While on assignment for V!VA Travel Guides in Central Guatemala, I had the chance to write about Semuc Champey. These turquoise pool terraces are naturally formed by the river flowing under a limestone bridge. Surrounded by thick forests, it’s almost like an oasis – quiet and calm.
Everyone I’d met in Guatemala raved about this rare spot. True enough, it lived up to expectations. I wouldn’t say it’s off the beaten path – it’s on everyone’s itinerary. It’s quite hard to reach, but many tour operators can bring you there on a day tour. But what makes it so special? I’ll just let the pictures do the talking.
Climbing up to the lookout point, this was the view we were treated to.
The clear water in different shades of blue.
A dip in the refreshing water is a perfect way to cool off from the heat.
The terraces make plunging into the clear waters so tempting.
Rio Cahabón flowing under the limestone bridge.
Several underground waterfalls are thus formed. We followed our guide sliding from one waterfall to the next – it had its potential dangers, but boy was it thrilling! I slipped once, swinging from a rope, with the water choking me – it wasn’t a nice experience.
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Thanks for this angle on Guatemala, I always read about the poverty that hits the country but never about their wonders, and judging from your photos, they have plenty of them. Beautiful people with a hard past, I can't wait to go
It looks amazing here. It's been a few years since I was in Guatemala, I went a few times for work, but unless I win the lottery it's unlikely I will be able to afford to go back there. This is an amazing country with so many wonderful sights to see.