Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TOP OF CHAPTER
Lago de Izabal
Guatemala's largest lake, to the north of Hwy 9, is starting to earn its place on the travel-
ers' map. Most visitors checking out the lake stay at Río Dulce town, by the long, tall
bridge where Hwy 13, heading north to Flores and Tikal, crosses the Río Dulce emptying
out of the east end of the lake. Downstream, the beautiful river broadens into a lake called
El Golfete before meeting the Caribbean at Lívingston. River trips are a highlight of a vis-
it to eastern Guatemala. If you're looking for lakeside ambiance minus the Río Dulce con-
gestion and pace, head to Chapin Abajo, north of Mariscos or El Estor near the west end
of the lake, both of which give access to the rich wildlife of the Bocas del Polochic river
delta. There are many undiscovered spots in this area waiting to be explored, so don't lim-
it yourself.
Río Dulce
POP 5200
At the east end of the Lago de Izabal, this town still gets referred to as Fronteras - a
hangover from the days when the only way across the river was by ferry, and this was the
last piece of civilization before embarking on the long, difficult journey into El Petén.
Times have changed. A huge bridge now spans the water and El Petén roads are some
of the best in the country. The town sees most tourist traffic from yachties - the US coast
guard says this is the safest place on the western Caribbean for boats during hurricane sea-
son. The rest of the foreigners here are either coming or going on the spectacular river trip
between here and Lívingston.
Tours
Ask around at any of the marinas for the latest on which sailboats are offering charter
tours.
Aventuras Vacacionales
( 7873-9221;
www.sailing-diving-guatemala.com
)
This outfit runs fun seven-day sailing trips from
Río Dulce to the Belize reefs and islands (from Q3200) and Lago Izabal (from Q1250,
SAILING
