Boat Tour from Rio Dulce to Livingston, Guatemala

AnaMarija Mishachkovska 25 Aug 2022 Last updated: 5 Apr 2025 3 min read No comments


The only way to get from Rio Dulce to Livingston is by boat! Read here how to get to Livingston without hassle.

Livingston is a town on the Caribbean coast of Guatemala, and there are no roads connecting it to the rest of the planet!

Its fascinating past, mysterious location, and fantastic food make it a prime destination for travelers who want to be surrounded by nature!

This small town is a gem of tranquility where visitors can soak up the natural beauty and unique culture. 

For many visitors, Livingston’s attraction is found in the town’s unique cultural heritage, offbeat Caribbean vibe, and proximity to some of the area’s most scenic and evocative destinations.

The local population is predominantly Garifuna, meaning Livingston has its cuisine distinct from the rest of the country! So, while you’re there, you can’t miss out on the delicious Seafood Stew known as Tapado!

How to get there?

Livingston can only be reached by boat, which travels through the Rio Dulce River.

You can travel on Guatemala’s Caribbean coast and arrive in an hour by passing through a conservation area with many species, vegetation, and steep rock walls.

So, it’s a relatively short but exciting boat trip down the Rio Dulce River!

As you get closer to Livingston, the river becomes even more narrow but offers fantastic views and an experience like no other!

The boat trip from Rio Dulce to Livingston is unquestionably among this region’s favorite things to do!

Plus, one ticket is very affordable and costs only USD 26!

The boat departs from Cafe Colifato in Rรญo Dulce, and you will arrive at Hotel Casa Rosada in Livingston!

This company offers two boat trips daily, so make sure you book your trip from Rio Dulce to Livingston on time!

Boat Tour Schedule:

DEPETADURPX
02:30pm03:30pm1h$26

The Boat Trip

The trip is one of Central America’s most breathtaking boat trips! This scenic trip starts from Rio Dulce, which means sweet river, and is the name of the river and this small town!

It’s a spectacular boat ride, where limestone walls tower up to 100 meters high, and tropical jungle covers the canyon’s walls. There are no words to capture the feeling and describe the views well enough, so you must see them yourself!

Once you get on the small boat, the first part you see is a narrow river path with several side arms. There is even the possibility of seeing manatees if you are lucky. 

The trip will take you past the Castillo San Felipe Lara, a former fortress dating back to the 17th century that is now a bird island populated with numerous herons and water birds, water lilies, small communities, and a few eco-lodges.

Before you reach the Caribbean coast, the last section consists of long, steep rock walls surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The local fishermen also unload their huge nets in fascinating ways from boats and canoes all around you!

In about 1 hour, you will arrive at Livingston Harbor, where hundreds of pelicans will warmly welcome you from their homes in the abandoned boats!

Best day tours in Livingston

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. Itโ€™s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get there by car?

No, getting there by car is impossible. No roads are connected to Livingston, so it can only be reached by boat.

How much does the boat cost?

The price of one ticket from Rio Dulce to Livingston is USD 26.

Where is Rio Dulce?

Located in the department of Izabal, Rio Dulce is both a river and a small town. Several lakes and rivers in the area are trendy destinations for sailing sailboats.

This article was last fact-checked by Jean Nรกjera on

5 Apr 2025

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