Sights in Cobán & Central Guatemala
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Vivero Verapaz
Orchid lovers mustn't miss the chance to see the many thousands of species at this famous nursery, Vivero Verapaz. The rare monja blanca (white nun orchid), Guatemala's national flower, can be seen here; there are also hundreds of species of miniature orchids, so small that you'll need the magnifying glass they will loan you to see them. Visits are by guided tour.
The national orchid show is held here each December, and by all accounts, it's spectacular. Otherwise, try to visit between October and February, when many flowers are in bloom. Vivero Verapaz is about 2km from the town center - a 30-minute walk southwest from the plaza. You can hire a taxi for around US$2.
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Finca Santa Margarita
A working coffee farm, Finca Santa Margarita offers stellar guided tours. From propagation and planting to roasting and exporting, the 45-minute tour will tell you all you ever wanted to know about these powerful beans. At tour's end, you're treated to a cup of coffee and can purchase beans straight from the roaster for around US$3 to around US$6 per pound (0.45kg). The talented guide speaks English and Spanish.
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Parque Nacional Las Victorias
The forested 0.82-sq-km Parque Nacional Las Victorias, a national park right in town, has ponds, barbecue, picnic areas, children's play areas, a lookout point and kilometers of trails. Camping is available too. Facilities include water and toilets but no showers. The entrance is near the corner of 9a Av and 3a Calle, Zona 1. Beware: readers have reported violent crime here. Consider hiking in a group.
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Templo El Calvario
You can get a fine view over the town from the Templo El Calvario, a church atop a long flight of stairs at the north end of 7a Av. Indigenous people leave offerings at outdoor shrines and crosses in front of the church. Don't linger here after 16:00!
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Ermita de Santo Domingo de Guzmán
The Ermita de Santo Domingo de Guzmán, a chapel dedicated to Cobán's patron saint, is 150m west of the bottom of the stairs leading to the Templo El Calvario (the stairs are at the north end of 7a Av).
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Museo El Príncipe Maya
The private Museo El Príncipe Maya features a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, with an emphasis on jewelry, other body adornments and pottery. The displays are well designed and maintained.
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