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USAC Botanical Garden
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The Botanical Garden of the University of San Carlos (Jardín Botánico de la USAC) is the oldest botanical garden in Central America and a vital scientific institution located in Guatemala City. Founded in 1922 through the initiative of Dr. Julio Rosal, the garden is situated in the capital's Zone 10. It houses an impressive collection of over 800 plant species, primarily representing the vast floral diversity of Guatemala. The site serves not only as a public park but fundamentally as a center for botanical research, university education, and the conservation of threatened species. Visitors can explore various thematic areas, including cactus greenhouses, orchid collections, and ponds featuring aquatic flora. An attached herbarium and a small botanical museum provide in-depth information about the country's unique plant life. As a quiet oasis amidst the bustling metropolis, the garden plays a critical role in raising public environmental awareness and preserving the region's rich biological heritage.
- Location: Guatemala
- Top sights: Avenida Reforma · Da'wah Mosque of Guatemala · Gran Centro Los Próceres
- Nearby: San Cristóbal Verapaz (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 19 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 7 | 12 | 41 | 163 | 225 | 172 | 223 | 243 | 191 | 43 | 8 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The USAC Botanical Garden is open to visitors, typically for a small entrance fee. The grounds are mostly outdoor areas that can be explored comfortably on foot.
Typical hours
Botanical gardens typically open late morning and close early evening. Hours may vary on holidays, so it's wise to check ahead.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the garden for personal use. Commercial shoots or using a tripod typically require prior permission.
Time needed
A relaxed stroll through the garden takes about one to one and a half hours. Those interested in plants can easily spend two hours here.
Combine with
The garden is located on the USAC campus, which is also worth exploring. Nearby are the Museum of Natural History and La Aurora Park.
Getting there
The garden is easily accessible by car or public transport, as it is centrally located in Guatemala City. Parking is usually available on campus.
Insider tip
Visit the garden in the morning when the flowers are at their best and temperatures are still pleasant. Bring insect repellent, as there are many plants and thus insects.
Geography
Facts
- The garden was established in 1922, making it the oldest in Central America.
- It features a documented collection of more than 800 plant species.
- The site is located on Mariscal Cruz Street in Guatemala City's Zone 10.
- It is managed by the Faculty of Chemical Sciences and Pharmacy of USAC.
- The garden maintains a national herbarium used for taxonomic research.
- A significant portion of the collection is dedicated to endemic and endangered Guatemalan flora.
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Sights in the town USAC Botanical Garden (3)
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Frequently asked questions
Who owns the Botanical Garden?
It belongs to the Universidad de San Carlos de Guatemala (USAC).
Where is the garden located?
It is located in Zone 10 of the capital city.
Is the entrance free?
No, there is a small fee for maintenance.
What are the opening hours?
Usually open Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
Are there restrooms there?
Yes, basic restrooms are available for visitors.
USAC Botanical Garden: where is it located?
USAC Botanical Garden is located in Guatemala.
USAC Botanical Garden: what is there to see?
Highlights include Avenida Reforma, Da'wah Mosque of Guatemala, Gran Centro Los Próceres.
USAC Botanical Garden: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
USAC Botanical Garden: why is it worth visiting?
The Botanical Garden of the University of San Carlos (Jardín Botánico de la USAC) is the oldest botanical garden in Central America and a vital scientific institution located in Guatemala City.
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