Candelaria Caves, Central Highlands Travel Guide

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Discover the mystical Candelaria Caves in Guatemala: a journey through Mayan history and stunning subterranean landscapes.

Explore the Candelaria Caves, a vast network revered by the Maya as an entrance to Xibalbá (the underworld). This natural wonder features stunning geological formations, ancient artifacts, and underground rivers perfect for adventurous exploration.

A brief summary to Candelaria Caves

RP76+MQ9, Chisec, GT

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Candelaria Caves.

The dry season (November to April) is the best time to visit, ensuring optimal conditions for exploring the caves.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking in water, especially if you plan to do the tubing tour.
Bring a waterproof bag to protect your belongings during the aquatic activities.
Consider staying overnight at Candelaria Lodge to fully experience the beauty of the caves and surrounding area.
Book tours in advance, especially if you desire an English-speaking guide.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Guatemala City, take a bus to Fray Bartolomé de las Casas. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours and costs between $35 and $50. From Fray Bartolomé, you will need to arrange local transport (taxi or shuttle) to the Candelaria Caves. Expect to pay around Q150-Q300 for the final leg of the journey.
Driving

Driving from Guatemala City to Candelaria Caves takes around 4.5 hours. The route covers approximately 265 km. Be prepared for some unpaved roads as you approach the caves. Parking is available near the cave entrances, with a small fee of Q20-Q50.

Discover more about Candelaria Caves

The Candelaria Caves, nestled in the highlands of Alta Verapaz, Guatemala, offer a mesmerizing journey into the heart of the Mayan world and the depths of the earth. This extensive cave system, one of the largest in Central America, stretches over 14 miles (22 km) and comprises seven interconnected caves sculpted by the Río Candelaria.For the ancient Maya, these caves held profound spiritual significance, believed to be an entrance to Xibalbá, the underworld. Archaeological discoveries of pottery and rupestral paintings confirm the caves' importance as a pilgrimage and ceremonial site. Today, the local Q'eqchi' Maya manage and protect the caves, offering visitors a glimpse into their rich cultural heritage.Inside, prepare to be awestruck by towering stalactites and stalagmites, vast chambers reaching up to 200 feet (60 meters), and the ethereal glow of sunlight filtering through occasional skylights. Adventure seekers can traverse the caves on foot or by floating along the underground river on inflatable rafts, an unforgettable way to experience this subterranean wonderland.Several tour options are available, including dry cave tours, aquatic tours (underground tubing), and complete tours that combine both. Each offers a unique perspective on the caves' geological and historical significance.