RIU DULCE
RIU DULCE: A Hidden Gem in Yalcoc
Candelaria Caves: Guatemala's Mayan Underworld
Discover a vast underground network of caves in Guatemala, sacred to the Maya, with stunning rock formations and river tubing adventures.
Explore the Candelaria Caves, a vast network revered by the ancient Maya as an entrance to Xibalbá (the underworld). This impressive cave system features stunning geological formations, a subterranean river for tubing adventures, and significant Mayan artifacts, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Candelaria Caves
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
RP76+MQ9, Chisec, GT
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Getting There
Driving
From Cobán, drive approximately 100 kilometers (about 3 hours) to Raxruhá. The roads are generally in good condition. From Raxruhá, follow local signs towards the Candelaria Caves. Several communities manage different entrances, such as Candelaria Camposanto or Complejo Cultural y Ecoturístico Cuevas de Candelaria near San Antonio Las Cuevas. Parking is available at the entrance points, but it can be limited.
Public Transport
From Cobán, take a bus to Raxruhá. From Raxruhá, local transportation (such as tuk-tuks or pick-up trucks) can take you to the Candelaria Caves. Negotiate the fare beforehand. The cost for local transport should be around Q15-Q25 per person.
Local tips
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Book tours in advance, especially during the dry season (November to April), to ensure availability for popular activities like tubing.
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Wear comfortable shoes that can get wet, as some tours involve walking in water or tubing on the river.
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Bring a waterproof bag to protect electronic devices and other valuables from water damage during cave explorations.
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Consider staying overnight at Candelaria Lodge to fully experience the caves and surrounding natural beauty.
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 22 km (14 miles), with ceilings soaring up to 60 meters (200 feet), these caves offer a dramatic underground landscape formed by the Río Candelaria.
Historically significant, the caves were considered by the ancient Maya as an entrance to Xibalbá, the underworld. Archaeological evidence, including pottery and rupestral paintings, suggests the caves were used for ceremonial purposes. Today, local indigenous communities still hold the caves sacred.
Visitors can explore the caves through various tours, including tubing along the Candelaria River, hiking through dry cave systems, and witnessing unique geological formations like stalactites and stalagmites. The main gallery, Tzul Tacca, is particularly stunning, featuring natural 'windows' that illuminate the vast stalagmites.
The caves are managed by the local Q'eqchi' Maya people, who ensure the area's protection and promote sustainable tourism. This allows visitors to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Candelaria Caves while supporting the local community.
A brief summary to Candelaria Caves
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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