Castillo de San Felipe de Lara: A Historical Gem on the Río Dulce
Explore the stunning Castillo de San Felipe de Lara, a historic fortress offering breathtaking views and rich tales of 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
Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Río Dulce, Castillo de San Felipe de Lara stands as a testament to Guatemala's rich colonial history. Originally built in the 16th century to protect the Spanish from pirate attacks, this stunning fortress is now a must-visit historical site for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the past. As you wander through the castle's well-preserved walls, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking views of the river and surrounding lush jungles, providing a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs. The castle features a series of intriguing exhibits detailing its storied past, including artifacts and informative plaques that share the tales of the many battles fought and the lives lived within its walls. A walk along the ramparts offers a panoramic view of the Río Dulce, where you can observe the vibrant local wildlife and enjoy the serene beauty of the landscape. The site is also a popular spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, as the area is teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can easily spend a few hours exploring Castillo de San Felipe de Lara, so be sure to bring your camera and take your time soaking in the rich history and stunning scenery. The castle is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, making it a convenient stop as you travel through the region. Don't miss the chance to experience this remarkable blend of history and natural beauty during your visit to Guatemala.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
- Bring a good pair of walking shoes, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views of the Río Dulce.
- Check for any local guided tours that may provide deeper insights into the castle's history.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from any location within the Ixil Triangle, head towards the town of Santa María Nebaj or Chajul. From there, take the CA-9 highway towards the east and follow the signs to Río Dulce. Continue straight until you reach the town of Livingston. Once in Livingston, follow the signs to Castillo de San Felipe de Lara, which is located near the entrance of the Río Dulce. You will need to pay a small entrance fee to access the castle grounds.
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Public Transportation
To reach Castillo de San Felipe de Lara via public transportation, take a bus from your location in the Ixil Triangle to the town of Morales. From Morales, transfer to a bus heading to Livingston. The bus ride to Livingston will take approximately 2 hours. Once you arrive in Livingston, you can take a local taxi or walk to Castillo de San Felipe de Lara, which is located just a short distance from the town center. Be prepared to pay for the taxi fare or any entrance fees at the castle.
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Boat
If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking a boat ride from Livingston to Castillo de San Felipe de Lara. After arriving in Livingston via bus, find a local boat operator offering rides to the castle. The boat ride will allow you to enjoy the scenic views of the Río Dulce and its surroundings. Confirm the fare with the boat operator beforehand and remember to pay the entrance fee once you arrive at the castle.
Attractions Nearby to Castillo de San Felipe de Lara
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Parque Nacional El Relleno
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Puente de Río Dulce
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Monumento Al Pescador, Rio Dulce
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Monkey Bay Marina / Rio Dulce / Izabal / Guatemala
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Nacional Rio Dulce National Park
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Grutas el Encanto
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Biotopo Protegido Chocón Machacas
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Lake Izabal
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Playa Blanca
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Parque Nacional Río Dulce
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El Boquerón Ecological Park
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Siete Altares
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Sendero de bosque tropical Las Escobas
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La Piedrona
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Ensenada Verde
Landmarks nearby to Castillo de San Felipe de Lara
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Rio dulce livingston izabal
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Hotel Kangaroo
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Hotel Mansion del Rio
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Tortugal Boutique River Lodge & Marina
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Cassa Zenda
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Nanajuana Río Dulce
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'The Shack' Hostel
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Ay Wey
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Restaurante Mamá Moncha
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Churrasqueria Chusin
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Supermercado La Torre Río Dulce Izabal
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Rio Dulce Travel
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Parador Del Rio
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Hacienda Tijax Hotel y Marina
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Boatique Hotel and Marina, Rio Dulce Guatemala