When to Go

Unlike other parts of Guatemala, Las Verapaces has rainy (May–October) and less-rainy (November–April) seasons, rather than a distinct dry time of year. If you're planning on doing any spelunking (opportunities abound in this region), the drier months offer a more sure-footed hike through the caves.

Cobán's famous Rabin Ahau indigenous festival is held in late July, so make reservations far in advance if you plan to be here during that time. The same is true for Cobán’s other annual celebrations: Holy Week (March or April), which features a variety of religious processions and events; the International Half Marathon (third Sunday in May), which draws runners from all over the world; the Cobán Fair (first week in August), the Guatemalan equivalent of a U.S. county fair; and the Orchid Festival (last week in November).

Las Verapaces makes a good halfway stopping point if you're traveling by road to El Petén, since the region is four to five hours in either direction from Tikal or Guatemala City. Las Verapaces also has good access to the Atlantic coast, and can easily be combined with a visit to that region.