Hobbitenango: Everything You Should Know Before Visiting
Are you planning your next trip to Guatemala? You should not miss this place, Hobbitenango, a hobbit-themed eco-park elevated high in the mountains near Antigua that gives you the vibe of a fairytale. But not sure whether is it worth it or not. Here you will find all the details about it!
Hobbitenango Park is a must-visit spot for fans of “Lord of the Rings”, eco-conscious travelers, or anyone who loves nature. It’s not just a photogenic spot with stunning volcano views it is an off-the-grid, eco-friendly retreat.
Discover everything before visiting Hobbitenango, from essential tips and must-see attractions to unique experiences and practical advice for a magical stay at this hobbit-themed eco-park in Guatemala.
What is Hobbitenango in Guatemala?
Walking into Hobbitenango feels like you have stepped into a fantasy world! Imagine being surrounded by rich, rolling hills and finding yourself in a magical hobbit village straight out of “The Lord of the Rings” feels awesome right?
The village is designed to make you feel as though you have crossed into a magical realm. As you wander through this charming place you will find beautiful gardens, cozy nooks, and stunning views that look like they belong in a fairy tale.
As you explore, you will notice every corner gives you a new surprise, that makes you feel on top of the world. You will find yourself grinning from ear to ear, clicking photos, and soaking in the playful atmosphere. Hobbitenango, therefore, feels like a little slice of fantasy that leaves you wondering if you have accidentally walked into a storybook.
Where is Hobbitenango?
When you head to Hobbitenango from the center of Antigua Guatemala, you will be in for a scenic treat. It’s about a 20-minute drive through small villages and farms. Hobbitenango located high in the mountains, offers breathtaking views of the town of Antigua and the surrounding peaks.
The elevation is impressive here, standing at 7,800 feet (2,400 meters) above sea level, it truly feels like you are reaching the sky. At this point, you will be surrounded by clouds that float right through the property. Be prepared for unpredictable weather, as conditions can change rapidly!
Opening Hours of Hobbitenango
If you are planning a visit to Hobbitenango go on a weekday as there will be fewer crowds. The place is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Additionally, If you decide to spend the night in one of their cozy cabins, you can check in from 3:00 pm and need to check out by 11:00 am.
For dining, the restaurant serves delicious meals from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays, whereas it is open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm on weekends and holidays. Moreover, if you want to take a drink, the bar is open from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm on weekdays and extends to 7:00 pm on weekends and holidays.
How to Get to Hobbitenango?
Find out the best ways to get to Hobbitenango, including shuttle options, Uber tips, and adventurous alternatives.
By Private Vehicle
If you are feeling adventurous and decide to rent a car in Guatemala, you could drive up to Hobbitenango’s parking lot on your own. There, you can buy your ticket and catch a 4×4 shuttle to the park.
Be aware that the roads from Antigua or Guatemala City are often potholed and unpaved. This type of driving is likely against your rental car contract, so it might be best to choose another option.
By Shuttle
To reach Hobbitenango, catch the shuttle as it is provided by the park. It departs from the office at 3a Avenida Norte #20A in downtown Antigua from 8 am – 4 pm with 2 hours of gaps and while returning from 9 am – 5 pm with 2 hours of gap daily. Try to arrive 15 minutes early to secure your spot, as the shuttle arrives on time.
The ride itself is quite an adventure. The shuttle, a rugged 4×4 truck with seating in the back and benches in the bed navigates the steep, bumpy mountain roads to Hobbitenango. You will enjoy an exciting journey with the Guatemalan jungle rushing past you. At Q45 (about $7) per person for a roundtrip, it is a convenient and budget-friendly option for you.
By Uber
Uber is also a good option in Guatemala and offers a reliable and affordable service. A ride from Antigua to Hobbitenango should cost around Q30-60 but be prepared to pay more about Q100 (or $13) one-way, because of the challenging, remote roads.
Remember that Ubers will drop you off at a parking lot. From there, you will need to buy your ticket and catch a complimentary 4×4 shuttle to complete the journey up the mountain.
By ATV Tours
If you looking for a thrilling adventure, consider one of the ATV tours that take you through the mountains and jungle around Antigua before reaching Hobbitenango. These tours offer a high-energy ride and give you about an hour in the park to enjoy the stunning sunset.
How much does Hobbitenango cost?
For a day trip to Hobbitenango, you have to pay Q50 ($6.5) per adult and Q30 ($3.86) per child (ages 4-10) during the week. This fee covers transportation from the parking lot to the park entrance, access to all the games like archery and axe throwing, unlimited turns on the giant swing, and exploration of the viewpoints and trails.
On weekends, your ticket includes a buffet. Breakfast is available from 8 AM to 12 PM for Q149 ($19.21) per adult and Q69 ($8.89) per child, while lunch is served from 12:30 PM to 5 PM for Q184 ($ 23.73) per adult and Q79($10.18) per child.
Things to do at Hobbitenango
Discover the top activities at Hobbitenango, from giant swings and mini golf to archery, axe throwing, and scenic hikes. Explore unique attractions and fun experiences that make this eco-park a must-visit destination.
1. Mini Golf
One of the highlights at Hobbitenango is mini golf, which features seven challenging holes set amidst the stunning mountain landscape. This isn’t your usual mini golf expect to navigate through bridges, ramps, tunnels, and even a dragon, adding a fun and adventurous twist to the game.
You can rent a golf club and ball for Q25 (about $3.00) per person, and play as much as you like. If you are curious about your progress, a scorecard is available. The mini golf course is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
2. Giant Swing
One of the thrilling activities at Hobbitenango is the giant swing that hangs from a tree over a cliff soaring up to 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) above sea level. To take the plunge, you will be strapped into a harness. But to enjoy this ride you need to weigh under 200 pounds for safety reasons.
It’s a thrill-seeker’s ride, with your legs dangling as you swing over breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and even volcanoes. If you are eager to try the swing, get there early. In the morning there were fewer crowds of the attendants so you might get extra swings.
3. Axe Throwing
If you are looking to release some stress, give it a try at axe throwing in Hobbitenango. It’s a fun activity suitable for all ages. There are two axe-throwing zones at Hobbitenango one by the park entrance and another near the restaurant. You can rent an axe for Q10 (about $1.00) for 10 throws, or go for Q25 (around $3.00) for unlimited throws. Have a blast!
4. Trails
Hobbitenango offers three official hiking trails and several unofficial paths that roam through the park. Additionally you can easily spend an hour exploring these winding routes and staircases, soaking up the stunning vistas as you go.
5. Photo Stops
One of Hobbitenango’s most iconic features is the giant stone hand, that reaches out over a valley filled with lush green fields and the stunning mountains and volcanoes of Guatemala. Consequently, this spot is perfect for capturing photos and videos, as are several other stunning locations around the park!
If you are looking for something special, you can book El Nido, a private platform that’s usually open to the public. For $50 per person, you can enjoy two hours here. Moreover, it’s a wonderfully romantic setup, decorated beautifully, making it ideal for a memorable experience.
6. Archery
If you love to play archery you can play at Hobbitenango. There are two archery spots: one by the park entrance and another close to the mini golf course. You can rent a bow and arrows for Q10 (about $1.00) for 10 shots or go for Q25 (around $3.00) for unlimited shots.
7. Carnival games
There are various carnival games, such as ball toss and bean bag toss. These fun activities are perfect for families traveling with kids, offering plenty of entertainment for little ones as you explore Hobbitenango.
Staying at Hobbitenango
As you drive up to Hobbitenango, you will be rewarded with stunning views and two charming cottages located on the grassy hillside, with their colorful, round, doorways standing out. Check-in is from 1 PM to 5 PM, but you can arrive earlier and leave your bags in the reception storage.
Guatemala Hobbit Houses
Hobbitenango offers three hobbit-style rooms, known as Hobbitenango Casitas are La Casita del Sueño, La Cala Esmeralda, and La Casita del Nido. All cottages have those iconic rounded Hobbit doorways and spectacular views of the surrounding volcanoes.
1. La Cala Esmeralda
- Accommodates 6 guests
- Queen-sized bed and two sofa beds
- One bathroom
- A rooftop terrace
2. La Casita del Sueño (Little House of Sound)
- Accommodates 2 guests perfect for couples
- A fire stove steam room
- Fireplace
- Queen-sized bed
3. La Casita del Nido (Little Nest House)
- Accommodates 4 guests perfect for family
- Fireplace
- Fire stove steam room
- Queen-sized bed and double bed
Food at Hobbitenango
Hobbitenango has two charming restaurants. The main restaurant, situated near the park entrance, offers a delightful buffet on weekends and holidays. For breakfast, the buffet is Q129 ($17.00) per person and runs from 8:00 am. to noon, while lunch is Q169 ($22.00) per person from 12:30 pm. to 5:00 pm.
The buffet features a wide range of dishes, including pancakes, sausages, eggs, beans, soups, salads, pasta, meat, desserts, vegetables, and more. You can also enjoy drinks like tea, coffee, soda, juice, beer, wine, or cocktails.
Hotels Near Hobbitenango
5-star hotels:
- Hotel Casa Santo Domingo
- Camino Real Antigua Guatemala
- Hotel boutique Casa Santa Ines
4-star hotels:
3-star hotels:
- El Meson de Maria
- Casa Santa Rosa Hotel Boutique
- Hostel Selina Antigua
- Villa Las Mil Flores
Tips for Visiting Hobbitenango
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the park.
- Consider staying the night to make the most of your visit.
- Bring layers and comfortable shoes to stay prepared for changing weather and terrain.
- Give yourself time to adapt to the altitude before engaging in activities.
- Book popular activities in advance to secure your spot and avoid long waits.
- The views and activities can be influenced by the weather, so check the forecast before you go and be ready for quick changes.
- Follow park rules, stay on marked trails, and be mindful of the natural surroundings. By doing so, you will help preserve the beauty of Hobbitenango and ensure that future visitors can enjoy it as much as you do.
After enjoying the wonders of Hobbitenango, you might want to explore more of Guatemala. Consequently, Flores is a fantastic destination you can explore in Guatemala. For more details visit here.
FAQs
Where is the hand in Guatemala?
Where is the giant hand in Guatemala? The iconic giant stone hand is located within the Hobbitenango park (right near the entrance). It’s one of the most amazing spots for taking photos of Antigua and the surrounding volcanos.
Is Guatemala a part of India?
Guatemala, officially the Republic of Guatemala, is a country in Central America. It is bordered to the north and west by Mexico, to the northeast by Belize, to the east by Honduras, and to the southeast by El Salvador.
Is Guatemala in Mexico or Spain?
Guatemala is located in Central America. It sits south of Mexico and northwest of El Salvador and Honduras. This country is alive with bustling cities, crossed by soaring mountains, covered by thick jungles, and rich with agriculture.