Timing

Few Guatemala first-timers venture to this part of the country, but you can do justice to the Atlantic lowlands' highlights in four or five days. A trip on Río Dulce (the river) and Lago Izabal with a chance to explore its endpoints, Río Dulce (the town) and Livingston, warrants a couple of days. Although many visitors do Copán as a one-day, cross-border jaunt, a two- or three-day visit is more relaxed. This region fits in nicely with a visit to Las Verapaces or El Petén. Either can be reached easily without heading back to Guatemala City.