Cobán

Sitting at more than 1,320m above sea level, the mountain air and coffee aroma of Alta Verapaz’s capital city lure you into a world of misty forests and Mayan culture. A small, laid-back town, Cobán has many surprises in store for those who have a thirst for unexplored terrain and ancient civilizations.

Founded by a friar, Bartolomé de las Casas, the town voluntarily converted to Christianity thanks to the friar’s approach towards the natives. Previously named ‘Tierra de Guerra’ (Land of War) due to the resistance met by the Spanish conquistadors, the region was then renamed ‘Verapaz’ (true peace). When a local chief, Juan Matalbatz, refused to kneel before the Spanish Emperor Carlos V, he was brought before the king, to whom he said, ‘A king should not bow before another king.’ Cobán was then given the prestigious title as ‘the Imperial City’ in 1538. Since then, Cobán plays a significant role not only in the Verapaz region, but also in the country.

As a major gateway into the region’s natural wonders, Cobán is moving forward in the eco-tourism industry. From canopying to rafting, the adventure seekers will find endless opportunities to get off the tourist trail. Set in a treasure trove of untouched reserves, it is within proximity to remote Mayan tribal villages and famous sites like Lanquín and Semuc Champey. With good infrastructure, Cobán serves as an excellent base to recharge and obtain information about the region. A few kilometers away is the Biotopo El Quetzal, one of the few places in the country to spot the rare quetzal bird. The turquoise waters of Laguna Lachuá and the mystifying Candelária caves are also within a few hours’ ride from Cobán.

With a population of 65,000 inhabitants, this town is relatively prosperous and optimistic. Generating most of its income from producing and exporting coffee and cardamom, Cobán owes its success to the favorable weather conditions. The early 19th century saw major migration of German coffee-planters trying to reap profits from the export industry. When World War II struck, the U.S. government coerced Guatemala into deporting the Germans back to their country. These days, German influence is still evident in Cobán and its surrounding villages.

Compared to the rest of Guatemala, this region puts more emphasis on the preservation of the Mayan heritage. Many women in Cobán still dress in their distinct huipils and most residents speak Q’eqchi as their first language. Although most Cobaneros can also speak Spanish, the Mayan descendants from some surrounding villages are only fluent in their native dialect. Visit these rural communities to get a taste of the past and how it connects to their present.

These days, Cobán’s wide choices of authentic restaurants and country-style hotels make visiting it a comfortable and insightful encounter. Dining in Casa D’Acuña and El Peñascal can be a unique gastronomic experience. Don’t forget to sample the town’s specialties like kak-ik and tiú to tease your taste buds.

Neighborhoods in Cobán: Tactic, Balneario Las Islas, San Pedro Carchá, Sachichaj Waterfalls, San Cristóbal Verapaz, Grutas Rey Marcos, San Juan Chamelco,

Other places nearby Cobán: Salamá, San Rafael Chilascó, Biotopo De Quetzal, Cubulco, Playa Grande, Purulhá and the Corredor Biológico del Bosque Nuboso, Rabinal, Cancuén, Río Ikbolay and San Jerónimo.