
1 / 10Artisanal Leather Boots Town + Antigua Guatemala Shore Excursion
About this activity
Combine artisanal leather shopping in the mountain village of Pastores with a UNESCO-listed colonial city tour in Antigua Guatemala on this curated 7.5-hour shore excursion from Puerto Quetzal. Experience centuries-old boot-making traditions and explore baroque architecture in one of Central America's best-preserved historic towns.
Explore the renowned leather craftsmanship of Pastores on this full-day excursion from Puerto Quetzal! Departing from the cruise port, immerse yourself in the artisanal charm of Pastores, where skilled craftsmen create high-quality leather boots and goods. Delight in a shopping spree at various leather shops, offering a wide array of products from classic boots to exotic leather items like snake or alligator skin. Afterward, journey to Antigua to discover its iconic landmarks such as Central Park, the Santa Catalina Arch, and the Merced Church. It's a day filled with culture, history, and the finest leather goods, ensuring an unforgettable experience for cruise passengers!
Highlights
- ✓Visit master leather craftspeople in Pastores, famous for hand-stitched boots and exotic-skin goods
- ✓Browse and shop directly at local leather workshops with traditional techniques
- ✓Explore Antigua's Central Park and iconic Santa Catalina Arch
- ✓Tour the ornate Merced Church with its distinctive colonial façade
- ✓Scenic mountain drive through Guatemalan highlands
Insider tips
- ★Arrive at leather shops early to watch artisans at work before crowds; many close or slow production by early afternoon
- ★Negotiate prices respectfully at smaller workshops—listed prices are often starting points
- ★Bring small USD bills for tips and smaller purchases; not all vendors accept cards
- ★Wear comfortable walking shoes for Antigua's uneven cobblestone streets and steep hills
Good to know
- •Cruise port pickup and drop-off included; confirm departure time with your ship 24 hours ahead
- •High altitude (Pastores ~2,300m) may cause mild breathlessness; drink water throughout the day
- •Antiguahas limited disabled access due to colonial-era cobblestones and narrow streets
- •Light layers recommended; mountain temperatures can drop significantly from lowland ports
- •Bring sunscreen and hat; limited shade in outdoor plazas and market areas
Who it's for
Best time to visit
Early morning departure maximizes daylight and allows time to see artisans working. Dry season (November–April) offers the clearest mountain views and most stable road conditions; avoid rainy afternoons (May–October).











