The city of Puerto Barrios is located in eastern Guatemala, capital of Izabal Department, on the Bay of Amatique (an arm of the Caribbean Sea). It is the leading port of Guatemala and the northern terminus of the railroad from the capital. Puerto Barrios lies near an area of extensive banana plantations, bananas, coffee, fruits and tropical woods. It is known for its beaches and fishing facilities.
From Puerto Barrios you can visit the Mayan site of Quirigua, with its six huge stelae (ornately carved standing stones) and acropolis all set in a jungle clearing. Or you can fly to the the largest Mayan site, Tikal in the northern lowlands, where some 3,000 structures, including tall temple pyramids as well as plazas and monuments, cover an area of about 15.5 sq km (6 sq miles). It is also possible to visit Copan, a ceremonial centre of the Old Empire of the Maya.
Things to see and do
* Quirigua
* Tikal
* Swimming and snorkeling
* Tres Puntas beaches
Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Quetzal (GTQ) & US dollar (USD)
Language – Spanish, Quiche, Cakchiquel
Population – 40,000
Electricity – 2 perpendicular flat pins USA style or with a round pin below, 2 vertical Square pins and one perpendicular below British style, Australian-style plug with two flat angled blades and one vertical grounding blade
Time – GMT minus six hours
International Country Telephone Code – 502
Transport Links – Major international airlines fly into Guatemala City and Flores passing through LA, Miami, Houston, Mexico city and Dallas / Fort Worth. Buses and trains are available but pass through Mexico. You can also reach Punta Gorda in Belize by boat from Puerto Barrios.
Buses, rental cars and taxis are available for getting around Port Barrios.