El Baúl
El Baúl is a Mayan site that’s part of the Cotzumalhuapa archaeological zone in Guatemala. El Baúl has a sampling of pre-Columbian artifacts on display, including massive stone heads, altars, and stelae. The stelae here have some of the earliest-known inscriptions in all of Mesoamerica.
Like other Mayan sites, El Baúl presents travelers with a fascinating look into the Mayan past. It’s not a huge site, but it does merit a quick look. During the Late Classic Mayan period, Cotzumalhuapa was a major city that extended over 4 square miles (10 square km). El Baúl, Bilbao and El Castillo were the city’s three major compounds.
Within the Cotzumalhuapa archaeological zone, more than 200 structures and 187 monuments have been found. El Baúl is one of the most important sites. El Baúl is located 31 miles (50 km) from the Pacific Ocean. The site has several Mayan artifacts, including a stela that shows one of the earliest Long Count dates (the Long Count was an ancient Mesoamerican calendar). Other objects here include massive stone heads, altars, pillars, and animal sculptures. In some cases, the stelae depict complex scenes of human figures interacting with supernatural beings. Sacrificial scenes are also present.
Where to stay in El Baúl
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every El Baúl accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Hotel Tolimán
This hotel lies near one of the most beautiful lakes in Guatemala. Its swimming pool, restaurant, and hammocks wait for you just off the shores of Lake Atitlán.
Casa Encantada
This resort is a boutique hotel in La Antigua, Guatemala. This lovely hotel is small and offers guests an intimate experience.
Posada del Angel
A beautiful boutique hotel in La Antigua, Guatemala. The hotel combines luxury accommodations with cultural authenticity and a tranquil atmosphere. It is undoubtedly one of the city’s best hotels.
Camino Real Antigua
The Hotel is located near the center of La Antigua. This hotel has comfortable accommodations and a pleasant colonial feel.
Hotel Las Farolas
Hotel Las Farolas, nestled in the heart of Antigua Guatemala, offers elegant accommodation with scenic garden views. The colonial‑style rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as plasma cable TV, free Wi‑Fi, and a safe, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Mesón Panza Verde
A beautiful boutique hotel in the heart of La Antigua. From the bedrooms to the courtyard to the restaurant, this small hotel is utterly charming.
Posada de Don Rodrigo Antigua
Set within a restored colonial home, This hotel has inviting rooms and a pleasant atmosphere. It is located just a few blocks from the central park of La Antigua, Guatemala.
Pensativo House Hotel
The hotel is located in downtown Antigua. This luxurious boutique hotel incorporates colonial style with modern conveniences.
Hotel Villa Colonial
This hotel is located in Antigua. It is set on the outskirts of Antigua and has lovely grounds.
Porta Hotel Antigua
The hotel is conveniently located three blocks from the central park in La Antigua, Guatemala. It has luxurious rooms, an international restaurant, and a charming atmosphere.
Hotel Casa del Parque
A small hotel located in the heart of Antigua. The hotel has fifteen clean and comfortable rooms.
Hotel La Catedral
This hotel is a small boutique hotel in Antigua. It is centrally located and has eight well-equipped rooms.
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Insider-led Guatemala Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
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