In the heart of the Verapaces, nature and tradition meet. Discover the natural pools of Semuc Champey, explore the Lanquín caves, and walk the cloud forest in search of the quetzal. Round off the experience with a visit to the Chicoj cooperative, to see local know-how and taste coffee grown in the region.
Itinerary
Indicative, adjusted to your dates, pace and interests.
Day 1
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| On arrival | Transfer from Guatemala City to Baja Verapaz About 4 hours by road |
| - | Lunch |
| - | Hotel check-in Reserva Natural Ranchitos del Quetzal |
Day 2
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 6:00 | Quetzal birdwatching |
| 8:00 | Breakfast |
| 9:00 | Depart for Cobán |
| 11:00 | Visit the cooperative for a coffee tour |
| 12:30 | Lunch in Cobán |
| 13:30 | Free time and visit of Cobán |
| 15:00 | Depart for Lanquín |
| 17:00 | Hotel check-in |
Day 3
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:00 | Breakfast at the hotel |
| 8:00 | Visit Semuc Champey |
| 11:00 | Visit the Lanquín Caves |
| 12:30 | Lunch |
| 13:30 | Downtime - Departure transfer Guatemala City / Antigua, or onward to your next destination |
3 days · 2 nights from Launch offer: 10% off every trip booked by December 31, 2026.
$1,620 for 2 travellers
$1,800
Your trip includes
- Accommodation
- Food
- Transport
- Guide
- Activities
- Support
- Entrance fees
You arrange
- International flight
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Recommendations
Traveller recommendations
Respect the natural surroundings and local communities by following your guides' instructions.Help protect the environment by choosing biodegradable sunscreen and toiletries.
Practical tips
The road to Semuc Champey is unpaved on its last stretch and takes longer than the distance suggests — that is why the day starts early. Phone signal is patchy around Lanquín and card payment is rare outside Cobán: carry cash in quetzales.
What to pack
Comfortable clothing, a change of clothes, a towel, swimwear, water shoes and basic hiking gear.Conditions vary between humid heat and cooler air — bring a rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen and plenty of water.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best chance of seeing a quetzal?
The bird lives in this cloud forest all year, but the surest months run from February to June, when pairs stay close to the tree they nest in. Sightings happen at first light, which is why the second morning starts at 6:00.
How demanding is Semuc Champey?
The pools are reached on a short, flat walk. The viewpoint above them is a steep climb of thirty to forty-five minutes on steps and roots, and it stays optional. Footwear with grip matters more than fitness.
What is the weather like?
The Verapaces are the wettest region of Guatemala: a shower is possible in any month. Humid warmth in Lanquín, cool air in the cloud forest around Purulhá, where the nights are cold. Pack for both.
