Monterrico

Guatemala, Central America

Monterrico is renowned for its stunning black sand beaches and lush mangroves, offering a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, surfing, and indulging in fresh seafood while staying at picturesque beach huts. The nearby Monterrico Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife lovers, famed for its sea turtle conservation program. The vibrant nightlife and rich cultural experiences make Monterrico a captivating destination for young travelers seeking both chill and thrill!

Quick facts

Target stay

4-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

La Aurora

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Monterrico

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Monterrico Black Sand Beach

Relax on stunning black sand beaches with vibrant sunsets.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Turtle Conservation Release Programs

Participate in releasing baby turtles into the ocean.

Booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Monterrico Nature Reserve

Discover diverse wildlife in this beautiful mangrove area.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Boat Tour in the Mangroves

Cruise through rich mangrove ecosystems filled with wildlife.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit La Avellana Restaurant

Savor delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood dishes.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Participate in Local Festivals

Experience vibrant culture and traditions in Monterrico.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Surfing Lessons at Monterrico

Catch waves and learn to surf with local instructors.

Booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Monterrico Biotopo

Explore this protected area rich in biodiversity.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-9 (#137 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Quetzal

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Chicken Pepián

Spicy chicken stew with vegetables. (National dish)

Kak'ik

Traditional turkey soup with spices.

Hilachas

Shredded beef in tomato sauce.

Fiambre

Cold salad with meats and vegetables.

Rellenitos de Plátano

VE

Sweet plantain stuffed with beans.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)