Semuc Champey is one of the most beautiful destinations in Guatemala. It’s a series of pools that were formed over a natural bridge of limestone, that passes over the Cahabon river in the middle of a lush vegetation.
The clear and pristine water of the pools makes a strong contrast with the powerful river that passes below them and appears 300 m later. In Mayan language, Semuc Champey means “hidden in the depth of stone”; Champey is not hidden, but it might be a little far away. It’s located on the Alta Verapaz department, on the northern region of Guatemala, about a three hour drive (70km) away from the city of Coban.
The water in the pools is fresh and cool, the weather is temperate and the view astonishing. The caves of K‘an ba are close to Champey. You can reach them walking to do some caving or have some fun in the natural formed limestone slides. The entrance fee is only Q.10, a very low price indeed for such a marvelous place.
If you want to get to Semuc Champey, you can take a minibus in Coban’s park, or get a shuttle in a Tour Operator of Cobán. You’ll find in Champey some basic services, such as bathrooms and lunchrooms, so feel free to bring some food and drinks. Of course, a bathing suit is very suggested.
Comment by micah ditton at Feb 15th, 2009 1:28 pm ↑
while the semuc is awesome… there are a few things to note… grutas de marias, cave near the semuc…provides a locker for your valuables. It is a swim in cave so most things should be left there. The catch is anything not in a bag or pack might not be returned. These guys stoled my pants and sunscreen. While the cameras and other valuables were returned, know these guys will steal. Also, Lanquin is the town closest to the semuc, while a quite sleepy mountian town… it is a bit exspensive and packed full of tourist. literally hundreds of tourists.. not to mention the hundreds of quatamalians that also visit the semuc. a bit crowded for my tastes.