The Caribbean Coast of Guatemala stretches along the eastern shoreline, featuring tropical beaches, dense mangroves, and vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture. Livingston is the main hub, accessible mainly by boat, offering a unique blend of Garífuna music, cuisine, and traditions.

This region includes coastal towns, river estuaries, and natural reserves. Its remote location preserves cultural identity and biodiversity, attracting visitors interested in authentic experiences and coastal eco-tourism away from heavily urbanized areas.

Climate and weather

The Caribbean Coast has a tropical climate with consistently high temperatures, often ranging from 25°C to 32°C. Rainfall is abundant from May to October, resulting in lush vegetation, swollen rivers, and vibrant coastal landscapes perfect for eco-tourism activities.

Dry season, from November to April, offers warm, sunny days ideal for beach visits and outdoor excursions. Humidity remains relatively high year-round, supporting dense mangroves, tropical forests, and thriving aquatic ecosystems along the shoreline and inland waterways.

Flora, fauna, and environment

The region includes mangrove forests, wetlands, beaches, and tropical lowlands. Flora features coconut palms, mangroves, tropical hardwoods, and flowering plants, while fauna includes manatees, crocodiles, iguanas, and diverse birds inhabiting coastal and riverine ecosystems.

Rivers provide habitats for fish, amphibians, and reptiles. The mix of marine and freshwater ecosystems supports biodiversity, while protected areas maintain natural habitats. Coastal and inland ecosystems are critical for conservation and eco-tourism development.

Tourism in the Caribbean Coast

Tourism in the Caribbean Coast focuses on cultural experiences, water-based activities, and nature exploration. Livingston offers Garífuna music, traditional food, and festivals, while Rio Dulce provides boating, kayaking, and wildlife observation in its scenic canyon and river system.

Adventure tourism includes mangrove tours, snorkeling, fishing, and hiking in the surrounding tropical forests. The region combines cultural immersion with natural beauty, attracting visitors interested in both relaxation and hands-on exploration of coastal areas and forests.

Cities and towns to visit:

  • Livingston
  • Puerto Barrios
  • Morales, and El Estor
  • Santo Tomás de Castilla
  • Los Amates

These settlements offer artisan markets, local cuisine, and cultural experiences. They serve as starting points for exploring Garífuna heritage, river excursions, and protected natural areas. Coastal towns combine a traditional lifestyle with tourism infrastructure.

Natural attractions:

  • Río Dulce River and Motagua River
  • Lake Izabal.
  • Beaches: Livingston coastline, Playa Blanca.

National parks and reserves:

  • Rio Dulce National Park
  • Biotopo Chocón Machacas
  • Punta de Manabique Wildlife Refuge

Mangroves, tropical forests, and coral reefs create unique ecosystems. Waterfalls, wildlife observation areas, and boating routes provide immersive natural experiences. The Caribbean Coast blends cultural richness with vibrant, protected landscapes for eco-tourism.