Discover the Enchantment of Rio Dulce
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of Rio Dulce, a captivating river that connects Lake Izabal to the Caribbean Sea in Guatemala.
Nestled in the heart of Guatemala, Rio Dulce is a stunning river that connects Lake Izabal to the Caribbean Sea. With its breathtaking scenery, rich biodiversity, and vibrant local culture, it offers tourists an unforgettable natural retreat. Explore the lush landscapes, engage with the friendly locals, and indulge in various activities, including boating, kayaking, and wildlife watching. This captivating destination promises adventure and relaxation for every traveler.
A brief summary to Rio Dulce
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Local tips
- Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the river at your own pace.
- Visit the local markets in Livingston for authentic Garifuna cuisine and handmade crafts.
- Bring binoculars for bird watching; the area is home to many unique species.
- Plan your visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best weather conditions.
- Take a guided boat tour for insightful commentary on the river's ecosystem and cultural significance.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving from Puerto Barrios, take the CA-9 road heading southwest. Follow the signs for Morales and continue on CA-9 for approximately 30 kilometers. Take the exit toward Rio Dulce, which is well-marked. After exiting, follow the signs towards Rio Dulce for about 10 kilometers. The road will take you directly to the river area, where you'll find parking options available.
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Public Transportation
From Puerto Barrios, head to the main bus terminal (Terminal de Autobuses). Look for the buses labeled 'Rio Dulce' or 'Livingston.' The buses are frequent, and the ride will take about 45 minutes to 1 hour. The fare is typically around 20-25 Quetzales. Once you arrive at the Rio Dulce bus station, you can either walk to the river area or take a local tuk-tuk for a small fee (around 10 Q), which will take you directly to the riverside.
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Boat
If you're coming from Livingston, you can take a boat directly to Rio Dulce. Head to the main dock in Livingston and look for boats heading to Rio Dulce. The trip usually takes about 30 minutes and costs around 50-60 Quetzales. The boat will drop you off near the main area of Rio Dulce, where you can easily explore the surroundings.
Discover more about Rio Dulce
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rio Dulce
0.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of Rio Dulce, a captivating river that connects Lake Izabal to the Caribbean Sea in Guatemala.
Tenamit Maya
7.3 km
Experience the charm of Tenamit Maya, an ecological park and hotel in Livingston, Izabal, blending nature, culture, and relaxation for every traveler.
Hotel Casa Perico
11.1 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Hotel Casa Perico, your perfect retreat along the stunning Rio Dulce in Guatemala.
Boatique Hotel and Marina, Rio Dulce Guatemala
11.4 km
Discover a tranquil retreat at Boatique Hotel and Marina in Rio Dulce, Guatemala, featuring unique straw-roofed accommodations and stunning river views.
Hotelito Perdido
11.6 km
Experience the tranquility of Hotelito Perdido, an eco-friendly hotel on the banks of Rio Dulce, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Nanajuana Río Dulce
12.4 km
Discover the natural beauty and serene luxury of Nanajuana Río Dulce, a premier resort hotel in Guatemala's stunning landscape.
Finca Tatin Hotel
12.6 km
Experience the tranquility of nature at Finca Tatin Hotel in Livingston, Guatemala, where comfort meets eco-friendly hospitality.
Hacienda Tijax Hotel y Marina
13.0 km
Discover tranquility at Hacienda Tijax Hotel y Marina, where nature meets luxury in the stunning Rio Dulce region of Guatemala.
The Round House Hotel
13.1 km
Experience the charm and culture of Livingston at The Round House Hotel, your gateway to Guatemala's stunning natural beauty.
'The Shack' Hostel
13.1 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of The Shack Hostel by the Rio Dulce, where adventure meets relaxation in a stunning natural setting.
Ay Wey
13.3 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Ay Wey in Río Dulce, where vibrant flavors and friendly service create an unforgettable dining experience.
Restaurante Mamá Moncha
13.3 km
Discover the authentic taste of Guatemala at Restaurante Mamá Moncha, a family-friendly restaurant in the heart of beautiful Río Dulce.
Churrasqueria Chusin
13.4 km
Savor the authentic tastes of Guatemala at Churrasqueria Chusin, a must-visit restaurant in Río Dulce for grilled meat lovers.
Rio Dulce Travel
13.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Guatemala with expert guidance and personalized itineraries at Rio Dulce Travel.
Parador Del Rio
13.4 km
Explore the vibrant Parador Del Rio in Río Dulce, Guatemala, your ultimate destination for shopping, dining, and local culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nacional Rio Dulce National Park
11.2 km
Discover the enchanting beauty and wildlife of Nacional Rio Dulce National Park in Guatemala, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Monkey Bay Marina / Rio Dulce / Izabal / Guatemala
11.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Monkey Bay Marina, a top destination for water activities and relaxation in Guatemala.
Parque Nacional El Relleno
13.0 km
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and biodiversity of Parque Nacional El Relleno, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Guatemala.
Puente de Río Dulce
13.1 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
13.1 km
Discover the Monumento Al Pescador in Río Dulce, a stunning tribute to fishing heritage surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.
Castillo de San Felipe de Lara
14.0 km
Explore Castillo de San Felipe de Lara, a historic castle on the banks of Río Dulce, where history meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Playa Blanca
15.9 km
Discover Playa Blanca, a stunning beach in Livingston, Guatemala, known for its white sands, clear waters, and vibrant local culture.
Siete Altares
18.9 km
Explore Siete Altares, a breathtaking natural paradise of waterfalls and pools in Aldea Quehueche, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Grutas el Encanto
21.9 km
Experience breathtaking caves and rich biodiversity at Grutas el Encanto, a unique farmstay adventure in the heart of Guatemala's national reserve.
Sendero de bosque tropical Las Escobas
27.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and vibrant wildlife of Sendero de Bosque Tropical Las Escobas in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala's tropical paradise.
Punta de Palma
27.4 km
Explore Punta de Palma's stunning beaches and vibrant marine life in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala's tranquil coastal paradise.
Ensenada Verde
28.6 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Ensenada Verde, a national reserve in Puerto Santo Tomás de Castilla, rich in biodiversity and natural wonders.
La Piedrona
28.8 km
Explore La Piedrona: A breathtaking hiking area in Puerto Barrios showcasing nature's beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Muelle Municipal
31.4 km
Experience the vibrant Garifuna culture at Muelle Municipal, where the waterfront comes alive with local flavors and traditions in Puerto Barrios.
Parque Reina Barrios
32.2 km
Explore the lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Parque Reina Barrios, a tranquil oasis in Puerto Barrios perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Essential places to dine
Mini Mike's Juke joint restaurant
9.1 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan flavors at Mini Mike's Juke Joint Restaurant in El Higuerito – where food meets vibrant local culture.
Paréntesis
9.4 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine amidst stunning lakeside views at Paréntesis in Lake El Golfete, Guatemala.
Restaurante Cañón Del Río
10.3 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at Restaurante Cañón Del Río in Livingston.
Tapados
10.5 km
Discover Tapados: A Culinary Gem in Guatemala Serving Authentic Traditional Dishes That Delight Every Palate.
Rest. La isla escondida
10.6 km
Discover Rest. La Isla Escondida in Livingston - where authentic Guatemalan flavors meet Caribbean charm in a vibrant dining atmosphere.
Restaurante El Viajero
12.0 km
Discover the authentic taste of Guatemala at Restaurante El Viajero in Livingston – where every dish tells a story.
Luvi's Marina
12.2 km
Experience exquisite local flavors at Luvi's Marina, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking views on Río Dulce.
Cayena Restaurante
12.4 km
Discover authentic Guatemalan cuisine with stunning river views at Cayena Restaurante in Río Dulce.
Restaurante Karlitas
12.8 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Restaurante Karlitas in beautiful Río Dulce.
Restaurante Ranchon Mary
12.9 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Restaurante Ranchon Mary while enjoying stunning views along Río Dulce.
MAR Restaurant
12.9 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine at MAR Restaurant by the tranquil waters of Río Dulce – a must-visit for every traveler.
Ana's Coffee House/Marina Hacha
12.9 km
Experience authentic Greek cuisine amidst breathtaking views at Ana's Coffee House in beautiful Río Dulce.
Restaurante Zuly
12.9 km
Discover authentic Guatemalan flavors at Restaurante Zuly in beautiful Río Dulce - where great food meets stunning views.
Restaurante Suly
12.9 km
Experience delightful brunches at Restaurante Suly in Río Dulce—where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
ARIN TA TAW Comida Típica Guatemalteca
12.9 km
Savor authentic Guatemalan dishes at ARIN TA TAW Comida Típica Guatemalteca in Río Dulce - A must-visit dining experience!
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Multiventas Tienda Maria Comcepcion
11.5 km
Explore authentic Guatemalan culture and find unique souvenirs at Multiventas Tienda Maria Concepcion in Livingston.
RAM Marina & Yacht Club, S.A.
12.6 km
Discover RAM Marina & Yacht Club, a boating paradise in Río Dulce with exceptional services, stunning views, and a friendly atmosphere for all water enthusiasts.
VELA DELISHOP
12.8 km
Discover the essence of Guatemalan cuisine at VELA DELISHOP, a gourmet grocery store in Río Dulce offering local delights and artisanal goods.
Parqueo El Quinel
13.0 km
Explore the vibrant fashion scene at Parqueo El Quinel in Río Dulce, where local craftsmanship meets contemporary style in a welcoming atmosphere.
Tienda Reed
13.0 km
Explore Tienda Reed in Río Dulce for a taste of authentic Guatemalan culture through its diverse grocery offerings and local delights.
SuperAudio Music Rio Dulce
13.1 km
Discover the heart of Guatemalan music at SuperAudio Music in Río Dulce, where instruments, vinyl, and local culture come together.
Dismar
13.3 km
Explore the best fishing gear and local expertise at Dismar in Río Dulce, the ultimate destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Jessica's Canvas Place
13.3 km
Discover the vibrant artistry of upholstery at Jessica's Canvas Place, where tradition meets modern design in the heart of Guatemala.
Coworkafe & Coworkantina
13.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of vibrant Mexican cuisine and a productive coworking space at Coworkafe & Coworkantina in Río Dulce.
Venta de artesanías Bombil Pec'
13.3 km
Explore the vibrant world of Guatemalan craftsmanship at Venta de Artesanías Bombil Pec', a unique store in Livingston offering authentic handmade treasures.
Despensa Familiar
13.3 km
Explore Despensa Familiar in Río Dulce for a diverse range of local and international products in a vibrant and friendly shopping environment.
Tienda la samaritana Rio Dulce
13.3 km
Explore local flavors at Tienda la Samaritana, a charming grocery store in Rio Dulce, perfect for stocking up on essentials and experiencing Guatemalan culture.
Sandalias &más
13.3 km
Experience the vibrant craftsmanship at Sandalias &más, your go-to store for authentic Guatemalan sandals and unique local souvenirs in Río Dulce.
Boutique Jeshua
13.4 km
Discover unique Guatemalan fashion at Boutique Jeshua, a delightful clothing store in the picturesque Río Dulce.
MD Rio Dulce
13.4 km
Discover the best shopping and dining at MD Rio Dulce, a vibrant mall offering a taste of local culture and international flair.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hotel Catamaran
11.6 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and nature at Hotel Catamaran, your serene escape on the enchanting shores of Río Dulce.
Mar Marine Yacht Club
12.9 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Mar Marine Yacht Club, nestled along the beautiful Rio Dulce in Guatemala.
Hotel y Restaurante Backpackers
13.0 km
Explore the beauty of Río Dulce at Hotel y Restaurante Backpackers, a perfect blend of comfort, cuisine, and local culture.
Cabaña
13.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cabaña in Río Dulce, where refreshing drinks and stunning views create unforgettable moments.
Discoteca Dulce Club
13.3 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Río Dulce at Discoteca Dulce Club, where music and fun come together to create unforgettable experiences.
Seafood Don Elia's
13.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Seafood Don Elia's, the ultimate bar experience in Río Dulce, featuring fresh seafood and local culture.
La Terraza Snack&Bar
14.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious drinks at La Terraza Snack & Bar in San Felipe de Lara, a perfect retreat for tourists.
La consentida
15.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local charm of La Consentida, a must-visit bar in the heart of Río Dulce offering creative cocktails and stunning views.
Bahía azul, playa quehueche
19.0 km
Experience the stunning beauty and tranquility of Bahía Azul, Playa Quehueche, a perfect beachside escape in Livingston, Guatemala.
Bar La Primavera
19.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Livingston at Bar La Primavera, a local gem offering refreshing drinks and lively entertainment.
Bar & Ref. Ak- Alessitho
19.4 km
Discover the lively spirit of Livingston at Bar & Ref. Ak- Alessitho, where refreshing drinks and vibrant culture meet.
BAR TERAPIA
19.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bar Terapia, Livingston's premier bar for relaxation and socializing.
Donde Látigo
19.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Livingston at Donde Látigo, a lively bar known for its local drinks and welcoming atmosphere.
Chillout
19.8 km
Discover tranquility at Chillout, a cozy bar in Livingston offering refreshing drinks and local flavors for an unforgettable experience.
X-Tasis, La Playa
19.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of X-Tasis in Livingston: a beach bar offering stunning views, refreshing cocktails, and a taste of local culture.