How to Plan Your 3-Day Cobán & Semuc Champey Tour from Antigua, Guatemala

Are you looking for an adventure-packed tour that takes you through the beautiful forests of Cobán and the natural wonders of Semuc Champey? Look no further than the 3-day Cobán & Semuc Champey Tour from Antigua, Guatemala. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan your tour, including the highlights you’ll experience and the best way to book it online.

Experience

On this tour, you’ll experience the best of Guatemala’s natural beauty. You’ll hike through the forest of El Biotopo del Quetzal in Cobán, appreciate the natural wonder of Semuc Champey, and explore the Lanquin and Rey Marcos Caves.

Highlights

Here are some of the tour highlights you can expect:

– Hike through the forest of El Biotopo del Quetzal
– Appreciate the natural beauty of Semuc Champey
– Swim in the pools carved out of limestone
– Explore the Lanquin and Rey Marcos Caves

Day 1: Guatemala City/Cobán

The tour departs from Guatemala City or Antigua to Cobán. You’ll have the chance to see the beautiful Quetzal bird. Upon arrival, you’ll begin your hike through the forest of El Biotopo del Quetzal, a famous nature reserve that’s home to a wide range of flora and fauna. After two hours of hiking, you’ll stop for lunch and enjoy some traditional food (not included in the tour). After lunch, you’ll transfer to your selected hotel in Cobán for overnight accommodations. The Park Hotel Resort or similar would be your best pick.

Day 2: Semuc Champey/Lankin Caves

The adventure will begin the next day after breakfast by taking a two-hour journey to Semuc Champey, which is a breathtaking natural monument. Here, you’ll explore the pools carved out of limestone and have a chance to swim in them.

After enjoying the natural beauty of Semuc Champey, you’ll have time for lunch. The tour will continue with a visit to the Lanquin Caves, where you’ll explore unique cave formations, such as stalactites and stalagmites. After the caves, you’ll transfer back to your hotel in Cobán to overnight.

Day 3: Rey Marcos Caves

After breakfast, the tour will take you to Rey Marcos Caves, located in the town of Lanquin. These caves offer a unique underground experience where you’ll get to explore more cave formations and ancient underground riverbeds. After the caves, you’ll return to your hotel in Cobán, to check-out and take your way back to Antigua or Guatemala City, depending on your pick-up details.

Booking Your Tour

Are you ready to book your 3-day Cobán & Semuc Champey tour? It’s easy! Just follow the link provided below to book the tour online with GetYourGuide. Don’t forget to reserve your spot in advance because this tour is definitely worth the experience.

Book the tour here

We hope this guide helps you plan your tour of the natural wonders of Cobán and Semuc Champey. By following these steps and booking with GetYourGuide, you’ll have a seamless and memorable adventure in Guatemala.

Insider’s Guide to Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua is a beautiful city located in the central highlands of Guatemala, just 1 hour away from Guatemala City. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture and rich history. Antigua is surrounded by volcanoes and is a popular tourist destination for its vibrant culture, colorful markets, and stunning scenery. In this guide, we will explore the best places to visit, eat, learn and explore in Antigua.

Local Attractions

Antigua is a city filled with stunning architecture, markets, and historic sites. Here are some of the best places to visit in Antigua:

• La Merced Church: This Baroque-style church is one of Antigua’s most iconic landmarks. The church is famous for its bright yellow façade and ornate architecture, which is a stunning example of 18th-century design.
• Central Park: The park is a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike and is always bustling with activity.
• Santa Catalina Arch: This iconic arch is one of Antigua’s most recognizable landmarks. Built in the 17th century, this arch provides stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes.
• Jade Museum: The Jade Museum is one of Antigua’s top museums and a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about Guatemala’s history. The museum houses a collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts and provides insight into the Mayan civilization.

Dining Spots

Antigua has a vibrant food scene that offers a diverse range of cuisines. Whether you’re looking for street food or fine dining, Antigua has something to offer. Here are some of the best places to grab a bite:

• El Cazador Italiano: If you’re in the mood for Italian food, this restaurant is a must-visit. The menu offers a range of classic pasta dishes and pizzas, all made from fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
• Por Que No?: This casual Mexican restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The menu features a range of classic Mexican dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas.
• Café Sky: This rooftop restaurant provides stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes. The menu offers a range of international dishes, including sushi, burgers, and salads.
• El Tenedor del Cerro: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a unique dining experience in Antigua. The menu features a range of locally sourced dishes that showcase the best of Guatemala’s culinary traditions.

Cultural Experiences

Antigua is a city rich in culture and history. It’s a great place to learn more about Guatemala’s Mayan heritage and Spanish colonial past. Here are some of the best cultural experiences to have in Antigua:

• Mayan Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Mayan dishes and experience Guatemala’s culinary heritage firsthand. These cooking classes provide insight into the Mayan culture and are a great way to connect with locals.
• ChocoMuseo: Chocolate-lovers should not miss the chance to visit ChocoMuseo. This museum offers a range of chocolate-making classes and provides insight into Guatemala’s rich history and culture of cocoa.
• Spanish Language School: Antigua is a popular destination for tourists learning Spanish. There are several language schools in the city that offer immersive classes for all levels of learners.
• La Azotea Cultural Center: This cultural center is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about Guatemala’s history and culture. The center houses several museums, including a coffee museum, a music museum, and a museum dedicated to the Mayan civilization.

Local History

Antigua has a rich and complex history that is reflected in its architecture and culture. From the Mayan civilization to the Spanish colonial era, Antigua’s past is visible everywhere in the city. Here are some of the best places to learn more about Antigua’s history:

• Palacio de los Capitanes Generales: This historic building was the seat of Spanish colonial power in Antigua. Today, it houses the Museum of the City of Antigua, which provides insight into the city’s history and culture.
• La Merced Convent: This beautifully preserved convent was built in the 18th century and is one of Antigua’s most iconic landmarks. The convent provides insight into the city’s colonial past and the role of religion in Guatemalan society.
• Ruins of San Francisco Church: This stunning ruin is a testament to the destructive power of Guatemala’s volcanic activity. The church was destroyed in the 18th century by an earthquake and has been left to decay ever since.
• San José Cathedral: This cathedral is a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture. The church was built in the 17th century and has survived multiple earthquakes, making it a testament to the resilience of Antigua’s architecture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Antigua is a city filled with hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions. Here are some suggestions for those looking to explore the city beyond the usual tourist spots:

• Macadamia Nut Farm: This farm, located just outside the city, offers visitors a chance to see how macadamia nuts are grown and harvested. The farm also produces a range of products, including nut butters and oils, all made from locally sourced macadamias.
• Cerro de la Cruz: This hill provides stunning views of the city and the surrounding volcanoes. The hike is relatively short, and the view is well worth the effort.
• Panchoy Valley: This beautiful valley, located just outside Antigua, is home to several small villages and farms. Visitors can explore the valley by foot or bike and experience the beauty of Guatemala’s countryside.
• Drink a Cup of Antigua Coffee: Antigua is known for its high-quality coffee, and there are several coffee shops in the city that serve locally sourced and roasted coffee. Visitors can also take a tour of one of the many coffee plantations in the surrounding area.

In conclusion, Antigua is a city filled with rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re interested in exploring Mayan heritage, learning Spanish, or simply enjoying delicious food and coffee, Antigua has something for everyone. We hope this insider’s guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.