Semuc Champey
Widely advertised as the most beautiful spot in Guatemala, this place usually lives up to expectations. A geological oddity, Semuc Champey consists of a series of limestone pools and gentle waterfalls set in a narrow rainforest canyon. Aside from the stunningly beautiful waters and surroundings, what makes this spot special is the fact that these pools and waterfalls are actually a bridge of land (about 300m/984 ft. long) resting atop the raging Cahabón River. Visitors can watch the river disappear in a torrent at one end of the bridge and then, after enjoying a swim and leisurely hike, see it emerge downstream.
There are a couple of hiking trails here, including one loop trail, El Mirador, which brings you to a spectacular lookout above Semuc Champey. This loop trail takes about 45 minutes, but can take longer if you decide to hang out at the lookout. If you walk directly to the pools and falls, it's just a 15-minute hike from the parking lot and entrance.
The best way to visit is on an organized tour, which usually includes transportation, lunch, and a visit to one or more other attractions in the area, such as the town and caves of Lanquin, and/or the Kan' Ba cave. Ask your hotel, or contact Aventuras Turísticas (tel. 502/7951-4213; www.aventurasturisticas.com).
Some guides will take you to the cave where the river emerges, which involves free climbing down the crack of the last waterfall. The reward is the sound and fury of the water as you stand underneath Semuc Champey while the Cahabón River shoots out. Warning: When I did this, there were no ropes or protection of any kind. A slip or fall can be fatal. Moreover, your family will have absolutely no chance of successfully suing anybody on your behalf. While I count the experience of standing in this cave as one of the most amazing experiences of my time in Guatemala, keep in mind that there is very serious risk involved.
Staying near Semuc Champey & Lanquin -- You can camp at both Semuc Champey and Lanquin. However, if you're looking for a little more comfort and an on-site restaurant, I recommend the Hostal Las Marías (tel. 502/7861-2209; www.posadalasmarias.com), located just before the entrance to Semuc Champey, or Hotel El Recreo Lanquin Champey (tel. 502/7983-0056), which is located just outside of Lanquin on the way to Semuc Champey. Both are simple, clean, and comfortable, and good places to meet other travelers.
Widely advertised as the most beautiful spot in Guatemala, this place usually lives up to expectations. A geological oddity, Semuc Champey consists of a series of limestone pools and gentle waterfalls set in a narrow rainforest canyon. Aside from the stunningly beautiful waters and surroundings, what makes this spot special is the fact that these pools and waterfalls are actually a bridge of land (about 300m/984 ft. long) resting atop the raging Cahabón River. Visitors can watch the river disappear in a torrent at one end of the bridge and then, after enjoying a swim and leisurely hike, see it emerge downstream.
There are a couple of hiking trails here, including one loop trail, El Mirador, which brings you to a spectacular lookout above Semuc Champey. This loop trail takes about 45 minutes, but can take longer if you decide to hang out at the lookout. If you walk directly to the pools and falls, it's just a 15-minute hike from the parking lot and entrance.
The best way to visit is on an organized tour, which usually includes transportation, lunch, and a visit to one or more other attractions in the area, such as the town and caves of Lanquin, and/or the Kan' Ba cave. Ask your hotel, or contact Aventuras Turísticas (tel. 502/7951-4213; www.aventurasturisticas.com).
Some guides will take you to the cave where the river emerges, which involves free climbing down the crack of the last waterfall. The reward is the sound and fury of the water as you stand underneath Semuc Champey while the Cahabón River shoots out. Warning: When I did this, there were no ropes or protection of any kind. A slip or fall can be fatal. Moreover, your family will have absolutely no chance of successfully suing anybody on your behalf. While I count the experience of standing in this cave as one of the most amazing experiences of my time in Guatemala, keep in mind that there is very serious risk involved.
Staying near Semuc Champey & Lanquin -- You can camp at both Semuc Champey and Lanquin. However, if you're looking for a little more comfort and an on-site restaurant, I recommend the Hostal Las Marías (tel. 502/7861-2209; www.posadalasmarias.com), located just before the entrance to Semuc Champey, or Hotel El Recreo Lanquin Champey (tel. 502/7983-0056), which is located just outside of Lanquin on the way to Semuc Champey. Both are simple, clean, and comfortable, and good places to meet other travelers.
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