Candelaria Caves: Mayan Underworld

4.4 (69)

Journey into the Mayan underworld: Explore vast caves, stunning formations, and ancient history in Guatemala's Candelaria Caves.

Home
Guatemala
Peten
Candelaria Caves

Explore the Candelaria Caves, a vast network revered by the ancient Maya as an entrance to Xibalbá (the underworld). This extensive cave system features stunning geological formations, historical significance, and opportunities for adventure along the Candelaria River.

A brief summary to Candelaria Caves

Franja Transversal del Nte., GT
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking in wet conditions, especially if you plan to explore the caves on foot or go tubing.
Bring a headlamp or flashlight to better appreciate the cave formations and navigate darker areas.
Consider visiting during the dry season (December to April) for more favorable conditions for cave exploration.
Engage a local Mayan guide for a richer experience and to support the community's sustainable tourism efforts.
Plan for a full-day or overnight trip to fully experience the caves and surrounding natural beauty.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Cuevas de Candelaria, Los Nacimientos

Cuevas de Candelaria, Los Nacimientos: A Mayan Underworld Adventure

Cuevas de B'omb'il Pek y Jul Iq'

Exploring the Majestic Cuevas de B'omb'il Pek y Jul Iq'

Lagunas de Sepalau

Lagunas de Sepalau: A Turquoise Paradise

Getting There

Car

From Cobán, drive approximately 3 hours north towards Raxruhá. The roads are generally in good condition. Once in Raxruhá, follow signs towards the Candelaria Caves. Several access points exist, including the Complejo Cultural y Ecoturístico Cuevas de Candelaria near San Antonio Las Cuevas. Parking is available near the cave entrances, though it may be limited during peak season. Parking fees may apply, typically around Q20-Q50 per day.
Public Transport

Take a bus from Guatemala City or Antigua to Fray Bartolomé de las Casas. From Fray Bartolomé, take a local bus or taxi to Raxruhá, and then to the Candelaria Caves. The bus from Guatemala City to Fray Bartolomé costs approximately $15-$22 USD and takes about 3 hours. The local bus from Fray Bartolomé to the caves will cost around Q10-Q20.
Walking

Once you arrive at one of the cave entrances (e.g., Cuevas de Candelaria Mucbilhá), there is typically a walk of 30-45 minutes to reach the cave entrance. Follow the marked trails, and consider hiring a local guide at the entrance for assistance and information. Some trails may involve crossing a footbridge.

Discover more about Candelaria Caves

The Candelaria Caves, nestled in the limestone mountains of northern Alta Verapaz, Guatemala, represent one of Central America's largest and most impressive cave systems. Stretching over 14 miles (22 km), the system comprises seven interconnected caves carved by the Río Candelaria. The caves boast towering ceilings reaching up to 200 feet (60 meters), creating a dramatic underground landscape adorned with stalactites and stalagmites shaped over millennia. For the ancient Maya, the Candelaria Caves held profound historical and cultural importance. They were considered a sacred gateway to Xibalbá, the Mayan underworld, a place of both fear and reverence. Archaeological discoveries within the caves, including pottery artifacts and rupestral paintings, attest to their significance in Mayan ceremonies and beliefs. The caves served not only as ceremonial sites but also as settlements, with evidence of Early and Late Classic Mayan villages. Today, the Candelaria Caves are protected as a national park, managed by local Q'eqchi' Mayan communities. Visitors can explore the caves on foot or by floating through them on inflatable rafts, experiencing the awe-inspiring natural beauty and connecting with the mystical heritage of the Guatemalan Maya. Several entrances to the caves are managed by different Q'eqchi' communities, each offering unique perspectives and tours.