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

FacilityLocationType
XocomilRetalhuleuWater park
XetululRetalhuleuTheme park
IRTRA PetapaGuatemala City areaRecreation center
Hostal de IRTRA (Retalhuleu)RetalhuleuHotel/accommodation
Hostal de IRTRA (Atitlan)Lake AtitlanHotel/accommodation
IRTRA AmatitlanAmatitlanRecreation 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

  1. Verify your employer pays IRTRA — the 1% IRTRA contribution is part of the 12.67% employer IGSS obligation
  2. Request the carnet through your employer — the employer handles the application
  3. Provide your DPI and any requested personal information
  4. Employer submits to IRTRA offices
  5. Receive your IRTRA carnet (1-2 weeks)
  6. 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.
Details

Here is what you need to know for a smooth visit:

  • Always bring your DPI AND your IRTRA carnet. Both are required at the park entrance. Without the DPI, the carnet alone is not sufficient.
  • Family members must be accompanied by the cardholder. Your spouse and children cannot use the card independently — you must be present.
  • Hostales (hotels) require advance reservation. IRTRA hotels at Retalhuleu, Atitlan, and other locations are popular and fill up during holidays. Book well in advance, especially for Semana Santa, Christmas, and long weekends.
  • Food and drinks are separate costs. Park entry is free with the carnet, but food, lockers, and some premium attractions may have additional fees.
  • Weekday visits are significantly less crowded. If you have flexibility, visiting Tuesday-Thursday gives the best experience.
Details
  • Changing jobs: Your IRTRA carnet from your previous employer becomes inactive when you leave. Your new employer must request a new carnet. There may be a gap period between jobs where you do not have access.
  • Employer not providing the card: If your employer is registered with IGSS and paying the 1% IRTRA contribution but has not given you a carnet, request it through your HR department. The employer handles the application, not you.
  • Employer not paying IRTRA: If your employer is not paying the 1% IRTRA contribution, they are violating the law. This also means they are likely not fully compliant with IGSS obligations. Report it to IGSS.
  • Retired workers: IRTRA access through the carnet ends when employment ends. Retired workers must pay regular admission prices. There is no “retiree IRTRA card.”
  • Can you pay to enter IRTRA parks without the carnet? Yes. IRTRA parks sell day passes to the general public at retail prices, which are significantly higher than the free access workers receive through the carnet.