Cobán
Guatemala · Alta Verapaz · 1320 m
Description
Cobán is the capital of the Alta Verapaz Department in Guatemala's central highlands and the green heart of the Verapaces. Situated at an elevation of around 1,300 meters (4,265 feet), the city is known for its cool climate, misty cloud forests, coffee and cardamom plantations, and remarkable orchid diversity. As the cultural center of the Q’eqchi’ Maya and home to the traditional Rab’in Ajaw festival, Cobán blends living Indigenous heritage with colonial charm. Its strategic location also makes it the main gateway to some of Guatemala's most spectacular natural attractions, including the Biotopo del Quetzal, Semuc Champey, the Lanquín Caves, and numerous waterfalls. Cobán is widely regarded as the gateway to the cloud forests and karst landscapes of northern Guatemala.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – February
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Semuc Champey(Day trip)
- Lanquín Caves(Day trip)
- Biotopo del Quetzal(Day trip)
- Las Conchas Waterfalls(Day trip)
- Grutas del Rey Marcos(Day trip)
- Orquigonia Orchid Reserve(Day trip)
- Vivero Verapaz Orchid Garden
- El Calvario Church
- Cobán Cathedral
- Central Park
- Las Victorias National Park
- Coffee Plantation Tours
- Cardamom Plantation Tours
- Chicoj Coffee Cooperative
- Candelaria Caves National Park(Day trip)
- Balneario Talpetate
- El Calvario Viewpoint
- Cobán Market
- Festival of Rabin Ajaw (July)