Semuc Champey, Natural limestone pools in Alta Verapaz, Guatemala
A 300-meter natural limestone bridge spans over the Cahabón River, featuring a series of stepped pools with mineral-rich water.
The Guatemalan government designated Semuc Champey as a protected natural monument through Decreto No. 025 in 2005 for conservation purposes.
The name derives from Q'eqchi' Maya language, with local indigenous communities maintaining their traditions and sharing knowledge with visitors.
Visitors need to plan for an eight-hour drive from major cities like Antigua or Flores, followed by a ten-kilometer ride to reach the site.
The limestone formation creates a natural tunnel where the Cahabón River flows underneath while clear pools form on the surface.
Location: Alta Verapaz Department
Inception: 2005
Part of: Cahabón River
GPS coordinates: 15.53333,-89.96111
Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:05
These waterfalls and natural phenomena are located in remote areas. They offer visitors natural experiences without large crowds.
Guatemala offers Maya ruins, volcanoes and colonial buildings for photographers. The landscape features lakes, rainforests and beaches. Cities display Spanish architecture and indigenous markets.
Guatemala offers diverse settings for photography. Maya temples emerge from rainforests, while lakes mirror volcanoes. Colonial cities display painted facades and cobblestone streets. Nature reserves, thermal springs, and caves add to the photographic range of the country.
Quiriguá
103.1 km
Castillo de San Felipe de Lara
104.4 km
Dos Pilas
107.5 km
Biotopo del Quetzal
48 km
Reserva de la biosfera Sierra de las Minas
45.3 km
Aguateca
99.6 km
Puente de Río Dulce
104.1 km
Estadio Cementos Progreso
111 km
Cancuén
54 km
Naj Tunich
110.5 km
Ixtutz
110.9 km
Chamá
49.2 km
Museo de Paleontologia y Arqueología de Estanzuela
72.4 km
Rey Marcos Caves
36.4 km
Agua Blanca (Olopa)
111.7 km
Museo
102.8 km
Catarata de Urlanta
104.4 km
Calvario
59.3 km
Rio Dulce National Park
109.4 km
Casa del Quetzal y la Marimba, Museo
60.9 km
Las Conchas Natural Park
64.2 km
Calvario Poptun
106.1 km
Cuevas de B'omb'il Pek
48.5 km
La Palmilla, Usumatlan
67.7 km
Cementerio Senahú
20.2 km
Hun Nal Ye
41.7 km
Finca El Cisne
102.9 km
Puente Orellana
68.5 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes