Santo Tomas de Castilla, Guatemala

A top attraction is the Quirigua Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site located about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from the port. This ancient Mayan city is famous for its collection of intricately carved and remarkably preserved stelae, which are the tallest stone monuments in the Mayan world.

For nature lovers, the Las Escobas Trails offer a perfect nearby escape. Just a short drive from the port, this lush nature reserve features well-maintained trails leading to beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes, providing a refreshing taste of Guatemala's rainforest.

An excursion on the Rio Dulce (Sweet River) is another must-do. These boat tours navigate through a dramatic, steep-walled gorge and often include a stop at the colonial-era Castle of San Felipe de Lara, built to defend against pirates.

One of the most popular nearby destinations is the town of Livingston, located on the coast where the Rio Dulce meets the Caribbean Sea. Reachable only by boat, this town is known for its unique Garifuna culture, a vibrant mix of African and indigenous heritages. The boat trip itself is a scenic adventure.

Another key destination is the area around the Rio Dulce itself, approximately a 60-90 minute drive from the port. This region includes the town of Fronteras and offers boat tours through a spectacular jungle-lined canyon, visits to the historic Castle of San Felipe de Lara, and opportunities to see local wildlife.

Cruise ships dock directly at a pier in Santo Tomas de Castilla, so no tendering is required. The port is a large, primarily industrial and commercial facility, but it has a dedicated and secure cruise passenger area.

This cruise terminal is self-contained and located away from any significant town center. Therefore, walking to attractions or a downtown area is not feasible. Transportation is necessary to explore anywhere beyond the immediate port.

Fortunately, the port itself is well-equipped with a large artisan and craft market, restrooms, a cafe, and dispatch areas for pre-booked shore excursions and certified taxis, ensuring passengers have everything they need upon arrival.

The official currency of Guatemala is the Quetzal (GTQ). While the Quetzal is the legal tender, US dollars are widely accepted in the cruise port's market and by most shore excursion operators, especially for larger purchases. It's always best to carry small US bills for easier transactions.

ATMs dispensing Quetzals are available within the secure cruise terminal area. Credit cards are accepted by some of the larger vendors in the port market, but many smaller stalls and local businesses outside the port will be cash-only. It's wise to inform your bank of your travel plans before using your card abroad.

The cruise port area in Santo Tomas de Castilla is secure and considered very safe for passengers. Within this gated complex, you can feel comfortable shopping and arranging tours.

When traveling outside the port, it is strongly recommended to go on organized shore excursions booked through the cruise line or a reputable local operator. Independent travel can be challenging due to road conditions and security concerns in some rural areas. Avoid traveling alone, especially in remote locations.

As in any tourist destination, practice general caution. Do not display large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded markets or towns.

Santo Tomas de Castilla has a tropical rainforest climate, meaning it is typically hot and humid throughout the year. The main cruise season, from November through April, aligns with the region's drier season, offering the most pleasant weather for exploring.

During these months, expect average daily temperatures to range from the mid-70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (24-33°C). While it is the drier season, brief tropical showers can occur at any time, so packing a light rain jacket or umbrella is always a good idea.

It is essential to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and strong insect repellent. The official hurricane season for the Caribbean runs from June to November, which is mostly outside the peak cruise season for this port.

Transportation options from the cruise port are primarily focused on organized tours and taxis. Upon disembarking, you will find a large, organized dispatch area for shore excursions and a fleet of certified taxis.

There is no public bus service or ride-sharing like Uber operating directly from the port area that is practical for tourists. For safety and efficiency, it is highly recommended to use the official taxis or book a tour.

Since major attractions like the Mayan ruins of Quirigua or the scenic Rio Dulce are located a significant distance away, booking transportation for the day is essential. Negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey if you choose to explore independently.

The best and most convenient shopping is located directly within the port's cruise terminal. Here you'll find a large, covered market hall filled with dozens of vendors selling a wide variety of local goods.

Look for Guatemalan specialties such as high-quality jade jewelry, colorful hand-woven textiles like scarves and blankets, intricate wooden masks, leather goods, and world-renowned Guatemalan coffee. These items make for excellent and authentic souvenirs.

Haggling is common and expected in the market, so feel free to negotiate prices politely. Most vendors accept US dollars, and some larger shops may take credit cards, but having small bills in cash is always advantageous.