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The Eastern Region

Full of friendly and warm people, popular legends and tales, with large cattle farms, is famous for the handicrafts, ceramics and wooden carvings.

Types of tourism: Adventure, extreme sports, saltwater fishing, religious tourism and archaeology.

The Eastern of Guatemala is conformed by the Departments of Zacapa, Jutiapa, Jalapa, Chiquimula and El Progreso. Their geographic location plays an important role as here are the borders with the countries of El Salvador and Honduras.

This territory offers a huge contrast among the desert zones with brambles, acacia trees, cacti and the mountains full of pines and fruit trees.

Climate: The climate is hot all year round. The minimum temperature is between 22 º – 25º C (72 º – 77 º F). The maximum temperature is between 35º - 40 º C (95º – 104 º F).

Main urban centers: Jutiapa, Jalapa, Guastatoya, Chiquimula and Zacapa.

Distance from Guatemala City to the Eastern region: Approx. 120 - 170kms. / 75 - 106 miles, according to the city that you will visit.

Access: The region’s main cities can be reached by the Inter-Oceanic Highway/CA-9.

 

 

 

Close Ipala Volcano Its cone is filled by a clear and beautiful magical crater lake ringed by trees, and has a patch of virgin cloud forest on its north side. This volcano is located in jurisdiction of the Ipala town, Department of Chiquimula. It has an elevation of 5,413.39 feet above sea level. In the foothills south of the volcano, is located Monterrico Volcano, 4331 feet above sea level. It’s recommended to make both hikes on the same trip.	Close Basílica de Esquipulas The construction of this Catholic sanctuary began in 1742. In 1759 the venerated image of the Black Christ was moved to this sanctuary. This temple is one of the best examples of Baroque architecture in the country. Until now receives thousands of devotees from all over the world. The Church of Esquipulas is almost certainly the most important Catholic shrine in Central America. The most important day of pilgrimage is January 15, although it’s visited by crowds all year round.	Close Museum of Estanzuela four miles from Zacapa, visitors will encounter Estanzuela, a place known for the hand weaving of its women and above all for the Palaeontology, Archaeology and Geology Museum. In this small museum, there is an extraordinary collection of prehistoric animal skeletons in exhibit, as well as a small Maya tomb, some archaeological stelae and other invaluable pieces.
Close Other Destinations This region is well known for the water parks and resorts. There are also many rivers and small lakes ideal for rafting and other water sports.