semuc champey trip

Semuc Champey

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Semuc Champey - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Semuc Champey Full Day (From $71.80)
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• 3-Day Tour of Cobán and Semuc Champey from Guatemala City (From $435.99)
• 3-Day Tour of Cobán and Semuc Champey from Antigua (From $445.99)
• Semuc Champey + El Quetzal Sanctuary + Coban City: 3-Days Tour From Antigua (From $945.00)
• (0.11 mi) B’antiox Guesthouse
• (0.35 mi) Hostal El Portal de Champey
• (0.60 mi) Greengo's
• (0.29 mi) EcoPortal
• (0.11 mi) La Casa de la Rana
• (3.53 mi) ZEN
• (3.75 mi) Guayahá Restaurante
• (3.35 mi) Comedor Shalom
• (3.26 mi) Kalula Cafe & Restaurante
• (3.00 mi) Viñas Restaurant
• (0.34 mi) Grutas Las Marias
• (3.97 mi) Lanquin Caves
• (3.45 mi) Tuqtuquilal Cacao Tour Experience
• (3.24 mi) Lanquin Outdoors
• (3.38 mi) Utopia Cacao Farms

• My Bucket List

The ULTIMATE Guide To Semuc Champey: Serenity In Solitude

This is a guide to semuc champey, a secluded haven in guatemala. the post talks about how to get there, some tips & advice for lanquin, and my personal experience 🙂.

“You are alone?” The guide looked curiously behind me. He was sitting comfortably on the guardrail at the El Mirado scenic point in Semuc Champey before a sweaty tourist (a.k.a me) stumbled upon the view.

“Yea,” I smiled. This was a question I get often.

“Come up?” He asked, pointing at the space beside him.

I peered through the wooden fence. Two mountains and thousands of trees parted way for a cluster of turquoise pools. The path from where I started this climb was tucked hundreds of meters below.

It’d be hell to fall.

I shook my head weakly.

“You want photo?” The man put his hands together and made a clicking gesture with his index finger, “I’m a professional!”

He hopped off the railing and gently swapped the camera away from my grateful hands. Then, this guy who I’ve never met before, jumped up a few rocky steps behind where I was standing and proceeded to snap photos of a stranger like a long-time friend.

How to get to Lanquin

Semuc Champey is an off-the-beaten-path destination in Guatemala. It isn’t the bumpy ride or mountain roads, but rather the length of the journey that makes it harder to reach.

Unless you want to spend an extremely cramped day in Semuc Champey (not recommended/almost impossible due to the lack of shuttle service), it would be best to plan for a few nights in Lanquin, a nearby Mayan village.

Thus, finding a shuttle to this town is key.

Fortunately, many shuttle services provide direct transportation to Lanquin from Guate City, Antigua, and Flores.

Once you arrive in Lanquin, there are many direct jeeps to Semuc Champey. I will provide the details below!

Guatemala City to Semuc Champey

From Guatemala City , You can grab a shared shuttle at the Guate Airport or contact a travel agency. This is best arranged through your hotel or hostel at either location.

There are also public buses that go to Coban, where you can take a two-hour bus to Lanquin. One company that provides such a service is Transportes Monja Blanca, which runs hourly to from Guate City to Coban out of the North Bus Terminal .

There are also Chicken buses between Guate City and Coban that cost much less than shuttles!

Antigua to Semuc Champey

As with Guate City, there are many private shuttles between Antigua and Lanquin. Most of them are similar in cost and can be arranged through your hostel or a local agency.

Tip: Foreigners are usually overcharged when arranging shuttles. Do negotiate the price if you feel comfortable! It should not cost more than Q 100.

Since Guate City lies between Antigua and Lanquin, it is likely that any non-direct shuttles you take will stop in Guate City to pick up passangers. Make sure to clarify this beforehand 🙂

Flores to Semuc Champey

Like most of my destinations, Lanquin was one that appeared on my itinerary at a last moment’s notice. I was speaking to my host in Flores ( Tikal National Park ) when talks of Semuc Champey, a relaxing haven popped into the conversation.

After some research, I hopped onto a minivan at the Santa Elena Bus Terminal at 6:00 am the next morning towards Coban.

Tip:  There is only one minivan from SEB to Coban, which departs at 6:00 am every morning. The tuk-tuks in Flores start operating at 5:30 am so make sure you have enough time to get to the station! As well, the entire journey costs about the same as a direct bus , which needed to be arranged with your hostel/travel agency and was an option that I didn’t know of ☹)

The minivan was so stuffed, that THERE WERE 20 PEOPLE at one point, with half crouched over in misery. (Again, try to arrange a direct bus if you can!)

Coban is a small town at the center of Guatemala. The van from Flores dropped me off at the central bus station, where I walked for some 20 minutes before finding my way onto another two-hour bus ride towards Lanquin.

Where to Stay in Lanquín

Lanquin is a serene town surrounded by undulating mountain ranges. The ride here passed deep valleys and winding roads.

The humid summer heat, stuffed minivan, and soul-crushing traffic made the ride kinda miserable. I arrived in the Lanquin town center battered and exhausted from the 10-hour journey.

But once I got off the bus, the charming streets and mid-afternoon breeze completely calmed my senses. A man saw my backpack and correctly assumed my tourist status. We chatted briefly before he happily pointed at my luggage,

“Need a hostel?”  My new friend pitched, “Only Q 50!”

Clearly, it wasn’t too difficult to find a hostel/ hotel in Lanquin. Since the town is quite small, most of the accommodation are easily accessible. Many hotels are extremely cheap, costing as little as US 10/night during shoulder season.

I thanked him and went on my way. I was lucky enough to have arranged a last-minute host at the foot of the mountains.

My host was the owner of Vinas hostel. And I was to camp by a pool for the next two days.

Versatility in the Couchsurfing community means unique experiences. The last time I camped out was with a  community at a lake side in East Berlin. My friend and I conversed with a shaman by campfire and were introduced to backpackers from all over the world.

That trip was unlike any other.

I was intrigued to know how this time will go.

Unsurprisingly, the Viñas Hotel was very, very different from my time spent sleeping in a tent built by recyclables.

The mini-villa-like-establishment was connected to the mountain. Parts of the hotel were on a slope, with many of the individual rooms sitting peacefully on the rolling hill. The walls of this establishment were bright, charming, and wonderous.

As with the relaxing vibes of the hotel, my host was very flexible with my comings and goings. So, with little deliberation, I decided on tackling Semuc Champey the very next day.

San Agustín Lanquín to Semuc Champey

There are local jeeps that bridge Lanquin town center and Semuc on a regular basis. They operate every half an hour since 7 am or so and costs Q 25.

Tip:  Guatemalan banks in small towns don’t exchange any bills other than US 50. Keep enough change!

I know this because I didn’t have enough change. After a hearty breakfast costing Q 13, the jeep ride seemed a bit too much. I had Q 150 to stretch me for a few days, including a bus to Panajachel, where I hoped to find a money exchange location.

After some thought, I decided to walk to Semuc.

Yes, I decided to hike a 3-hour trail along mountain roads in the dead heat of Central American summer in flip flops, a dress, and with one bottle of water to Semuc Champey.

Of course, I actually thought myself frugal & tough until 45 minutes in, when my water was nearly out, and I was about drowning in sweat. I started to feel all whoozy and contemplated whether catching a heat stroke in the mountains of Guatemala was a good idea.

Nope, it really didn’t seem like it.

So I ditched my frugal & tough plan and played safe.

Thankfully, there were many jeeps heading towards Semuc. I caught one and paid Q 15 for 20 minutes of bumpy ride with a group of curious locals towards my destination.

A Guide to Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey, Guatemala is a natural monument that sits near the Q’eqchi’ Maya town of Lanquín. This forest/jungle consists of a a series of amber limestone steps and still turquoise pools. It is home of the the Cahabón River and has become a popular swimming destination.

Once you pay the Q 50 entrance fee, follow the path forward towards El Mirador Viewpoint .

El Mirador Viewpoint

El Mirador is a rocky uphill hike around 20 minutes. With stone steps and tall trees, this trek literally took the breath out of me.

It was well worth it on top.

Here was where I met the friendly guide.

“Now you can go down for a swim,” he hinted at my sweaty face and nodded towards the ponds below “Enjoy!”

Ponds in Semuc Champey

There are two main sections of ponds of varying sizes in Semuc Champey.

From the entrance, you can walk straight, bypassing El Mirador viewpoint towards the waters.

If you’ve ascended El Mirador, just follow the semi-paved pathway downhill.

It was about 12 pm when I reached the pond, self high-fived (no heat-stroke), and dipped into the chilly waters under a tree. Finally cooling down, I looked out at the people spread across the waters.

Surrounded by mountains and trees, it isn’t a surprise that Semuc Champey has become a popular spot for both tourists and locals a like.

Families laid by the rocks; friends splashed in the waters. I sat by myself, with no signal on my devices ,and confronted by a sudden longing for a travel companion.

These are moments of solo travel that are most expected by those around me, yet strangely, very rarely experienced while I travel.

“Aren’t you lonely?” 

Even for those of us traveling alone, it’s impossible to be completely unplugged from the world around us. We are constantly meeting people on the road, at hostels, in restaurants. Moments of down time are usually packed by exchanges over phones, social media, and the like.

We are readily connected to threads of human interaction that keep us feeling sane, feeling safe.

But when of it disappears and we are left with no distractions, nothing to do, and nowhere to explore, it is a vastly different, extremely strange world.

Suddenly, I felt a tingle on my legs. I looked down to find dozens of tiny fish swimming around me, nibbling away at my legs.

As quick as the feeling of oddity came to be, it evaporated into this familiarity.

We stand on the same ground stood on by thousands before, share the same space with millions around us, breathe the air like a billion others.

We are never really alone, are we?

Other Tips & Advice

From wandering the streets of Antigua to relaxing around Lake Atitlan , there are many things to do in Guatemala . Semuc Champey was one of my favorite destinations in Guatemala and I’d recommend anyone to visit if they’ve time!

Best Time to Visit Semuc Champey

The weather in Guatemala stays warm year-round and the area around Lanquin is quite stuffy no matter the season. However, it might be cloudy and/or rainy during the wet season between May and October, so the best time to stay in Lanquin is during dry season.

I’d recommend visiting Semuc Champey during the morning. Catch a jeep at the town center and arrive early to avoid the crowds/hot weather.

Things to Bring to Semuc Champey

• Extra sunscreen!
• At least a litre of water
• A pair of flip flops and/or decent hiking boots
• Bathing suit & clothes to change
• Cash for the permit (Q 50) & Jeep (Q 25/way)

In total, I spent Q 360 (~US 47) for this three day trip. The breakdown is as follows:

• Q 50 for the Semuc Champey;
• Q 50 for the jeep to Semuc Champey (roundtrip);
• Q 50 for food.
• Q 80 from Flores to Coban
• Q 30 from Coban to Lanquin
• Q 100 from Lanquin to Panajachel

If you’d like to stay in a hostel or hotel, do budget AT LEAST Q 50/night!

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Semuc Champey Guatemala: How to Visit + Essential Tips

Home » Blog » Guatemala » Semuc Champey Guatemala: How to Visit + Essential Tips

Deep in the Guatemalan jungle lies a paradise known as Semuc Champey with stepped turquoise pools excellent for swimming. In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know to plan your trip to Semuc Champey Natural Monument, including how to get there, where to stay and things to do nearby. 

The cascading turquoise pools of Semuc Champey National Park are set in a lush mountain valley deep in the Guatemalan jungle. Far from any major cities, this area has a feel that is truly different from anywhere else in Guatemala (or the rest of the world, for that matter!).

Before we go any further, let me give you a warning: The journey to Semuc Champey is not for the faint of heart.

Getting to this remote jungle oasis requires a bus ride so bumpy you won’t soon forget it. The closest town is Lanquin, which is only 10 km away, but still takes 45 minutes in a 4×4 jeep. 

In this guide, we’ll cover everything from exactly how to get to Semuc Champey to insider tips you’ll be glad you know before you get there.  

If you’re up for an adventure and come with an open mind, a trip to Semuc Champey Park may just be a highlight of your time in Central America.

Semuc Champey Guatemala Guide

Semuc champey overview, things to do at semuc champey.

• Best way to visit 
• Visiting Semuc Champey without a tour

Visiting Semuc Champey with a tour

• Our experience 
• How to get there
• Best time to visit
• Where to stay nearby
• How many nights should you stay?
• Tips for visiting

Weather in Semuc Champey

• What to pack

Located deep in the jungle of remote Alta Verapaz, Guatemala, Semuc Chamey is a remarkable natural wonder. The main feature is a 300-meter natural limestone bridge under which the Cahabón River flows, creating a series of beautiful pools with turquoise waters. 

The name Semuc Champey, derived from the Q’eqchi’ Maya language, means “ where the river hides under the earth .” 

Despite its challenging accessibility, Semuc Champey is gaining popularity among travelers and has become one of the top things to do in Guatemala . In 2005, it was listed as a natural monument by the Guatemalan government.

While the namesake turquoise pools are the draw to this remote part of Guatemala, there are a few other things to do in the area that’ll get your heart pumping for all the right reasons!

1. Swim in the limestone pools at Semuc Champey

Getting to splash around in the turquoise pools of Semuc Champey is THE reason to come here. Swim, float, slide down the waterfalls, soak up the sun, read a book… do whatever your heart desires!

2. Go river tubing down Río Cahabón

“Extreme river tubing” down the Cahabón River (Río Cahabón) is a popular activity after visiting the turquoise pools. Depending on the water levels, your trip can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to get back to your starting point.

The river float is called “extreme” for good reason—you will go over some rapids on your tubes. Locals will float along beside you to sell you beer along the way. However, we’d recommend being careful, as some of the rapids are quite big!

Also, depending on the time of year you visit, the water might not be all that warm. We visited Semuc Champey in May and the water was still pretty chilly. Just be prepared to stick it out and shiver a bit like we did!

3. Visit KanBa Cave (“Candlelight Cave”)

Usually combined with a day trip to the pools of Semuc Champey, visiting the nearby KanBa Cave is very popular. Each person gets a candle and you spend about an hour and a half exploring the cave with a guide by candlelight.

If you’re not in a tour group but still want to see the cave, you can show up and pay the 50Q (~$6 USD) entrance fee.

Tours leave every half hour from 9 a.m. — 3 p.m. (Note: Most of the hostel-run tour groups do this in the morning, so it might be a good idea to go a bit later to avoid the crowds.)

4. Hike to El Mirador (aka the viewpoint of Semuc Champey)

The viewpoint is definitely a highlight of any visit to Semuc Champey . Being up close and personal in the pools is awesome, but it’s just as fun to get a view from above.

Follow the signs to the mirador (Spanish for “viewpoint”) and start your climb. The hike takes about 45 minutes each way , and is quite steep on some pretty rickety stairs in some parts. At the top, there’s a platform you can view the pools from, and a few women sell fresh fruits and coconuts.

Best way to visit Semuc Champey

You can visit the pools of Semuc Champey on your own, or you can organize a tour through your hostel.

If you’re on a budget or just want some time to relax and take pictures without the crowds, you’ll want to visit Semuc Champey independently.

On the other hand, if you want to mingle with other travelers and pack as much into one day as possible, you’ll enjoy going to Semuc Champey with a tour!

Both options are good , and we’ll walk you through what to expect with each so you can make the best decision for you.

Note: All prices are as of 2023. Prices may change over time so be sure to double check with tour companies. 

Visiting Semuc Champey on your own (without a tour)

• It will be slightly cheaper. (See more on the total cost below.)
• If you visit on your own you have more freedom to visit the pools at your own pace.
• You won’t be stuck in a crowd. Depending on the day or the season you’re visiting, the groups can get quite large (we saw a group of about 40 people).
• You’ll get to hang out in the pools in the morning light before the tour groups get there. While we were there, the morning light was much nicer than in the afternoon when the clouds took over and it got a bit chilly (with a few rain sprinkles!).
• If you make it to the viewpoint before the tour groups arrive, you will likely have it all to yourself!
• You won’t see the cave that’s included in the tour, unless you go on your own!
• You won’t have the chance to mingle with other travelers in your tour group.

Cost of visiting Semuc Champey without a tour

The cost of getting to Semuc Champey is going to vary depending on where you are staying. 

The park is within walking distance of a few hotels, whereas it’s nearly a 1-hour drive from others. But to give you an idea, we’ll share the costs of visiting Semuc Champey independently from a few different locations.

Here’s an idea of what you can expect to spend:

• 25Q for transportation from Lanquin (~$3 USD)
• 150Q shuttle from Antigua to Lanquin (~$20 USD)
• 30Q per person for the local bus from Coban to Lanquin (~$4 USD)
• 50Q entrance fee for foreigners (~$6 USD)
• 65Q if you choose to go tubing (~$8 USD), or 15Q for return transport ($2 USD)

You’ll also need to pay for lunch on your own. There are a few stands near the park entrance selling a big platter of food for 40Q (grilled chicken, rice, black beans, cabbage salad, avocado), which is perfect to split between 2 people. There are a couple other vendors selling fresh fruits, chocolate and soda (and the young girls can be quite pushy, but super cute).

• Everything is organized for you.
• You’ll get to hang out with others from your hostel for the whole day.
• The tour includes an hour and a half visit through a cave by candlelight.

Note: We’ve heard very mixed reviews about the cave that’s included on the tour. Both a good friend of ours as well as someone we had just met in Guatemala told us it was nothing special, and even used the word “boring” to describe it. On the other hand, we heard from a couple others that they thought it was a great experience and they really enjoyed it. This goes to show that travel is totally personal, and the right decision for one person is not necessarily right for another.

• You won’t be able to go at your own pace. This is something to consider if you like to take photos along the way or if you get annoyed by waiting for others.
• Sometimes the tours are large and you won’t really be able to have any alone time.
• It is slightly more expensive, so if you’re on a budget, this is something to consider.
• The viewpoint can get really crowded with a whole tour group up there at the same time.

Cost of visiting Semuc Champey with a tour

The tour to Semuc Champey can cost anywhere from $20 USD to well over $100 depending on where you are coming from and what the tour includes. 

When we were there, the cost of a hostel-organized tour from Lanquin was 180Q (~$23 USD), which included transportation, park entrance and a guide. You could also opt to include a packed lunch for an additional 35Q (~$4.50 USD, or purchase on your own) and tubing for 55Q (~$7 USD).

If you are staying in Antigua or Guatemala City and want all of the logistics planned for you, this 3-day Semuc Champey tour includes all transportation, a professional English speaking guide, park entrance fees, 2 nights at Park Hotel in Coban, and daily breakfast for $425 USD.

Our experience visiting Semuc Champey

We chose to visit Semuc Champey without a tour, and we were happy with our decision. I wasn’t feeling well the morning of the tour, and the thought of being inside a cave sounded much less appealing than relaxing in refreshing pools, so we opted out of the tour. 

I have a huge case of FOMO, and am a bit bummed we missed the cave, but honestly, we had such a good day on our own that I can’t complain too much.

That said, going solo isn’t the best option for everyone. Hopefully our explanations above will help you decide which way is best for you to visit Semuc Champey.

How to get to Semuc Champey

The first stop on your journey to Semuc Champey is the town of Lanquin. And when we say “town”, let’s specify by saying there’s a dirt road with some small shops and houses. Most of the hotels, however, are located a bit outside Lanquin.

There are a few different ways to get to Lanquin, depending on where in Guatemala you are coming from…

From Antigua

If you are coming from Antigua, the ride will take about 8-9 hours. There are generally two shuttle services to Lanquin daily at 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. You can arrange these with your hostel or hotel. 

We’d recommend taking the 8 a.m. (you can sleep on the bus!) so you arrive at a reasonable hour (around 5 p.m.). If you take the 2 p.m. you’ll sit through traffic in Guatemala City and won’t arrive in Languin until 10/11 p.m.

From Guatemala City

If you are coming from Guatemala City, you can take the Monja Blanca Bus to Coban for about $25 USD. The bus leaves at 9 a.m. and the ride will be about 5 hours as it makes stops along the way. But at least it’s a comfortable tour bus with AC. 

From Coban, you can take the local bus another 1.5 hours to Lanquin for about 30Q (~$4 USD). 

Shuttle to your hotel from Lanquin

Many of the hotels in the area will arrange a shuttle for you (whether it’s free or not depends on the hotel). Just email them your departure city and time and there will be someone waiting for you when you arrive in Lanquin.

Word of warning: You will most likely be asked (like 5 times!) if you want to book a shuttle out of Lanquin right as you arrive. When we boarded our bus in Flores, our driver asked us before he even started the engine. We heard that sometimes they oversell these buses and people are left without a ride. Ignore the touts and instead book your shuttle from your hotel.

There is always the possibility to rent a car and make the drive to Semuc Champey on your own. Renting a car is a good way to cut down on travel time, plus you’ll be able to explore at your own pace. 

However, inter-city travel after dark is not recommended for foreigners in Guatemala due to the increased risk of crime. So maybe do a bit more of your own research before you decide to venture out on the roads on your own.

Best time to visit Semuc Champey

The best time to visit Semuc Champey in Guatemala is during the dry season , which typically spans from November to April . 

During this period, the weather is more predictable, and the river levels are lower, making it easier to enjoy the natural pools for swimming and exploring. Additionally, the lush green surroundings are at their most vibrant, providing a stunning backdrop for your visit. 

However, it’s essential to check the specific weather conditions and visitor information before planning your trip , as seasons and weather patterns can vary. (Learn more by jumping down to the weather section below.)

Where to stay near Semuc Champey

There are plenty of options near Semuc Champey – from party hostels with a young crowd to off-the-grid digs to chilled eco lodges. 

It can be overwhelming choosing a hotel because the town of Lanquin isn’t one that you’ll want to spend all that much time in. This means that typically your hotel will be where you eat, sleep, hang out and organize tours through. 

Add to this that many of the hostels are still a journey from Lanquin, and you might be left scratching your head. 

Where we stayed: Utopia Eco Hotel

This open-air lodge is situated on a hill overlooking lush jungle. There are no other hotels in sight, and it truly feels like paradise. That said, any hotel built in the middle of the jungle is going to have some issues and lack some of the conveniences of staying in a city.

What we loved about Utopia:

• Enjoying amazing jungle views on a candlelit terrace is something that just can’t be beat.
• Compared to some of the other hostels in the area, this one has a bit of a wider age range. That said, it’s still a pretty young crowd.
• Surprisingly, the showers have hot water!
• There’s a water fill up station, which makes it easy to avoid buying bottled water.
• There is a yoga platform that looked really nice. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to use it since we were only there one full day.

Room for improvement:

• Rooms are basic, and honestly, we weren’t expecting much. But the bed wasn’t the most comfortable.
• If you book a dorm or a “private nook”, like we did, know that you’ll have to go down a set of stairs to use the shared restroom. Not ideal in the middle of the night.
• There are bugs. Lots of them. And truthfully this isn’t really a negative on the hostel itself. You’re staying in the middle of the freakin’ jungle, so there are gonna be bugs. We didn’t have an issue with them, but it is worth mentioning to those who might be a bit squeamish.
• The WiFi didn’t work for us. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing (you’re in the jungle, after all!), but it is worth mentioning so you can plan ahead and don’t arrive with the expectation of connecting.

The food at Utopia:

As with pretty much any place you choose to stay near Semuc Champey, you will be having your meals there as well. The food at Utopia is all vegetarian , which we’re totally on board with, but honestly, the options are kind of limited.

Each evening there’s a communal dinner, which they encourage people to order. The options while we were there were a veggie burger one night and spaghetti the next, both of which were fine (nothing special, but not bad). 

It costs 60Q ($8 USD) per person, which is a bit steep. But seeing as you’re in the jungle and all the ingredients have to be brought in, you can understand the prices.

Other accommodation in Semuc Champey/Lanquin

There are plenty of great options in and around Lanquin, but don’t come here expecting luxury. Even the highest priced rooms are still rustic, as this is a remote part of Guatemala.

It’s also important to look up how close your accommodation is from Lanquin and ask if they offer pick-up, as the roads in this area are a bit, how shall we put this… BUMPY!

Even a short distance can take quite a while. The lodges outside of the town have incredible views and are an experience in themselves, but they can take upwards of 45 minutes to reach from Lanquin.

Backpacker & Friendly Vibes: Greengo’s

With a pool and Jacuzzi, a social vibe, and the choice of dorm beds or private rooms, this makes a great choice for many budget travelers.

Riverside Bungalows: El Retiro Lodge

This riverside hostel has stunning views of the natural surroundings. You can pick between a bungalow, suite, or dorm-style accommodation. Enjoy an a la carte breakfast and the staff can help you set up tours around the area. 

Eco-Conscious on a Budget: Vista Verde Hostal

This eco-conscious hostel located in Lanquin has a huge pool to chill out in to escape the heat of the jungle. They offer comfortable rooms, both private and dorm style, at a reasonable price. The bar and restaurant area acts as a social gathering place and can be pretty fun at night. 

Off the Grid: Ch’i Bocól Community Hostel

If you’re looking for a super unique place to stay and have an adventurous spirit, this might be just the place for you! Getting here requires a 30-minute hike, but you’ll be met with a solar-powered jungle oasis, complete with onsite gardens and a community kitchen. We’d only recommend staying here if you can spend a couple of days in the area, since it’s a bit difficult to get to.

Best for Couples: Mountain Nest

With some of the most amazing views in the area, this is a great choice for couples and those seeking a remote and tranquil stay. The price is more than most of the popular backpacker options, but is still incredibly affordable.

Party Hostel: Zephyr Lodge

This is undoubtedly the most famous hostel in Lanquin, and it’s best known for its parties. If you’re looking for a super social atmosphere that includes slamming shots and dancing the night away with new friends, this is the place to stay!

How many days should I spend in Semuc Champey?

As a minimum, you need to stay 2 nights near Semuc Champey . You will arrive in the evening and the only time you can leave is in the morning. So if you intend to visit the pools (umm, that’s the reason you go there!), you must plan to have a day in between your transportation.

Being that we were on a tight schedule, we only stayed two nights. That said, getting to and from Semuc Champey takes a FULL day on either end , and it would have been nice to have at least one more day there to relax and enjoy jungle life before hopping in a bus again.

If hanging out in the jungle sounds like a perfect detox from the real world, you might want to extend your stay for a few days . In addition to enjoying the beautiful fairytale pools and cave, you can take Spanish lessons, practice yoga, and learn about the art of chocolate making.

Tips for visiting Semuc Champey

Remember that Semuc Champey is a pristine natural destination, so being well-prepared and respectful of the environment will contribute to a more enjoyable and responsible visit.

Here are our top tips for visiting Semuc Champey Natural Monument in Guatemala:

• Plan ahead: Research and plan your trip well in advance, as the remote location and limited infrastructure may require careful preparation. 
• Visit during dry season: Aim to visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best experience, as river levels are lower, making the natural pools more accessible and the weather more predictable.
• Wear sturdy and comfortable footwear suitable for walking and hiking, as you’ll be exploring trails and natural terrain. Our Chacos were perfect for this, as they were good for walking around, and we could also wear them in the water while tubing. 
• Don’t miss the “El Mirador” viewpoint, which offers breathtaking views of Semuc Champey. Be prepared for a challenging 45-minute hike through the jungle to reach it, but the vistas are well worth the effort.
• Consider hiring a local guide instead of going on a tour. Hiring a local guide can enhance your experience and provide valuable insights into the area’s history and culture. They can also help you navigate the sometimes challenging terrain.
• Practice Leave No Trace . Help preserve the natural beauty of Semuc Champey by adhering to eco-friendly practices. Carry out all your trash, respect wildlife, and avoid damaging the delicate ecosystem.
• Bring essentials like comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, insect repellent, reef-safe natural sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. The remote location may not have easy access to these items.

Know that rain in the afternoon can be very common during many times of the year. It’s the rainforest, after all! 

While we were there in May (beginning of the rainy season), the entire week had thunderstorms predicted every day on my Apple Weather app. I was worried, but it turned out that it only rained in the afternoon and nighttime, and we lucked out with pretty nice days.

You’ll be getting wet in the pools anyway, and rain means you’ll likely be avoiding the crowds of high season. Pack a raincoat and a good attitude and hopefully you’ll enjoy Semuc Champey, rain or shine! 

It’s also helpful to know that it’s not always super hot in this area . 

While we were there it was warm enough at midday that swimming in the pools was refreshing. But in the afternoon when we started tubing on the river, it was a bit chilly and we were shivering part of the way.

What to pack for Semuc Champey

There are a few essentials that will make your visit to Semuc Champey a bit more comfortable. 

• Mosquito repellant (we love this natural, solid stick version )
• Dry bag : handy to keep your things dry while you’re near the pools
• Waterproof phone case
• Quick dry travel towel
• Camera and tripod to take some awesome photos ( this is our favorite tripod for travel)
• A lock if you want to use the self-serviced lockers near the pools
• Cash (there is one ATM in Lanquin, but you don’t want to take the chance of it being out of order. Many hotels don’t take credit cards or charge you a fee.)

FAQs about visiting Semuc Champey

Being that Semuc Champey is in a remote part of the Guatemalan jungle and somewhat hard to reach, there are a lot of questions about visiting. We’ve done our best to answer a lot in this article and we’ve also answered some of the most frequently asked questions below. 

Is Semuc Champey worth visiting?

We certainly think so!

We chose to visit Semuc Champey without a tour and were really happy with our decision as we had a lot of the place to ourselves first thing in the morning before the tours arrived. 

Is Semuc Champey safe?

While visiting the stunning turquoise pools during the day is perfectly safe, it’s important to exercise a healthy level of caution and awareness in any foreign country. 

Keep an eye on your personal belongings at all times and don’t attempt to drive in the area after dark. 

Can you visit Semuc Champey without a tour?

Yes! In fact, we recommend visiting Semuc Champrey without a tour if you are on a tight budget or prefer exploring at your own pace. 

Does it cost money to go to Semuc Champey?

The short answer is yes . At minimum, the entrance fee for the park costs 50Q (~$6 USD) . 

You’ll also have to consider the cost of transportation to and from the park, plus extra costs for renting a tube to float down the river, food while you’re there, and if you want to check out the KanBa Cave while you’re there. 

You can jump back up to our section on the best way to visit Semuc Champey to get a full breakdown of the costs to enter with or without a tour. 

Are there toilets at Semuc Champey?

There are minimal facilities near the pools at Semuc Champey. They include toilets, changing cubicles and self-serviced lockers (meaning you have to bring your own lock). 

What is the closest city to Semuc Champey?

The nearest town is Lanquin—a small settlement consisting of a single main road and a few shops. However the nearest city is Coban, Guatemala . 

Can you get to Semuc Champey from Lake Atitlan?

In theory, yes. However the ride is long (9+ hours) and complicated. Instead of going straight from Lake Atitlan, we’d recommend you head to Guatemala City first and then continue your transport to Semuc Champey from there. 

Are you planning a trip to Guatemala?

We have lots more resources on travel in Guatemala and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Guatemala Travel Guide  for all the important travel information, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Unforgettable Things to Do in Guatemala
• Top Things to Do in Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
• Top Tips for Visiting Tikal in Guatemala
• Best Things to Do in Antigua, Guatemala

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How to Visit Stunning Semuc Champey, Guatemala (Travel Guide)

Until we actually set our eyes on Semuc Champey, Guatemala we were not convinced that it was going to be worth the hassle.

Set deep in the jungle and 8 hours in an uncomfortable shuttle away from each Flores (where we started) and Antigua (our intended destination after Semuc Champey), we knew that visiting these pools meant giving up almost two full days of travel to minibus rides, saying goodbye to wifi for 3 days (laugh if you must, but we like our wifi), and, as it turned out, losing almost two full days of electricity.

Though many travelers rave about Semuc Champey, others have not been as impressed–and as travelers who have been known to find things overhyped, we were hesitant to set our expectations high.

Here’s what we found when we got to Semuc Champey, along with our advice for what we’d do differently next time, and whether we recommend a Semuc Champey tour!

Table of Contents

What is Semuc Champey, Guatemala?

Should you take a semuc champey tour, how to get to semuc champey independently, where we stayed in lanquin, guatemala, final thoughts on semuc champey, guatemala.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Semuc Champey is a set of 18 naturally formed limestone pools created by the Cahabon River.

The turquoise color rivals any that I’ve seen, and the pools practically beg people to jump in and go swimming–which they do, constantly.

Our time there was characterized by a short hike to the overlook, and–more importantly–hours of time spent swimming in the pools, checking out the waterfalls, and soaking up the views.

Semuc Champey is essentially a naturally formed water park sitting in the middle of the Guatemalan jungle, well worth the 50 quetzales (about $6.75 USD) admission price.

The “typical” way to visit Semuc Champey is on a tour that includes a visit to the pools, a hike to the overlook, a trip through a limestone cave in which you light your way only by a candle, and a few other odds and ends like a chance to jump off a bridge into the Cahabon River and to attempt to climb a small waterfall.

After completing our pricey but wonderful tour of the ATM Cave in Belize less than a week beforehand, we were not interested in either paying for a tour or having our schedule run by a group for a full day, so we decided to try visiting Semuc Champey independently–and we’re so that glad we did.

For about half the price of a tour, Jeremy and I hiked to the overlook (it only took us 25 minutes as opposed to the normal estimate of 45 minutes–I suspect this is less a tribute to our fitness levels than the fact we weren’t being slowed down by a group), and then returned to the pools to spend hours jumping and swimming in them, relaxing on the shore, and enjoying the views.

Our day visiting Semuc Champey independently was very relaxing and low-key–the exact opposite of what the tour would have been.

While I have no doubt that the tour is wonderful fun for some, the fact is that the hike, the pools, the bridge, and the waterfall are all accessible just by walking up to them (after paying your entrance fee to Semuc Champey to access everything but the bridge).

Though we didn’t check out the cave, other travelers told us that it was fairly easy to negotiate a price with a guide on-site, which includes the possibility of nabbing a better price, as well as ending up in a smaller group or even a private tour.

That being said, if you’d like to eliminate the headache of getting to Semuc Champey independently–more on that below– a multi-day tour like this one from Antigua is a great way to simplify your trip.

Like most travelers, we stayed in the town of Lanquin, 30-45 minutes away by pickup truck from Semuc Champey.

Lanquin is the nearest town to stay in, though there are some isolated hotels and hostels that are closer to the river.

At the instruction of the employees at our hotel, the morning of our visit we simply headed to the main road in Lanquin, flagged down one of the many pickup trucks headed to Semuc Champey, paid a fee of 25 quetzales each (about $3.35 USD), and rode to Semuc Champey.

From what we saw and heard, the trucks head back and forth to between Lanquin and Semuc Champey all day, carting tourists, locals, and products for the rural homes, hotels, and shops.

Getting to Semuc Champey via pick up truck seemed like (and for us, was) a very simple process.

True, riding along a mountainous dirt road while standing in the back of pickup truck is not exactly the safest way to travel, but it’s also exactly how the tour groups leaving from Lanquin go to Semuc Champey, so we didn’t lose any safety by skipping the guide.

Luckily, the trucks go slow! While objectively unsafe, it was a far more comfortable ride than I initially anticipated.

The truck took us directly to the entrance of Semuc Champey, where we paid to enter the park.

There are plenty of food and chocolate vendors near the entrance if you’re feeling the need for a snack.

The entrance is also the congregating point for all of the trucks picking up and dropping off riders in the process of getting to Semuc Champey or leaving.

Though the truck we came to Semuc Champey on ended up letting us know that they’d be back later that afternoon, giving us a sure bet on how we would return, we weren’t remotely worried–a ride clearly wouldn’t be difficult to come by.

Vinas Hotel — Located less than a ten-minute walk from the center of town, the only issue we had here was with the lack of electricity for most of our stay–but there wasn’t anything the hotel could do about that.

The room was clean, the property well kept (had the weather been nicer, we would have loved to have taken a dip in the pool), and the restaurant had good food at low prices.

Like virtually everywhere else we visited, we felt safe in this part of Guatemala (and I have friends who visited as solo female travelers in Guatemala and reported feeling the same).

We would not hesitate to stay here again if we returned to the area!

Check rates & book your stay at Vinas Hotel in Lanquin!

While our time in Lanquin and visiting Semuc Champey independently came with a few twists and turns, such as losing a significant amount of time with electricity at our hotel and contending with rain and cloudy weather for part of our stay, our time visiting Semuc Champey independently was a complete success.

We had an absolute blast relaxing in the pools (while exclaiming more than once that this felt a lot like a Plitvice Lakes National Park we could swim in), stretching our legs on a short hike, and generally reveling in the fact that while Semuc Champey is a fairly well-known place among backpackers, we were ultimately solidly “off the grid” of the world.

After our first night in Lanquin, we even became accustomed to having no wifi, instead reading books and playing multiple rounds of chess at our hotel with a board whose pieces were painted as Mayans and Conquistadors.

Though the logistical issues and time and effort required to get there mean that we likely won’t return to Semuc Champey, Guatemala anytime soon, it’s very easy to look back on our time there and smile.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

13 thoughts on “How to Visit Stunning Semuc Champey, Guatemala (Travel Guide)”

This is an very informative post and honest post, I think an independent visit to Semuc Champey is the best way to visit for the reasons you said. No group slowing you down and freedom to enjoy the water for as long as you want. You took some beautiful pictures!

Thank you! 🙂

It looks beautiful there, I’ll happily add this to my bucket-list!

It is stunning, I’m sure you’ll love it!

You guys rock! This is a great post about a wonderful destination. The honest tips and info are a big planning help. It’s great to hear that it’s worth the long journey and it’s better to visit independently. This gorgeous destination just landed on our bucket list. Thanks for introducing this cool place.

So glad to hear you guys may go! It’s definitely worth the trip.

I rarely join a tour unless a destination is difficult, impossible or dangerous to get to. Good to know that you can actually visit semuc champey on your own and you seem to get more flexibility that way too! What a relaxing time you had there 🙂

We’re very similar! Tours are a fairly rare occurrence for us–much more fun to explore independently. 🙂

Amazing life ! Amazing choice you guys did! Im so glad to see people living life like you. Its one of my dreams, live traveling!

Thanks so much, Jessie!! We are having a wonderful time–we’re at just over 2 years on the road now. 🙂

How does it compare to Plitvice Lakes?

Beautiful turquoise water in an out-of-the-way location–at least that’s how it used to be! Plitvice was already starting to gain popularity when we visited in 2015, and we hear the crowds have absolutely exploded since then. We hope to revisit soon and see any change for ourselves!

We went to Semuc Champey last week and took one of the trucks down from San Agustin Lanquin. It was very easy to get a truck. If you walk to the main street, they will find you in minutes. We explored Semuc Champey on our own, but took a guide through the caves. I 100% recommend going through the caves. We explored Guatemala for 8 days and drove over 1,200 miles (ATV tours in Antigua, scuba diving Lake Atitlan, floating the Rio Chixoy…) and all 4 of us said that the caves were our favorite part of the entire trip. Don’t do the caves without a guide. You can find a guide easily when you get there though and you can negotiate the price. If I remember correctly, we paid 60 quetzales (which comes out to about $8/person). If you like glamping, we stayed at Guayaha and loved it. Would have stayed more nights if we weren’t trying to cram more into the trip.

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Semuc Champey Travel Guide | How to Visit + Tips

Semuc Champey is one of the most beautiful  places to visit in Guatemala . Stunning terraced, turquoise pools cascading down one after another, it’s one of natures greatest masterpieces.

In this guide, I’ll tell you everything you need to know before visiting the falls including how to get there, where to stay, things to do nearby and more.

For full transparency,  I have sprinkled some affiliate links in this post which gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you if you decided to make a purchase. As always, I would never recommend a product or service that I didn't truely believe in. If you find this post useful, you can also treat Jess to a cup coffee by clicking the icon on the bottom of the page. This will allow me to continue to create more content for you to enjoy ☕️. 

Table of Contents

Is Semuc Champey worth visiting?

With the lengthy travel required to get here, you may be wondering,  is it worth it to go to Semuc Champey? It’s true, the journey to reach Semuc Champey is usually a long, cramped, and sweaty bus ride but Semuc Champey is well worth the trek.

Despite the effort it takes to reach this destination, Semuc Champey is becoming one of the  top things to do in Guatemala . Semuc Champey is extremely remote in the middle of the jungle, but that only adds to the allure if you ask me.

If you have ample time to travel around Guatemala and are up for an adventure, Semuc Champey is worth visiting for sure. The lush jungle climate is a pleasant change of scenery if you’re coming from Antigua. That’s one of the awesome things about Guatemala, the scenery is diverse and the adventures are grand.

Quick Note About My Experience at Semuc Champey

Before we get started with everything you need to know about visiting Semuc Champey, if you are a frequent  reader of my blog , you may notice that this post has less pictures than normal.

Well, let’s just say that I didn’t actually get to see the main attraction with my own two eyes. Joe and I made the long journey from Antigua, stayed at the closest hostel to Semuc Champey ( Greengos Hostel is literally a 5 minute walk away), but we got so sick on the only day we had to visit the falls.

When we finally mustered up the energy to go snap a few pics of the falls around 4:30, turns out the falls close at 4 and not 5:30 so we never made it inside. It’s never fun being sick on the road.

Miraculously our  24 hour bug  was out of our systems and at breakfast the next morning I had ample time to talk to (or shall I say interview) a small group of people about there experiences at Semuc Champey in order to still make this travel guide.

So although, I wasn’t there first hand, know that my information is legit and up to date.

About Semuc Champey Natural Monument

Semuc Champey Natural Monument is a breathtaking natural wonder found deep in the Guatemalan jungle. This paradise is known for its cascading pools, formed by the Cahabón River flowing over limestone formations.

Derived from the Q’eqchi’ Maya language, Semuc Champey means “where the river hides under the earth.” In 2005, it was listed as a natural monument by the Guatemalan government and we now have Semuc Champey National Monument.

Here you can marvel at the use of the pools, which are set against a backdrop of lush vegetation and towering cliffs. Semuc Champey also offers a chance to go cliff jumping, explore nearby caves and to go swimming.

Semuc Champey Location

Semuc Champey is located in the densely forested mountains of Alta Verapaz, near the town of Lanquín. It is situated in the heart of the jungle about 7 miles south of Lanquin.

To reach the falls, you must first journey through rugged terrain, adding to the sense of adventure. Despite its remote location, the beauty of this place makes it a must visit destination in Guatemala.

Semuc Champey Opening Hours

Semuc Champey is open daily from  8am to 4pm . Early morning is the best time to visit and to beat the crowds.

Semuc Champey Entrance Fee

The admission fee for Semuc Champey if you are visiting independently is 50 Quetzales (about $7 USD). If you choose to visit the natural monument on a tour it will cost about $35 and this will include transportation to the natural monument, entrance fee, hiking to the viewpoint, river tubing, and entrance to the cave.

Book a Tour from Lanquin →

Things do in Semuc Champey

In this section, I’ll go over all the things to do in Semuc Champey. All these activities can be experienced in the same day as you only need one full day to explore Semuc Champey.

Swim at the Limestone Pools of Semuc Champey

Of course the number one thing to do at Semuc Champey is to swim in the limestone pools. Guatemala’s hot climate makes this activity extremely enjoyable if you are traveling here during the dry, hot season.

There’s even a waterfall which you can swim to, climb up it, and then jump off the top. If you are traveling here during rainy season then the water temperature may be a different story. Don’t be surprised if it’s cold water.

Hike to the Viewpoint (El Mirador Semuc Champey)

If you want some epic pictures, make sure you climb to the El Mirador lookout point. You’ll huff and puff your way to the top, roughly 45 minutes one way. There is a viewing platform at the top which gives great views of the limestone pools of Semuc Champey for a bird’s eye view from above.

The Semuc Champey viewpoint can be reached by climbing a kilometer up on a set of stairs. The stairs are made of large rocks, some really rickety and with high inclines. If it had rained recently, be extra cautious as the stairs can get very slippery.

Go Tubing Down the Cahabón River

Next thing to do in Semuc Champey, following your refreshing dip in the pools is to go river tubing down the Cahabon River (or Río Cahabón in Spanish).

On the river float, you willl pass through several rapids. Along the journey, locals will sometimes float alongside you and sell you alcohol, which reminded me of my time in Vang Vieng, Laos .

It takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours to float and get back to your starting position, depending on the water levels. I traveled here during the month of December and water levels were lower as it was dry season.

Explore a Cave by Candlelight

The Kanba Cave is a highlight of visiting Semuc Champey and is usually included in a tour of the Semuc Champey Natural Monument. This is one of the coolest experiences to have as you get to explore the Semuc Champey caves by candlelight.

If you are visiting Kanba Caves independently, it costs 50Q or $6 USD to enter. Everyone receives a candle, and you and your guide explore the dark caves by a lit candle for about an hour and a half.

Tours go to the cave every 30 minutes between 9 am and 3 pm. If you are staying at a Semuc Champey hostel walking distance to the entrance, to avoid the crowds I’d go before 9am or after 2pm.

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Where to Stay in Semuc Champey Guatemala

Okay, let’s go over the best Semuc Champey hotels and Semuc Champey hostels to stay when visiting this natural wonder in Guatemala. The closest town to Semuc Champey is Lanquin, where the bus drops you off.

The town of Lanquin is a small village and this is where a majority of travelers choose to stay. Lanquin is about a 45 minute ride in the back of a pickup truck on a bumpy road through the jungle to reach Semuc Champey.

You can either choose to stay in Lanquin and visit Semuc Champey on a tour or stay in one of the few hostels that are walking distance to the falls, thus you can explore Semuc Champey independently.

The accommodations are cheaper in Lanquin because there are more options in town. If you want to explore the falls at your own pace, book a place to stay close to the falls park entrance.

If you stay in Lanquin you’ll have more food options to choose from, opposed to staying in the jungle, which you’ll have to rely on eating at the restaurant in the hostel.

We stayed at the  Greengos Hostel which was awesome and I recommend staying here. The common area is huge with a lot of hammocks and seating areas to hang out, socialize, eat, or work on your computer.

We actually booked a private room, which was very small, didn’t have a lot of space to spread open your bags, and the outlet situation was sparse.

Ironically enough, when we checked in there was a problem with our booking, it was a day off, meaning they thought we were suppose to check in the day before. This meant that we only had the private double room that we booked for one night as the place was fully booked the following days.

The staff was extremely vigilant and proactive with making sure they found us a room for our 2nd night. They ended up giving us an entire 4 person dorm room. Which had ample space to spread out, had lots of natural outside light and we had extra pillows since we had extra beds.

I feel like having all this space was what helped us get over our sudden sickness. Either way, it was a good thing and I’m forever grateful and happy that we stayed here.

What I Liked about Staying at Greengos Hostel:

• Common areas – lots of hammocks, pillows, and lounge seats. Finding a relaxing spot to post up was never an issue.
• The food from the kitchen was also very tasty.
• Large, open bar area.
• Staff was very pleasant and fun.
• Pool table.
• Big, nice, clean swimming pool.
• The bunk houses by the swimming pool.
• There’s a water fill up station, which makes it easy to avoid buying bottled water.
• Communal bathrooms were clean and I never had a problem with hot water.
• They arrange transportation to and from Lanquin to the hostel.

Improvements:

• Private double rooms are a bit cramped and stuffy.
• Communal bathrooms (it’s nice to have your own bathroom, especially when you are sick). There are private suites available to book.
• Wifi is only available in the common area. I mean I get it, it’s just nice to be able to get it in your room at night.
• There were lots of bugs. This isn’t the hostels fault, they are located inside of a jungle, what do you expect.

Other Places to Stay near Semuc Champey

• Greengos Hostel  – Again this is the hostel that we stayed which had a fantastic staff, amenities, and a great location about a short walk from the entrance to the natural bridge.
• El Portal De Champey  – Located about a ten minute walk from Semuc Champey. You can book private rooms or dorms.
• Hostal Oasis  – Budget friendly accommodation located in Lanquin.
• Utopia Eco Hotel  – Peaceful hotel in Lanquin. Tasty food, friendly staff, and tranquil atmosphere. The staff are warm and friendly.
• Mountain Nest – Amazing views and a great choice for couples and those seeking a remote and tranquil stay.
• Zephyr Lodge – Party hostel in Lanquin.

Semuc Champey Tour and Go at it Independently

To visit Semuc Champey on a tour or go at it independently will depend on a few factors such as your budget, where you stay, and how much time you have to explore.

If you want more freedom and time at Semuc Champey, stay at  Greengos Hostel  or  El Portal De Champey to be walking distance to the entrance. You can visit multiple times if you wanted to, as you’ll have the whole day to explore.

If you’d rather stay in town, you’ll want to visit Semuc Champey on a tour. This will provide your transportation and includes a cave tour. Plus you’ll get to mingle with a group of like minded travelers.

If you are traveling Guatemala on a budget, staying in Lanquin and taking a tour will cost about $55 if you travel here during high season and book a bed in a dorm. Staying in town will also make your travel days slightly less long.

Staying close to the falls so you can explore independently will cost about $50 booking a bed in a dormitory at Greengos Hostel and entrance fees.

If you plan on traveling to Semuc Champey on a tour from Antigua or Guatemala City, prices range from $150 for a full-day tour and more for a guided tour that takes place over several days.

How to Get to Semuc Champey

The journey to Semuc Champey is almost guaranteed to be a long one. Most people travel to Semuc Champey on a tourist shuttle en route from Guatemala City or Antigua to Tikal or vice versa.

Expect a 9 hour day on a cramped bus. This bus journey was my least favorite travel day during my 7 weeks of travel through Guatemala. My knees were jammed in the seat in front of me, I was smashed up against my neighbor, and it was very hot.

And it’s not like I just got a bad seat, no matter where I would have sat, it would have been cramped and uncomfortable. Once you arrive in Lanquin, it’s another 45 minute ride down a bumpy, dirt road in a pick-up truck to reach the natural pools.

I recommend booking transportation with Guatego, they are a reliable, safe, and affordable transportation company that operates through Guatemala and other parts of Central America.

Tourist shuttles from Antigua to Semuc Champey or from Guatemala City to Semuc Champey cost about $40. It costs about the same price if you were to book in person and this saves you the time trying to shop around for your ride.

Book a Shared Shuttle to Semuc Champey →

🛵  Read Next:   How to Get from Antigua to Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey Tips

• Get a Guatemala eSIM Card  for your phone to stay connected with a local high-speed data network while you travel.
• Mosquitos are swarming, make sure to apply mosquito spray if you don’t want to get eaten alive.
• Hot water takes a bit to heat up so be patient as it can take up to 5 minutes to get warm.
• Book your accommodations in advance if you are traveling here during high season and want to stay near Semuc Champey.
• Tap water is not safe to drink in Guatemala (or most Central American countries for that matter).
• Travel Insurance  – It’s very affordable when you consider the alternative.

📌  Read Next:  30 Guatemala Travel Tips to Know Before you Go

What to Pack

• Sunscreen  – This is my go-to sunscreen for the beach. Not only is it reef safe but you won’t need foundation.
• Lifestraw Water Bottle  – This is always a good idea. It helps me save a little money on buying water and stay healthy with clean drinking water when in a pinch traveling through Central America.
• Bathing Suit  – My latest obsession. It was built for women, by women :). Not the best suit for surfing but perfect for lounging in the pools.
• Sunglasses  – These are polarized, extremely affordable and come in many colors. I’ve been rocking them for a while now and love them.
• Flip Flops or water shoes – Unless of course you prefer to go barefoot.

Best Time to Visit Semuc Champey

The best time to visit Semuc Champey is during dry season, which typically runs from November to April. In dry season, the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and lounging in these waters.

The water levels in the pools of Semuc Champey are also typically lower during dry season, offering clearer and more vibrant turquoise colors, which is ideal for swimming and photography.

Semuc Champey can be visited year-round though, even during rainy season. Just be prepared for occasional rain showers and higher water levels which may prevent you from a few activities.

Guatemala Travel Vlogs

Unfortunately as I mentioned earlier, Joe and I were so sick for the one and only day that we were at Semuc Champey. So if you’d like to see the bus journey to Semuc Champey, you can watch the vlog above.

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Is Semuc Champey Worth the Crazy Journey? / A Complete Guide

• Last Updated: September 24, 2023

Semuc Champey is beautiful, enchanting, and paradise-like and It is definitely worth getting there – if you do it right!

In this Semuc Champey guide, I will tell you how to get to Semuc Champey and truly enjoy it. You will also learn what’s there to do in Lanquin whether its better to book accommodation in the town or in the jungle and finally, I will help you make a decision about whether Semuc Champey is worth the crazy journey there. 

I was genuinely surprised when I came across some statements and articles saying that Semuc Champey is not worth the visit.

The journey to Semuc Champey (Lanquin actually)  is long and tiring, no matter where you start. Some travellers claim that the pools and river aren’t worth going on this trip. 

I disagree.

But.. There is a but!

Semuc Champey is a magical place. In fact, I remember thinking that it could not get much closer to paradise than that. Swimming in the turquoise river pools surrounded by lush jungle in the middle of exotic Guatemala. Really?

Actually, I wanted to visit Semuc Champey from the moment I decided to book my ticket to Guatemala. I didn’t know what else I was going to see, but I knew I would see Semuc!

So what is the but, you are asking?

If you go on a quick, one-night trip, without giving yourself enough time to rest and enjoy and go on a one-day ‘do-it-all’ tour – you might as well leave disappointed and not go to Semuc Champey at all.

Semuc Champey is not the place you visit for one day.

If you only have one day, I would say: don’t go to Semuc Champey. It is not worth it. You will travel for almost 12 hours one way and then another 10 to 12 to your next destination.

But is Semuc Champey worth the long journey? It is worth adding it to your Guatemala itinerary ? Definitely yes!

If you can stay at least 2 full days, possibly even 3. Then you will have a magical time at Semuc Champey!

Semuc Champey is beautiful, enchanting, and paradise-like, and it is definitely worth getting there – if you do it right!

So now, the most important question – how to do it right? Below I will provide you with all the information you need to make your Semuc Champey adventure wonderful!

Table of Contents

Why is Semuc Champey so popular?

Semuc Champey means ‘where the river hides under the stones’. It is a natural wonder in the department of Alta Verapaz of Guatemala, near the town of Lanquín.

Semuc Champey is becoming more and more popular and it is often described as one of Guatemala’s most beautiful and magical places. 

Semuc Champey is a set of around 18 perfectly turquoise river pools and limestone bridges naturally formed over the Cahabón River. The river flows in the deep jungle gorge, and the best way to get a perfect view is to climb up to the famous mirador. The water in the pools is of perfect temperature and dreamy colour. 

Although Semuc Champey is the area’s main attraction, I think it is not the only one!

The river is beautiful, the surroundings tranquil, views to die for, and the town of Lanqion definitely worth visiting.

All you need to know about getting to Semuc Champey

To get to Semuc Champey, you need to aim for the town of Lanquin. Most lodging options will be in the town or in the jungle, but the only way to get to your hostel is by getting to Lanquin first.

The chances are that you are trying to get to Semuc Champey from Flores or Antigua . Some crazy travellers choose to do it from Rio Dulce. If you are heading from Rio Dulce or Livingston side of Guatemala, I do recommend going to Flores and stopping by Tikal Maya Ruins first. Unless you are happy with a direct private shuttle (If I remember well, those don’t run every day and are a bit pricy, approximately Q350)

The best way to get to Semuc Champey from Flores or Antigua is by shuttle bus.

First of all – don’t just book any shuttle. Go with GuateGo or another reputable shuttle company. It is the most respectable shuttle company, their cars are airconditioned and semi-comfortable given it is not a big luxurious coach.

Let’s be honest.

The journey is long, uncomfortable, bumpy and tiring. You don’t want to end up in a dodgy car that will make you sit there with no air con or break halfway through. Book a shuttle with a respectable and well-known company – ask your hostel for the best recommendation.

I went to Semuc Champey from Flores and booked my shuttle with Los Amigos Hostel. The price for this particular shuttle as of 2023 should not be more than Q225.

If you are prone to motion sickness – this is the time to make sure you stocked up on motion sickness aids. I am lucky to be able to stand the windest and bumpiest roads, but even I, at one point, felt a bit of a churn in my stomach.

And don’t have any expectations as to when you will arrive there!

How did my journey to Semuc Champey go? 

It was a very adventurous journey, that’s for sure!

Some call it a journey from hell. I wouldn’t be so dramatic. 

The bus left Flores at 8 a.m., and we headed towards Lanquin. Not long into the journey, we arrived at the river where an ancient-looking ferry was taking cars, tracks and pedestrians to the other side of the small town. Very slowly.

There were several small boats loading some folks and motorbikes, but all other vehicles were loaded on the ferry. We stayed in the queue for a while. We had no air con switched on until then, so all the windows were open for some fresh air. But as we stood in the queue, we started sweating buckets.

Finally, after around 15 minutes, the driver showed mercy, asked us to close the windows and switched on the air-con. And we sat there observing the slow movement of the ferry. I am still puzzled as to why a bridge wasn’t built over this river.

Finally, we loaded onto the ferry, which didn’t look like it was going to stand the weight of all the vehicles, including the big lorries! We have survived though and continued the journey.

The whole river crossing party was one of the most puzzling traffic situations I have experienced.

The journey continued through Guatemalan villages and the countryside. The first stop was by the petrol station where we had a chance to use the toilet and grab some snacks. There was a lady selling street food – some tamales and empanadas of some sort. It was very yummy!

This was also when we had to change the car. This was a regular occurrence during my shuttle and bus rides and travel around Guatemala. For no apparent reason and without explanation, you are asked to change the minibus. I always look carefully and with apprehension if my backpack isn’t left behind. I recommend you do the same!

The closer to the destination, the more beautiful the views will be. We drove amongst stunning mountains with breathtaking jungle views

The last part of the journey is the most beautiful but also the bumpiest and most winding. In the past, that wasn’t even a paved road. There are roadworks along this part with the strangest traffic system again.

Basically for one to two hours, the road is completely closed to traffic while the work is going on. Then the work stops and the cars are allowed to move. Probably for around an hour or so. If you arrive too late – you are stuck. And so were we. We were supposed to wait just for approximately 15 minutes. We stood there for about an hour and a half.

Luckily by then, we had made friends and started making jokes about spending the night in the Guatemalan jungle and discussing how many supplies we had amongst us.

We arrived in Lanquin precisely 12 hours after leaving Flores. It was a long trip for sure – but I wouldn’t call it a journey from hell (as some do)!

Call me a weirdo – maybe I didn’t love it at the time, but I love the memory of it. This is what travelling and backpacking is for me. If I wanted smooth sailing, getting from one place to another in comfort and drinking G&T while I’m at it – I would go on a luxurious resort holiday and travel by plane.

This is the authentic experience of travel. Sitting in a car with people who travel like this every day, making friends with random people (and staying in touch well after you left the country). Not always being comfortable, sometimes the opposite, sweating your pants off, eating street food, and having the opportunity to witness the day-to-day life of local communities.

To arrive late, being thrown at the back of the track, asked if I want a Guatemalan boyfriend by someone ten years younger and 10 cm shorter than me, and finally sit by the river with cold Guatemalan beer in hand. This is life!

On your arrival in Lanquin, you will find several guys surrounding the bus and shouting different hostel names and offering a ride. If you have booked your hostel in advance (which I highly recommend) – don’t be alarmed. The shuttle to your hotel is free, and they were sent by your hostel. Listen carefully for the name of your place, and you can safely go with them. Most likely, you will be sat at the back of a track – hold on tight!

Where to stay in Lanquin

There are plenty of different lodging options around Semuc Champey catering for all tastes, budgets and preferences.

When looking for a hostel or hotel to stay in when visiting Semuc Champey, you’ll have to decide whether you’d rather stay in the town of Lanquin or a jungle lodge nearer the Semuc.

This is where a lot of travellers get confused and can’t make a decision whether to stay in Lanquin or in an eco-hostel in the jungle. It can be a decision that will make or break your stay!

To help you make the right decision, I created a little pros and cons list of the best locations and hostels to stay near Semuc Champey.

Psst. In this post, you will find a complete guide to the most epic hostels in Guatemala!

Hostels in Lanquin - pros and cons of staying in the town of Lanquin

• In the town with access to restaurants, shops and ATM’s
• In case you didn’t like your hostel, you can walk around and find another
• Easier to save on money
• To get to Semuc Champey you will have to book a tour or take a taxi track
• You might be missing out on the ‘jungle experience’ so many travellers rave about.

Lanquin town is where you will be dropped off by the shuttle or the bus, and regardless of how far your hostel is – there will be a free transfer waiting for you.

Lanquin is a small town with not many things to do in the town itself; nevertheless, I really liked it. Staying in Lanquin will allow you to eat in local restaurants and access a few local shops and markets. There is also a bank and an ATM in Lanquin as well as few tour agencies.

You will, however, have to take a ‘taxi’ or organized tour to get to Semuc Champey Park unless you don’t mind 2 hours hike. I opted for a stay in Lanquin because I like flexibility, and I didn’t want to be stuck in one place. 

A Pro Tip: There are many legendary secluded Jungle Hostels around Guatemala. Many of them are a destination in itself. Although there is a definitive appeal to them and they often seem like a good deal, there is a catch. Because those are in the middle of nowhere, even if the price for the bed is very reasonable, you will be stuck when it comes to food and drink options. With no shops around, you will be eating and drinking in the hostel/hotel which adds up pretty quickly. If budget is not an issue, then go for it. But if you are a budget traveller (like me) you need to weigh all the pros and cons. 

There are many hostels located in Lanquin, many offering the remote jungle feel as well.

Casa Mary – This is the best option for you if you are on a budget and want to stay in a great family-run hostel. In fact, you will have your own little hut for yourself. They serve delicious and affordable food and you can book the tour with Casa Mary as well.

Hostal Oasis – I stayed in two hostels in Lanquin, and Oasis Hostal was one of them. This is a lovely, peaceful hostel with great dorm rooms as well as private rooms. It was also located right by the river and with a large on-site restaurant. The WiFi in the restaurant was pretty decent, and with the tranquil views, it was an excellent place to work. There is no communal kitchen, but the Lanquin Centre is 10 minutes walk away. The service was great and all staff working there were very friendly.

Vista Verde – I moved to Vista Verde because of its pool and beautiful views. This hostel offers cosy and comfortable dorms and massive outside space with reasonably priced food and good WiFi. The pool is really nice and the views are to die for. It is a very relaxing hostel with friendly staff, and although it has a remote feel, it is only 10 minutes from the centre. I felt very well taken care of and met many travellers, and made long-lasting friendships. 

Guayaha – This is a slightly different concept – glamping in the Guatemalan jungle. If you like the idea of staying in a really cool tent with a pool on site, this is where you want to book! Breakfast is included and there is also a restaurant on site. It’s a perfect peaceful place to stay in Lanquin.

In the majority of hotels near Semuch Champey, even those located nearer Lanquin, WiFi will be available in the common areas only. Most of the dorms and rooms will be spread along the field or mountains, so I guess it might be hard to provide good WiFi in all cabins. Keep that in mind if continued access to the internet is important for you. Or stock up on mobile data.

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Staying in a Jungle Eco Lodge near Semuc Champey - pros and cons

• Incredible jungle surrounding and experience
• You will be closer to the Semuc pools and often able to walk there
• The majority of jungle hostels are ecological and sustainable, some grow their own food
• You will have to rely on a hostel for food, drink and entertainment 
• The remoteness of those hostels might prevent you from seeing Lanquin itself
• Bugs! You will be in the jungle, can’t get away unfortunately

I was seriously debating this option. I, however, stayed in this type of property in the past and as much as I loved it, I felt limited in my choices and ended up spending much more money than I was planning. Keep in mind that the below hostels are very remote, and you will be limited to purchasing their meals and drinks. This, for me, is the main downside of staying in the jungle lodge.

On the other hand, you will be much closer to Semuc and in some cases, you will be able to walk there, The jungle location is incredible. I experienced it in Rio Dulce in Guatemala and Minca in Colombia. Falling asleep to the sound of the jungle and waking up surrounded by the most breathtaking nature and wilderness is an incredible experience.

Make a choice based on your preferences. Although I haven’t stayed in any of the below, I have gathered all the information and opinions. Here is the list of the best jungle hostels near Semuc Champey:

Utopia Eco Hotel –  is a tropical jungle lodge and eco-farm. It is one of the most popular hostels near Semuc Champey, and I nearly made a decision to stay there. Not only it is an excellent hostel with a cacao farm and incredible surroundings – it also has this ‘spiritual’ opinion with morning yoga classes and spots for meditation. You can do it all or do nothing at all there. Tours, bird watching, hiking, river tubing or just chilling – all available there. 

If you are looking for a remote getaway, ecological and environmentally friendly – Utopia is a great choice. Meals are vegetarian, and I only heard great opinions about it. In fact, if I return to Lanquin, I will definitely check this hostel out. 

Ch’i Bocol Community Hoste l – I really regret not staying in this hostel, although I have booked and then cancelled twice! It was my first choice while I was still debating whether I should stay in Lanquin or the jungle.

I love the concept of this hostel. Not only it is an affordable eco-lodge remotely situated in the wilderness with stunning views and proximity to the river and Champey – they also have its own vegetable garden where you can buy veggies and then cook your own food.

I only heard great things about this hostel; however, keep in mind that you would have to trek for around half an hour to get there. So if you are arriving with a lot of luggage and don’t like hiking in the jungle, this hostel isn’t for you. From this hostel, you can walk to Semuc Champey or take river tubing

Greengos Hotel – The legend has proceeded with this hostel as I have heard about it while still in Livingston . Just 10 10-minute walk from the Semuc Champey pools, this hostel is a destination in itself.  Greengos is one of the most popular accommodations near Semuc offering a pool and several great activities. They offer both dorms and private accommodation and have a great restaurant and bar on-site and generally offer a great stay.

How to Visit Semuc Champey / Tour or no Tour

Visiting semuc champey with an organised tour.

The most popular way to visit Semuc Champey is by taking an organized tour which costs around Q200 ($25). This is the price you will pay if you book in one of the hostels in Lanquin. If you decide to book online, it will be more expensive. But if you prefer to book in advance and with a well-known company, you can book an all-inclusive tour with transport from Antigua and accommodation like this 3-day Semuc Champey tour. 

Majority of the tours that are on offer in Lanquin include also a visit to K’an Ba Cave (controversial – read on for more info), swing rope, climbing a mirador for those famous views and sometimes river tubing back to the town.

These days, most of the tours will start with the K’an Ba Cave visit. I heard horror stories about it, but also I heard some people saying it is an incredible adventure. I guess it all depends on how ‘adventurous’ you are. I believe that there is not much guidance and regulations around this particular caving experience, and it all depends on how lucky you are with a guide on a given day.

The journey through the underground river caves is around 1km long and consists of scrambling over rocks, climbing up waterfalls and swimming through narrow channels and pools. It is meant to be an exciting and enigmatic experience.

Take a headlamp (if you have one); otherwise, you will be given a candle that will potentially make this experience enchanting and mysterious, yet keep in mind that you will have to swim in darkness, scramble and slide in the dark cave. I’d rather have a headlamp.

Disclaimer – I decided not to do the caves. I am a hiker, and I love a good adventure. But I am clumsy, and I like to be prepared. I don’t go to the mountains in sneakers, I don’t travel without insurance, and I am not walking into the slippery and dark cave without the appropriate footwear. Call me a chicken, but it is who I am. I have travelled like this for years, and so far, I am in one peace and without major injuries or financial losses. It works for me.

So to cut it short – I didn’t have water shoes or any shoes that could work for caving inside the waterfall. I didn’t want to risk slipping and breaking my leg. I had a long journey ahead and instead decided to see the pools, hike to the mirador and enjoy the scenery.

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If you’d rather not go to the cave, there is no need to take an organized tour. You cannot go to the cave without a guide, but you can do river tubing without one.

After visiting the caves, some tours will guide you to the mirador. This is around 45 minutes hike which I found not too challenging, and the views were definitely worth it!

Finally, you will visit the pools where you will spend the afternoon swimming in crystal waters and soaking up the sun and incredible surroundings. Definitely the best part of the tour!

Visiting Semuc Champey without the Tour

How to visit Semuc Champey without the tour? Easy! 

It is very straightforward to get to Semuc Champey from Lanquin. In the town, you can grab one of the track taxis (you will stand at the back – so much fun!). The official price is Q25 (for tourists), but you can definitely negotiate, especially if you are in a group. I went with a couple of friends, and we managed to get a taxi for Q20 each.

Also, I booked my taxi track the day before as I really wanted to be there before all the tours arrive. 

The taxi will drop you at the park entrance, where you will be asked to pay Q50 for the ticket. You will also definitely be approached by someone trying to offer you a tour or guidance.

The park is well-marked and great for hiking. There are toilets and lockers in the park. Take a padlock if you’d like to use lockers.

Make sure you go early. We had breakfast in town around 8 am, and straight after, we hopped on a track that we booked the day before. We arrived at Semuc just after 9 am. The organized tours will not arrive at the pools before midday, so if you arrive early, you will have plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the mirador and pools without the crowds.

As we arrived, we decided to climb the Mirador first. It is a good walk up the stairs and rocks. Not too challenging, but it can be hot, so make sure you pack plenty of water.

On your way up, you will find many vendors selling fruit, coconut water and juices but all are pretty overpriced.

The view from the mirador is spectacular. The climb is definitely worth it, and you should not miss it! The only downside is that you are only allowed 15 minutes at the Mirador, and keep in mind that if you want to use a drone, you will be asked to pay a fee.

We then walked down to the pools and literally spent the rest of the day there. The Semuc Champey pools are a true paradise. The water’s temperature was perfect, the colour out of the world and the surrounding gorge and jungle made it an extraordinary experience. It is one of the most beautiful places and incredible things I have experienced in my life. Do I need to say more?

We returned to town on time for late lunch. I highly recommend Kalual restaurant in the centre of Lanquin.

So is it worth booking a tour to Semuc Champey?

I would say booking a Semuc Champey tour makes sense if you really want to see and experience the caves. If you are not bothered about the caves – go without the tour. It will be cheaper, and you will be able to do what you want with your time.

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Other things to do in Lanquin apart from Semuc Champey

River tubing / other things to do in lanquin.

It is a really popular activity near Semuc Champey. It is great fun, and the River Cahabón is stunning! You can ask at your hostel or head towards Lanquin Caves, where you will be able to rent the tubes. You can take a tuk-tuk there. Tubes cost between Q30 and 50Q, and the tubings last for around 30 minutes.

It is recommended that you go tubing with the guide as it is easy to miss the exit and be taken down for a long float. The other perk of going tubing with the guide is that you will be able to get a beer straight from the guy in another tube! It’s a great relaxing day!

Grutas de Lanquín

You can explore Grutas de Lanquín with its thousand bats! Not many visitors opt for this adventure, so it is definitely an off-the-beaten-path experience. Lanquin caves are large and very interesting as well, being home to thousands of bats. You can explore with or without the guide. If you decide to go tubing, you can combine both activities – explore the caves first and then rent a tube for a relaxing end of the day. You can either take a tuk-tuk or walk for around half an hour. The entrance fee is Q30. 

If you want to see all the bats flying out into the night – stay till sunset!

Learn all the basics of Chocolate making

Utopia Hostel is also home to a Cacao Farm. I had the best chocolate ever in Guatemala, and if there is any country you should visit a cacao farm in, it is Guatemala. You will learn all the basics of Chocolate making, from the seed to delicious chocolate and drinks. Book your cacao farm tour here.

Explore the town of Lanuin

Make sure you explore the town of Lanquin. It is a very authentic, small and colourful town. Visit local shops, wander around the market and get the feel of the place. Pop into Kalula and have an iced mocha coffee on the terrace. The food in this restaurant is also great!

Have some pupusas for breakfast and fried chicken for a lunch. Take in the mountain views! Lanquin is indeed more than just Semuc Champey. 

One of the best things to do in Semuc Chapey and Lanquin is just relaxing. Take walks, hike, watch the birds, sleep in a hammock or chill by the pool. I stayed in Lanquin for five days. After day-long travel – I needed it.

How many days you need for visiting Semuc Champey

How many days do you need for Semuc Champey? Minimum two nights, but ideally three. It will give you enough time to recover from a long journey and enjoy the trip to the river but also relax and appreciate the beautiful surroundings.

The majority of people who didn’t enjoy this trip didn’t give it enough time. The journey is long and tiring. But Lanquin is amazing. What better place than the paradise pools of Semuc Champey to recharge your backpacking batteries? 

Semuc Champey – Practical tips and information 

• Semuc Champey is open from 8 am to 4 pm daily. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit as early as you can
• It costs 100 Q ($12) to enter Semuc Champey which will include the mirador and all the facilities
• There are toilets, and lockers (take padlock) that you can use. There is also a restaurant at the entrance.
• Pack plenty of water – it is hot.
• For your stay take insect repellant and sunscreen. Also, good walking shoes and ideally water shoes if you are planning on visiting the caves.
• In the town of Lanquin, there is an ATM and plenty of small shops. If however, you are planning to stay in a jungle eco-lodge, make sure you get the cash before arriving in Lanquin. You might not get a chance to stock up on arrival. 

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay in Lanquin and I think Semuc Champey is spectacular. For me, it was definitely worth the journey. 

I hope you found this Semuc Champey guide helpful. 

If you went and have a different opinion or would like to add anything – please make a comment below. I would like to hear from you!

Until then, happy travelling.!

This post may contain affiliate links which means that if you purchase the product or make a booking via one of my links, I will receive a small commission. Please know that I will never recommend or promote a product I don’t believe in or haven’t used. This way, you are supporting this blog at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

Exploring more of Guatemala?

Be sure you read my other Guatemala posts! My guide to solo travel in Guatemala and a list of the most epic backpacker hostels in Guatemala will help you plan your Guatemala trip

Are you wondering how to spend an amazing time in Antigua Guatemala on a budget? In this article, I will tell you how!  

I hope you are heading towards Lake Atitlan because this place is just magical! Here you will find a complete guide to things to do and towns around Lake Atitlan .

And of course, don’t forget to explore the Tikal National Park!

My favourite Travel Resources 

• For most of my accommodation, I use Bookings.com  and  Hostel World . With both booking platforms, you will often get free cancellations and access to tons of reviews. Read them! You will also get the most extensive selection of all types of accommodation. I hardly ever look elsewhere. If you are travelling in Asia – Agoda is definitely worth checking out!
• Make sure you download Google Maps and, for each new destination, download an offline map of your location and surrounding area. This way, even without the internet or Wi-Fi, you will be able to get to navigate around the town.

Moovit is also an excellent and very underrated travel and journey-planning app. It works great in many countries and will show you all possible routes by public transport, including the timetables.

For busses, I mainly use  Busbud  or  Omio  and  Flixbus to travel in Europe. 

123Go   — Great for tickets for trains, buses, ferries and charters in Southeast Asia! The best way to buy your ticket for the overnight Bangkok train! Rome2rio   – Another great journey-planning app. If your way of travel is mainly public transport  – you will use this app for sure!

 The travel insurance I use is Heymondo , and their plan suits me perfectly. They have clear policies with no deductibles, the price is excellent for what they offer and the price doesn’t go up when you are over 30 years old. They have a dedicated, easy-to-use app and free assistance calls.

I can get a cover for a month or three months and I know I can travel with peace of mind and get the best product for my money. And it also covers COVID-19.

Heymondo offers my readers 5% off so go ahead, and click on this link and your quote.

• I carry two debit cards with me. Given I don’t have a permanent country of residence,  Revolut  and Wise  work fantastically. In case one gets frozen, stolen or simply lost, I have a backup. The great thing about both cards is that you can freeze them straight from your phone and transfer money between them in case you need to. You will also get a great exchange rate and create separate foreign currency accounts. 
• I booked most of my tours via either  Get Your Guide  or  Viator . You can also book locally, but I advise you to ask around and follow the local recommendations. 

For more travel tips and recourses, visit Pati’s Travel Tips page!

4 thoughts on “Is Semuc Champey Worth the Crazy Journey? / A Complete Guide”

hello! we have 3 days to spent after rio dulce; do you recommande Samuc or FLORES? WE VISITED 2 TIMES TIKAL, BUT WE HAVE NEVER BEEN IN FLORES THANK YOU FOR YOUR ANSWER

Hello Lidia! I would definitely suggest Semuc but you need to keep in mind that it’s a long journey there. So if you only have 3 days in total in Guatemala this could be a stretch. It’s very easy to get to Flores from Rio Dulce and it’s a very lovely town with quite a few things to do there. It’s a tough one because it all depends on where are you going after. If you are going to Antigua or Guatemala city, you can get there from Semuc. And If you have already seen Tikal then again, Semuc could be a better choice! But I would definitely say 3 days is not enough to see both places. I hope this helps and enjoy Guatemala!

Thank you for the detailed information! Much appreciated Happy travels !

You are most welcome Nadia! I am very happy I could help:) Happy travels to you too!

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Hi, I’m Pati. A traveller, photographer (aspiring), dreamer and hopeless believer in magic. I caught the travel bug in my forties – and not planning to look back any time soon. I travel solo and on a budget and I try to spend as much time and effort as possible to truly immerse myself in the country I am visiting.

Whether you are like me and decided to change your life around a new dream or just wandering (because not all who wander are lost) – I am here to tell you that everything is possible. 

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My Favorite Day in Central America — Semuc Champey, Guatemala

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Semuc Champey, with its natural limestone bridge, turquoise pools, caves, and lookout point is one of the best places to visit in Guatemala. It’s remote, it’s stunningly gorgeous, and it’s a must-visit.

I traveled to Semuc Champey, Guatemala, and it was one of the best days of my life. But what makes a perfect day, anyway?

I’m not talking about one of the days I  had a water fight in Bangkok , or the day I danced with Vikings in Shetland , or the day I went croc cage diving ( in South Africa or Australia ), or the day in high school my friends and I saw our classmate’s dad next to us at a stoplight, then challenged him to a drag race. (He agreed. We actually raced.)

In my mind, perfect days aren’t about the most extreme activities. Just the perfect combination of good times and good people.

There was a time just after I turned 21 when a few friends and I went to the Mohegan Sun casino in Connecticut for the day, randomly did a trip to Providence, Rhode Island, tried our first scorpion bowl at Fire & Ice, and finished with seeing The 40-Year-Old Virgin at the movies. Nothing extraordinary. Just fun, friends, road tripping, and singing along to “Mr. Brightside” at the top of our lungs.

More recently? My day at Laguna de Apoyo with Grace and Skye. Nothing extraordinary or life-changing, just a really fun day in a beautiful place with two great new friends.

And here was another memorable day. A day spent swimming in green pools, swimming through caves with a candle for light, and tubing down the river, beer in hand. A day with beautiful friends. A day full of joy.

Welcome to Semuc Champey, Guatemala. You’re going to love it here.

Table of Contents

Why You Should Travel to Semuc Champey Guatemala

Semuc Champey is a series of limestone bridges and caves that snakes through part of central Guatemala, tying in with the Cabahón River. When you combine the limestone and the river, you have a series of tiered pools that look like something out of a fairy tale.

Semuc Champey struck me, as places often do, as an “I Can’t Believe It’s Not UNESCO” destination. It’s not even on the tentative list!

Semuc Champey is located in central Guatemala, about 45 minutes from Lanquin which is the closest town. It’s series of limestone bridges, caves, and pools.

The small town of Lanquín is the base for visiting Semuc Champey, and it’s a 40-minute ride away via pickup truck, though there are a few hotels and hostels close to the entry. Getting to Lanquín, your best option is to take a tourist shuttle (eight hours from Flores or Antigua, twelve hours from San Pedro, five hours from Rio Dulce). Otherwise you’d be taking a million chicken buses. Cobán is the nearest city to Lanquín, about two hours away.

In Semuc Champey, you can relax in the natural pools, hike to a lookout point, go tubing down the river, explore a cave and more.

I recommend staying in Lanquin. My favorite hotel there is El Retiro. It feels like a paradise getaway.

Things To Do In Semuc Champey

For our day exploring Semuc Champey, my friends and I did the one-day guided tour offered by several different hostels in town. It included a hike to the viewpoint, time swimming in the pools, cave exploration, and river tubing. Here’s how it went!

Semuc Champey Viewpoint

After a 40-minute ride standing in the back of a pickup truck, we arrived at Semuc Champey. Our first activity? Climbing to the famous viewpoint of Semuc Champey.

I’ll be honest — I did not enjoy this part.  The walk is approximately one kilometer of stair-climbing, which isn’t bad ordinarily, but it was about 95 degrees (35 C) and very humid, the stairs were huge and often just crumbled into rocks, and it had rained the day before, so everything was slippery and you had to be extra slow and cautious.

I was so drained by the time I got to the top, I barely mustered the energy to take a photo. One DSLR pic (pictured above). One iPhone pic for Instagram. One iPhone selfie. And done. I promptly bought a giant slab of watermelon, devoured it, then hiked the way down.

Swimming in the Pools

Now we’re talking! We stripped down to our swimsuits and jumped into the cool water of the blue pools. (Or everyone else jumped in, I tried to walk in slowly, and promptly fell on my ass, the universe deciding that I’d get in quickly after all.)

I can’t tell you what a relief it was to cool down after that incredibly sweaty hike.

We swam, we played, we debated the ethics of peeing in turquoise water as beautiful as this.

Hours passed as we climbed and jumped our way from pool to pool. Eventually it was time to meet up with our group and go to the next part of the trip.

Next up was an option to swim to this waterfall, scale it, and jump off the top. I passed on this part (I honestly didn’t think I had the upper body strength to climb that wall), as did most of the group.

A quick lunch later (packed sandwiches from the hostel that we bought the night before), we began the most exciting part of the trip.

Semuc Champey Caves

Now, this was the best part of the day. I knew that cave exploration would be fun, but I had no idea it would be this good!

We climbed up into the Kanba Cave and were each given a candle. We would hold it in our hand throughout the trip for light, even swimming one-handed with one arm up like the Statue of Liberty.

This is Guatemala! I thought to myself with a laugh. No helmets, a candle instead of headlamps, jumping off ledges, led by a bunch of crazy wildmen!

We would be swimming quite a bit. I did some cave swimming at Khao Sok National Park in Thailand , loving every minute of it, but that was only brief. Here, we were frequently swimming through water so deep we couldn’t touch the ground.

Not a swimmer? You’ll be okay. Lifejackets are provided for the non-swimmers..

This girl insisted on twerking upside down in the cave. She was my hero.

At one point, I was confronted with a rope leading up a vertical wall. Ordinarily, I could never climb something like that. But there was something about the happiness of the day and the war paint our guide José painted on my face (“What’s that?” I asked. “Bat shit!” he replied with a grin). I had the confidence.

I climbed that vertical wall. With no assistance. I did it!

As we swam through the caves, my friends and I kept exclaiming to each other that this was the coolest thing we had ever done. And I meant it. I wish I could bottle that feeling and take it with me.

Even though we’d been traveling together all day, the cave is where our group really bonded. We went into that cave strangers and emerged as friends.

Tubing in the River

After the caves, it was time to jump into a tube and float down the river. We nestled ourselves into our tubes — and then a group of kids jumped into the water, throwing cans of beers at our heads!

“You buy from me! My name is Ronaldo!” one chanted. They had a system — each beer had a letter on the bottom of the can and they used that to figure out who would pay whom after the tubing ended.

You might remember that  I don’t buy things from children while traveling , unless it’s clear that they’re using the money for themselves and not supporting their families (i.e. the kids in Jaibalito who spend their luggage-carrying tips on Coca-Cola). It wasn’t clear here, so I bought a beer from the lone adult instead.

Afterward, I learned that the kids and the adult were all working together. Sigh. Had I known that, I wouldn’t have bought from them at all.

Despite that, floating down the river for about 30 minutes, beer in hand, was the perfect ending to a high-energy day.

One last thing — I was very happy to have sports sandals for this day. They were perfect for everything from climbing to cave swimming. My other friends were stuck swimming in their sneakers. Trust me — sports sandals are a good thing to have! I recommend the Teva Tirra Sandals , which are super-light and have excellent arch support.

The day concluded with a rope swing into the river. Make sure you lift your legs!

Oh, and that wasn’t all. There were jumps from a rickety bridge into the river.

Yeah, there was no way in hell I was going to jump from there!

With that, it was time to head back to Lanquín in the back of a pickup truck.

Can You Visit Semuc Champey Without a Tour?

While I definitely recommend a full-day tour like the one my friends and I did as it’s the easiest way to make sure you see and do everything, you can absolutely visit Semuc Champey without a guide.

To do so, you’ll want to take local transport (about $1) from Lanquin to Semuc Champey. Once you arrive at the entrance of the park, you’ll need to pay your entrance fee (about $7). From there, you’ll be able to explore at your own pace, including the turquoise pools, El Mirador lookout point, the caves, and the river. Inner tubes can be rented for an extra cost.

Semuc Champey is open daily from 8am to 4pm. Morning is the best time to visit and hopefully beat the crowds.

How to Get to Semuc Champey

Semuc Champey is not an easy place to get to. It’s small, isolated, and the closest village, Lanquín, is an eight-hour drive from either of the two commercial airports in the country (Guatemala City and Flores/Santa Elena). But if you’re backpacking long-term through Central America, it’s a natural pit stop in between Flores and Antigua.

Here’s how to get to Lanquin from the popular tourist destinations:

• Lake Atitlan. Semuc Champey is a looong ride from Lake Atitlan, whether you take a shuttle service or chicken bus. From Panajachel, you can book shuttles for about $65-70 which will take about 13 hours. If you prefer chicken buses, I’d first take the bus to another city then on to Semuc Champey the second day.
• Antigua. There are frequent shuttles from Antigua for around $20, which take about 8 hours. You can find them at almost any travel agency and most hotels/hostels. Definitely take the morning shuttle so you arrive before dark.
• Guatemala City. From Guatemala City, you can take either a shuttle or the Monja Blanca Bus to Coban and another bus to Lanquin.
• Coban. Coban is the closest city to Semuc Champey. Local buses leave from mercado la terminal frequently, cost just a few dollars, and take only 2 to 3 hours.

From Lanquin, you’ll be able to take a local pickup to Semuc Champey or, if you join a tour, transportation will likely be included.

When Is The Best Time to Visit Semuc Champey?

The best time to visit Semuc Champey is during dry season, from December to April. This is also the busiest time of the year. I highly recommend visiting Guatemala during the dry season, because even if it’s busier, the weather makes sure a big difference in your enjoyment.

During rainy season, especially August to October, it is possible for the river to flood and Semuc Champey to close. This doesn’t happen frequently but just be aware that it can.

Where to Stay near Semuc Champey: Lanquín

The town of Lanquín is the base for visiting Semuc Champey, and it’s a 40-minute ride away via pickup truck, though there are a few hotels and hostels close to the entry.

Lanquín is a tiny town without too many amenities — you basically eat, sleep, and socialize at your guesthouse. I stayed at El Retiro Lodge in one of their private rooms with my travel companions, which I really liked for the most part. It felt like an off-the-grid nature getaway, right on the river.

They serve food and have really nice nightly buffets: we had Guatemalan, Thai, and Mexican nights with plenty of vegetarian options. Dinner is 50q ($6.50) for vegetarians and 60q ($7.80) for carnivores. Great staff, too.

One big drawback — despite what their website says, the internet is awful . Plan on being off the grid for a few days, and don’t come here if you need to get work done.

I also visited another popular hostel, Zephyr . Zephyr Lanquin is definitely a hardcore party hostel with amazing views over the mountains (pictured above). Their pool was huge, modern, and even had a swim-up bar — but it was closed for construction, sadly.

Still, I’m glad I stayed at El Retiro — it had a homey feel and it was a lot of fun without the crazy party scene.

Check out more accommodation options in Lanquin here.

Is Semuc Champey Worth It?

My day at Semuc Champey was pure joy. I’m so glad my friends and I added it to our itinerary. Even our friends who had to double back to Antigua (and in Candice and Shaun’s case, on to El Salvador again) said that it was well worth the long journey.

How much did I enjoy it?

1) I kept laughing randomly for no reason at all.

2) I barely took photos and didn’t even care.

3) Pitbull’s song “Fireball” came on the radio on the way back and I actually sang along and danced in my seat.

(Dude, I HATE Fireball. I love most of Pitbull’s music, but I think Fireball is the laziest songwriting since Old Time Rock and Roll. Seriously, did it take him more than 10 minutes to write that song? Is he pranking America? Was this a bet with Enrique Iglesias? First, he supports Chris Brown, and now this? But I digress…)

Overall, Semuc Champey is one of my favorite memories of Central America and catalyzed Guatemala into becoming one of my favorite countries in the world. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful places in the country and I highly recommend you make it a priority.

Travel Insurance for Guatemala

One last note — it’s absolutely vital to have travel insurance before traveling to Guatemala.  If you get sick or injured on your trip, if you get robbed, or even if you have to be flown home for more care, travel insurance will protect you from financial ruin.  I use and recommend World Nomads for trips to Guatemala.

Travel insurance will help you in your hour of need if you come down with appendicitis in Guatemala or fall and break a bone while on a bike tour, and if your flights get canceled due to bad weather, you can get accommodation and new flights paid for.

As always, be sure to read your policy carefully and make sure it’s a fit for you.  See what World Nomads covers here.

More on Guatemala:

Solo Female Travel in Central America: Is it Safe?

A Guide to the Towns of Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

I Still Don’t How How I Feel About Antigua

Visiting Tikal at Sunset

See all Guatemala posts here.

A Blog About Life & Travel in France

How to Visit Semuc Champey

• By Jen Ciesielski
• Updated: 24 June 2023
• 20 March 2020

Tucked away in the densely forested mountains of Alta Verapaz, Guatemala, near the town of Lanquín, lies an idyllic limestone paradise-Semuc Champey. Despite the grueling hours of off-road forging it takes to get there, it is one of the most beautiful hidden natural gems.

Here is my complete guide to visiting Semuc Champey to help you plan your next trip.

Table of Contents

How to get to semuc champey, things to do in semuc champey, tips for visiting semuc champey.

Getting to Semuc Champey is an adventure by itself. While it is possible to rent a car and drive on your own, the easiest and safest way to get to Semuc Champey is by booking a minibus through a travel agency in one of Guatemala’s larger cities. I booked a minibus in Antiqua to Lanquin, and it took about 12 hours. I left early in the morning and arrived in the late evening. Minibusses will drop you off at Lanquin, the town closest to Semuc Champey.

Useful Tip : Book your accommodation in advance. You can stay in Lanquin, Semuc Champey or Coban. In general, there are not a lot of hotels/hostels and they book up really fast. I stayed in Lanquin at El Retiro Lodge, and it was one of the best hostels in Guatemala. Once you arrive at Lanquin, there are several options to get to the pools.

Walk, Drive, or Tour

First, you can walk for about 2.5 hours, but the road is not well maintained and you will be competing with 4×4 jeeps for space to walk. Second, you can take a 4×4 pickup truck “taxi” to the entrance of the falls. If you just start walking in Lanquin someone with a 4×4 will ask if you want a ride. In my case, it was the same driver who was picking up a tour from my hostel, but I paid half the price for the same ride. The driver then waits for you and drives you back (you pay at the end, so you know the driver will wait).

Finally, most hotels/hostels in and around Lanquin also offer day tours to Semuc Champey. It is worth it to shop around for the best price. I did not do this, but I met other travelers who did, and they seemed quite happy. Personally, I found it quite expensive. The area is safe and everything is clearly marked so it’s easy to find your way without a guide.

There are several things to do in Lanquin and Semuc Champey, and, for nature lovers, it is a dream come true.

1. Hike to the Mirador

The hike to the mirador was quite challenging. If it rains the night before, as it did in my case, it can be quite muddy, so it is important to wear good hiking shoes. I choose to wear sandals and greatly regretted my choice. But the views are stunning, and at the top, there are people selling coconut juice so you can have a refreshing drink while you enjoy the magnificent views.

2. Swim in the Limestone Pools

After a difficult hike, you can swim in the refreshing pools. There are several pools, and even some slides made from the limestone. The pools are also filled with small fish that nibble at your feet. You don’t have to do the hike to go swimming, you can skip this part and go directly to the pools.

3. Visit the Watery Caves

There are a series of caves near the pools that you can visit by candlelight, and it is mandatory to have a guide. You can sign up with a guide on arrival or, if you are on a tour, it will be included. This is the only activity that I would recommend having a group. Since the tour is by candlelight, it is challenging to see everything if you are only a few people. In addition, the guides move quickly through the caves, so larger numbers slow the tour down. Make sure to wear strapped sandals or swimming shoes, there are several rocks under the water at the entrance and it is easy to stub a toe. Also, bring a headlamp, the candles do not provide enough light in the dark caves.

4. Go Tubbing Down the River in Lanquin

You can also go swimming in the river in Lanquin, and even go tubing down the river. When I visited Guatemala, it was the rainy season so the current was strong and the river was high, and there was nobody tubbing or swimming in the river.

• Be prepared for muddy trails . There are no paved roads or hiking trails. So, where good hiking shoes.
• Pre-book your accommodation . There are only a few hostels, and they fill up quickly.
• Bring sandals for the cave exploration . There are sharp rocks, ladders, and slippery surfaces, so good footwear is a must here.
• Bring a waterproof bag . There are lockers to store your things, but they are not dry. If you want to keep your camera gear safe, be sure to have a dry bag.
• Don’t book a tour . It’s overpriced and not worth it.
• It’s safe . This part of Guatemala is very safe and locals are friendly.
• There’s only one ATM . So, be sure to have some extra cash!

Check Out My Other Travel Guides

Hope you enjoyed my guide to visiting Semuc Champey and found it useful. Here are my other articles on traveling in Guatemala that I think you might find interesting.

• Hiking Acatenango: Face-To-Face with an Erupting Volcano
• Fun Things to Do in Guatemala
• Hiking Volcano San Pedro on Lake Atitlan

Jen Ciesielski

Jen Ciesielski is the creator of Dabbling in Jet Lag. She has lived abroad for over ten years, traveled to more than 50 countries, and speaks French and English fluently. Her areas of expertise include moving abroad, learning languages, and travel planning. Originally from the United States, she now lives in France, where she has been for more than six years. She has also traveled extensively around the country. She shares her experiences as an expat living in France and helps thousands of people plan their trips every month.

How to Visit Semuc Champey, Guatemala

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The Ultimate Guide to Semuc Champey, Guatemala

Semuc Champey, Guatemala is a national monument near the small town of Lanquin, Guatemala that is famous for its turquoise-blue natural limestone pools and dramatic scenery.

This is one of the most stunning places in Guatemala that should absolutely be on your itinerary!

The name Semuc Champey means “where the river hides under the earth” in the Q’eqchi’ Mayan language. The natural stepped infinity pools of Semuc Champey are actually a bridge under which the Cahabon River flows, before emerging again further downstream.

One thing everyone will tell you about Semuc Champey is it is HARD to get there. It’s way far out of the way from anywhere else in Guatemala, and no matter where you’re coming from or where you’re going, you are looking at a FULL day of travel time to and from Semuc Champey.

But for me, it was 100% worth it.

There’s a reason this is such a popular place to visit in Guatemala.

It’s one of the most naturally beautiful places I have ever seen. And for me, it was one of those places that lived up to the photos… it was even BETTER in person!

Here’s everything you need to know about planning a trip to Semuc Champey, Guatemala.

How to Get There

As I mentioned, there is no easy way to get to Semuc Champey. No matter where you’re coming from or where you’re going after, you’re in for a LONG travel day each way.

Go ahead and plan for a full travel day going there and coming back. However long you think it will take to get to Semuc Champey, it will actually take way longer.

The easiest and most comfortable way to get to Semuc Champey (or rather, the nearby town of Lanquin) is by shuttle. Yes, it’s possible to come by chicken bus, but you’ll have to change buses several times and spend even more time in transit.

Shuttles are the most convenient way, and what I recommend.

Here’s an idea of how long it will take depending where you’re coming from:

• Antigua to Lanquin:  8-9 hours
• Panajachel to Lanquin:  8-9 hours
• Quetzaltenango to Lanquin:  12-13 hours
• Flores to Lanquin:  7-8 hours
• Rio Dulce to Lanquin:  6-7 hours

See what I mean about needing to block off a full travel day to get there?

I often book with Adrenalina Tours in Guatemala, but there are plenty of other agencies you can book shuttles with. You can also typically arrange one through your hotel.

Shuttles are generally quite comfortable and you will make several stops along the way to eat and use the restroom. The cost of a shuttle to Lanquin can be between $30-60 depending where you are coming from. Try to book at least a few days in advance, because there’s only one shuttle arriving to and departing from Lanquin each day, so if you miss it, you’ll be stuck.

Another option is self-driving.  Some of the hotels in Lanquin have parking, and there is parking at Semuc Champey. Just bear in mind that you will need a very sturdy vehicle with four-wheel drive to make it from Lanquin to Semuc Champey on a very bumpy, steep dirt path.

⛰️ Prefer a guided tour? You can take this 3-day trip from Antigua to Semuc Champey and Cobán.

How Long to Stay

Since you will need to account for a full two days of travel getting to and from Semuc Champey, you will need to spend at least two nights and one full day there.

A lot of people arrive in Lanquin, spend one night there, go to Semuc Champey the next day, spend another night there, and then leave the following morning. So for example, arrive on Friday, visit Semuc Champey on Saturday, and leave on Sunday.

There’s no way to spend only one night, because even if you visit Semuc Champey in the morning, there are no shuttles or buses leaving Lanquin in the afternoon. You can only leave in the morning.

If you’re short on time, two nights and one day is fine, but I recommend building in another day and night so you have some time to rest and enjoy the area between the long shuttle rides.

I stayed three nights and two days in Semuc Champey, and found this to be a good amount of time.

Of course, you can always spend much longer in Lanquin if you want to relax for a while.

Where to Stay

The two main options for where to stay are the small town of Lanquin, and the area right by Semuc Champey which is about 30-40 minutes away by 4×4.

Lanquin is where the majority of hotels and hostels are. I recommend staying in Lanquin, because it’s where the shuttles will drop you off (they won’t go all the way to the Semuc Champey hotels and hostels) and you’ll be able to easily organize transportation or a tour to Semuc Champey.

Then there are also a few places to stay right around Semuc Champey. For these options, you will need to arrange your own transportation from Lanquin (or the hotel might be able to pick you up.)

One thing to note, all the accommodation options are very rustic. There are no luxury properties around Semuc Champey, so be prepared to rough it a little bit.

Hotels in Lanquin

These are the two places I recommend staying in Lanquin:

• Zephyr River Lodge : This is by far the most famous hotel in Lanquin and it has a reputation for being the fun backpacker hostel. Everyone I met on my shuttle to Lanquin was staying here, except me and one other girl, but we ended up going here two nights in a row to hang out at their pool and have dinner. They have an amazing pool and jungle views.
• El Retiro Lodge :  This is where I stayed in Lanquin and it had a much quieter, family-friendly vibe. I chose it because of their “Suite” with a private bathroom and air conditioning. While nothing to write home about, this was a decent place to stay and they had the cheapest Semuc Champey tour around. They’re also located right on the river.

Hotels in Semuc Champey

Here are two top-rated options closer to Semuc Champey:

• El Portal de Champey : This hotel is located right at Semuc Champey, just a few minutes’ walking distance from the entrance to the national monument. If you want easy access to Semuc Champey, tubing, and other activities, this is a good place to stay. Just keep in mind that shuttles will not bring you this far, and you’ll have to arrange transportation from Lanquin.
• Greengo’s : Another popular option close to Semuc Champey is Greengo’s. This is an eco-friendly accommodation option that is great for backpackers. They have a nice swimming pool and are located in the midst of the jungle. It’s also just a 10-minute walk from the entrance to Semuc Champey and the other nearby activities.

Where to Eat

Lanquin is a TINY town that is basically just one dirt road. There aren’t very many restaurants or other amenities. You will most likely be eating your meals at your hotel, as almost all of them have restaurants that serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

You can also buy food at Semuc Champey for lunch from the local vendors. Most hotels also offer a picnic lunch option that you can bring with you on the day tour.

There are also quite a few tiendas in town where you can buy snacks.

Things to Do in Semuc Champey

What are the best things to do in Semuc Champey? Here are the five activities you shouldn’t miss:

1. Swim in the natural pools.

The most famous thing to do at Semuc Champey is taking a dip in the picture-perfect natural limestone pools! You can jump from pool to pool, and they are tiered downward like steps.

The temperature of the water is perfect most of the day (although it can be chilly first thing in the morning) and you’ll be amazed by the vivid turquoise coloring of the water.

2. Hike to the mirador.

To see the pools from above, hike to the mirador, a stunning viewpoint overlooking Semuc Champey. Although the hike is steep, it should only take about 20 minutes to make it to the top.

After you admire the view, you can follow the trail back down to the pools.

3. Go tubing in the river.

If you’re visiting Semuc Champey as part of a tour, you’ll most likely go tubing on a small segment of the Cahabon River as part of your tour. But if you have more time, you can go tubing for several hours down the tranquil river, starting near Semuc Champey and finishing back in the town on Lanquin.

4. Explore the Kanba Caves.

These caves are located close to the bridge before the entrance to Semuc Champey. The easiest way to visit them is part of a Semuc Champey tour.

You can explore these partially-submerged caves by candlelight, which is a very cool experience. Be prepared for lots of swimming, climbing, and sliding!

5. Visit the waterfalls.

There are some pretty waterfalls located at the base of Semuc Champey that you will visit if you’re on a tour. (You can also visit them for free if you’re not on a tour.) You can jump off the surrounding cliffs, and swim in the clear turquoise water beneath the falls.

Should You Do a Tour or Not?

The price for a full-day tour to Semuc Champey from El Retiro Lodge was Q185 (about $24.) This included round-trip transportation, guides, entrance fees, tubing, and the cave tour.

We spent the morning doing the waterfalls, tubing, and the save tour, then had a break for lunch. Then we hiked the mirador, spent over an hour at the pools, and finally headed back to Lanquin.

I thought the tour was worth it and I would definitely recommend it.

However, it’s also possible to visit Semuc Champey on your own. The entrance fee is Q50 (about $6.50) and includes access to the pools and the mirador. You can also visit the waterfalls for free on your own, but you’ll have to pay extra for tubing and visiting the cave. You’ll also need to arrange transportation on your own, which can be another Q50 or so round-trip.

Overall, you might save some money going without a tour, but the additional cost isn’t too high and for me it was worth it not to have to figure everything out on my own.

Visiting Semuc Champey, Guatemala

This guide showed you how to visit Semuc Champey, Guatemala.

Overall, I think visiting Semuc Champey is definitely worthwhile.

It’s a more challenging destination than other parts of Guatemala (like Antigua for example) but if you’re looking for an adventurous destination off the beaten path, this is it.

This was definitely one of the most beautiful destinations I’ve ever traveled to, and a place I think everyone should experience while they’re in Guatemala!

More Guatemala Travel Tips

Looking for more tips to plan your trip to Guatemala?

Here are some of my most popular posts…

• Ultimate Guide to El Paredon, Guatemala
• 7 Reasons to Learn Spanish in Guatemala
• Ultimate Guide to the Acatenango Volcano Hike
• The Complete Guide to Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

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About Denise Cruz

Denise is a marketing executive who escaped corporate to travel the world… twice. A Brazilian native living in the U.S., she’s lived in 4 countries and visited 35+ others. After side-hustling her way to financial independence, she curates solo destination guides, slow travel tips, and travel blogging advice on Wander Her Way. When she’s not on the road, you can find her in Miami with her dog Finnegan.

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Semuc Champey Guatemala: All You Need To Know Before You Go

In Guatemala, hidden in the tropical jungle, there’s a beautiful place that few people have heard of.

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Here, surrounded by dense forest that vibrates with the fluttering of birds and butterflies, is a stretch of river that cascades into a series of shallow turquoise pools.

As the water tumbles downstream from one pool to the next, it creates a calming sound that’s disturbed only occasionally by the calls of howler monkeys or the chatter of the visitors who come to relax in the crystal-clear water.

This is Semuc Champey, one of the greatest natural wonders of Guatemala.

Why should you trust this review of Semuc Champey?

I recently spent three months solo travelling around Guatemala , and as part of that trip I visited Semuc Champey. Later, one of my images was published in National Geographic Traveller Magazine .

In this crazy era it’s probably also important to point out that I’ve written this post myself, with no help from AI. So I take full responsibility for any typos!

I’ve also written nearly 30 other blog posts about Guatemala , so if you’re planning a trip, do stick around after you’ve finished this and see if anything else takes your fancy.

What is Semuc Champey?

Semuc Champey is the name given to a natural limestone bridge that spans a short section of the Cahabón River in central Guatemala.

Here, over millennia, the river has carved a tunnel through the rock, leaving behind this 980-feet (300 metres) long bridge topped with a series of stunning blue pools.

Most of the river thunders through the tunnel under the bridge and emerges, frothing and foaming, at the other end.

But above the tempest, a small amount of the water takes a calmer route, flowing gently down across the top of the bridge from pool to pool via a series of small waterfalls.

The name ‘Semuc Champey’ comes from the Indigenous Maya Q’eqchi language and means ‘where the river hides under the Earth’ – which makes perfect sense when you’re standing at the top end of the bridge, watching the churning river flowing into the tunnel.

Due to the rarity and fragility of this landscape and its biodiversity, in 2005 Semuc Champey was listed as a Natural Monument by the Guatemalan government.

Where is Semuc Champey?

Semuc Champey is located in Central Guatemala, in the Alta Verapaz region, about 115 km (70 miles) as the crow flies northeast from Guatemala City.

It’s about 11 km (7 miles) or 45 minutes’ drive from the nearest town, Lanquín, about 2-3 hours’ drive from the regional capital, Cobán, and about 8 hours by tourist shuttle from Antigua Guatemala .

To get there you’ll need to get a bus to Lanquin, and then get a local pickup truck along bumpy unpaved tracks to the park entrance. More information about how to do this is below.

Arrival at Semuc Champey Guatemala

When you get to Semuc Champey, your pickup will probably drop you at the bottom of a hill, just before a big yellow bridge that offers beautiful views up and down the river.

Cross the bridge and follow the path uphill on the other side, passing vendors selling drinks and snacks. It’s a good idea to buy something if you didn’t bring any with you, as there’s not much once you’re inside the park.

After a few minutes’ walk you’ll reach the visitors centre where you pay your entry fee (currently Q50 / £5 / $6.30 per person).

Once inside the park, you simply follow the path for about another ten minutes down to the pools. As you get closer, the stony path turns into a wooden boardwalk which takes you along the riverbank, with plenty of places to sit and different pools to explore.

Things to see and do at Semuc Champey

El mirador semuc champey viewpoint hike.

Once you’ve entered the park, after a few minutes you’ll see a sign on the left hand side pointing uphill towards the Mirador – a dizzying viewpoint overlooking the majestic splendour of Semuc Champey.

It’s a fairly steep and sweaty uphill slog for about 30 minutes through the jungle via a rough path and a series of wooden staircases to the top – but it’s definitely worth it for the incredible birds-eye view of the whole site.

Along the way you’ll pass more vendors selling drinks and sliced mango and watermelon – perfect for refreshing yourself after all that thirsty exercise. You may also spot wildlife – I saw two howler monkeys on my climb up.

You really get a sense of how impossibly stunning Semuc Champey is from above – so if you’re mobile and have the energy, I highly recommend doing the Mirador hike when you arrive, before cooling off in the refreshing water.

Once you’ve enjoyed the gorgeous views and taken a few photos , another path leads you back down the other side and brings you out at the top of the pools. Here you can enjoy the view of the Rio Cahabon as it thunders into the underground tunnel, before stripping off for a relaxing swim.

Swim in the pools

The main reason people come to Semuc Champey is to relax in the dazzling turquoise pools.

There are loads of different pools to try; some are deeper than others but all of them are pretty accessible and safe. Be aware that there are no staff or lifeguards on duty, so swimming is at your own risk, and surfaces can be very slippery.

Exploring all the different pools and waterfalls and chilling out in the sparkling, clear water after my sweaty hike up to the mirador was one of my favourite things to do in Guatemala.

You can easily spend several hours here relaxing with a book or a podcast, swimming, exploring the different levels or trying to spot wildlife including howler monkeys and toucans in the surrounding jungle.

It’s a good idea to wear water shoes or hiking sandals, as once you leave the boardwalk, the terrain around the pools is rough and can be quite sharp underfoot.

Explore the Ka’nba Cave

Another – less relaxing! – activity you can do near Semuc Champey is visit the Ka’nba (or sometimes K’amba or K’an Ba) Cave.

Ka’nba is a natural underground cave with a river running through it, located 9 km south of Lanquin or about 10 minutes from Semuc Champey.

One-hour guided spelunking tours take you into the depths of the cave system armed with only a candle for light. With no helmet, life jacket or head lamp, you’ll splash your way through the dark tunnels, squeeze past stalactites and stalagmites, and swerve bats in an underground adrenaline adventure.

For the extra brave (or mad) there’s the option to climb up a rope ladder and then jump into an underground pool in pitch darkness

I have a phobia of small underground spaces so this sounded like a nightmare to me, but some other travellers I spoke to said it was OK, if a bit scary. Wear shoes though, and take care – the nearest hospital is in Cobán, about four hours away.

You can turn up at the entrance and join the next tour – they run several times a day from 9 am to 3 pm, and on-the-door entry costs Q60 (£6 or $7.60 US). Or pay a bit more to book a tour in advance with hostel pickup – you can do this via your hostel or contact Lanquin Services by email or WhatsApp.

River Tubing on the Rio Cahabon

Most cave tours end with a chance to go river tubing – where you sit in an inner tyre and float down the river. But you don’t need to visit the caves to do this – touts also wait by the bridge at the entrance to Semuc Champey and offer inner tyre rental for Q50 each.

They’ll even look after your stuff so it doesn’t get wet, and give it back to you at the other end. Though if you have any valuables, I’d suggest taking a dry bag and keeping your possessions with you.

How rapid and scary the River Cahabón will be depends on the time of year you go. When I went it was the end of the dry season, so the river was gentle and it looked like a lovely and relaxing way to end the day. I’m told it never gets that rough, so you should be fine, but it’s best to check on the day.

Sadly I had my camera with me and I wasn’t prepared to hand it over to some random, so I couldn’t do the tubing, but I saw other people doing it and it looked fun.

Other adventure activities

If you’re staying a bit longer and want more things to do, Lanquin Services offer other tours and activities for thrill-seekers, including white water rafting on the Rio Cahabón, mountain biking, river boarding or kayaking. Many of these can also be organised through your hotel or hostel.

What facilities are there at Semuc Champey?

Near to the pools there are simple changing cubicles and lockers. The lockers are free if you bring your own padlock. There are also toilets.

I didn’t use the changing rooms as it’s easier just to wear your swimwear under your clothes, dry off in the sunshine and then put your clothes back on.

There are no chairs or sun loungers – if you want to sit you can do so either on the boardwalk or on the rocks surrounding the pools.

There isn’t a café or restaurant inside the park, but you will find vendors selling drinks, fruit and snacks both near the park entrance and inside. If you’re planning to spend the whole day (as you will probably want to), it’s a good idea to bring a packed lunch.

How much does it cost to visit Semuc Champey National Monument?

At the time of writing, entry to the park cost Q50 (about £5 or $6.30).

On top of that you’ll need to factor in transport to the park, water and lunch. If you stay near the site you can get a pickup ride from your hostel for a minimal charge or even walk; if you’re staying in Lanquin or Coban you’ll need to add on the cost of the bus.

If you take a tour including the caves and hostel pickup, it costs about Q200 (£20 / $26 US). You can book tours through your Coban or Lanquin accommodation, or via WhatsApp with Lanquin Services.

How to get to Semuc Champey in Guatemala

Semuc Champey is fully on the tourist trail, so it’s possible to get a shuttle from all the other major tourist destinations including Antigua , Guatemala City, Flores and Rio Dulce . The shuttles only go as far as Lanquin; after that you will need to be picked up or make your own way to your accommodation.

If you want to take a public or chicken bus, you will need to go via Cobán and change for a bus to Lanquín.

How to get to Semuc Champey from Lanquín

The easiest way to get to Semuc Champey is to stay in one of the hostels close to the park entrance and book in advance.

When your shuttle bus arrives in Lanquin, your hostel will send a driver to collect you. It’s a bumpy but fun ride, bouncing along in the back of the flatbed pickup along an unsealed track, passing through green hillsides studded with banana trees and hibiscus flowers with incredible views of the rolling landscape.

The next morning, your hostel can organise another transfer to take you to the park entrance and arrange a time to collect you at the end of the day (mine charged Q15 / £1.50 / $2) each way). Or if you’re feeling energetic, you can walk (15 mins to 1 hour depending on where you’re staying).

Make sure you’re at the collection point on time or they may not wait, and it could be a long walk back! In case this happens or in the event of any other emergency, I’d advise putting the number of your hostel in your phone.

If you’re staying in Lanquin, there are public pickups that leave frequently throughout the day from the main plaza and take about 45 minutes. Again you can walk – it’s a well-signposted and very scenic route, but it’s 10 km and takes 2.5-3 hours.

You can check out rates for hotels and hostels near Semuc Champey here .

How to get to Semuc Champey from Coban

There are regular buses that travel between Cobán and Lanquín and take about 2-3 hours. Once you reach Lanquin, you’ll then need to hop in a pickup or walk, as mentioned above.

How to get to Semuc Champey from Guatemala City

Tourist shuttles operate between Guatemala City and Lanquín – they take about 7.5 hours and cost about US$40.

Or if you’re trying to save money, you can get a public bus to Coban, and then change buses for the ride to Lanquin.

Another great way to visit if you’re pushed for time is to take a three-day tour from Guatemala City or Antigua , which also includes transport, two nights in a hotel, and the chance to spot the elusive quetzal bird in the Biotopo del Quetzal near Cobán.

How to get to Semuc Champey from Flores

This is the route I took. The shuttle left Isla de Flores at 8 am and took eight hours along scenic winding roads, passing through small villages and across rolling green hills to reach Lanquin. We stopped for an hour in Coban where we were able to visit the mall to pick up essentials, and buy lunch.

When we arrived in Lanquin, we were dropped off by the EXON service station where there was a gaggle of guides and pickups offering accommodation and collecting passengers on behalf of the various hostels.

This is where it’s helpful to have booked accommodation in advance, as touts may try to divert or scam you by saying hostels are fully booked.

How to get to Semuc Champey from Antigua

You can easily organise a tourist shuttle from Antigua through your hotel or hostel. Shuttles take 8 hours, run twice a day, at 8 am and 2 pm, and cost about Q150 / £15 / $20 US.

I strongly recommend getting the morning shuttle so that you arrive in the afternoon, ready to hit the pools the following morning. If you get the afternoon shuttle you won’t arrive until very late, after dark, which is not safe or recommended.

How to get to Semuc Champey from Rio Dulce

People may tell you it’s very difficult to travel between Rio Dulce and Semuc Champey because the road is unpaved for most of the way and the journey is long and bumpy. They are in the process of improving it, but who knows how long that will take!

It’s probably wiser to plan your Guatemala itinerary a different way so you don’t need to make this crossing, but if you do need to, don’t be discouraged, as it’s totally doable (except possibly in rainy season when the road may be impassable, so do check before you travel).

Rio Dulce is where I went after visiting Semuc Champey, so I did this journey in the opposite direction. It took about seven hours and it was pretty tedious and bumpy with no service stations to stop at, but it wasn’t too awful.

I organised the trip through Lanquin Services via Whatsapp. They were responsive and it all worked out fine so I’d recommend them.

If you want more detail, check out my Rio Dulce post .

Can you visit Semuc Champey without a tour?

Absolutely – it’s what I did! I simply asked my hostel to arrange a transfer for me to the entrance, and then arranged a time when they would collect me at the end of the day.

Once there, it was easy to find my way inside and around – and if all you want to do is hike up to the Mirador and relax in the pools, you definitely don’t need a tour.

However if you want to do anything more adventurous like visiting the caves or doing watersports, it’s best to go with a guide.

How long should you spend at Semuc Champey in Guatemala?

You only need one day at Semuc Champey and will need to stay two nights in the area. So that means that with a day to get there, and a day to get to your next destination, a visit to the site will take three days out of your Guatemala itinerary .

I actually felt that this was a bit rushed, and if you have time I’d suggest staying three nights, so you can have one full day at the pools and another relaxing at your hostel or doing other activities in the area, before you move on again.

Semuc Champey hotels and hostels

The best place to stay for visiting Semuc Champey is either in Lanquin, or in one of the hostels closer to the site. Note that if you stay in town, there are various places to buy lunch and dinner, but if you stay in one of the park hostels you will have to eat their food (and pay their prices).

Here are some suggestions:

Chilled out: Utopia Eco Lodge. This is where I stayed. Utopia has basic cabins and dorm beds nestled in the lush jungle by the side of the river. It also has a communal area where delicious vegetarian meals are eaten together family-style, free yoga classes , and a really friendly community vibe.  I liked it so much I wanted to stay another night, but sadly they were fully booked.  It’s a 1 hour walk to Semuc Champey from here.

Party hostel: Greengos.  I didn’t stay here myself but I heard good things from people who had.  Greengos  is just a 10-minute walk from Semuc Champey itself, with large dorms, private rooms, a bar and a pool. It’s famously a party hostel though, so don’t stay here if that’s not your vibe.

In Lanquin: Vista Verde. If you prefer to stay closer to town, Vista Verde is a ten-minute walk from the shuttle drop-off point, and has dorms or private rooms with shared bathrooms. The big attraction is the pool with amazing views over the countryside.

Closest to the site: El Portal de Champey. Located right next to the park entrance, El Portal is another hostel that was recommended to me by several people I met. It’s convenient but basic, with no WiFi or hot water – the real, off-grid jungle experience! Obviously if you stay here you can just walk into the Semuc Champey and stay as long as you like without worrying about your pickup time.

When is the best time to visit Semuc Champey?

Most people (including me!) will tell you to visit Guatemala during the dry season between about November and April. However, since this is the most popular time to visit, it’s also when Semuc Champey will be a bit more crowded.

And the secret is definitely out about this place – so if you visit during peak season it’s unlikely you’ll find it anywhere near as fabulously empty as you can see in these photos – and yes it really was this quiet, there aren’t 1000 people standing just behind me!

I visited in the first week of May, when the weather was still nice and the rains had not fully started, meaning the water was still clear and beautiful (I’ve heard that later in the year the pools can sometimes be cloudier due to all the silt washed downriver by the rain).

If you want to avoid crowds, avoid weekends and around Christmas and Easter.

What to bring to Semuc Champey

Here’s what I recommend you take with you on your visit to Semuc Champey

• Towel or sarong
• Water shoes or sandals. If you’re planning to do the Mirador hike you can do it in sandals (I did) but I don’t recommend trying to do it in flipflops as the path is very steep and slippery in place. Trainers or hiking sandals are best – mine are Tevas and I highly recommend them.
• Padlock for the lockers if you plan to use one
• Packed lunch

Is Semuc Champey safe?

Semuc Champey is firmly on the tourist trail and most visits there are hassle-free. As always though, keep an eye on your stuff as pickpockets may operate during busy times.

Take care when walking around by the pools as some of the rocks can be slippery. Don’t dive in – many of the pools are very shallow around the edges and you may hit your head.

As with most travel in Guatemala , it’s best to avoid travelling after dark, so plan your arrival and departure during daylight hours, and if you’re walking to and from the park, allow enough time to reach your destination before the sun sets.

Head over here for more Guatemala safety tips .

Is Semuc Champey worth it?

And finally – the ultimate question! Did I think my trip to Semuc Champey was worth it and would I recommend it?

Well, I thought it was absolutely beautiful (and I got a National Geographic photo commission out of it), so yes! 

But I went in May, when there were very few people there, and I was on a relaxed schedule. It was peaceful and lovely. I also really enjoyed staying at Utopia Eco Lodge , and would have liked to stay longer.

If you’re visiting in peak season, it may be more crowded and if you don’t like being surrounded by too many people, you might not enjoy it as much.

If you’re on a tight schedule and don’t have long in Guatemala, remember that a trip to Semuc Champey will take you three days including transport there and back.

So it’s probably not worth the effort if you’re pushed for time. Better to relax a bit and spend more time in Antigua , Flores or Lake Atitlan instead.

Want to see more of Semuc Champey Guatemala?

Check out my  Semuc Champey Reel  on Instagram for more inspiration.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bella Falk 📸 Passport & Pixels (@passportandpixels)

Where to next?

If you’re planning a trip to Guatemala, here’s some more inspiration for you…

• 30 Beautiful Pictures Of Guatemala And The Stories Behind Them
• Crater Azul: Is Guatemala’s Gorgeous Blue Crater Overhyped?
• Alfombras In Guatemala: A Guide To The Colourful Sawdust Carpets
• Livingston Guatemala: A Photo Guide To This Quirky Caribbean Town
• Visiting San Andres Xecul, Guatemala: Home Of The Famous Yellow Church

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Bella is a multi-award-winning travel writer, wildlife photographer and science and history documentary director from London. Among many awards and nominations she won Blogger of the Year at the British Guild of Travel Writers’ Awards 2023 and Best Photography at the Travel Media Awards 2020. Her work has been published by National Geographic, Wanderlust, and BBC Travel among others. Her films have been shown around the world including on the BBC, Discovery and PBS.

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Ultimate Guide for Visiting Semuc Champey in Guatemala: From An Insider

This guide to visiting Semuc Champey in Guatemala is filled with important information and everything you need to know before you visit this natural wonder. This is definitely a stop to add to your Guatemalan itinerary if you’re looking for hidden gems in Guatemala. In my opinion Semuc Champey is one of the best things to do in Guatemala .  

Semuc Champey is a natural wonder located in the department of Alta Verapaz , Guatemala. It is a series of limestone pools and waterfalls that are nestled in the heart of the jungle. The pools are fed by a subterranean river, and the water is crystal clear and turquoise blue. The area is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a popular spot for tourists looking to experience the natural beauty of Guatemala.

Best Guide To Semuc Champey: Written By A Guatemalan

I was born and raised in Guatemala and have been going to Semuc Champey since I was a kid. In my opinion, having traveled through Guatemala extensively, I believe that Semuc Champey is one of the most beautiful destinations in Guatemala . Semuc Champey is a Guatemalan natural wonder and you should definitely consider adding it to your Guatemala itinerary as it is one of the best things to do in Guatemala.

Semuc Champey: a Magical Place

Not only is Semuc Champey a natural wonder, but the place is magical. It has a special energy and if you have ever been to Sedona and experiences the vortexes you know what I am talking about. This magical energy can also be felt in Lake Atitlan but I feel that it is stronger in Semuc Champey. 

How to get to Semuc Champey?

Getting to Semuc Champey can be a little trickier than getting to other more popular destinations like lake Atitlán or Antigua Guatemala. However with a little planning and a bit of time making the journey to see these beautiful pools is totally worth it!

Getting to Semuc Champey from Antigua

Take a shuttle:.

If you are traveling from Antigua you can take a tourist shuttle to Lanquin, where you will then need to get transportation to Semuc Champey or to your hotel or hostel if it’s not located in town. Ask your hotel or hostel in Lanquin to provide you with transportation recommendations. 

Take a Tour:

Booking a tour from Antigua Guatemala is a great option and what I would personally recommend. Because Semuc Champey is about a 6 hour drive from Antigua tours include at least one night of accommodations. If you have the time it is better to book a multi day tour and enjoy other attractions in the Cobán area like Hunal Ye, Candelaria Caves, Rey Marcos Caves and viewing the respladescent quetzal (Guatemala’s national bird) at Ranchitos del Quetzal. 

Public Transportation:

Public transportation is not recommended from Antigua as there are special buses and chicken buses are risky, uncomfortable and take a long time to get you to your destination.

Estimated Travel Time Antigua to Lanquín: 8-10 hours

Getting to Semuc Champey from Coban

The best option is to take a full day tour from Cobán. Taking a tour gives you the opportunity to relax and just enjoy this beautiful paradise as everything is taken care of for you from transportation to and from Cobán to Semuc Champey to lunch and some tours even include other activities like the Kan’ba caves or the Lanquin Caves. 

Public Transport:

To get to Semuc Champey you can get a public shuttle from Cobán to Lanquin, which takes about 2 hours. From Lanquin, you can arrange transportation to Semuc Champey. Keep in mind that the road from Lanquin to Semuc Champey will require a 4×4 vehicle.

Estimated Travel Time from Cobán to : 1.5 hours plus 2-30 minutes to from Lanquín to Champey on a dirt road

Getting to Semuc Champey from Guatemala City

Take the shuttle:.

You can get a shared tourist shuttle from Guatemala City to Coban or opt for a private shuttle for a more comfortable ride. 

Book a tour:

When booking a tour from Guatemala City it’s best to choose a 2 or 3 day tour as you can’t really enjoy Semuc Champey fully unless you give yourself some time. Many of the tours already include accommodations, along with trasportation. They can also include other activities in the area and some them include some of the meals. 

Via public transport:

If you are looking to save some money take a Monja Blanca Bus to Cobán, they usually leave every half hour. You can get more information on the Monja Blanca website here . Although these are not chicken buses they are still public transport and you should be careful with your belongings. They have different kinds of buses, the standard which costs about Q65 and makes a lot of stops so it will take you a lot longer to get to Lanquín. We recommend taking the “ESPECIAL” bus, which costs Q70 (about US $9), for a more comfortable and faster ride. 

After arriving to  Coban, look for look for local transport to Lanquin or take a taxi to Transportes Martinez  buses. Transportes Martinez company small buses that depart towards Lankquín every half hour, cost is Q30 (about US$4). Once in Lanquín ask for local transport to your hotel. It is better to arrange this with your hostel or hotel beforehand. 

Estimated Travel Time: Guatemala to Cobán 4-5 hours, Cobán to Lanquín 2-3 hours

Helicopter ride to Semuc Champey

You can also hire a helicopter tour to Semuc Champey . The helicopter leaves from the Guatemala City Airport and lands a 10 minute walk away from the park and it is a great option if you are short ton time and have the budget for it.

Estimated travel time: 40 minutes

Multi Day Tour Options for a Comfortable Journey

For a more comfortable and hassle-free journey to Semuc Champey, consider booking a guided tour. Multi-day tours from Antigua Guatemala or Guatemala City often include Semuc Champey as part of their itinerary, along with other destinations like Cuevas de Candelaria and other natural attractions. Additionally, full-day tours are available from Coban, offering a convenient way to explore Semuc Champey without the stress of arranging transportation on your own. These tours typically include transportation, guides, and sometimes even meals, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers.

What does Semuc Champey mean?

The name “Semuc Champey” is derived from the K’iche’ Maya language , which is one of the primary indigenous languages spoken in Guatemala. It is a combination of two words, “Semuc,” meaning underground or subterranean, and “Champey,” meaning bridge or natural bridge; thus, the name “Semuc Champey” can be translated to “underground bridge.” This refers to the natural limestone pools and waterfalls that are fed by a subterranean river, creating a natural bridge formation.

Is visiting Semuc Champey worth it?

As a Guatemalan I consider Semuc Champey to be one of the most beautiful places in Guatemala. If you love nature and love adventure and really appreciate a pristine natural wonder this is the place for you! It’s got that wild, untouched kinda of vibe similar to Tikal. That being said Semuc Champey is not easy to get to as it’s a bit far from Guatemalan City , Antigua and Lake Atitlan .

It’s and ideal Guatemalan natural attraction if you are spending at least 10 days in Guatemala as you will need to spend at least one night in Cobán. It’s also a great option if you have already visiting other more popular Guatemalan attractions like Lake Atitlan, Antigua Guatemala  and Tikal and want to explore a new place. 

Things to do at Semuc Champey

Hike to the viewpoint.

Once you arrive at Semuc Champey, you can take a hike to the top of the limestone formation to get a panoramic view of the pools and the surrounding jungle. The hike is not too difficult, but it can be slippery, so take your time and watch your step. From the top, you can see the pools stretching out below you in a beautiful, natural bridge.

Take a dip in the pools

After the hike, you can head down to the pools and take a dip in the cool, crystal-clear water. The water is refreshing and provides a great respite from the heat of the jungle. Some people like to swim in the pools, while others prefer to relax on the rocks and soak up the sun.

See where the underground river emerges 

You can hike to the top of the waterfalls and pools to see where the underground river emerges to the surface. It’s a moderate hike however take care to stay at a safe distance from the river as it goes underground again and under the rock and you would not want to fall in. 

Take a tour of the K’an Ba caves under the waterfalls

Hire a local guide to check out the K’an Ba Caves. The track into the caves is a real adventure,  through water with only a candle to light your way. You can climb, crawl, and even jump into natural pools underground.

Check out the wildlife

Semuc Champey is also a great place to spot wildlife. You might see monkeys, toucans, and parrots while you’re there. And if you’re lucky, you might even see a jaguar or a crocodile. Bring a good camera and binoculars to help you spot birds and other wildlife. 

Things To Do Near Lanquin

While not inside the Semuc Champey park there are many things to do in the Lanquín area, so consider booking a 2 or 3 day stay so you can enjoy them all. 

Visit the Lanquin Caves

Extreme tubing.

For an adrenaline rush, try tubing down the Cahabon River. Feel the excitement as you ride through cascades and rapids while taking in the beautiful river scenery. It’s like a thrilling journey through the jungle! You can book a touring experience at most hotels and hostels in Lanquin or Semuc Champey.

Chocolate Workshop

Learn all about making chocolate in a traditional workshop. From picking cacao fruits to roasting and grinding beans, you’ll experience the whole process and even get to make your own chocolate. You can book this experience through your hotel or hostel.

Community Tours

Get a taste of local life with a village tour. Meet families, learn about their way of life and crops, enjoy a homemade meal, and see community projects up close. You can organize these tours through your hotel or hostel. 

Birdwatching and Hiking Trails

Don’t forget your binoculars for birdwatching! Some hotels like Utopia  and Guayaha offer free hiking trails where you can explore the area’s natural beauty.

Tips for visiting Semuc Champey in Guatemala

• Bring Enough Cash : Make sure to bring plenty of cash for your entire stay. Most hotels and businesses in the area prefer cash payments, and there are limited ATMs available. It’s best to withdraw cash in larger cities like Guatemala City or Antigua Guatemala before heading to Semuc Champey.
• Plan ahead: Semuc Champey has a limited number of visitors per day, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation for tours and accommodations in advance.
• Bring comfortable shoes and clothing: The park is only accessible on foot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring clothing that you don’t mind getting wet.
• Water-Friendly Shoes : Pack water-friendly shoes, especially if you plan to visit the K’an Ba Caves. These shoes will provide traction on slippery surfaces and protect your feet during water activities.
• Bring biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent: The park is located in the jungle, so it’s important to protect yourself from the sun and insects.  Consider using natural, biodegradable products. This helps minimize the impact on the local ecosystem and keeps the water clean for everyone to enjoy.
• Bring a reusable water bottle: The park is located in a remote area, and water can be scarce. It’s important to stay hydrated, so bring a reusable water bottle and refill it at the park’s water stations.
• Respect the local community: Semuc Champey is located in a remote area, and the local community relies on tourism for their livelihood. Be respectful of the local culture and customs, and support the local businesses and guides.
• Be mindful of the environment: Semuc Champey is a natural wonder, and it’s important to take care of it. Avoid littering and follow the park’s rules and guidelines to help preserve the area for future visitors.
• Be prepared for the weather : The weather in the area can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain or shine. Be sure to bring a waterproof bag and a rain poncho or umbrella.
• Consider hiring a guide : Hiring a guide can make your visit more informative and enjoyable. Guides can provide information about the history, culture, and wildlife of the area and can also help you navigate the park.
• Be flexible: The park and surrounding area are beautiful, but sometimes it can be challenging to get there, so it’s important to be flexible and go with the flow. With the right attitude, you will be able to enjoy the journey and have an unforgettable experience.

What time of the year is best for visiting Semuc Champey?

When deciding when to visit Semuc Champey, it’s important to consider what you want to experience. The park is open all year, but the weather and water levels can differ depending on the season.

The peak season is from November to April, which is when the weather is typically sunny and dry, and the water in the pools is at its highest. This makes it ideal for swimming and other water activities, but it can also be the most crowded time to visit.

On the other hand, the rainy season from May to October is less crowded, and the park is greener, but the water levels in the pools are lower, and the water can be cloudy or even brown. It can also be more challenging to access the park during this time due to road conditions. If you’re looking for a more tranquil and less crowded experience, the rainy season might be a better option. However, if you’re looking to swim and enjoy water activities, the dry season would be the ideal time to visit. It’s important to keep in mind that the weather in the area can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for any conditions.

If you’re planning your trip to Guatemala make sure to check out my article for the best time to visit Guatemala where I break down the different seasons and Guatemala and the best times to visit. 

Can you swim in Semuc Champey?

Yes, swimming is permitted at Semuc Champey, where visitors can enjoy the crystal clear and turquoise water of the natural limestone pools and waterfalls that are fed by an underground river. 

However, there are some guidelines to keep in mind when taking a dip in the pools.

• The water levels in the pools can vary depending on the time of year and the amount of rainfall. During the dry season, the water levels are the highest, making it the best time for swimming. During the rainy season, the water levels can be lower and the water can be cloudy.
• The park is located in a remote area, and there are no lifeguards on duty. Visitors are responsible for their own safety and should be aware of their own swimming abilities.
• The park has rules and guidelines to help preserve the area, and visitors should follow these rules and guidelines when swimming.
• There is no diving allowed in the pools, the park’s administration wants to protect the pools and nature.
• Remember that the park is a natural wonder, and it’s essential to take care of it. Visitors should avoid littering and follow the park’s rules and guidelines to help preserve the area for future visitors.

Swimming in Semuc Champey is a great experience, and visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area while also taking a refreshing swim in the clear and turquoise waters.

Is the cave tour in Semuc Champey safe?

The cave tour at Semuc Champey involves hiking, climbing, and swimming through caves, and visitors should be in good physical condition and comfortable with these activities. The tour is guided by experienced guides who provide necessary equipment and safety instructions. Visitors should be aware of the challenges and bring appropriate gear like a flashlight or headlamp. Following the guide’s instructions and informing them of any concerns or limitations is important for a safe tour. It is also important to heed their advice if it’s not safe to proceed due to weather conditions or other issues.

Based on my recent experience, I would not recommend the cave tour at Semuc Champey to everyone. During the tour, you are only given candles to light your way, which might not be enough to navigate the dark caves. Additionally, unexpected situations can occur, like the water level rising quickly, which can be dangerous for visitors who have mobility challenges or are not comfortable with a moderate level of risk. Although the guides are experienced and provide safety instructions, they did not advise us about the possibility of having to get out of the cave in a hurry, which made things quite scary as one person in our group could not move quickly and we were the last ones out of the cave. Therefore, I would only recommend the cave tour to adventurous visitors who are comfortable with the inherent risks involved.

Where to Stay When Visiting Semuc Champey in Guatemala

When planning a trip to Semuc Champey is an important decision. There are two main options when it comes to accommodations: staying near the town of Lanquin, which is close to the natural pools or opting for a hotel in Cobán, which is about 2 hours away from Semuc Champey. I have stayed at hotels in both areas and both have their advantages and disadvantages. It also depends on what other attractions you want to see in the Verapaces or Ruta a Cobán.

Staying in Lanquín

Lanquin is a very small towns and you will find a few hotels in the Lanquin area some of them closer to Semuc Champey. It’s important to take into consideration that if you choose a hotel or hostel that is within walking distance to the pools you will need to find transportation to get there and the road to Semuc Champey requires not only a 4×4 vehicle but someone who knows the road well. Do not try to get there on your own even if you have a 4×4.

Staying in Lanquin gets you close to Semuc Champey, making it easy to explore the park’s beautiful pools and trails. However, hotels there might not have all the comforts you’d find in Cobán. Some hostels, like Zephyr Lodge and Greengos are strictly +18, cater to a younger crowd and are known for their party atmosphere.

Best Hotels in Semuc Champey and  Lanquín area:

• Guayaha : Guayaha is one of the best hotels in Lanquín, offering a beautiful garden and outdoor fun like ziplining. You can enjoy free WiFi in your room and take a dip in one of their three pools. Don’t forget to check out their glamping options for a unique experience! Book it here . 
• Zephyr Lodge : Perched amid beautiful mountain scenery, Zephyr Lodge is famous for its lively party scene, boasting an iconic infinity pool and a bustling backpackers bar. Offering both dorms and cozy private rooms, it ensures a comfortable stay for all guests amidst the fun atmosphere.
• Greengo’s Hostel : Greengo’s is a colorful hotel and hostel in Semuc Champey, surrounded by greenery and mountains, and only a short walk from the famous pools. You can stay in shared or private rooms and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.

Staying in Cobán

Opting to stay in Coban gives you more hotel options with better amenities and comfort. Although Coban is a bit farther from Semuc Champey than Lanquin, about a 2.5 to 3-hour drive, staying in Coban offers a more comfortable experience with extra services and facilities. If you’re in Cobán, consider taking a full-day tour to Semuc Champey, which often includes transportation, visits to Lanquin caves or Kan’ba caves, and a boxed lunch.

Another perk of Cobán is its central location, making it closer to other attractions like Candelaria Caves, Caves of Rey Marcos, and Biotopo del Quetzal, where you can spot Guatemala’s national bird, the resplendent quetzal. Cobán also boasts a variety of dining options, while Lanquín mostly has hotel restaurants. During my last visit to Semuc Champey, we wanted to explore Candelaria Caves. Since there’s no direct road from Semuc Champey to Cuevas de Candelaria, returning to Cobán was the logical choice for us.

Best Hotels in Cobán

I have included different hotel options taking into consideration you will want to pick a hotel in Cobán or very near Cobán. Although there are a few fantastic options that are further from the city they will make getting to Semuc Champey more difficult as most tours pick you up only from the hotels in town. Being further away also means it may be more difficult or time consuming to get to other attractions in the area.

• Casa Gaia (Top Choice) : Located in Cobán’s serene wooded reserve, Hotel Casa Gaia offers a perfect mix of peace and convenience. Surrounded by lush gardens and trees, it feels like a city escape right in the heart of town. With cozy rooms and personalized service, Casa Gaia is a tranquil retreat where you can relax and unwind. What stands out to me about Casa Gaia is its cozy vibe and attention to detail. With just 11 rooms, it provides a personal touch that larger hotels often lack. Plus, the on-site restaurant serves mouthwatering local and international dishes, allowing you to savor the flavors of Guatemala without leaving the hotel. Don’t forget to explore the hiking trail for breathtaking city views. If you’re seeking an authentic and serene stay in Cobán, Casa Gaia is definitely one of my top picks. Book it here .
• Estancia del Monje: This cozy and small hotel is located just outside Coban, about 2 miles from the city center. I really like that it’s nestled in a serene private reserve surrounded by pine forest, offering tranquility and comfort and perfect for relaxing. It also has an on site restaurant with that serves a delicious breakfast.
• Casa Duranta: Nestled in bustling Coban, Casa Duranta offers a peaceful retreat with a warm and accommodating staff. Its charming courtyard and garden provide a refreshing escape, especially at sunset. While they offer a cozy dining area, note that food service may vary. Enjoy reliable internet access and secure parking nearby, along with clean rooms boasting old-world charm. Book it here .

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A Little Adventure… Visit Guatemala’s Stunning Semuc Champey Waterfalls & Caves

Last updated on January 21, 2024 by Shannon

Travel pushes your boundaries and encourages you to live at the edges of what you find comfortable. So often in life we live with the safety of routine. But when traveling, I have tried new foods that I had never dream of sampling. I’ve tackled adventures that intimidated me .

And I jumped off a rope swing, that, come to find out, really didn’t “have my name written all over it,” as the other travelers insisted.

And yes, I am talking pretty specifically about one instance on that last one. After a few adventures and misadventures exploring the waterfalls, rivers, and caves of Semuc Champey.

For those traveling through Guatemala , Semuc Champey is now a classic stop for many travelers leaving Tikal and heading to charming Antigua —and it’s a place you should definitely visit! Here’s what a day in these turquoise pools looks like.

Table of Contents

Finding Adventure at Semuc Champey Waterfalls

We had trucked over the Semuc Champey waterfalls from Lanquin—the tour made the rounds of the handful of hostels and guesthouses in town, and were all ready for an adventurous day sliding down waterfalls, jumping from rope swings, and navigating the dark caves.

We had all booked a day trip since it included a guide and transportation—essential if you’re visiting from Lanquin. And the day would be packed full of fun. First up was a chance to get wet right off the bat with a rope swing into the turquoise water, which we would follow up with a visit to the Semuc Champey caves, then we’d frolic through the waterfalls (including sliding down one).

We would end with time tubing down the river to the spot where our truck would be waiting to bring us back to Lanquin.

Lanquin is an unassuming, quite town. It’s completely uneventful, save for its spectacular location in the heart of the Mayan Biosphere Reserve.

Low mountains surround the town, and a ring of misty thin clouds obscure nearby peaks. It’s known for its beautiful natural setting, with a variety of ecosystems including tropical rainforests, limestone caves, and waterfalls. And if you’re lucky you’ll see many of the area’s exotic birds, monkeys, and wildlife.

Lanquin is the most popular staging ground for visiting Semuc Champey, a crowning jewel of Guatemala complete with glistening blue pools, dark caves, and navigable waterfalls on the Cahabón River.

Although you’ll find sparse accommodation close to Semuc Champey, Lanquin is just 11 km away and the easiest place from which to organize your visit.

You can only enter the Semuc Champey caves with a guide, so from the hostel— Zephyr  has gorgeous views and party vibes while El Retiro Lanquin has chill vibes—I booked a full day adventure complete with a candle tour of the caves, a bit of tubing on the river, a swim through Semuc Champey, and a hike to a peak for pretty panoramic views.

This all-inclusive one-day-tour was by far the easiest way to join other travelers on a fun adventure exploring the highlights of Semuc Champey.

Book a day tour to maximize your time.

GetYourGuide has a phenomenal range of tours, and they’re affordable too. Maximize your time by booking your must-dos as a tour, and then slot in the rest as time permits.

A Brief History of Semuc Champey, Guatemala

Semuc Champey is a natural attraction located in the department of Alta Verapaz in Guatemala. It is a series of limestone pools and waterfalls formed by the Cahabón River, and it is a popular destination for travelers.

The history of Semuc Champey dates back to the pre-Columbian era, when the area was inhabited by the Maya civilization. The Maya considered Semuc Champey to be a sacred site and built a number of temples and other structures in the area.

After the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century, Semuc Champey became an important center of trade and agriculture. The area was later settled by German and Swiss immigrants, who established coffee and other agricultural plantations in the region.

Today, Semuc Champey is a popular destination for travelers, who come to see its beautiful natural setting and to participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and caving. The area is also home to many indigenous communities, and visitors can learn about their cultures and traditions.

K’an Ba Caves Near Semuc Champey, Guatemala

The coolest thing about Semuc Champey’s K’an Ba Cave is that you fully navigate with only a lit candle in your hand—then you proceed to climb ladders, scale the sides of rocks, and swim through deep pools of water with your candle held above your head!

This is   something you would never be allowed to do in the States (or Europe for that matter), but perhaps that’s part of the draw. The K’an Ba Cave portion of our adventure wasn’t exactly safe and it was a bit out of my comfort zone (it’s one those things that you’d just never do back home  but that is perfectly acceptable on the road!).

Once we reached the innermost part of the cave, our guide instructed us to blow out our candles one-by-one. While some were more skeptical and timid about it than others, the idea was that we would go totally silent so that we could hear the bats living in the inner caves.

I don’t know if it was a real experiment or a joke because our guide only managed to freak everyone out. We stood in ankle-deep water surrounded by the blackest darkness imaginable.

Dozens of minutes passed as we sat in pure silence, straining to hear the bats over the sound of our rapidly thudding hearts. It was probably only two minutes, but if felt like longer! I was relieved when our guide struck a match and relit all of our candles.

Turquoise Waterfalls and Rivers at Semuc Champey

Once we climbed and swam our way back out of the caves we grabbed inner tubes and floated down the ice-blue river. Tubing is a pretty standard way to entertain backpackers (as Vang Vieng in Laos proves, since it takes the cake as the most famous tubing spot in the world), and this is a sedate option that will differ completely based on your group and the weather.

If it’s cool and you’re exploring Semuc Champey with chill people, it’s quiet and enjoyable. If you have some rowdy people on your day trip then expect tubing shenanigans.

After tubing, our Semuc Champey tour included a “choose your own adventure” part of the afternoon. A nearby mirador requires a steep and strenuous hike (45 minutes if you’re moderately fit) to the top.

It’s worth it.

The lookout point over Semuc Champey offers stunning views of the many pools of water and tiny waterfalls. We could see the others on our tour as tiny pinpricks soaking in the pools of water below.

It’s funny how, no matter where you go though, some places are strikingly similar to others. Bio and ecological diversity fills our beautiful planet, but the view of Semuc Champey from the lookout jolted me instantly to a similar view of the  waterfalls at Krka National Park in Croatia .

Even today, I have to pause when I review my old travel photos and take a closer look to identify which one is which national park!

All in all, our Semuc Champey day trip ended in two injuries: my own (minor) injury and one other woman cut her leg sliding down the waterfalls. It’s a classic activity on this day trip, but if you’re not wearing swimming trunks (those lucky guys!), you might incur some cuts and scrapes.

And you should  not undertake the waterfall portion barefoot. I wore my beloved Chacos water shoes, and it made a huge difference (although it was a goofy feature in all of my photos!). 

Our guide slid down each of the waterfalls first, and then waited at the bottom to catch us so that we wouldn’t slam into the rock at the bottom—he didn’t catch the one woman though!

Misadventures at Semuc Champey

If a picture is worth a thousand words, I’ll end the tale of my day visiting Guatemala’s gorgeous  Semuc Champey waterfalls with an image of the gnarly bruise I got from playing a little bit too hard in the river.

It was the start of day trip to the waterfalls and caves, and the guide chose this pretty waterside spot to explain our plan, and also go over the safety instructions we’d need to get through the day without injury.

Finally, it was my moment of glory. Many other backpackers had taken turns and flawlessly executed their swing as they landed into the water with a cheerful splash.

What could go wrong, right?

Famous last words.

My fear of heights meant that I hung onto the swing a little too long.

Panicked that I would hit the rocks if I didn’t let go, I flung myself off the swing without any finesse.

I’m a little bit risk adverse , so I had some last minute terror about dropping into an unknown river that actually made me

It wasn’t pretty. I started our day of adventures with a massive bruise that formed less than two minutes after I demonstrated precisely how not to jump off of the rope swing.

Yes. That takes mad skills.

That was the start to the day, but it turned out not to be an ominous sign, because we would soon spent all of those hours sliding on waterfalls and wading through the nearby caves!

The entire rest day trip to Semuc Champey was pure backpacker fun and adventurous travel for those who like a bit of fun, but nothing too extreme.

Injuries included, visiting Semuc Champey from Lanquin was  an incredibly fun day and an adventure anyone backpacking Central America should absolutely add to their bucket list. It’s a bit out of the way if you’re on a short trip, but it’s well on the backpacker route if you have weeks on your side.

How to Visit Semuc Champey from Lanquin

Semuc Champey is increasingly popular with backpackers and buses route there daily from the two hubs: Flores and Antigua.

Lanquin is eight hours from both towns and located in the heart of the “The Green Route of Verapaz, Guatemala,” a diverse and mountain ecosystem in a fairly remote part of Guatemala. It’s a seriously stunning part of the country.

You can also bus from the Rio Dulce , which is an optimistic five hours from Lanquin.

You only need two nights in Lanquin. Although Semuc Champey is a fun adventure, there is not much else to do in town. I recommend sandwiching it between your time in Antigua and Flores since both of these cities offer great onward travel options either by bus or plane, or before/after visiting the Rio Dulce.

It’s not necessarily along the way between any of these spots, but it makes it seem more worth the trip if you’re not just doing roundtrip 16 hours to Antigua and back (that would be brutal).

What to Bring on a Day Trip to Semuc Champey Waterfalls

You absolutely want water shoes— my trusty Chacos  served me in good stead. A a rash guard sun shirt if you are sun sensitive. Much of the trip is in the shade (or the cave), but I did use my sun shirt by the end so I didn’t leave burnt.

I don’t travel with a ton (here’s my full packing list ), but a few items are so useful it pays to pack them when visiting adventurous destinations like Central America.

You’ll also want sun block, a sun hat , and maybe a coverup (sarongs work well as a towel-coverup combo), especially if it’s cooler during your visit since you will likely ride back to Semuc Champey in the back of a pickup truck at dusk.

If you’re keen, you could also bring a headlamp to make the cave adventure easier (and likely safer, too).

Other Things to Do Near Semuc Champey

Hike through the jungle! The area around Semuc Champey is home to a dense tropical rainforest, and there are many hiking trails to explore. You can hike through the jungle to see a variety of flora and fauna, including exotic birds, monkeys, and other wildlife.

You could also visit the Semuc Champey Archaeological Park to learn about the history of the area, and spend more than a day trip in the area to learn about the cultures and traditions of local indigenous communities by visiting local markets and villages.

Pick out accommodation on Booking.com.

This is the only booking platform I use because it rewards you for loyalty, and I regularly score free breakfasts and 15% off my hotel.

How to get to Semuc Champey from Lanquin

Assuming you’re already in Lanquin, you can organize a full day tour (upwards of $40 and includes lunch, tubing, entrance fees and such).

To visit Semuc Champey independently, it becomes a pick and choose adventure of which of the options you prefer. Entrance is about US $7, tubing on the river costs is also about $7, and the cave entry fee is about $9 with tours every 30 minutes from 9am to 3pm.

Day tours will handle transport in a 4×4, or you can hire one to take you there for less than $5 in a shared transport.

Some people walk the 2.5 hours, but you’ll likely only want that option in one direction since it’s a long day!

Note that you can buy a box lunch from your hostel, or there are a couple local vendors near the bridge. Ten year ago, NO ONE organized independent trips to Semuc Champey because it wasn’t yet on the radar, but now it’s pretty common to opt for either option in the high season, and most travelers go indie in Guatemala’s off season.

Where to Sleep in Semuc Champey/Lanquin

There are two main hostels in town. Zephyr was not a party hostel back in 2010—in fact it was brand new. But now it’s a gorgeous spot where you might not get a sound sleep but you will surely have a good time.

That said, it’s also very, very buggy. I woke to a scorpion on the floor of my dorm when I tried to pee in the middle of the night, and others confessed that cockroaches dropped from the ceiling onto their beds.

It could do with some bed nets and I probably would stay elsewhere if I revisited it, even though it’s truly the prettiest spot in town. 

El Retiro Lanquin is a good option for backpackers who might not want the party vibe but still want the companionship of other backpackers and access to the affordable backpacker trips. Incredibly, Lanquin also has some great mid-range accommodation—if you’re keen for a bit less backpacker vibe but still good adventure, or you should shop around to suss out which places match your budget and preferences.

How to Stay Safe

These types of day trips, while fun, are also a good reason you should carry travel insurance. I have used IMG Global for more than a decade ( here’s why ), and no matter which company you chose, the last thing you want is a serious injury in rural Guatemala (it’s EIGHT HOURS by car to the nearest airport and four hours to Coban in Honduras, which does have a hospital).

In short, this is not the place to desperately need an airlift but have no way to arrange one.

Travel Tips for Semuc Champey Travelers

Pack light : Semuc Champey is a small village, and it is easy to get around on foot. Packing light will make it easier to walk around the village and visit its many attractions. Here’s my complete packing list .

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes : Semuc Champey is a hot and humid destination, and it is important to wear comfortable clothing and shoes to stay cool and comfortable. It is also a good idea to bring a swimsuit, towel, and water shoes if you plan to swim in the pools.

Use sunscreen and insect repellent : The sun can be strong in Semuc Champey, and it is important to use sunscreen to protect your skin. I prefer  La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen SPF 60  because it’s highly rated, and it’s great for acne-prone skin. It is also a good idea to bring insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other pests— Off! Botanicals  can help prevent bites.

Stay hydrated : Semuc Champey can be hot and humid, and it is important to stay hydrated to avoid dehydration. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and drink plenty of fluids, especially during the hot summer months. It is also important to drink bottled water or water that has been properly treated using something like a  SteriPen  or  Lifestraw .

Use a reputable tour operator : Semuc Champey is a popular destination for adventure activities, such as hiking, rafting, and caving. It is important to use a reputable tour operator to ensure your safety and to help protect the environment.

Learn some basic Spanish : Semuc Champey is a Spanish-speaking village, and it is helpful to learn some basic phrases to communicate with locals. Many people in Semuc Champey are also fluent in English, so you can also use English to communicate.

Onward travel

Having spent a number of months backpacking Central America and Mexico across multiple trips, plan your time in the following locations.

Mexico » Yucatan Peninsula | Yucatan with Kids | Oaxaca City | San Pancho | Guanajuato | Chichen Itza | Secret Mud Beach | Cultural Immersion | Taco History | Colonial Mexico

Guatemala » Antigua | Tikal | Rio Dulce | Xela | Chichicastenango | Learning Spanish | Semana Santa | Easter Traditions

Belize » Chetumal Border | Culture

Honduras » Copan Ruinas | Utila | Culture

Guatemala Travel Guide

A download on everything I learned from backpacking across Guatemala. It’s one of top three favorite countries in the world—here’s where to go, my favorite places and everything you should know before you go to Guatemala!

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Visiting Semuc Champey: Getting There, Things To Do & Where To Stay

A picture is all you need to convince yourself that Semuc Champey is worth it. It’s hard to believe that this natural limestone bridge and its turquoise pools that weave through the jungles of Guatemala are not a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This place is stunning and remote and it’s a must-visit on any Guatemala itinerary . Visiting Semuc Champey is without a doubt one of the best things to do during your visit to Guatemala .

So what makes visiting Semuc Champey so special? Semuc Champey is a unique natural monument in the fact that it is a series of  turquoise-tiered pools that cascade over limestone bridges until eventually waterfalling in the Cabahón River, which is the river that runs beneath Semuc Champey. When combined with the lush green jungle mountains that surround the pools , the scene looks nothing short of a fairy tale. It’s enchanting.

Once you arrive, you’ll see why Semuc Champey is one of the most visited places in all of Guatemala . But don’t be fooled, getting here definitely takes some effort. Read everything you need to know about visiting Semuc Champey just below!

Guide To Visiting Semuc Champey

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Where Is Semuc Champey Located?

Semuc Champey is a Natural Monument located in Alta Verapaz, Guatemala some 8 hours northeast of the capital of Guatemala, Guatemala City. The name Semuc Champey translates from the Mayan Kekchi language to “ where the river hides “. This place is sacred and has been for centuries for the Mayans.

Use the + and – sign on the map above to zoom in and out to get a sense of where Semuc Champey is located in Guatemala and where other top Guatemalan locations are in relation to it.

The closest town to Semuc Champey and the place you’ll book your overland shuttles to is Lanquin . Once in Lanquin, you’ll need to take a 45-minute to 1-hour 4×4 truck ride down a bumpy jungle road until you reach the entrance to Semuc Champey.

Once at the entrance, you’ll pay a fee (we’ll get to that below!), and walk a few minutes until you reach what you’ve come for, the tiered pools of Semuc Champey.

Entrance Fee & Hours

No Semuc Champey is not free. When Visiting Semuc Champey, you must pay an entrance fee of 50Q per day, around $6.50 USD . The area opens at 8 am and closes at 5 pm, and that 50Q you paid to enter gives you access to Semuc Champey during this time.

Now, to do any additional activities at Semuc Champey , like tubing or a cave tour (more on these to come!), those are an additional fee on top of the 50Q you paid to enter the Natural Monument.

How To Get To Semuc Champey

Unfortunately, there is no quick way to get to Semuc Champey . There is no nearby airport you can fly into or no train within the country that will drop you off at a nearby station. The only way to get to Semuc Champey is by overland travel – a tourist shuttle , private car/taxi, or rent a car – to Lanquin.

• Antigua to Semuc Champey : 200 miles | 9-10+ hours
• Guatemala City to Semuc Champey : 180 miles | 8+ hours
• Panajachel to Semuc Champey : 185 miles | 10+ hours
• Flores To Semuc Champey : 160 miles | 9-10+ hours
• Lanquin to Semuc Champey : 6 miles | 45 minutes – 1 hour

If you are not staying in Lanquin, but rather down the bumpy jungle road closer to Semuc Champey, your accommodation should offer a 4×4 truck transport from Lanquin – definitely confirm with your accommodation prior to arriving in Lanquin! If you are staying in Lanquin, once you arrive, tuk-tuks/vehicles are available to take you to your accommodation if needed.

Group tours are also offered. You can book a tour from Antigua as well as a tour from Guatemala City . These tours also stop at Coban, allowing you to explore another place in Guatemala.

When To Go Visit Semuc Champey

Visiting Semuc Champey is best during Guatemala’s dry season . Sure, Semuc Champey can be enjoyed with a light rain drizzle, but planning your time around when the best weather in Guatemala is definitely not a bad idea.

• The dry season in Guatemala is from November to April
• The wet season in Guatemala is from May to October, but in some regions, it can continue into November

We visited Semuc Champey towards the end of January, and while the day started out as overcast, the afternoon was sunny, which was perfect for tubing down the river and enjoying the turquoise pools! Of course, even with your best planning, the weather is the weather and can’t be predicted 🙂

Be sure to check out our complete itinerary options for Guatemala!

How Many Days Do You Need In Semuc Champey

One day in Semuc Champey is totally doable! However, we really recommend two. We spent 2 nights and 1 day in the area and to be honest, wish we would have stayed another day. Why? Well for one, the drive to get to Semuc Champey takes a full day. If you only spend one day, you’re drive time (to and from) is twice as long as you get the actually enjoy the area you’re in.

Two, the jungle is so peaceful it would have been nice to have a lazy day in a hammock reading a book, listening to the parrots and monkeys – essentially just resting and enjoying nature.

Where To Stay Near Semuc Champey

When looking to book accommodations for Semuc Champey, the closer you can get to the entrance, the better. There are two options on where to stay when visiting Semuc Champey

• Lanquin (45 minutes from Semuc Champey entrance)
• Down closer to the monument entrance

If you can swing staying close to Semuc Champey, it’s wonderful because you can WALK to the entrance vs. having to take a 45-minute ride down to Semuc Champey and then another 45-minute ride back up to Lanquin.

Places like  Greengos Hotel ,  Utopia Eco Hotel ,  El Portal De Champey , and  Ch’i Bocól Community Hostel  are all locations close to Semuc Champey. If these places are not available, a little further away (up the road) from Semuc Champey is  Mountain Nest . We stayed at B’antiox Guesthouse , and it was nothing short of amazing. Cozy little bungalows within a few minutes walk from the entrance of Semuc Champey.

For more places to stay near Semuc Champey, you can check out the  latest places and prices here .

Things To Do In Semuc Champey

Relax & swim in the pools of semuc champey.

Really, the thing you came here to do – swim! Yes, you can 100% swim in Semuc Champey. Just do your best to avoid swallowing any of that water 🙂

Semuc Champey is a 984 ft (300m) long pool that has six-tiered turquoise pools for you to enjoy. Some pools are deep enough to jump in (for safety, don’t dive head first ) while others are good to wade through and relax in. Throw a towel on the rocks to get a little sun-tan in between climbing and jumping your way from pool to pool.

TIP: Arrive right when the Semuc Champey opens. As the day goes on, more people will show up for a visit and a swim.

Hike to The Mirador

The best view in all of Semuc Champey is the view from “El Mirador” . You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the entire valley from the Semuc Champey Mirador viewpoint. Now, to get here takes anywhere from 20-45 minutes (depending on your fitness level). It’s a little over a half-mile (1km) climb up a series of steps until eventually, you reach the viewing platform.

Along the way, Mayan women sell coconuts, cacao, beverages, and fruit, so if you need substances for your climb up or down, you have buying options!

The view at the top is nothing short of gorgeous . Unobstructed views of Semuc Champey, its lush jungles, and flowing waterfall. If there is one thing you do outside of swimming in the pools, let the hike up to Semuc Champey’s mirador be it! Totally worth it.

Explore The Semuc Champey Caves (K’an Ba Cave)

One of THE MOST unique (and questionable) experiences we’ve had while traveling is partaking in a cave tour in Semuc Champey. Safety is….well….umm…errr…. questionable at best, but ADVENTURE!

Picture this (and honestly you have to because we opted not to take our phones and our GoPro was ruined from our most recent scuba diving trip, so truly, no photos from this WILD experience. Only the memories :)).

Ok, back to it. Picture this. No headlamp. No helmet. Not a lifejacket in sight. You’re in your swimwear and either barefoot (or wearing heavily used water shoes provided by your accommodation) walking through a cave with a teenage Mayan guide for an hour-long cave tour.

You are given a candle (yes, truly, a candle) to light your way through the cave ! WILD. The guide? Oh yeah, he uses candles as well by sticking them to the cave walls to help illuminate your path. What happens if all the candles go out….well, um…moving on.

During your cave tour, you’ll swim with one hand (while holding your lit candle above your head with the other), climb a ladder or two, jump off some ledges, and dodge as many stalactites as you can, until you eventually reach a 10 ft waterfall within the cave.

On your return, you have the option to jump from a mini-waterfall to a semi-deep pool below (if you’re tall, consider avoiding doing this). Sound like an adventure (with questionable safety measures)? WE THINK SO!

Now, you CANNOT enter the cave without a tour/guide. The admission fee for the cave tour is around Q60 ($8 USD) . Cave tours run from 9 am-3 pm daily . Oh, and you’ll find plenty of eager teens at the park entrance offering their cave tour services to you. If you hear a guide named Charlie, he was ours and a mighty good one – all things considered 🙂

Note: Ok, really though. Safety disclaimer . Exploring the cave can be dangerous. People get hurt from slipping on rocks or hitting their head (or back) on stalactites. While we are unaware of any reported deaths, you should proceed with utmost caution as the nearest hospital to Semuc Champey is 4 hours away in Coban.

Tubing at Semuc Champey (Cahabon River)

When compared to your cave tour, hopping in an inflatable inner tube and floating down the Cahabon River is a cakewalk. At the end of the limestone pools of Semuc Champey, you’ll find the river that disappears and flows underneath Semuc Champey, the Cahabon River. This is the main river that flows through the area and one of the more popular things to do in Semuc Champey is tubing down it.

For around . 5 miles (1km) , you’ll float down the peaceful river surrounded by little homes and lush jungles and for the most part, the river is pretty calm. To rent an inner tub, the price is 50Q ($6-$7 USD) .

As you float, a rambunctious group of kids awaits on the shoreline to toss you cold beers or other beverages. Don’t worry, they’ll meet you downstream to collect their well-earned money.

After about 30 minutes of floating , and a few empty beer cans later, you’ll end your tubing jaunt and walk back to the yellow bridge right outside of Semuc Champey. Tubing on the Cahabon River is a PERFECT way to end your day and time in Semuc Champey!

See What Wildlife You Can Spot

If you’re lucky, near the entrance of Semuc Champey, you may see a Howler Monkey or two. Be sure to look up in the treetops to see if you see a few scurrying around. Oh, and keep an eye out for parrots and other beautiful birds. The jungle is home to many amazing species, so if you’re lucky, you may see a few! Word to the wise, keep your eye out for scorpions and the little nibbling fish in the pools of Semuc Champey.

Where To Eat Near Semuc Champey

Depending on what accommodation you stay at, they may offer you a box lunch for your day at Semuc Champey. Up to you if you want to take them up on this offer, but know there are food options nearby the entrance.

We skipped the box lunch and opted for a hot meal instead. Nearby the entrance of Semuc Champey, there is a bridge. On one side of the yellow bridge, you will find a vendor selling meals for around Q40 to 50Q . It’s a buffet-style type of place offering black beans, rice, tortillas, chicken, fruit, and pasta. Outside of this place, you’ll also find a handful of street vendors selling cold drinks and beers.

Tips for Visiting Semuc Champey

• Arrive Early: Try to arrive right when the place opens (8 am), you’ll practically have the area to yourself
• Have a Quick Dry Towel Handy : You’ll need to dry off or have something to sit on
• Don’t Forget The Sunscreen: Protect that skin of yours, you’ll be outside all day
• There are levels to the pools : Each offering different views – so explore a little!
• Strappy sandals (like Teva’s or Choco’s) are great to wear as some of the rocks can be slippery
• Don’t always trust the forecast: The forecast predicted it to rain the entire time we were at Seumc Champey, it maybe rained for a few hours at night.
• Pack Drinkable Water : The tap water is not safe to drink in the area or in Guatemala in general
• Lockers: There are lockers available at the very top pool of Semuc Champey. While we did not have an issue with theft, keep your belongings where you can see them, especially when swimming.

Can You Visit Semuc Champey Without a Tour?

1000% yes. Semuc Champey can definitely be a do-it-yourself kind of attraction . You don’t need to pay for a tour to get here nor do you need to hire a guide. You will however need a guide if you opt to do a cave tour or tubing down the river, but in Semuc Champey itself, no guide is needed.

Semuc Champey can completely be done on your own, it’ll just take some simple coordination on your end. If you are staying up in Lanquin, you’ll need to organize your round-trip transportation to Semuc Champey through your accommodation.

Once at Semuc Champey, paying for your entrance fee, food, and cave tour/river tubing can be done on your own when you arrive.

If you are staying nearby, then you don’t have to worry about arranging transportation to and from Semuc Champey, you can use your own two feet!

Is Semuc Champey Worth It

In our opinion, yes! The pools are beautiful and a place we had practically to ourselves for around an hour. Semuc Champey feels like a place that due to its somewhat inconvenient location, isn’t swarming with people and backpackers. It still in some ways feels like a secret, at least that’s the way we felt during our visit.

There are not too many places like Semuc Champey in the world ( maybe in Laos , but that’s totally overrun with tourists), so to us, it was well worth our nearly 12-hour ride from Antigua to get here!

WANT MORE INFORMATION?!

3 Days in Antigua, Guatemala

The Ultimate 7-day, 10-day, and 2-week Guatemala Itinerary

The 25 Best Things To Do In Antigua, Guatemala

17 Things To Do On Lake Atitlan

8 Towns You Can’t-Miss On Lake Atitlan

5 Epic Lake Atitlan Hikes

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Happy Travels,

– Lauren & Jesse Stuart (The Stüs)

We're Lauren & Jesse, the creators behind Wandering Stus! We've been traveling for decades, exploring and experiencing the very best this world has to offer. Whether we're roadtripping the U.S. in our camper, hiking through National Parks, or jet-setting to different countries around the globe, we write detailed travel guides to help you plan one amazing (and unforgettable) adventure!

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Visiting the pools of Semuc Champey

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Semuc Champey is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Guatemala . This incredible series of turquoise pools is set across a natural limestone bridge, hidden among dense jungle 12km southeast of Lanquín . You can work your way from the top of the rocky staircase to the bottom, bathing in the shallow pools fed by the Río Cahabón. Alternatively, head upstream and hike the slippery trail to the mirador for views across the whole of Parque Nacional Semuc Champey.

Where is Semuc Champey located?

How do i get there, should i take a tour, when’s the best time to visit semuc champey.

• Where's the best place to stay near Semuc Champey?

Semuc Champney's remote location kept this scenic pocket of Guatemala off the tourist path for many years. Today it’s a well-known stop on the tourist trail between Tikal and the western highlands. No longer Guatemala’s best-kept secret, Semuc Champey still manages to maintain its allure despite its popularity – you can usually find a tranquil corner fairly easily.

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Visit Antigua with the nearby Pacaya volcano before heading to Lake Atitlán and further to Tikal, once one of the most powerful kingdoms of the ancient Maya. Afterwards, cross the border to Belize to visit the Caracol ruins and enjoying some sun & sand on Ambergris Caye.

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Take a family-friendly adventure through Guatemala and Belize. Discover Lake Atitlan on kayaks, explore the active volcano Pacaya or play hide and seek in the large archaeological complex of Tikal before heading out to Belize for its fantastic underwater world and gorgeous beaches.

The pools are strung along a natural rocky bridge at the base of a valley in Parque Nacional Semuc Champey, 12km from the Q’eqchi’ village of Lanquín in the centre of Guatemala. It’s a great spot for a day’s swimming and relaxing among nature.

Most visitors stay either in Coban, Lanquín or Semuc for a couple of nights, which allows enough time not just for the pools but also for Grutas de Lanquín – an impressive cave system from where the Río Lanquín emerges. Here you can go tubing down the emerald ribbon of water during the day or head to the riverbank at dusk to see thousands of flitting bats fly out of the caves to feed.

You can make your own way to the pools in a hire car or via shuttle bus from Antigua (two daily; 8hr) or Cobán (three daily; 2hr) to Lanquín – the jump-off point for the pools. The mountain town of Cobán is also a popular stopover en route to Semuc from Guatemala City (4hr 30min bus journey), due to its proximity to a vast network of stalactite caverns, freshwater swimming spots and subterranean rivers. To see the pools as part of a wider trip to Guatemala get in touch with us here at Rough Guides . We've partnered with a trusted local company in Guatemala who can plan a fully personalised itinerary taking in all the sites you want to see.

The pools at Semuc Champey are famous for their bright turqoise water © Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock

You can visit Semuc on your own, particularly if you pick a guesthouse close by, although most travellers choose to join a tour to avoid relying on infrequent public transport. Tours of Semuc Champey often include a visit to the bat-filled Kan’ba Caves, which are accessible with a guide only (not to be confused with Lanquín caves); some incorporate waterfall-climbing or cliff-jumping into a pool in near darkness.

Guatemala has one of the most pleasant climates in the world, with year-round warm days and mild evenings across much of the country. Some travellers avoid the rainy season – roughly from May to October – although the rain is usually confined to late afternoon downpours even at the height of the season (September and October). Peak tourist season runs between December and March, and again in July and August when the prime attractions are flooded with visitors. Try to visit in low season to avoid the crowds and higher hotel prices.

In rainy season the pools and rivers swell with water © Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Where's the best place to stay near Semuc Champey?

There is accommodation both in Lanquín and Cobán, as well as guesthouses dotted along the road between the two towns.

In Cobán, Park Hotel is comfortable and picturesque. There's a swimming pool, landscaped gardens and even a working watermill. The charming Casa Q’eqchi’ is one of the latest additions to the accommodation scene in Cobán. This intimate family-run guesthouse is home to just three double rooms and one suite with lovely cosy interiors – all exposed stone, hand-carved wooden furniture and local textiles.

Zephyr Lodge is the best of the bunch in Lanquín, just north of the town centre and with scenic views over the Lanquín river valley and Verapaz hills.

Top image: Semuc Champey © Galyna Andrushko/Shutterstock

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Semuc Champey From Antigua: Step-By-Step Guide 2023

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 😀

Looking for the best ways to get to Semuc Champey from Antigua?  You’re in the right place! Both Antigua and Semuc Champey are popular locations when backpacking Guatemala. In fact, Antigua was one of our favourite locations in the whole of Central America!

But how do you travel between Semuc Champey and Antigua? This post outlines everything you need to know about the two locations, from safety concerns, journey times, prices, drop-off points and more. But as always, if you still have a burning question to ask, be sure to drop me a message on Instagram to ask.

So, let’s get started and discuss all the possible ways to travel to Semuc Champey from Antigua.

Other Guatemala posts you may like:

• Is Semuc Champey Worth It? A COMPLETE Guide
• How To Get From Flores To Semuc Champey: Guide
• Flores to Belize City: Complete Step-By-Step Guide
• How To Get From San Ignacio To Flores: Backpacker Guide

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

Booking hostels?

Choosing the right hostel as a backpacker is crucial to how successful your trip will be. Always use Hostelworld.com for the cheapest rates, widest availability and most importantly – honest reviews from other travellers! Click here to view the best hostels for your trip.

Semuc Champey from Antigua: A Summary

In summary, there are two main ways to get to Semuc Champey from Antigua. They are:

• Shuttle bus (most popular backpacker option)
• Public bus (‘chicken bus’)

But, it’s important to note that all shuttles will stop in the town before Semuc Champey which is called Lanquin. Both of these options take you to Lanquin, where you will then need to get either a 4×4, cattle truck or tuktuk to your accommodation.

If you’re backpacking Guatemala,  the most common, safest and easiest way to travel between Semuc Champey and Antigua is by shuttle.  The shuttles hold around 16 people and  are full of other backpackers.

But, if you’re a little more adventurous than us, you can travel to Semuc Champey from Antigua via public bus. This will take a longer amount of time, but of course, you get the adventure of being mixed in with the locals on a second-hand converted USA school bus.

Related posts: 15 Best Coffee Shops In Antigua Guatemala | 7 Best Spanish Schools In Antigua Guatemala

1. Shuttle to Semuc Champey from Antigua

NOTE: You need to book a shuttle from Antigua to Lanquin for Semuc Champey. Skip to the ‘arriving in Lanquin’ section below if you are unsure about what to do from there.

The best and safest way to travel to Semuc Champey from Antigua is via shuttle bus. Shuttles run all over Guatemala and are the most popular way for backpackers to travel around.

Shuttles depart at 8am and collect you directly from your hostel or accommodation.

The shuttle must be pre-booked via your hostel, or a travel agent. It should not cost more than 225 Q (£22.50/$26) per person.

The journey is around 7-8 hours (depending on traffic, road conditions, roadworks and other factors) to Lanquin from Antigua. Yes, it might say 6 hours on Google maps, but this is unfortunately incorrect.

Your luggage will be safely tied to the top of the shuttle. Just remember to keep all valuables with you inside the bus!

Shuttles in Guatemala are full of other backpackers and tourists. They are safe, reliable and easy to use. I highly recommend using shuttles to travel around Guatemala.

2. Public bus to Semuc Champey from Antigua

Guatemala is known for its ‘chicken buses’, which are old school buses donated from the USA. Guatemalans have painted and turned these school buses into public party buses. Yes, they do play loud 80’s music as you travel!

Public buses can take much longer than shuttles and are a lot bumpier. It’s also a bit riskier with your bags and luggage, but not impossible. If you’re the more adventurous type, travelling via chicken bus in Guatemala should be on your bucket list.

Travelling to Semuc Champey from Antigua can be done via public buses, but takes a long time, with three buses and two taxis/tuk-tuks. You may even want to book accommodation in Coban to split the journey into two days.

The journey to Semuc Champey from Antigua would be (accurate as of March 2023) :

• BUS: Antigua > Guatemala City (1 hour 30 minutes)
• TAXI: Guatemala City bus station > taxi to Transportes Monja Blanca bus station (10 minutes)
• BUS : Transportes Monja Blanca bus station > Coban (5 hours)
• BUS : Coban > Lanquin (2 hours)
• TUK-TUK/4X4: Lanquin > your hostel or accommodation (from 10 minutes up to an hour)

Total travel time: 8-9 hours.

Important to know:

• The last bus to Lanquin from Coban is at 5pm, unless you arrive on a Sunday, and then it is earlier. If you’re travelling on a Sunday, you may want to book overnight accommodation in Coban.
• The estimated total price for the public bus journey to Semuc Champey from Antigua is 200 Q (£20). The shuttle from Antigua to Semuc Champey is 225 Q (£22.50). There isn’t a huge difference in price!

Arriving in Lanquin (for Semuc Champey) from Flores

When you finally arrive in Lanquin, you will need to board another mode of transport to reach your accommodation. Some hotels and hostels are in Lanquin, so you can get a tuk-tuk from where the shuttle drops you off.

If you are staying in a jungle lodge like Greengo’s or Zephyr , you will need to get either a cattle truck or 4×4. Don’t worry, this is all organised by the hostel, and you don’t need to do anything to arrange this. All of the tourist shuttles arrive around the same time, so they will be there waiting for you when you arrive in Lanquin.

More Guatemala posts:

• Antigua To Lake Atitlan Guatemala: COMPLETE Guide
• BEST Hostels In Flores Guatemala For Backpackers
• Is Flores Guatemala Safe? Solo Female Travellers Advice

Where to stay in Semuc Champey

There are four main hostels to choose from when visiting Semuc Champey:  Greengo’s , Utopia Eco Lodge , Ch’i Bocol  and  Zephyr Lodge . So, which is better? Well, they’re all off the beaten track, and all have their own pros and cons. 

• Greengo’s Hostel is just 400m from the Semuc Champey entrance, meaning you can visit the site without a guide. It has its own onsite bar and restaurant (with reasonable prices), with nightly backpacker activities such as trivia, bonfires and drinking games. Views of the surrounding mountains are unbeatable. Greengo’s tends to be booked up at least 3-4 weeks in advance, so get booking! ⮕ BOOK GREENGO’S HOSTEL NOW!
• Utopia Eco Lodge: A unique natural lodge-style accommodation around 3.5km from the Semuc Champey entrance. ⮕ BOOK UTOPIA NOW!
• Ch’i Bocol: This is the most ‘off-the-beaten-track’ hostel, which requires a 30 minute uphill hike to reach even after the shuttles have dropped you off. Stay here if you want a true, authentic experience amongst Guatemalan nature! ⮕ BOOK CH’I BOCOL NOW!
• Zephyr Lodge is another popular hostel near Semuc Champey. To reach the Semuc Champey waterfalls, you will need to take a 4×4 for around 45 minutes which can be arranged by the hostel. From other backpackers, I’ve heard it’s another great choice, and the jungle views from the dorm rooms are incredible. ⮕ BOOK ZEPHYR LODGE NOW!

Overall, they’re all great choices when it comes to staying in Semuc Champey. I’m biased because we stayed at Greengo’s and had such an epic time there, but I’m sure both hostels will give you an incredible experience. But things change quickly when it comes to hostels, so make sure you always read the reviews first .

Again,  my biggest piece of advice is to book hostels in advance .  We missed out on so many of the best hostels in Central America as they fill up  so  quickly – get booking!

How much is the shuttle from Antigua to Semuc Champey?

The shuttle from Antigua to Semuc Champey is around 225 Q (£22.50/$26) per person. The shuttles can be booked via your hostel or travel agents in Antigua and should be organised at least 24 hours in advance.

Renting a car in Central America?

If you’re hiring a car in Central America, I recommend using this company. We’ve used them all over the world as they’re reliable, cheap and easy to use.

Is Semuc Champey worth it?

In my opinion, yes. Semuc Champey is worth it, especially if you stay in a unique jungle hostel like  Greengo’s , Zephyr  or  Utopia Eco Hostel.   Semuc Champey is an off-the-beaten-track natural monument near Lanquin, Guatemala. It isn’t easy to reach – in fact, it’s quite the detour – which is why so many people question whether it is worth it or not.

If you do make the trip, you can spend your time at Semuc Champey  cliff jumping into natural waterfalls and pools, hiking through caves, tubing down lazy rivers, meeting some of the locals in the nearby villages and swimming amongst some of the best views in Guatemala.  To make your trip even more special, make sure to stay in one of the  jungle hostels  located in the mountains. The views are just unbeatable.

⮕   BOOK YOUR SEMUC CHAMPEY JUNGLE STAY HERE!

How long should I stay in Semuc Champey?

If you are visiting Semuc Champey for the first time, I highly recommend at least 3 nights.  The journey to Semuc Champey from Flores takes near enough a whole day, and if you stay just 1 or 2 nights, you won’t have time to see it all!

We stayed for 4 nights at  Greengo’s hostel , and found this was perfect to enjoy the hostel views, pool and atmosphere and explore Semuc Champey without rushing.

How far is it from Antigua to Lake Atitlan?

Antigua is around 2.5 hours away from Lake Atitlan. There are daily shuttles that run to and from Lake Atitlan and Antigua. The shuttles can be booked via your hostel or travel agents in Antigua, and should be organised at least 24 hours in advance.

Related posts: 15 Best Coffee Shops In Antigua Guatemala | 7 Best Spanish Schools In Antigua Guatemala | What To Wear In Antigua Guatemala (That Isn’t Ugly)

Can you swim in Semuc Champey?

Yes! You can swim in the pools at Semuc Champey.  On a sunny day, the pools are clear and turquoise. However, on a rainy day, they can get quite muddy and murky (not ideal for swimming). There are also tiny fish that like to nibble on your skin – so be prepared! They’re harmless (but can be very annoying).

Want to start your digital nomad life?

Check out my ebook page (click here!) to see if there’s a guide that suits you. I’m here to help you leave the 9-5 and work remotely around the world! 💻 🌎

How much does it cost to go to Semuc Champey?

Actually visiting Semuc Champey itself is budget friendly – the park entrance is just 100 Q (£10/$12) per person.  However, if you don’t want to visit the park by yourself and would prefer a guide, tours range from 90 Q (£9/$11)  booked directly with your hostel,  or upwards of £20+ each by  pre-booking online.

Best backpacker travel insurance for Central America

If you’re visiting Central America as a backpacker, or even for a short vacation, it is  so  important to have  travel insurance .   And  if you ended up on a post that’s called ‘epic party tips’, you know (just as well as I do) that you  definitely  need travel insurance.

Personally, I recommend  SafetyWing .  As a digital nomad and world traveller myself, I can confirm it is the best travel insurance out there. And one of the cheapest – they have deals that start at  just $42 USD per month.

I know, I know, you’re thinking  ‘but I can’t afford that!’ . I was the same! It’s tough to fork out $42 a month on something ‘you might not need’. But what if something DOES happen? That extra Mezcal shot results in you falling down the stairs, or you eat something dodgy from a street food van.

If you need medical help at  any point  whilst in Central America,  you need  travel insurance.

With  SafetyWing , you’re covered on travel emergencies, basic medical costs and medical expenses throughout your trip, so you can travel without worry (at a backpacker’s price!)

Don’t even think twice about getting travel insurance for Central America . Trust me, I have heard enough horror stories about backpackers who haven’t had insurance and have ended up in a  lot  of debt. Don’t be that person!

If you’ve been putting the job off because it takes a lot of time and effort to research the  best travel insurance companies , I understand. That’s why I’ve done the hard work for you. Sign up for  SafetyWing , and the job is done!

How to get to Semuc Champey from Antigua: In a Nutshell

So, there you have it! Everything you need to know about getting to Semuc Champey from Antigua when you’re backpacking Guatemala!

When you’re planning a trip to Guatemala, make sure you let me know over on  Instagram  or in the comments below!

If you haven’t seen my blog before, I write posts aimed at  first-time backpackers on a budget.  I’m  backpacking Central America  with my boyfriend (read more  here !), creating guides and itineraries for you to follow in our footsteps!

Keep an eye out for more Guatemala content,  all written from a personal and realistic point of view. You can sign up for my newsletter and juicy travel updates  here!

As always, thanks for reading and supporting the blog!

Happy travelling 🙂

Other Guatemala posts:

• How To Get From Flores To Semuc Champey
• What To Wear In Antigua Guatemala (That Isn’t Ugly)

MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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