Semuc Champey

Understand

History

Landscape

Flora and fauna

Climate At an altitude of approximately 341 m Semuc Champey's climate is usually warm, typical of a tropical rainforest jungle, getting colder through the night. Being surrounded by tropical jungle, Semuc Champey is often clouded, especially in the rainy season.

Getting there

Shuttles go from Cobán and Antigua to Lanquin. From there, shared taxis will bring you to your hotel in Semuc Champey. If you don't come with a shuttle, your hotel can pick you up if you call them in advance. Small hotels and backpacker lodges exist in Lanquin, which until around the year 2000 was the usual place to stay when visiting. Now there are good (rustic) community-owned and operated hotels just outside of Semuc Champey.

See

For a better perspective of the site, there is a viewpoint atop a difficult path that offers views of Semuc Champey.

Do

Semuc Champey Pool and K’anba Cave Tour. You will walk in the park to the beautiful pools, visit the K’anba Caves where you will crawl, climb, and even swim through some parts with a candle in your hand and finish the day with some tubing down the river. Q150 (guide and entrance fees included). (updated Mar 2016)

Sleep

El Portal. Next to the entrance of the park. There is nothing else nearby, so you eat in the hostal (bring enough cash). The hotel is owned by the community, and while very rustic and basic, it is very nice. Dorms Q40, s/d Q175/Q200. (updated Mar 2016) Utopia, ☏ +502 3135-8329. 3 km from Semuc Champey. Has a vegetarian restaurant. (updated Mar 2016)

Lodging

Camping

Backcountry

Go next

Antigua - by shuttle (Q140, 9-10 hours) Flores - by shuttle (Q140, 8 hours)