Lanquin Caves National Park And Other nearby Attractions - Alta Verapaz Guatemala

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Lanquin Caves National Park And Other nearby Attractions - Alta Verapaz Guatemala

Lanquin National Park was one of the first protected areas declared in Guatemala. Lanquin caves is also a sacred site used by the many of the Mayas from all over Guatemala, who believe the cave is the "heart of heaven", and that in the depths of the cave "the secret of centuries is hidden". It is located 1 km away from the town of Lanquin, off the highway that runs between Lanquin and Coban. It is an enormous and beautiful complex with limestone formations of extraordinary beauty.

There are many interesting things to see here such as a sharp pointed rock altar used by modern and ancient Mayan people carry out ceremonies and rituals. There is also the Bridge of the Fallen King, called like that because when King Leopold of Belgium came to Guatemala and visited the caves in 1958 he crossed the wooden bridge, it broke and the King fell. Also from the depths of the cave, the Lanquin River emerges.

A very interesting thing is that no-one has ever discovered the end of this cave system. Luckily for adventurers there is a 400m lighted trail inside that takes you for a 45 min round trip. There are also bridges and stairs to facilitate the access. However, it is always humid and a bit slippery so you need to be careful.

But it doesn't end here. Here are some other area's popular attractions:

Natural Monument Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey is a 300m long limestone bridge located 11km to the south of the Lanqun town on top of which there are several natural pools of different sizes filled with crystalline mountain spring water. Here the color of the water changes during the year depending on the season, sun and other natural factors. The pools are 3-14 ft. deep and form a 40ft waterfall.

K'anba Caves

To get there you have to cross a large metal bridge over the Cahabon River. A trail leads from the bridge to a shelter below the cave entrance. The cave is almost always accessible. This is also the starting point for tubing tours in the Cahabon River. It is located about 500 ft. before the entrance to Semuc Champey.

Yaxlik Cave

Here you can see stalactites and stalagmites, a large bat population, spiders and crabs. It is muddy and slippery and has some rooms that are very steep to enter, making it necessary to use ropes. This cave is located several kilometers beyond Semuc Champey in the village of Chiquelex. To get there, you will have to take a 45min hike and caving takes about 1 hour. The nearby villagers use the cave for ceremonies.

El Cabro Waterfall

El Cabro waterfall is located in the village of Chitzubil in a forested valley to the northeast of Lanquin. It consists of a series of waterfalls, some of which reach 70ft and form small pools where it is possible to swim. The round trip hike and swim takes about 5 hours. If you plan on visiting this place I recommend the company of a local guide since there is no infrastructure.

Cathedral

The Cathedral is opened every day. The only remaining original part of the Cathedral of any architectural interest is the faade, which was constructed in 1580.

About the Author

Marina K. Villatoro, the Travel Experta, has been living in Central America - Costa Rica and Guatemala for over 10 years. She has traveled here extensively. Now loves organizing vacations to this amazing part of the world, having first hand experience of all the places with her family. Contact her for advice and to plan your perfect trip!