Castillo de San Felipe de Lara: Guardian of Río Dulce
Explore a historic Spanish fortress on the Río Dulce, Guatemala, and discover tales of pirates, battles, and colonial life.
The Castillo de San Felipe de Lara, a historic Spanish colonial fort, stands at the entrance of Lake Izabal in eastern Guatemala. Built in 1644, it was strategically positioned to protect the area from pirate attacks, becoming a key part of the region's defense system. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, offering a glimpse into Guatemala's colonial past.
A brief summary to Castillo de San Felipe de Lara
- J2P4+R9M, Río Dulce, Livingston, GT
- +50279470661
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Hire a local guide to enhance your visit with historical insights and captivating stories about the castle.
- Visit between January and March for the least amount of rainfall in the Izabal region.
- Take a boat tour on the Río Dulce for a unique perspective of the castle and its strategic location.
- Pack insect repellent, as the area is known for mosquitoes and other biting insects.
Getting There
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Walking
From the town of San Felipe, the entrance to Castillo de San Felipe de Lara is easily accessible on foot. Follow the main road towards the fort; the walk is approximately 15 minutes. The path leads through a park with lush vegetation, offering a pleasant approach to the historical site. Upon arrival, you will find several paid parking options nearby.
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Public Transport
From Río Dulce, take a microbus heading towards the town of San Felipe de Lara. These microbuses can be found near the Río Dulce bridge at the intersection of CA13 and Ruta Nacional 7E. The microbus will drop you off in the town of San Felipe, from where you can walk to the Castillo. Microbus fare: Q5-Q10.
Discover more about Castillo de San Felipe de Lara
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rio dulce livingston izabal
0.0 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture of Rio Dulce and Livingston, Izabal, Guatemala, where adventure meets relaxation.
Hotel Kangaroo
0.5 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Hotel Kangaroo, a unique riverside retreat in Guatemala's stunning Rio Dulce region, perfect for nature lovers and explorers.
Hotel Mansion del Rio
1.2 km
Discover the serenity of Hotel Mansion del Rio, your perfect retreat in the heart of Guatemala's stunning landscapes.
Tortugal Boutique River Lodge & Marina
1.7 km
Discover Tortugal Boutique River Lodge & Marina - Your gateway to luxury, adventure, and the natural beauty of Rio Dulce National Park.
Cassa Zenda
2.2 km
Experience tranquility and comfort at Cassa Zenda in San Felipe de Lara, where nature meets hospitality in a serene hotel setting.
Nanajuana Río Dulce
2.4 km
Discover serenity and adventure at Nanajuana Río Dulce, a tranquil resort hotel nestled along the stunning banks of the Río Dulce in Guatemala.
'The Shack' Hostel
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Guatemala at The Shack Hostel in Rio Dulce, offering a unique blend of relaxation, socializing, and delicious grilled cuisine.
Ay Wey
2.7 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors at Ay Wey in Río Dulce, where fresh ingredients and a vibrant atmosphere await every food lover.
Restaurante Mamá Moncha
2.8 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan flavors at Restaurante Mamá Moncha in Río Dulce, a family-friendly restaurant that delights with its traditional dishes.
Churrasqueria Chusin
2.8 km
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Supermercado La Torre Río Dulce Izabal
2.9 km
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Rio Dulce Travel
2.9 km
Explore the natural beauty and rich culture of Izabal, Guatemala with expert guidance from Rio Dulce Travel, your trusted travel agency.
Parador Del Rio
3.0 km
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Hacienda Tijax Hotel y Marina
3.0 km
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Boatique Hotel and Marina, Rio Dulce Guatemala
3.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Parque Nacional El Relleno
2.1 km
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Puente de Río Dulce
2.2 km
Explore the stunning Puente de Río Dulce, an architectural marvel in Guatemala that offers breathtaking views and rich cultural experiences.
Monumento Al Pescador, Rio Dulce
2.3 km
A tribute to the heart of Rio Dulce, honoring the local fishermen and their vital connection to this vibrant waterway.
Monkey Bay Marina / Rio Dulce / Izabal / Guatemala
3.2 km
A secluded marina on the Rio Dulce, Guatemala, offering tranquility, security, and a strong sense of community for boaters and nature lovers.
Nacional Rio Dulce National Park
5.1 km
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Grutas el Encanto
17.3 km
Explore the enchanting depths of Grutas El Encanto, a subterranean adventure in Río Dulce, Guatemala.
Biotopo Protegido Chocón Machacas
22.5 km
Discover the natural beauty of Guatemala at Biotopo Protegido Chocón Machacas, a vital sanctuary for the endangered manatee and diverse wildlife.
El Boquerón
25.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of El Boquerón, a hidden gem in Guatemala's Izabal region, offering stunning canyon views and jungle adventures.
Lake Izabal
27.6 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich culture of Lake Izabal, Guatemala's largest lake, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Playa Blanca
28.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Playa Blanca, a hidden gem in Guatemala's Caribbean coastline, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Parque Nacional Río Dulce
30.2 km
Discover Guatemala's Río Dulce National Park: A stunning blend of river canyons, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife in the heart of Mayan culture.
El Boquerón Ecological Park
32.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of El Boquerón Ecological Park in El Estor, Guatemala, perfect for camping and outdoor adventures.
Siete Altares
32.7 km
Discover Siete Altares near Livingston: a stunning series of jungle waterfalls and natural pools perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Sendero de bosque tropical Las Escobas
37.8 km
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La Piedrona
39.2 km
Hike to La Piedrona for stunning panoramic views of Puerto Barrios and Santo Tomás de Castilla. A challenging climb with a rewarding vista.
Essential places to dine
ARIN TA TAW Comida Típica Guatemalteca
1.7 km
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La Fonda Del Pirata
1.7 km
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Restaurante Zuly
1.8 km
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Restaurante Suly
1.8 km
Experience delightful brunches at Restaurante Suly in Río Dulce—where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
Restaurante Karlitas
1.9 km
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Ana's Coffee House/Marina Hacha
2.0 km
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Restaurante El Viajero
2.0 km
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Restaurante Ranchon Mary
2.1 km
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MAR Restaurant
2.1 km
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Rancho El Viaero
2.2 km
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Hotel y Restaurante Jocelyn
2.3 km
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Restaurante Delicias del Rio
2.3 km
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Cayena Restaurante
2.3 km
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Chapín-Shuco
2.6 km
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Rancho El Centenario Restaurant y Piscinas
2.6 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Parqueo El Quinel
2.0 km
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VELA DELISHOP
2.1 km
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Tienda Reed
2.1 km
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RAM Marina & Yacht Club, S.A.
2.1 km
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Centro de Curiosidades Joshua
2.2 km
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SuperAudio Music Rio Dulce
2.3 km
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Dismar
2.5 km
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Tienda la samaritana Rio Dulce
2.7 km
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Distribuidora La Promesa
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Mercado Nuevo de Rio Dulce
2.7 km
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Sandalias &más
2.7 km
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Coworkafe & Coworkantina
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Jessica's Canvas Place
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Despensa Familiar
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Boutique Jeshua
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La Terraza Snack&Bar
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Mar Marine Yacht Club
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Hotel y Restaurante Backpackers
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Cabaña
2.6 km
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Discoteca Dulce Club
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Seafood Don Elia's
3.7 km
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Hotel Catamaran
3.9 km
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La consentida
4.5 km
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Bahía azul, playa quehueche
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Bar La Primavera
33.2 km
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Bar & Ref. Ak- Alessitho
33.3 km
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BAR TERAPIA
33.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bar Terapia, Livingston's premier bar for relaxation and socializing.
Donde Látigo
33.6 km
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Chillout
33.8 km
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X-Tasis, La Playa
33.8 km
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