Santo Tomás de Castilla, located in the Izabal Department of Guatemala and next to the town of Puerto Barrios, boasts several fascinating areas with tourism appeal. Let’s explore them:
Quirigua Archaeological Park and Ruins: Just a short distance from Santo Tomás de Castilla, Quirigua is home to ancient Mayan ruins. Certainly! Covering approximately 3 square kilometers along the lower Motagua River, Quiriguá’s ceremonial center lies about 1 kilometer from the north bank. During the Maya Classic Period (AD 200–900), it served as a crucial trade hub and shared architectural and sculptural styles with the nearby city of Copán in today's Honduras. Notably, Quiriguá features impressive stone monumental sculptures, including the tallest ever erected in the New World. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1981.
Rio Dulce and Lake Izabal: also known as the “Sweet River,” is a picturesque waterway in Guatemala. Flowing for 43 kilometers (27 miles) from the Rio Dulce bridge to its mouth on the Caribbean Sea, it winds through an impressive canyon. The river is part of a lake and river system, connecting Lake Izabal to the Atlantic Ocean. Along its banks, you’ll find small islands, mangroves, and Mayan communities. Rio Dulce has been declared a National Park due to its essential role as a biological corridor and its rich biodiversity, which includes crocodiles, manatees, and marine birds.
Livingston: located in Guatemala’s easternmost part, it is where Garifuna culture thrives. The Garifuna population in Livingston traces its roots to Africans who survived a shipwreck near St. Vincent in 1653. They intermarried with the indigenous Caribs and established life on the island. Later, the British forced them to leave for Roatán, Honduras. Many Garifuna settled along the Caribbean coast, including Livingston. Today, this quintessentially Caribbean coastal fishing village maintains its heritage through the Garifuna language, food, and cultural traditions, including dance. Livingston is also a new destination for Expedition Cruise Lines!
San Felipe Fortress: The Castle of San Felipe de Lara, often referred to simply as the Castillo de San Felipe, is a Spanish colonial fort strategically situated at the entrance to Lake Izabal in eastern Guatemala. Connected to the Caribbean Sea via the Dulce River and El Golfete lake, this historic fort played a crucial role in protecting the port of San Antonio de las Bodegas from frequent pirate attacks during the 17th century. Despite being destroyed and looted several times by pirates, it has been restored and it remains a popular regional tourist destination and is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.
Las Escobas Reserve: A pristine natural area located very close to the port. It shelters diverse flora and fauna, including rare bird species, reptiles, and tropical plants. The lush rainforests harbor towering trees, creating a serene and immersive environment. Hidden waterfalls cascade down moss-covered rocks, providing a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. Local guides actively manage the reserve for conservation, educating visitors about sustainable practices. Thrill-seekers can embark on canopy tours, ziplining, and river tubing, combining adrenaline rushes with breathtaking scenery. In summary, Las Escobas Reserve invites you to connect with nature, discover its secrets, and contribute to its protection.
In summary, Santo Tomás de Castilla’s surroundings offer a blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences for cruise ship guests, making it an enticing destination for travelers.