Guatemala Waterfalls

Guatemala

Guatemala's waterfalls are impressive, but how did the country become so fortunate? Guatemala receives steady rain for half of the year. All water flows towards low ground, entering streams and rivers as it makes its way towards the sea; in some places, this water meets sharp drop-offs and forms impressive waterfalls. Think all waterfalls are the same? Think again.

Guatemala's waterfalls are surprisingly diverse; the country is home to one of Central America’s largest waterfalls (the Chilascó Waterfall), and another that flows with geothermal-heated spring water — in other words, it's a hot waterfall! At Semuc Champey, there is a series of stepped waterfalls that are an utterly perfect place to swim.

In short, these destinations are awesome! One of the best things about exploring Guatemala's waterfalls is the journey you'll make to get there. As you know, waterfalls aren't typically located in the middle of urban cities, so you'll find yourself communing with nature. Trek through jungles, which are sometimes home to ruins, and be sure to observe the plants and animals you'll pass along the way. These aren't just Guatemala's best waterfalls, these are some of Guatemala's best outdoor areas — period.

Have a great time swimming, kayaking, hiking, and if you're especially adventurous, rappelling waterfalls in Guatemala! Don't forget to bring your binoculars and camera.

Guatemala Waterfalls
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.

Cobán, Alta Verapaz

Cobán, Alta Verapaz

The misty alpine town of Cobán sits within the highlands of Las Verapaces. This moderately sized town (pop. 65,000) is close to several natural attractions and has good hotel and restaurant options.

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Lanquín, Alta Verapaz

Lanquín, Alta Verapaz

Set within a lush valley in Guatemala’s Central Highlands, the small town of Lanquín is becoming well known for two attractions—the Lanquín caves and the Semuc Champey limestone pools.

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Baja Verapaz

Baja Verapaz

Baja Verapaz is a lovely department in the Central Highlands of Guatemala. Together with Alta Verapaz, this region is collectively known as “Las Verapaces.”

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Lívingston

Lívingston

Lívingston is unlike anywhere else in Guatemala. For starters, it has a seriously interesting mix of Guatemalan and Caribbean cultures—it’s a hub for the Garífuna people and Q’eqchi’ Maya of the Río Dulce region. It’s also surrounded by water and is only accessible by boat.

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Purulhá, Verapaces

Purulhá, Verapaces

The small town of Purulhá is located in the Central Highlands of Guatemala. The town itself is unremarkable, but it is close to the Biotopo del Quetzal and a number of other outdoor attractions.

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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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Anywhere mission
Anywhere 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.

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Private 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.

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Real Voices, Real Benefits

We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list – it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.

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