Things To Do
in Zaragoza

Zaragoza, Guatemala, is a vibrant town nestled in the highlands of Central America, known for its rich cultural heritage and friendly atmosphere. The town features stunning colonial architecture, lush green landscapes, and is surrounded by majestic mountains. It serves as a gateway to explore the natural beauty and historical sites of the region, including ancient Mayan ruins.

Zaragoza is also a hub for local artisans, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic Guatemalan craftsmanship.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Zaragoza
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the central plaza, where you can admire the impressive church of San Juan Bautista and enjoy a traditional Guatemalan breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll through the artisanal market to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs, before heading to the nearby waterfalls for a refreshing dip.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional dishes, and finish your day with a leisurely walk around the plaza to experience the local nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start with a hike to the nearby hills for breathtaking views of the countryside followed by a visit to the local museum to learn about the history of the area.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at a local food market sampling street food and engaging with the friendly vendors.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy restaurant and enjoy live music, experiencing the vibrant local culture before heading back to your accommodation.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5-$10
Coffee$1-$3
🏨Budget accommodation per night$20-$40
🚌Bus fare$0.25
🎟️Entrance fee to attractions$2-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings with outdoor activities.
  • Affordable travel destination with diverse food options.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers.
  • Some areas may have safety concerns, especially at night.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Zaragoza

Visit one of these nice places.

Central Plaza

The heart of Zaragoza, featuring beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant local life, perfect for capturing the essence of the town.

Waterfalls of El Salto

A picturesque natural location ideal for landscape photography, especially during the golden hour.

Church of San Juan Bautista

An iconic landmark with stunning architecture, offering a great backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zaragoza

Zaragoza offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage. From traditional Guatemalan fare to delicious street food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Zaragoza Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pepian

A spicy meat stew made with chicken or beef, served with rice and corn tortillas.

Must-Try!

Kak'ik

A traditional Mayan turkey soup flavored with spices and served with vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and traditional snacks; a great place to sample local cuisine.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zaragoza has a temperate climate, with a distinct dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. During the dry season, temperatures can range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while the rainy season brings cooler temperatures, averaging 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The area can experience sudden rain showers in the afternoon during the wet months, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or a friendly greeting is common; use 'buenos días' for good morning.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is important; use formal titles when addressing them.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, particularly in religious sites; vibrant traditional clothing is also appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zaragoza is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant and follow basic safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, keep valuables secure, and be cautious in crowded areas. Utilizing local transportation options and staying in well-reviewed accommodations can enhance your safety.

Tipping in Zaragoza

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; however, check if the service charge is included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; credit cards are accepted at larger establishments but may incur extra fees.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

Expect warm temperatures and sunny days, ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

Rainy Season (May to October)

Frequent rain showers can occur; however, this season brings lush greenery and fewer crowds.

Festive Season (December)

The town comes alive with celebrations, making it a vibrant time to visit with plenty of local festivities.

Cool Season (December to February)

Cool temperatures make for comfortable sightseeing, especially in the evenings.

Nightlife Guide

Zaragoza at Night

Zaragoza offers a lively nightlife scene, with various bars and restaurants featuring live music, especially on weekends. Locals gather to enjoy traditional music and dance, creating a festive atmosphere. Popular spots include open-air bars where you can enjoy drinks under the stars, and late-night eateries serving local delicacies.

Hiking in Zaragoza

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Cruz Trail

A scenic hiking trail that leads to a viewpoint overlooking Zaragoza, perfect for a half-day trek.

El Salto Waterfall Trail

A moderate trail that takes you to a beautiful waterfall, ideal for a refreshing swim and a picnic.

Airports

How to reach Zaragoza by plane.

La Aurora International Airport

Located approximately 50 km from Zaragoza, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zaragoza is quite walkable, with a compact town center that allows visitors to easily explore on foot. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and the central plaza, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other. However, be cautious when crossing streets as traffic can be unpredictable.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mayan Descendants

A significant portion of the population identifies as Mayan, contributing to the town's rich cultural landscape and traditions.

Ladino Community

The Ladino community, descendants of Spanish settlers and indigenous peoples, plays a crucial role in the local economy and culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with local teams and community matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Volleyball

Volleyball is commonly played in schools and parks, often enjoyed as a recreational activity among locals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zaragoza is typically light, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options are limited, but local buses do connect to nearby towns. Visitors should be aware that roads can be narrow and may not always have marked lanes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zaragoza.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian, and there are several restaurants that cater to vegetarian diets.

Gluten-Free

Corn-based dishes are prevalent, making it easier to find gluten-free options.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Zaragoza includes local clinics and pharmacies, offering basic medical services. For more serious health concerns, larger hospitals are available in nearby cities. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Guatemala

Read more in our Guatemala 2025 Travel Guide.

Guatemala Travel Guide