Castillo de San Felipe de Lara: A Historic Fortress on Río Dulce
Explore a historic Spanish fort on the banks of Río Dulce, Guatemala, and discover tales of pirates, battles, and colonial life.
Castillo de San Felipe de Lara is a Spanish colonial fort guarding the entrance to Lake Izabal in Guatemala. Built in 1644, it was strategically positioned to protect against pirate attacks on the Río Dulce. Today, it's 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 6 am-9:30 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-9:30 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-9:30 pm
- Thursday 6 am-9:30 pm
- Friday 6 am-9:30 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 6 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the castle.
- Explore the nature trails around the castle for scenic views of the Río Dulce and Lake Izabal.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grassy grounds surrounding the castle.
Getting There
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Walking
From the town of San Felipe, the entrance to Castillo de San Felipe de Lara is a short walk. Follow the signs towards the castle, passing through the park grounds. The walk is approximately 600 feet from the park entrance to the castle. Entrance fee for foreigners is Q20.00.
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Boat
If arriving from Livingston, take a boat ride along the Río Dulce to Castillo de San Felipe de Lara. Several boat operators offer rides to the castle. Confirm the fare beforehand. Remember to pay the Q20.00 entrance fee upon arrival at the castle.
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
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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
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Restaurante Mamá Moncha
2.8 km
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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
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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
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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
Experience the iconic Puente de Río Dulce, Guatemala's longest bridge, offering stunning views and a vital link to the Caribbean coast.
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
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Biotopo Protegido Chocón Machacas
22.5 km
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El Boquerón
25.7 km
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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.
Siete Altares
32.7 km
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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.
Ensenada Verde
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Punta de Palma
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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
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Restaurante Karlitas
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Ana's Coffee House/Marina Hacha
2.0 km
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Restaurante El Viajero
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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
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Hotel y Restaurante Jocelyn
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Restaurante Delicias del Rio
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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
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VELA DELISHOP
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Tienda Reed
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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
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Tienda la samaritana Rio Dulce
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Distribuidora La Promesa
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Mercado Nuevo de Rio Dulce
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Sandalias &más
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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
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Discoteca Dulce Club
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Seafood Don Elia's
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Hotel Catamaran
3.9 km
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La consentida
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Bahía azul, playa quehueche
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Bar La Primavera
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Bar & Ref. Ak- Alessitho
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BAR TERAPIA
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Donde Látigo
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Chillout
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X-Tasis, La Playa
33.8 km
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