Audio Guide of the Rio Dulce Bridge

The bridge is a vital public roadway (part of the CA-13 highway), so it is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You can cross it by vehicle or walk along its pedestrian sidewalks at any time to admire the scenery.

Access is completely free for both pedestrians and vehicles, since there is no toll booth on this stretch. It is one of the best free viewpoints in the region for observing the lake and the river from above.

If you only plan to cross it, it will take just a couple of minutes by vehicle. However, we recommend setting aside 15 to 20 minutes to walk at a relaxed pace, feel the breeze, and take panoramic photos of the Rio Dulce.

Opened in 1980, it is an impressive engineering work more than 800 meters long that connects the department of Petén with the rest of the country. It is an economic and tourist icon that offers a privileged view of where Lake Izabal meets the river.

Without a doubt, sunset is the magical moment, when the sun sets over Lake Izabal, painting the sky in shades of orange and violet. Early morning also offers a spectacular view, with mist over the water and less traffic.

Although it has pedestrian sidewalks, they can be narrow, and access to the bridge has a steep incline, which makes it difficult for wheelchairs to pass without assistance. Caution is recommended because of the nearby vehicle traffic.

From the bridge itself, you can spot speedboats and yachts, and very nearby is the historic San Felipe de Lara Castle. In addition, just below and at both ends of the bridge, you will find docks where you can begin tours to Livingston.

Never park your vehicle on the bridge; leave it in the parking areas of the nearby restaurants in Fronteras or El Relleno and walk up. Always stay on the pedestrian sidewalk and keep a close hold on children, as this is a highway with heavy traffic.