Castillo San Felipe de Lara

The Castillo de San Felipe de Lara is a historic Spanish colonial fort located at the entrance to Lake Izabal in eastern Guatemala. Built in the 17th century, the fortress was designed to protect the region from pirates. Today, it stands as a testament to Guatemala's colonial history and offers panoramic views of the lake.

Forteresse historique en pierre sur une île tropicale avec des palmiers.
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    Lieu et adresse

    Castillo San Felipe de Lara is situated on the shores of Lake Izabal, near the town of Livingston in eastern Guatemala. The fortress is accessible via boat or road, offering a picturesque approach through lush tropical surroundings.

    Se rendre sur place

    • By Boat: From Livingston, visitors can take a lancha (small boat) across the Río Dulce to the castle, a journey of approximately 30 minutes.
    • By Road: From Puerto Barrios or other nearby towns, taxis or colectivos (shared vans) can be arranged to reach the site, followed by a short walk to the entrance.

    Heures d'ouverture et billets

    • Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
    • Entrance Fee: Approximately Q25 (around $3 USD) for adults; discounts may apply for students and children.
    • Tickets: Purchased at the gate; no online booking required.

    Meilleur moment pour visiter

    Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The golden light during these hours also enhances the fortress's photogenic qualities.

    Durée de la visite

    Plan for 1 to 2 hours to explore the castle grounds, towers, and surrounding views at a leisurely pace.

    Activités

    • Explore the well-preserved 17th-century fortress, including its ramparts and dungeons.
    • Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Izabal and the surrounding rainforest.
    • Learn about the castle's history as a defense against pirate invasions.

    Installations

    • Basic restrooms are available near the entrance.
    • Small vendors sell snacks and drinks, but bringing water is recommended.
    • Limited shaded areas; sun protection is advisable.

    Ce qu'il faut apporter/vêtir

    • Comfortable walking shoes for uneven terrain.
    • Sunhat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
    • Camera for capturing the scenic views.

    Règles et règlements

    • No climbing on fragile structures.
    • Respect signage and barriers for safety.

    Informations sur le contact

    For inquiries, contact the Guatemalan Institute of Tourism (INGUAT) or check local tourism offices in Livingston.