Caves, Waterfalls & Maya Culture in Guatemala - 10 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Guatemala City, Explore the Capital at Leisure

Welcome to Guatemala City, the largest city in Central America and Guatemala's vibrant capital! Meet your driver outside the airport and transfer to your hotel to check in. The rest of the day is free for you to spend as you wish, so you could stay in and relax or venture out to explore the area on your own. A good place to start is the Museo Nacional de Arqueología y Etnología to learn more about the country's ancient history. Peruse the museum's impressive collection of artifacts from Guatemala's pre-Columbian civilizations, including the Maya, one of the most advanced ancient cultures.

Marvel at intricately carved stelae, ceremonial pottery, jade jewelry, and detailed masks that date back thousands of years. Then, head to the nearby Zoológico La Aurora to discover the diverse array of exotic and native animals. Stroll past jaguars, elephants, giraffes, quetzals, and tapirs in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. There are also plenty of lush gardens, interactive exhibits, and educational programs to enhance your visit. When darkness falls, visit a local restaurant to indulge in traditional Guatemalan dishes, like pepian (a rich stew made with roasted spices, peppers, and meat).

Day 2: Transfer to Río Dulce via Finca el Paraíso

Trade Guatemala's bustling capital for its Caribbean coast as you transfer 5-6 hours to Río Dulce, a picturesque region known for its tranquil river, which flows from the highlands to the sea, creating a lush landscape dotted with waterfalls and abundant wildlife. Stop for breakfast on the outskirts of Guatemala City, then watch the landscape transform as you traverse through verdant hills, open plains, and charming small towns. Cross one of Central America's longest bridges, Puente Río Dulce, and make another stop at Finca el Paraíso on the shores of Lago Izabal. 

The finca (farm or rural estate) is known for its expansive coffee fields, cascading waterfalls, natural hot springs, and nearby caves. Follow the river upstream for 20 minutes until you reach the mouth of a submerged cave. Don a headlamp and swim through the crystal-clear waters to enter the cave, where you'll be surrounded by the impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Water-logged and tired after the long drive, transfer to Hacienda Tijax Hotel, an ecolodge nestled on the banks of the Río Dulce. Freshen up for a delicious seafood dinner before settling in for your first night on the river.

Day 3: Kayak Excursion to Ak'Tenamit & Livingston

Wake up to the sounds of birds singing, leaves rustling, and the soft ripple of the river, and head to the hotel's riverside terrace for a nourishing breakfast. Then, get ready for a day on the water as you explore the surrounding Biotopo Protegido Chocón Machacas, known for its lush mangrove forests, diverse bird species, and abundant wildlife, including monkeys and reptiles. Paddle upstream to Ak'Tenamit, an educational and cultural center that focuses on preserving and promoting the traditions of the local Q'eqchi' Maya community.

Explore the intricacies of Maya crafts, such as weaving and pottery, and the sustainable natural resources they use, like banana leaves and coconuts, to fashion the handicrafts available for purchase. Continue downstream through the steep limestone canyons of the lower Río Dulce until you arrive at the coastal town of Livingston, known for its Afro-Caribbean Garífuna culture. When darkness falls, have a delicious dinner, then make your way back to your hotel on the river.

Day 4: Hike to Siete Altares, Enjoy a Free Afternoon

Lace up your hiking boots and get ready for a trek to Siete Altares, meaning "Seven Altars" in Spanish, for its series of seven cascading waterfalls and natural pools. Follow your guide through the rainforest and listen as they teach you about the local flora and fauna you may encounter, including colorful birds, butterflies, and possibly monkeys. The sound of rushing water will guide you and encourage you to keep going throughout the trek.

After an hour or two, you'll arrive at the falls, believed to have medicinal or healing powers by the locals. Take advantage of these therapeutic properties with a refreshing dip in the natural pools, exploring each one. Then, dry off on the surrounding rocks and enjoy a picnic lunch. Once you trek back to the hotel, the rest of the day is free for you to spend as you wish. Go for another swim, this time in the hotel's pool, or visit the on-site bar for a refreshing margarita before dinner.

Day 5: Boat Ride on the Río Dulce, Transfer to Candelaria

Before you leave Río Dulce behind, opt for a leisurely boat cruise on the emerald waters. Get one more look at the lush mangroves, verdant rainforests, striking limestone cliffs, and water lilies bobbing in the water. Since you're not focused on paddling, you have a better chance of spotting local wildlife, such as playful monkeys, colorful birds, and various fish species. Disembark at Livingston to spend more time exploring the colorful streets or going for a swim at one of the nearby beaches, like Playa Blanca.

The town is also known for its wide variety of bird species, so keep your eyes peeled for exotic species like the great egret, roseate spoonbill, and various types of herons and raptors. When you get hungry, visit a local restaurant to try tapado (seafood stew with a coconut milk base). After lunch, cruise back to your hotel to grab your bags and meet your driver for a four-hour transfer to Candelaria, a charming village nestled in the Guatemalan highlands. 

Day 6: Visit Candelaria Caves National Park, Transfer to Cobán

Spend the day exploring Candelaria Caves National Park, renowned for its impressive limestone caves, which feature dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and underground formations. Follow your guide through the caves and learn about their formation and the conservation efforts to protect them. Then, hop on an inner tube to traverse the 1-mile (2 km) stretch of the Candelaria River that flows underground here.

The absolute darkness of the caves will only be broken up by two naturally illuminated swimming pools, where you can stop to swim or relax in the water. After making your way through the caves, dry off and meet your driver for a 3.5-hour transfer to Cobán, a charming city nestled in the heart of the Verapas region known for its sprawling coffee plantations and cloud forests. 

Day 7: Day Trip to Semuc Champey via the Kam'ba Caves & Río Cahabón

Hop in a 4WD vehicle today and set off on a two-hour transfer to Semuc Champey, one of Guatemala's most famous natural wonders. Traverse the winding mountain roads, passing through lush green forests, charming rural villages, and rolling hills. Stop at Kam'ba Caves and follow your guide into the underground caverns only illuminated by candlelight. As you walk, you'll discover underground rivers and waterfalls, as well as plenty of colossal stalactites and stalagmites that have been sculpted over millennia.

Once you're back above ground, head to the nearby Río Cahabón for a leisurely float in an inner tube. As you're gently carried through the crystal-clear waters, look out at the verdant vegetation, dramatic limestone cliffs, and cascading waterfalls. Then, complete the journey to Semuc Champey, where you can embark on a 45-minute uphill hike to El Mirador (The Lookout). Your efforts will be rewarded with panoramic views of the turquoise pools below, surrounded by greenery. After taking in the view, trek back down to the pools for a refreshing swim before transferring back to your hotel around 4:00 pm. 

Day 8: Visit Grutas del Rey Marcos, Transfer to Purulhá

Start your day with a visit to Grutas del Rey Marcos, an extensive cave network renowned for its impressive rock formations and subterranean waterfalls. As you explore the labyrinthine passages, you'll encounter stalactites hanging from the ceiling and grand stalagmites rising from the cave floor. The chambers vary in size, revealing hidden pools, cascading falls, and mineral deposits that shimmer under the soft lighting, adding a touch of magic to the subterranean landscape.

Stay close to your guide so you can learn about the caves' ecosystems, geological formation, and cultural significance. After exploring the caves, meet your driver for a 1.5-hour transfer to Purulha, a picturesque village known for its serene landscapes and traditional Maya culture. Check in at your hotel and freshen up for dinner. Visit a local restaurant to indulge in dishes like kak'ik (a traditional Maya turkey soup) or tamales (steamed corn dough filled with meats, vegetables, and spices). 

Day 9: Visit Reserva Ram Tzul & Biotopo del Quetzal, Transfer to Guatemala City

Your penultimate day in Guatemala takes you to Reserva Ram Tzul, a haven for nature enthusiasts featuring lush rainforests, serene waterfalls, and a network of well-maintained trails. Stretch your legs on a leisurely hike through the bamboo forest to a 260-foot-tall (80 m) waterfall that cascades into an emerald lagoon. This area is part of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, whose cloud forests are a haven for exotic flora and migrating wildlife that your guide will point out. When you arrive at the cascade, go for a refreshing dip in the natural pool below. 

Then, trek back to the car and continue to Biotopo del Quetzal, a nature reserve dedicated to protecting the elusive quetzal bird. Set off on a one-hour hike to Cascada El Salto, a 45-foot-tall (14 m) waterfall surrounded by verdant foliage. On the way, learn about the quetzals as you try to spot them in the trees. The best time to see them is during the breeding season, which typically runs from April to June. When you arrive at the waterfall, stand at its base to appreciate it, as swimming isn't permitted. After an action-packed day, transfer 3.5 hours back to Guatemala City for your flight home tomorrow. 

Day 10: Depart Guatemala City

Your active exploration of Guatemala is coming to an end after 10 action-packed days. If you have time before your flight, consider exploring more of the capital at your own pace. You could head to Mercado Central to shop for souvenirs amid the handcrafted textiles, traditional ceramics, and intricate jewelry. You can also find local delights here, like pupusas (thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, or pork) and rellenitos (sweet plantain dough filled with black beans). With a full stomach, meet your driver and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!