Things to Do in Livingston, Guatemala

Livingston is Guatemala's most unique Caribbean coastal town, located at the mouth of the Río Dulce where it meets the Caribbean Sea. This vibrant Garífuna community offers a completely different cultural experience from the rest of Guatemala, with Afro-Caribbean influences evident in the music, food, language, and laid-back atmosphere. The town is only accessible by boat, which adds to its remote and authentic charm. As the cultural heart of Guatemala's Garífuna population, Livingston pulses with reggae rhythms, traditional drumming, and colorful Caribbean architecture. Visitors come here to experience the rich Afro-Caribbean culture, enjoy fresh seafood and tropical fruits, explore nearby natural attractions like the Seven Altars waterfalls, and use it as a gateway to the stunning Río Dulce region. The town's isolation from Guatemala's main road network has helped preserve its unique character and traditional way of life.

Top Things to Do in Livingston

Río Dulce Boat Tour

Navigate the spectacular Río Dulce canyon with its towering limestone walls covered in tropical vegetation, hot springs, and diverse wildlife. The journey takes you through one of Guatemala's most scenic waterways, passing traditional fishing villages and offering opportunities to spot manatees, tropical birds, and howler monkeys.

Booking Tip: Tours cost $15-25 per person for half-day trips. Book through local operators at the dock for better prices than hotel bookings. Early morning departures offer the best wildlife viewing and cooler temperatures.

Seven Altars Waterfalls

Hike to this series of seven natural pools and waterfalls cascading through the tropical rainforest just outside Livingston. The crystal-clear pools are perfect for swimming and the short jungle trek offers excellent birdwatching opportunities with chances to see toucans, parrots, and other tropical species.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around $3-5. Go early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. Bring water shoes for better grip on wet rocks and a waterproof bag for valuables.

Garífuna Cultural Experience

Immerse yourself in authentic Garífuna culture through traditional drumming sessions, dance performances, and cultural workshops. Learn about this unique Afro-Caribbean community's history, language, and customs while enjoying live music and participating in traditional activities.

Booking Tip: Cultural shows cost $10-20 per person. Contact local cultural centers or ask at your accommodation for authentic experiences. Evening performances are most atmospheric, often combined with traditional dinner.

Playa Blanca Beach Trip

Take a boat excursion to pristine Playa Blanca, one of Guatemala's most beautiful Caribbean beaches with white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The secluded beach offers excellent swimming, snorkeling opportunities, and a chance to relax in a tropical paradise setting.

Booking Tip: Day trips cost $20-35 including boat transport. Bring your own snorkeling gear to save money. Pack lunch and water as beach facilities are limited. Best visited on weekdays for fewer crowds.

Caribbean Fishing Experience

Join local fishermen for an authentic Caribbean fishing adventure, learning traditional techniques while trying to catch snapper, barracuda, and other tropical fish. The experience provides insight into local livelihoods and often includes cooking your catch on the beach.

Booking Tip: Half-day fishing trips cost $40-60 per person. Book directly with fishermen at the dock for authentic experiences. Early morning trips (5-6 AM) offer the best fishing conditions and catch rates.

Getting There

Livingston is only accessible by boat, which adds to its unique charm but requires some planning. The most common route is taking a bus from Guatemala City or Antigua to Puerto Barrios (4-5 hours), then catching a 30-minute boat ride to Livingston. Boats run regularly throughout the day and cost around $2-3. Alternatively, you can arrive via the scenic Río Dulce route from Flores/Tikal, taking a bus to Río Dulce town and then a boat through the canyon to Livingston. Some visitors also arrive by boat from Belize or Honduras as part of overland routes through Central America.

Getting Around

Livingston is a small town easily explored on foot, with most attractions, restaurants, and accommodations within a few blocks of the main dock area. The town has no cars due to its isolation, creating a peaceful pedestrian-friendly environment. For reaching nearby attractions like Seven Altars waterfalls or Playa Blanca, you'll need to join boat tours or hire local boats. Tuk-tuks and motorcycles are available for short trips around town, though walking is usually sufficient and more enjoyable for taking in the Caribbean atmosphere.

Where to Stay

Near the Main Dock

Calle Principal

Barrio Paris

Playa Quehueche

Río Dulce Mouth

Residential Areas

Food & Dining

Livingston's food scene reflects its Caribbean location and Garífuna heritage, offering a refreshing change from typical Guatemalan cuisine. Fresh seafood dominates menus, with specialties including tapado (seafood coconut stew), fried fish with rice and beans, lobster, and conch. Many restaurants serve food with Caribbean spices and coconut-based sauces. Street vendors offer tropical fruits, coconut water, and traditional Garífuna bread. The town has several beachfront restaurants where you can dine with your feet in the sand, as well as local comedores serving authentic home-style Caribbean cooking at budget-friendly prices. Don't miss trying the local rum drinks and fresh fruit smoothies.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Livingston is during the dry season from December to April, when you'll have sunny skies, calmer seas, and ideal conditions for boat trips and beach activities. The wet season (May to November) brings daily afternoon rains and rougher seas, though temperatures remain warm year-round. Hurricane season (June to November) can occasionally affect the Caribbean coast. For the best balance of good weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting in December or April. The town's Caribbean climate means it's warm and humid throughout the year, so pack light, breathable clothing regardless of when you visit.

Insider Tips

Learn a few basic Garífuna phrases - locals appreciate the effort and it enhances cultural interactions

Bring cash in small bills as ATMs are limited and many businesses don't accept cards

Pack insect repellent and quick-dry clothing for jungle excursions and humid Caribbean climate

Things to Do in Livingston