The IRTRA (Instituto de Recreacion de los Trabajadores de la Empresa Privada del Sector Privado de Guatemala) operates some of the best recreation facilities in Central America, and access is free for workers whose employers pay the 1% IRTRA payroll contribution. The IRTRA carnet is your ticket to world-class water parks, theme parks, and vacation accommodations at no cost beyond what your employer already contributes through payroll.
IRTRA’s flagship parks in Retalhuleu — Xocomil and Xetulul — are internationally recognized attractions. Xocomil is a massive water park with slides, wave pools, and river rides, while Xetulul is a theme park with rides, shows, and themed areas. For workers earning minimum wage, regular access to these parks would be unaffordable at retail prices. The IRTRA system ensures that private-sector workers and their families can enjoy quality recreation regardless of income level.
Getting the IRTRA carnet is handled through your employer. The employer, who already pays the 1% IRTRA contribution as part of their IGSS obligations, requests the carnet on behalf of the worker. The process involves submitting the worker’s DPI and IGSS enrollment confirmation to IRTRA. Once issued, the carnet allows the worker to visit IRTRA parks with up to 5 family members and 1 non-family companion per visit.
Quick summary: The IRTRA carnet is free for workers whose employers pay IRTRA contributions. Grants free access to Xocomil, Xetulul, and other parks. Allows 5 family members + 1 companion per visit. Requested through your employer.
Information verified March 2026.
IRTRA Parks and Facilities
| Facility | Location | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Xocomil | Retalhuleu | Water park |
| Xetulul | Retalhuleu | Theme park |
| IRTRA Petapa | Guatemala City area | Recreation center |
| Hostal de IRTRA (Retalhuleu) | Retalhuleu | Hotel/accommodation |
| Hostal de IRTRA (Atitlan) | Lake Atitlan | Hotel/accommodation |
| IRTRA Amatitlan | Amatitlan | Recreation center |
Requirements
- DPI of the worker
- Proof of active IGSS enrollment (planilla status)
- Employer’s IGSS resolution or DRPT-001 form (for first-time employer registration)
Step-by-Step Process
- Verify your employer pays IRTRA — the 1% IRTRA contribution is part of the 12.67% employer IGSS obligation
- Request the carnet through your employer — the employer handles the application
- Provide your DPI and any requested personal information
- Employer submits to IRTRA offices
- Receive your IRTRA carnet (1-2 weeks)
- Visit any IRTRA park with your carnet and DPI
Tips & Common Mistakes
- Your employer initiates the process, not you. If your employer has not offered you an IRTRA carnet, ask your HR department or employer directly.
- Bring your DPI and IRTRA carnet to the park. Both are required for entry. Without the DPI, the carnet alone is not sufficient.
- Check park schedules before visiting. IRTRA parks have specific operating days and hours that vary by season.
- If your employer does not pay IRTRA contributions, you are not eligible for the carnet. Verify with your employer or check your IGSS records.
- The carnet is for active workers only. If you leave your job, the carnet becomes inactive. A new employer can request a new carnet.