The city of Cobán was founded by the Spanish conquistadors in 1543. Located in Alta Verapaz, Cobán is an agricultural city. Due to its varied geography, the agricultural production is also very varied. Cobán and Alta Verapaz' history is an interesting one. For starters, it's interesting to note that the conquest of this region was completely peaceful, as opposed to many other regions during this time. This was due to the fact that the colonization of the region was left to Fray Bartolomeo de las Casas, and the Dominican monks. Cobán is located in the department of Alta Verapaz, in the northern region of Guatemala. This department has something for everyone who wishes to visit.

Cobán is especially known for its extensive variety of cave fauna. Because of this, it has become a major point of interesting for speleologists. Its forests are also home to the beautiful quetzal, Guatemala's national bird. One of the main drawing attractions of the region is the colonial architecture. Unlike Antigua, Cobán was also colonized by German merchants who established estates to grow the various crops this department offers. Therefore, the architecture was greatly influenced by the German architectural style. Cobán offers many other fascinating sites for the public: The central Cathedral, The Candelaria caves, The Vivero de las Verapaces—famous for its orchids—the iglesia del Calvario, and the Lachúa National Park, among others.

¿How do I get there?

By car: Take highway CA-9 until you reach the Rancho fork, then take the left road (highway CA-14). When you reach the place known as La Cumbre, keep to the right (if you're confused, ask for directions) and continue until you reach Cobán. The trip is approximately three hours and a half.

Visit our Tour Operator´s segment for more information.

¿What can I do in Cobán?

*Enjoy the colonial architecture
* Visit the famous Candelaria Caves
* Visit the Vivero de las Verapaces (Famous for its orchids)
* Enjoy the many ecological attractions
* Visit San Cristóbal Verapaz, Guatemala's best preserved National Park.

¿Did you know…?

*Alta Verapaz is one of Guatemalas biggest agricultural producers
*Alta Verapaz used to include Petén, Belize, and parts of Izabal
*Due to Alta Verapaz' extremely varied geography, the climate is very difficult to predict from region to region
*Alta Verapaz is home to both Guatemala's national flower (the beautiful monja blanca) and to the national bird (the quetzal).
*Alta Verapaz also has large zinc and lead mines in the mountain regions
*Cobán is as old as Antigua Guatemala. They were both founded in 1543

The tourism business center is located at 1a. avenida y 6ta calle 1-06, zona 4. Barrio Santo Tomás. They will gladly provide you with more information.