Chisec - Discovering Guatemala

Travelling to Chisec

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Chisec, a pretty good destination in Guatemala (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Chisec and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Chisec, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Guatemala, here's everything to know about Chisec for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Chisec

Chisec is a municipality located in the department of Alta Verapaz in Guatemala. It is known for its rich indigenous culture, with the majority of the population being Q'eqchi' Maya. The town is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a popular destination for ecotourism, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nearby caves and waterfalls. The climate in Chisec is tropical, with temperatures averaging between 25°C and 30°C throughout the year. Visitors to Chisec can experience the local culture by attending traditional festivals, trying local cuisine and crafts, and staying in eco-lodges or homestays.

What to visit in Chisec

Chisec is a small town located in the department of Alta Verapaz in Guatemala. Here are some of the tourist attractions that Chisec has to offer: 1. Semuc Champey - This is a natural wonder that consists of a series of turquoise pools and cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush rainforest. Visitors can swim, hike, and tube down the river.
2. Candelaria Caves - This is a system of cave networks that extends for miles. Visitors can explore the caves with a guide and see the impressive rock formations and underground rivers.
3. Biotopo del Quetzal - This is a protected reserve that is home to the stunning and endangered quetzal bird. Visitors can go on guided hikes to try and spot the elusive birds and other wildlife.
4. Lanquin Caves - This is another system of caves that has been formed over millions of years. Visitors can navigate through the caverns and see unique rock formations and underground rivers.
5. Chisec Market - This is a bustling market where visitors can buy handicrafts, fresh produce, and traditional Guatemalan dishes.
6. Agua Caliente - This is a hot spring located in the nearby town of Coban. Visitors can relax in the warm waters and enjoy the surrounding jungle scenery.
Overall, Chisec is a nature lover's paradise with plenty of natural wonders to explore and experience.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Guatemala, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Chisec.

When to go on holiday to Chisec

The best time to visit Chisec, Guatemala is from December to April during the dry season. This time of year usually brings sunny skies and warm temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities like exploring the natural wonders and ruins in the area. However, it's important to note that Chisec may receive occasional rains even during the dry season, so it's always a good idea to pack a rain jacket just in case. The wet season in Chisec runs from May to November, and during this time the weather can be quite humid and rainy, which may pose some challenges especially when visiting the remote trails or sites.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Chisec

Chisec is a town located in the north-central region of Guatemala. To get there, you can follow these steps: 1. Get to Guatemala City: The most convenient way to reach Chisec is to first fly into Guatemala City. The La Aurora International Airport is the primary airport in the country and serves several airlines.
2. Take a bus: From Guatemala City, you can take a bus to Chisec. The journey will take about 8 hours, and you can book a ticket through a local bus company like Transportes Cobán or Rápido Quiriguá.
3. Hire a taxi: Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or a private car from Guatemala City to Chisec. It will take about 4-5 hours to reach there. 4. Rent a car: You can also rent a car at the airport or in Guatemala City, and drive yourself to Chisec. The distance is about 257 kilometers, and it will take around 4-5 hours to reach there.
It's important to note that roads in Guatemala can be challenging, so it's recommended to go during daylight hours and avoid driving at night.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Chisec, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Chisec

Chisec is a small town in Guatemala with a unique culinary tradition heavily influenced by the Q'anjob'al Maya people. Here are a few of the typical foods you can try in Chisec: 1. Pupusas: A thick corn tortilla filled with beans, cheese, or chicharrones (fried pork rinds). It is a popular dish in Chisec and all over Guatemala.
2. Hilachas: A hearty stew made with shredded beef or chicken, served with rice and tortillas. The meat is slow-cooked in a tomato-based sauce with onions, garlic, and spices.
3. Kak'ik: A traditional soup made with turkey or chicken and spiced with annatto, coriander, and chili peppers. It is considered a staple food among the Q'anjob'al Maya.
4. Jocon: A chicken or pork stew made with green tomatoes, tomatillos, and cilantro. It has a vibrant green color and can be spicy or mild depending on the amount of chili peppers used.
5. Chirmol: A salsa-like sauce made with roasted tomatoes, onions, chili peppers, and coriander. It is served as a condiment with many dishes in Chisec.
6. Rellenitos: A dessert made with mashed plantains mixed with sugar, cinnamon, and chocolate. It's filled with refried black beans and fried until crispy.
These are just a few examples of the mouth-watering cuisine you can enjoy in Chisec. Bon appétit!
You can find general info about typical foods in Guatemala here.

Is Chisec an expensive destination for tourists?

Chisec, Guatemala is generally an affordable destination for tourists. However, it depends on the type of activities and services you plan to engage in during your trip. Accommodation options in Chisec are relatively affordable, with hostels and hotels offering reasonable prices for their rooms. When it comes to food and drinks, prices in Chisec are generally reasonable, with local street food and simple meals costing around $5 USD per person. Local markets also offer fresh and affordable produce, allowing you to save money on groceries if you plan to cook your meals.
Keep in mind that transportation costs might be higher, especially if you plan to use private shuttles or taxis. Public transportation such as buses and vans are available and generally much more affordable.
Overall, Chisec can be a budget-friendly destination for travelers, but it's always a good idea to plan and budget accordingly to ensure you have the best trip possible.

Where to find accomodation in Chisec

Chisec is a small town located in the Alta Verapaz department of Guatemala, which serves as a gateway to explore the nearby natural attractions, such as Semuc Champey and the Lanquin Caves.
Since Chisec is a small town with limited accommodation options, the best places to find lodging are in Lanquin and Semuc Champey, which are about 30 minutes to an hour drive away from Chisec.
In Lanquin, there are several charming eco-lodges and guesthouses that offer both private and shared rooms, as well as camping options. Some popular options include El Retiro Lodge, Zephyr Lodge, and Utopia Eco-Hotel.
In Semuc Champey, there are fewer accommodation options available, but there are still some great choices such as Hostal Mirador, which offers private rooms and shared dorms, or El Portal Hostel, which has cabins and dorms available.
It's important to note that while these accommodations are not located directly in Chisec, they are in close proximity to the town and to the natural attractions that visitors come to see in the area.
You can check hotel prices at Chisec here:
Booking.com

Is Chisec a safe destination for tourists?

Chisec is considered a relatively safe place for tourists, but as with any destination, visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft can occur in tourist areas, so it's important to keep your valuables safe. It's also recommended to travel in groups or with a reputable tour guide.
Additionally, visitors should be aware that Chisec is located in a rural area and may have limited access to amenities and medical care. It's important to plan accordingly and have appropriate travel insurance coverage.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Guatemala here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Chisec.

What type of travelers will enjoy Chisec the most?

Chisec in Guatemala is primarily a destination for adventurous travelers who are interested in cultural immersion and outdoor activities. It is a great place for families, couples, and solo travelers who enjoy hiking, exploring nature, and learning about the history and culture of the indigenous Mayan communities.
Chisec is an ideal destination for families with children as it offers a variety of kid-friendly activities such as hiking in the mountains, visiting waterfalls and exploring the Mayan ruins. Young and adventurous travelers looking for outdoor fun will also enjoy Chisec as it has several hiking trails, and opportunities for bird watching and caving.
Couples who enjoy outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and nature will also find Chisec to be a romantic and breathtaking destination. The area's natural beauty, authentic Mayan culture, and the friendly and welcoming local people make Chisec a great choice for a romantic getaway.

How to get around Chisec

In Chisec, the most common way to move around is by walking or taking a tuk-tuk, which is a small three-wheeled vehicle. There are also taxis available, but they can be more expensive. If you plan on traveling to nearby towns or cities, you can take a bus or a shuttle service.

What to see around Chisec

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Chisec: 1. Cahabón River: A beautiful river with crystal clear blue waters that offer swimming, hiking and kayaking opportunities.
2. Semuc Champey: A stunning natural wonder with a series of limestone pools that make for a great spot for swimming and a picnic.
3. Lankin Caves: These caves are famous for their stunning formations and the bat colony. A guide is needed to enter the cave, and the journey is not easy. But it is worth the effort once you witness the beauty inside.
4. Lanquin: A small village which could be considered as the gateway to Semuc Champey. It offers beautiful scenery and is home to many Mayan communities.
5. Coban: The city is known for having a pleasant climate and beautiful nature. It is well-known for its coffee production and is home to the Museo del Prado.
I hope this helps you plan your trip! Let me know if there's anything else that I can assist you with.
For every travel information about Guatemala you can click here.

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