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Cuevas de Se'tzol: A Sacred Mayan Cave System

Explore the mystical Cuevas de Se'tzol: a sacred Mayan site with stunning caves, underground rivers, and rich cultural history in Alta Verapaz, Guatemala.

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Cuevas de Se'tzol, located near Nuevo Chahal, Guatemala, is a network of caves revered by the Maya Q'eqchi' people. Discovered in 1932, these caves feature stunning karst formations, an underground river, and traces of ancient Mayan ceremonies, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.

A brief summary to Cuevas De Se'tzol

  • Monday 6 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 6 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 6 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 6 am-6 pm
  • Friday 6 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 6 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 6 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and getting wet, as you'll be exploring both dry and wet cave areas.
  • Bring a flashlight with extra batteries, as the caves are dark.
  • Hire a local guide to ensure a safe and respectful exploration of the caves and to learn about their cultural significance.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the village of Setzol, it's approximately a 25-minute walk to the entrance of the Cuevas de Se'tzol. The path leads through the natural landscape. Follow the signs towards the caves. Hiring a local guide in the village is recommended before starting your walk.

  • Public Transport

    From Chahal, take a local bus or taxi towards Setzol. Buses are infrequent, so check schedules locally. From Setzol village, follow the walking directions to the caves (approximately 25 minutes). Expect to pay around GTQ5-10 for the bus from Chahal to Setzol.

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Discover more about Cuevas De Se'tzol

Cuevas de Se'tzol, meaning "caves in a row" in the Q'eqchi' language, is a captivating nature preserve and tourist attraction located near Nuevo Chahal in the Alta Verapaz region of Guatemala. The cave system is situated within three mountains, one behind the other, adding to its mystique. Discovered in 1932, the caves have a rich history, serving as a sacred site for the Maya Q'eqchi' people who continue to use them for worship and pilgrimage. The caves feature impressive karst formations, including stalactites and stalagmites, shaped over centuries by the flow of water. The Chiyú River flows through the cave system, creating an adventurous element for explorers. Archaeological evidence, such as broken Mayan pottery, indicates the caves' historical importance as a place of religious ceremonies. The caves offer a unique experience where visitors can connect with both the natural environment and the spiritual heritage of the Mayan culture. Visitors can explore the caves through guided tours, which often involve some light cave trekking and inner-tube rides on the river. Exploring the caves typically takes around two hours, and a local guide is essential for navigating the terrain and understanding the cultural significance of the site.

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