Puerto Quetzal Cruise Port
The Puerto Quetzal Cruise Port is the largest Pacific Ocean port in Guatemala. The city itself isn’t much of a destination, but if you're traveling along the coast by cruise ship, this will be your entry point to Guatemala’s most popular destinations, including the romantic, UNESCO-listed city of Antigua.
The Basics
Cruise passengers disembarking at Puerto Quetzal have many shore excursions to choose from. Most full-day tours head to colonial Antigua to visit the historic city’s most famous highlights, such as La Merced Church, the Santa Catalina Arch, and the Jade Factory. Some tours also include a stop at a coffee plantation, a chocolate factory, or the Kawilal Hot Springs, a sprawling complex that includes thermal pools, steam baths, and spa services.
Things To Know Before You Go
There's a crafts market at the terminal where you can pick up trinkets.
Most shore excursion tours include pickup and drop-off, as well as lunch.
Make sure your tour to Antigua includes round-trip transportation; it can be difficult to find an affordable way to get there on your own.
How To Get To Antigua From the Puerto Quetzal Cruise Port
The city of Antigua is located about 50 miles (85 kilometers) north of Puerto Quetzal, past lush coffee plantations and volcanic peaks. Taxis and shuttles are available, but your best bet for making the scenic 1.5-hour drive is to book a shore excursion that includes pickup and drop-off.
Port Information
Spanish is the official language of Guatemala, though tourist areas can often accommodate English speakers. Guatemala’s currency is the quetzal. In most large cities, the US dollar and credit cards are also widely accepted. If possible, you should carry small bills and change, as vendors often can’t break larger bills.
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