6 min reading time
Editorial Travelisimo
Wed May 03 2023
6 min reading time
Wed May 03 2023
The Caribbean and the Garífuna culture in Guatemala
The Caribbean of Guatemala, also known as the “Green Caribbean”, is one of the most beautiful and picturesque regions of the country, it is a true gem, known for its beaches, rich culture, impressive biodiversity and delicious gastronomy.
In this blog, we will explore all that the Caribbean has to offer in this country and how you can make the most of your time in this beautiful region. Are you ready? Let's start!
Credits: Izabal, Guatemala
The jewel of the Caribbean in Guatemala: Izabal
Izabal is a department located on the east coast of Guatemala, which is part of the Guatemalan Caribbean. It is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, mangroves, and rainforests, as well as its rich Garifuna history and culture.
The beaches in Izabal are distinguished by their crystal clear waters. Some of the most popular are Livingston, Playa Blanca and Punta de Manabique. However, if you are already in the region you can also visit the Río Dulce National Park, the Castillo de San Felipe, Siete Altares, Biotopo Chocón Machacas and Sendero Las Escobas.
Credits: Castillo de San Felipe, Izabal
Livingston, Izabal
Livingston is a small coastal town in Izabal, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Guatemalan Caribbean. It is known for its white sand beaches and its vibrant Garífuna culture. It is an ideal place to enjoy the beach, taste the delicious Caribbean gastronomy, experience Garífuna music and dance.
Playa Blanca
Located in Izabal, Playa Blanca is a beach with white sand and crystal clear waters that is famous for being one of the most beautiful in the country. The beach is surrounded by coconut palms and has a host of tourist services to enjoy a full day in the sun.
Punta de Manabique
On the coast of Izabal, Punta de Manabique is a protected area that has an impressive marine and terrestrial biodiversity. The beach is perfect for enjoying water sports and outdoor activities. Are you ready to visit this destination?
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Credits: BBC News
Garifuna history and culture
Garífuna culture is an integral part of Izabal and the Guatemalan Caribbean. It is an Afro-descendant community that has maintained its unique traditions, such as music, dance and gastronomy, throughout the centuries.
The Garífuna presence in Central America is concentrated in Honduras, particularly along its Caribbean coast. The arrival of the Garífunas in Honduras occurred at the end of the 18th century when the British decided to deport the members of this community from San Vicente to the island of Roatán. From Roatán, many of them went to the mainland and spread throughout the Central American region.
According to the BBC, the global population of the Garífuna is about 600,000 people and most are in Honduras and Belize, although they are also found in parts of Guatemala and Nicaragua. Today, there is a significant Garífuna population in Guatemala, especially in the coastal regions of Livingston, Puerto Barrios, and Santo Tomás de Castilla.
Credits: Junta de Turismo de Belice
Music and dance are key elements of this culture. The main rhythm is the punta, which is played with drums, maracas and an empty glass bottle that is rubbed with a stick to create a particular sound. Garífuna food is another important aspect of their culture. A popular dish is tapado, a fish and shellfish stew. Garifuna food also includes rice and beans with shrimp.
Garífuna crafts are another important part of their culture. The Garifuna are known for their cotton and linen fabrics, which are woven into colorful patterns and used to make clothing and accessories such as bags and blankets. They are also known for their wood carving, which is used to make animal figures and utilitarian objects such as plates and bowls.
Fortunately, the Garífuna culture remains a vibrant and vital part of Guatemalan society. The Garifuna continue to uphold their cultural traditions and practices, and have created organizations and community groups to promote their culture.
Are you ready to visit the Guatemalan Caribbean and learn more about the Garífuna culture? Plan your trip with Travelisimo now and discover the best that Guatemala has to offer.