Chicabal Lake: A Sacred Mayan Site
Discover Laguna de Chicabal, Guatemala's sacred Mayan lake: Hike through cloud forests and witness ancient traditions in a stunning volcanic crater.
Laguna de Chicabal is a crater lake revered by the Mam Maya people, nestled high in the Guatemalan highlands. Formed within the Chicabal Volcano, the lake is a place of spiritual significance where traditional Mayan ceremonies are still practiced. Visitors can hike through cloud forests to reach the serene lake, experiencing both natural beauty and cultural heritage.
A brief summary to Chicabal Lake
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Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid the midday mist that often obscures the views of the lake and surrounding volcanoes.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes as the trail can be steep and uneven in places.
- Bring cash for the entrance fee (Q50 for foreigners) and transportation.
- Respect the local culture by not swimming in the lake and being mindful of ongoing Mayan ceremonies.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching experience and to learn about the significance of the site.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Quetzaltenango (Xela), take a 'chicken bus' (camioneta) from the Minerva Terminal towards San Martín Sacatepéquez (also known as San Martín Chile Verde). The bus ride takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. From San Martín, you can either hike to the Laguna Chicabal Park entrance (approximately 30 minutes) or take a 'Torito' (pickup truck) from the village. The Torito ride costs around Q50 per person.
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Walking
From the 'Parada de Colectivos' bus stop in San Martín Sacatepéquez, walk through the village towards the Torito station. Follow the road leading to Laguna Chicabal, which gradually ascends. The walk to the park entrance takes approximately 30 minutes. From the park entrance, it's a moderately challenging hike of about 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the lake. The entrance fee to Laguna Chicabal Park is Q50 for foreigners.
Discover more about Chicabal Lake
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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