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Green mountains under drifting cloud

Las Verapaces · Cloud forests, orchids and quetzals

Misty mountains, coffee and cardamom farms, and cloud forests where the resplendent quetzal still flies. The Verapaces are Guatemala's green, lush and wonderfully quiet heartland.

Overview

Cobán, the capital of Alta Verapaz, sits in a landscape of mist-wrapped hills, cloud forests and plantations. In the late 19th century, German settlers established coffee fincas here, and the region later became one of the world's leading producers of cardamom. The Q'eqchi' Maya make up much of the population, and their language is heard throughout the region.

The Verapaces are best known for nature. The Biotopo del Quetzal near Purulhá protects cloud forest where the resplendent quetzal, Guatemala's national bird, can be seen. Orchid lovers will find hundreds of species at Orquigonia and the Vivero Verapaz nursery, and caves, waterfalls and rivers are everywhere.

We use Cobán and the surrounding fincas as a gentle stop between the highlands and Semuc Champey or Petén. Expect birdwatching, coffee tours, orchid gardens and the soft, refreshing drizzle locals call chipi-chipi.

Best time to visit

  • JanDry season.
  • FebBestBest time to visit. Dry season.
  • MarBestBest time to visit. Dry season.
  • AprBestBest time to visit. Dry season.
  • MayBestRainyBest time to visit. Rainy season.
  • JunRainyRainy season.
  • JulRainyRainy season.
  • AugRainyRainy season.
  • SepRainyRainy season.
  • OctRainyRainy season.
  • NovDry season.
  • DecDry season.
Best months● Rainy season (May–October): mornings usually clear, afternoon showers

The Verapaces are lush because they are wet much of the year. February to May is the driest period and coincides with the quetzal nesting season, the best time to spot them. During the May to October rainy season, heavy showers are frequent and roads can be slow, though July brings the colourful Rabin Ajau folklore festival to Cobán.

Highlights

  1. 01

    Searching for the quetzal

    Walk the cloud forest trails of the Biotopo del Quetzal at dawn with a local guide for the best chance of seeing Guatemala's national bird.

  2. 02

    Orchid gardens

    Discover hundreds of native orchid species, including the rare white nun orchid, Guatemala's national flower.

  3. 03

    Coffee and cardamom fincas

    Tour historic plantations and taste the coffee and cardamom that have shaped the region's history.

  4. 04

    Caves and rivers

    Explore the Candelaria cave system and the region's rivers, waterfalls and karst landscapes.

Things to do

  • 01Look for quetzals in the Biotopo del Quetzal
  • 02Visit the orchids at Orquigonia and Vivero Verapaz
  • 03Tour a historic coffee finca in Cobán
  • 04Explore the Candelaria caves
  • 05Visit the remote Laguna Lachuá National Park
  • 06Join the Rabin Ajau festival in July
  • 07Stop in Cobán en route to Semuc Champey

Practical tips

Bring a rain jacket
Even in the drier months, light rain and mist are common. A waterproof layer is essential.
Go early for quetzals
Quetzals are most active in the early morning. A local guide who knows their feeding trees improves your chances.
Use Cobán as a stepping stone
Cobán breaks up the long drive from Antigua to Semuc Champey or Petén. One or two nights here makes the journey far more enjoyable.

Cobán & Las Verapaces FAQ

Quetzals are most visible from around March to June, during their nesting season, when they feed on wild avocados in the cloud forest.

More questions? See our Guatemala FAQ.

Every tour is private and fully adjustable around your dates and pace.

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