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.
Discovered in 1992, the Rey Marcos Caves are home to impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. The ghostly stalagmites can be reached by crossing an underground river. The largest formations have names like the Twin Towers and Leaning Tower of Pisa. There are also soda-straws, hollow cylindrical mineral tubes, hanging from the ceiling. Soda straws look like icicles and grow in places where water leaches through the cracks in the rock.
The Rey Marcos Caves are a kilometer long, but you won’t explore the whole thing during a tour. The caves are fairly undeveloped—there are no lights or steps inside, so travelers should be prepared for uneven, dimly lit surroundings. There are, however, ropes to help you navigate the cave. All visitors are supplied with a guide, boots, and hard-hat.
The caves are located above Balneario Cecilinda, a swimming spot composed of several natural spring-fed pools. Taking a dip into the pools after a visit to the caves is a good way to end your afternoon.
Visiting the Rey Marcos Caves is definitely an adventure. A trip here is a great way to explore a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path attraction in Guatemala.
Rey Marcos Caves itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Rey Marcos Caves itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
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.
Experiences in Rey Marcos Caves
Explore hand-picked Rey Marcos Caves tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
King Marcos Caves
Where to stay in Rey Marcos Caves
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Rey Marcos Caves accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Hotel El Recreo
This hotel is set in a remote valley of Guatemala’s Central Highlands. It has pleasant rooms and a swimming pool.
Hotel Casa Duranta
A colonial-style hotel located in the heart of Cobán. The hotel has simple, comfortable rooms and a lush courtyard.
Hostal Oasis
This hostal is right outside of Lanquín Caves National Park. It is between Lanquín Caves National Park and the pools of Semuc Champey, which are two of the most interesting sites in Guatemala.
Insider-led Guatemala Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Guatemala Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
