Monterrico brings together dark volcanic sand at Playa de Monterrico, lagoons, mangroves and turtle conservation. Boat trips and the opportunity to take part in turtle releases offer different focuses for your trip.

Beach and Waterways

Playa de Monterrico on Guatemala’s Pacific coast has dark volcanic sand. Boat trips through estuaries and vegetation-lined channels are offered in Monterrico’s lagoons and mangroves. During the trips, visitors can observe birds, reptiles and other animals of Guatemala’s Pacific coastal ecosystem.

This brings together two distinct attractions: the dark beach and wildlife watching on the waterways. If you are considering what you want your trip to be defined by, Monterrico can be experienced both through its coastal landscape and its boat trips.

Turtle Hatchery and Releases

The Reserva Natural de Usos Múltiples Monterrico has a turtle hatchery that meets the specific requirements for incubating Parlama eggs. Visitors can take part in turtle releases in the protected area for a fee of Q.10.00 per turtle released. The proceeds make it possible to purchase more eggs from Parlama egg collectors.

The hatchery and releases represent two distinct aspects of turtle conservation: incubating eggs and taking part in a release. Check the latest details about participation and the fee before visiting.

Consider which focus matters most to your travel plans.

A Cultural Perspective in Santa Rosa

In Santa Rosa, the Puente de Los Esclavos is located in Cuilapa. The bridge, built of dressed stone, is 75 meters long and two meters wide, with eleven arches. In oral tradition, it is linked to five centuries of history and the community’s resilience.

According to tradition, the legend originated during the Spanish colonization of the Americas and the enslavement of the Xinka people. It tells of an old man who made a pact with the devil so that the bridge would be built in a single night. For the community, the bridge also symbolizes the spiritual transition to the “New Faith.”

The community brings the story to life each year through the Zarabanda. It includes music, dances and colorful clothing; the tradition connects faith, identity and cultural heritage. If you are planning a trip around the Zarabanda, check the specific dates in advance.

The descendants of the old man in the legend maintain their own religious and cultural expressions, especially during Día de la Luz de la Candelaria. These traditions and the bridge offer a cultural perspective on Santa Rosa alongside Monterrico’s beaches, waterways and turtle-related attractions.

Discover more destinations: Chiquimulilla, Las Lisas, Tecuamburro, Cuilapa, Taxisco, El Hawaii.

Back to the main travel guide: Santa Rosa.