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Lachuá Lake: Guatemala's Pristine Turquoise Mirror

Discover Lachuá Lake: A pristine turquoise paradise in Guatemala's rainforest, offering hiking, swimming, and wildlife encounters.

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Lachuá Lake, nestled within a national park in the Alta Verapaz region of Guatemala, is a stunningly circular karstic lake known for its clear turquoise waters and surrounding tropical rainforest. The name 'Lachuá' comes from the Q'eqchi' Mayan words meaning 'fetid water,' owing to the water's slightly sulfuric scent.

A brief summary to Lachuá Lake

  • GT

Local tips

  • Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be abundant in the rainforest.
  • Pack comfortable hiking shoes for exploring the trails around the lake.
  • Bring a flashlight, as there is no electricity within the park at night.
  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds, as the lake is a popular destination for Guatemalans on weekends.
  • Be prepared for rain, especially during the months of May to October.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Cobán, take a bus towards Playa Grande. Inform the driver that you wish to get off at Laguna Lachuá. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and costs Q50. From the park entrance, it is a 4.2km (2.6 mile) hike to the lake.

  • Driving

    From Cobán, drive north towards Chisec. Continue towards Playa Grande. The park entrance is approximately 60km from Chisec. Be aware that the road can be rough, especially during the rainy season. Parking is available at the visitor's center for a fee. From the parking lot, it is a 4.2km (2.6 mile) hike to the lake.

  • Walking

    From the park entrance, follow the well-maintained trail through the jungle. The hike to the lake is 4.2km (2.6 miles) and takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. The trail is mostly flat, but can be muddy in places. There are informative signs in Spanish and English along the way.

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Discover more about Lachuá Lake

Laguna Lachuá, a captivating natural wonder in Guatemala, beckons with its mesmerizing turquoise waters and lush rainforest surroundings. This almost perfectly circular lake, likely a cenote or doline, lies within the Lachuá Lake National Park, a protected area spanning 90 square miles. The park is a haven of biodiversity, boasting over 220 plant species and 210 species of mammals and birds, including jaguars, pumas, and howler monkeys. The lake's name, 'Lachuá,' originates from the Q'eqchi' Mayan words 'li chu há,' translating to 'fetid water,' a nod to the water's mild sulfuric aroma. This scent is attributed to the lake's high levels of salt, nitrites, and calcium. The water is remarkably clear, allowing sunlight to penetrate its depths, creating a mesmerizing turquoise hue. Branches that fall into the lake quickly become coated in a layer of white calcite due to the water's high mineral content. Visitors can explore the park's diverse ecosystem through a network of trails, offering opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. Swimming is permitted in designated areas, allowing visitors to experience the refreshing waters firsthand. Camping facilities are available for those wishing to spend a night immersed in the sounds of the jungle. For a more comfortable stay, basic cabins can be rented, though advance booking is recommended. Lachuá Lake National Park was established in 1976 to protect this unique environment. In 2006, the lake and its surrounding buffer zone were designated a Ramsar site, recognizing their importance as wetlands.

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