous groups such as Poqomchiʼ and Qʼeqchiʼ with rich weaving and farming traditions.
A mix of households and small businesses contributing to the local economy and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Guatemala, with local matches and casual play in streets and fields.
Common in schools and community centers; informal games in local parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Antonio La Paz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many kitchens in the area offer vegetarian options; ask for beans, corn tortillas, rice, and vegetable stews. Expect simple preparations and fresh produce; point to fresh sides like salsa, plantains, and salads when ordering.