Things To Do
in Sanarate

Sanarate is a charming town located in the El Progreso department of Guatemala, known for its rich agricultural landscape and vibrant local culture. The town is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers a glimpse into traditional Guatemalan life. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and explore local markets filled with fresh produce and handmade crafts.

Sanarate is also a gateway to various outdoor adventures in the surrounding areas.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Sanarate
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional breakfast at a local café, then visit the central plaza to admire the town's architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets where you can sample fresh produce and artisan crafts. Consider visiting a nearby coffee plantation to learn about coffee production.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional Guatemalan dishes. End your day with a leisurely walk around the plaza, soaking in the local nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

After breakfast, head to the nearby mountains for a scenic hike. Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the mountains or return to town to try street food. Visit local artisans to purchase handmade crafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a popular local eatery and experience traditional music performances in the plaza.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$2
🌮Street Food Snack$1
🚌Local Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experience and local traditions.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining options.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Public transport may be less frequent and reliable.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Sanarate

Visit one of these nice places.

Central Plaza

The heart of Sanarate, featuring colorful buildings, fountains, and a lively atmosphere perfect for capturing local life.

Nearby Coffee Plantations

Stunning views of coffee fields against a backdrop of mountains make for beautiful landscape photography.

Local Markets

Vibrant scenes of vendors and colorful produce create excellent opportunities for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sanarate

Sanarate offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of traditional Guatemalan dishes that reflect the rich local culture.

Sanarate Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pepian

A traditional Guatemalan stew made with meat, vegetables, and a variety of spices, served with rice.

Must-Try!

Kak'ik

A flavorful turkey soup seasoned with coriander, vegetables, and spices, often served with corn tortillas.

Jocon

A green chicken stew made with tomatillos, cilantro, and green onions, typically served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sanarate Market

A bustling market that offers fresh produce, local crafts, and street food such as tamales and pupusas.

Street Vendors

Look for food stalls throughout the town selling traditional snacks, including corn on the cob and fresh fruit.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sanarate has a tropical highland climate, characterized by two distinct seasons: a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. Average temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) at night to 25°C (77°F) during the day. The rainy season brings afternoon showers, but mornings are usually clear. Overall, the climate is pleasant for outdoor activities year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or 'buenos días' (good morning) is customary when meeting someone.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is an important cultural norm; always acknowledge them first in conversations.

Dress Modestly

When visiting churches or rural areas, it is advisable to dress modestly out of respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sanarate is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying valuable items, and opt for guided tours when exploring remote areas. It's also wise to stay informed of local news and follow any travel advisories.

Tipping in Sanarate

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but some larger establishments may accept credit cards, so it's wise to carry cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - April)

Expect warm, sunny days and cooler nights, making it ideal for outdoor activities and hiking.

Rainy Season (May - October)

Frequent afternoon showers can occur, so plan indoor activities during this time and bring waterproof gear.

Festive Season (December)

The town comes alive with celebrations and local festivals, offering a unique cultural experience.

Spring (March - April)

The landscape is lush and green, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Nightlife Guide

Sanarate at Night

Sanarate has a vibrant yet relaxed nightlife scene. Local bars and restaurants often feature live music, especially on weekends. The central plaza is a gathering place for locals to enjoy socializing in the evenings, with some vendors selling snacks and drinks. While not as bustling as major cities, the friendly atmosphere makes for a pleasant night out.

Hiking in Sanarate

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Volcán de Agua

A challenging hike leading to the summit of this dormant volcano, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Cerro San Gil

An easier hike that provides stunning panoramic views of Sanarate and the nearby countryside, suitable for all skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Sanarate by plane.

La Aurora International Airport

Located approximately 60 km away in Guatemala City, this is the main international airport serving the region, offering flights to and from various global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sanarate is quite walkable, especially in the town center where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within a short distance. The flat terrain makes it easy to navigate on foot, and the friendly atmosphere encourages leisurely strolls. However, some attractions outside the center may require transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mayan Communities

Sanarate is home to a significant population of indigenous Mayans, who contribute to the town's rich culture and traditions.

Mestizo Population

The mestizo community, which includes people of mixed indigenous and Spanish descent, makes up a large part of the population and influences local customs and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Guatemala, with local teams often playing in Sanarate and drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Volleyball

Volleyball is also widely played, especially among youth, with local teams participating in community tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sanarate is generally light compared to urban areas, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation consists mainly of local buses and tuk-tuks, which are affordable and convenient for getting around town. However, during peak hours, traffic can become congested, especially near the central plaza.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sanarate.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be modified to accommodate vegetarian diets, especially with the abundance of fresh vegetables and beans.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional tortillas are made from corn, be sure to ask about specific dishes if you have gluten sensitivities.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Sanarate are limited, but there are small clinics and pharmacies available for basic needs. For more serious medical issues, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities such as Guatemala City for specialized care. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Guatemala

Read more in our Guatemala 2025 Travel Guide.

Guatemala Travel Guide