Looking for an exotic escape in a remote region of Guatemala? Livingston will transport you to the heart of Guatemala for a true change of scenery. Skirting Amatique Bay on the Caribbean Sea, this charming village welcomes you with the tropical rhythms of reggae, salsa, cumbia and merengue. During a relaxing pause, there's nothing quite like stretching out comfortably in a hammock while soaking in the Afro-Caribbean atmosphere. Moreover, don't leave town without sampling its gastronomy. This is where you'll taste pépian, tapado, jocon, fiambre and a few rellenitos for the road.

Characteristics

This remote location designates an island situated in eastern Guatemala, at the mouth of the Rio Dulce, the principal territory of Maya descendants. The community of Livingston consists largely of a Black population, composed of K'iche', Ladinos and Garinagu (plural of Garifuna), which earned this locality the nickname "pearl of the Caribbean."

Livingston's inhabitants use Garifuna as their primary language, in addition to Spanish. This language style is one of twenty-three dialects spoken in Guatemala but bears no connection to the Mayan language. It's worth noting that the Garifuna language, music and dance are inscribed on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage of humanity.

History

Livingston's origins date back to the era when the last Q'eqchi' Indians and runaway African slaves occupied the island of Saint Vincent in the Antilles, to form the Garinagu people in the 17th century. The place subsequently fell into English hands, forcing the population to relocate to the Honduran islands. The last survivors, now a small minority, decided to settle on the Caribbean coasts of Honduras and Guatemala, including Livingston's territory.

Today

This small town owes its appeal to becoming a major export center for Guatemala. Most resources produced in the country, such as coffee, are shipped via Livingston's port. Currently, it's home to nearly 25,000 inhabitants who live mainly from fishing. Tourism, which has experienced strong growth in recent years, plays a fundamental role in the daily lives of locals. A few restaurants and food shops stand alongside colorful houses.

What to See in Livingston?

Planning an excursion will allow you to explore every corner of Livingston. In addition to discovering its many facets, you'll have the chance to find yourself in the midst of tranquil and pristine nature.

Journey Along the Rio Dulce

This highly-stocked waterway continues to impress numerous visitors. In fact, the location inspired the director of Pirates of the Caribbean, who used the site's natural scenery as backdrops. During your journey, every minute counts to appreciate the sublime landscape. You'll find yourself in exactly the right place when you see towering cliffs emerge, draped in very dense tropical forest, where the sharp cries of jungle animals occasionally ring out.

The area also marks a highly favorable spot for nesting numerous bird species. You'll be overwhelmed by the presence of hordes of cormorants, white herons, egrets, pelicans…, fluttering about and calling out loudly. Continue toward the "Cueva del Tigre," in the Tatin community. With a bit of luck, you may witness a Mayan ceremony.

Journey Along Playa Blanca

To reach it, you must travel down the Rio Dulce by boat. Worthy of a postcard, the landscape edged with coconut palms displays its magnificent white sandy beach with turquoise and crystalline waters. The sea temperature reaching over 28°C (82°F) favorably invites swimming. Afterward, take an impromptu break in the shade of palm trees. Weather permitting, extend your excursion toward Los Siete Altares, where seven magnificent waterfalls and natural pools nestle in the heart of the tropical forest. Equally fascinating are the hot water falls of Agua Caliente, where the elevated water temperature blended with that of the river refreshingly cools you during a quick dip.

A change of scenery awaits with a brief visit to the community of Cayo Quemado. The locality brings together a family of artisanal fishermen who will share with you the principles of local culinary arts. They'll then offer you a boat ride to the bird island.

Around Lake Izabal

Beyond the famous hot springs, make a detour to the lakeside town of El Estor to reach the limestone canyon of El Boqueron and the fortress "El Castillo de San Felipe.

Practical Information

Climate

Livingston generally presents unpredictable weather. It features a tropical climate with intense heat, but winds blowing from Amatique Bay give way to coolness once night falls. Throughout the year, weather conditions display two distinct seasons. The dry season runs from December to April, characterized by sunny days and pleasant temperatures, ideal for swimming. June to September is primarily marked by high humidity, favoring mosquito proliferation.

Boat is the only means of accessing Livingston since no road connects the village to the rest of the region. You can arrange a lancha reservation through your hotel. Alternatively, two collective boats offer affordable service. Count on approximately two to three hours for the journey. Always check schedules before departing.

Given its small size, it's possible to move freely on foot throughout Livingston.