Caves in Guatemala

Guatemala

Mayans once saw caves as sacred underground passages to the underworld. Upon entering one of Guatemala’s large cave systems, it’s easy to understand this belief—they are dark, enormous, and even a little eerie. Rivers carved out many of Guatemala’s most prominent limestone caves. In some places, you can ride inner tubes through the caves or go spelunking with a flashlight. The caves can be as tall as 200 feet (60 m) and as wide as 100 feet (30 m). They are utterly awe-inspiring.

Caves in Guatemala
Destinations

Guatemala Highlights

A curated look at the best Guatemala has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.

Candelaria Caves

Candelaria Caves

The fantastic limestone caves of Candelaria are composed of seven separate caves that are interconnected by the Río Candelaria. The caves are spread across 14 miles (22 km) and have ceilings that reach as high as 200 feet (60 m). Candelaria is one of Central America’s largest cave systems.

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Rey Marcos Caves

Rey Marcos Caves

The Rey Marcos Caves are set just outside the small Q’eqchi’ town of San Juan Chamelco. The caves have some interesting stalagmites and are definitely worth a look if you’re in the area.

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Lanquín Caves

Lanquín Caves

The Lanquín Caves are set just outside the town of Lanquín in Guatemala’s Central Highlands. This limestone cave system is massive and part of the Lanquín Caves National Park.

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Ak'tun Kan Caves

Ak'tun Kan Caves

If you’re near Flores and want to try spelunking, head to the Ak’tun Kan Caves. These limestone caves have impressive formations and are an interesting, if slightly spooky, place to explore. The Ak’tun Kan Caves are set just outside Flores and Santa Elena, both of which border Lake Petén Itzá, and they can be explored in about 30 to 45 minutes.

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Trips to inspire

Featured Guatemala Trips

Browse our handpicked selection of Guatemala itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.

11 days | $$$

Volcanoes, Lakes, and Hot Springs

The rich history and beautiful sights blew us away! We got more than we expected from this Guatemala trip.

Volcanoes, Lakes, and Hot Springs
Guatemala
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14 days | $$

An Unforgettable Trip to Tikal

Visiting Tikal is a one of a kind experience that we recommend to anyone traveling to Guatemala. Our family is fairly active and this exploration type vacation was just what we wanted.

An Unforgettable Trip to Tikal
Guatemala
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13 days | $$$

The Colors & Culture of Guatemala

Don’t just take your family somewhere new, teach them about the world on a colorful expedition of Guatemala full of outdoor adventures, history, and cultural exchanges.

The Colors & Culture of Guatemala
Guatemala
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7 days | $$$

On the Shores of Atitlán

We were looking to celebrate my partner’s 50th birthday. Lake Atitlán blew our minds. It is one of the most beautiful places we've seen.

On the Shores of Atitlán
Guatemala
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9 days | $$$

We Dreamt. Then We Went.

When we told our family and friend that we were going to Guatemala, their first impression was your kidding. The country is not safe. Let me say we had a fantastic time from beginning to end of our trip. Guatemala has a lot to present and the country has a lot of history and the people are wonderful. I would come back again. In general I would say we had no issues with the Itinerary and the drivers of Anywhere were very professional and most of all kept us safe where ever we went. The hotels that we stayed were very nice and in safe location.

We Dreamt. Then We Went.
Guatemala
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8 days | $$$

We Journeyed Together

This had been a memorable family vacation for us. Guatemala is a beautiful country, and Anywhere welcomed us warmly from the moment we landed.

We Journeyed Together
Guatemala
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8 days | $$$

Lakeside Villages and Relaxation

My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed this lakeside getaway by Lake Atitlan. We stayed in amazing places and will be using Anywhere again as we explore more of Central America!

Lakeside Villages and Relaxation
Guatemala
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9 days | $$

A Wedding Celebration Made Better

Thank you for making my Wes and Ines's wedding so special! We were taken care of at all times and will return and only use your services!

A Wedding Celebration Made Better
Guatemala
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9 days | $$$

Colorful Cultural Adventures

Explore the world in vivid color when you make your way through Guatemala. Get outdoors, enjoy cultural exchanges, learn something new. Sample the best of Guatemala now!

Colorful Cultural Adventures
Guatemala
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5 days | $$$

Magical Sunsets of Lake Atitlán

I would recommend this trip to others from the heart! Our tour guide Leonel was just perfect! He’s super passionate about his job and went above and beyond out expectations! We fell in love with Guatemala’s culture, its people and the nature! Unforgettable experience!!

Magical Sunsets of Lake Atitlán
Guatemala
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12 days | $$$

Heart of The Mayan World

I would warn them about the deceptive practices of Casa Azul though about the stocking and charges of the alcohol in the fridge. No warning at check in. No signage on fridge. Not locked. No tally sheet. No warning or heads up by Anywhere. I have never had to pay for alcohol before. ($92. U.S.) There was a store a few doors away. My only complaint about this hotel. I would stay there again. I just wouldn't be tricked twice.

Heart of The Mayan World
Guatemala
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8 days | $$$

Enchanting Highlights of Guatemala

Guatemala was an enchanting country to visit, and Anywhere presented a fun-filled, scenic, and cultural experience beyond our expectations.

Enchanting Highlights of Guatemala
Guatemala
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6 days | $$$

This is the Jungle? Ohh La La!

Take the children on an exciting adventure without sacrificing your comfort. Spend time outdoors, then enjoy high thread count linens, swimming pools, and private transportation.

This is the Jungle? Ohh La La!
Guatemala
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13 days | $$$

Active Couple Mayan Culture Explorer

We loved GUATEMALA. This was our first visit to Central America and found the country intriguing, complex, and exciting. Hope to visit Central America and South America in the future. Would definitely recommend traveling to Guatemala for friends and family.

Active Couple Mayan Culture Explorer
Guatemala
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15 days | $$$

Live, Laugh, Love in Guatemala

Rediscover your passion for adventure and each other when you make your way through beautiful Guatemala. Sample a little of everything –– from ruins to cuisine.

 Live, Laugh, Love in Guatemala
Guatemala
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