People & Culture

 Izabal is home to a unique blend of cultures, people, and traditions.  Quite unlike anywhere else in Guatemala, the Caribbean atmosphere and relative isolation from the rest of the country creates a relaxed local culture and lots of friendly smiles.  The two major cultures in Izabal are the Q’eqchi Maya and the Garifuna, although there are also plenty of Ladinos and a few international travelers and expats. 

The Afro-Caribbean Garifuna people trace their roots back to trace their roots to the Caribbean island of St. Vincent, where shipwrecked African slaves mixed with the indigenous Carib in the 17th century.  The Garifuna people can be found along the coast in Honduras, Guatemala, and Belize, and have their own language which is a blend of Caribbean and African dialects with some French and Spanish thrown in for good measure.  They take great pride in celebrating their cultural heritage, and national Garifuna day in November is not to be missed.  While staying in Livingston, you can experience Garifuna culture by taking cooking or drumming classes, buying coconut bread from local vendors, or visiting the local disco.  

The Q’eqchi are indigenous Mayans who have lived in the Izabal area for thousands of years.  Many of them still wear traditional dress, speak the Q’eqchi language, and maintain traditional ways of life.  As you cruise along the Rio Dulce, you will probably see several of them fishing out of cayucas, which are traditional dugout canoes.  If you have the opportunity to visit a community and stay overnight with them, you will get a chance to truly experience and understand their culture.