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Speleotourism and mysticism in the Verapaces
María Godoy DCA Mundo
Guatemala is the ideal place to practice Speleotourism. According to the Guatemalan Institute of Tourism (Inguat), the country has 76 caves, among which some have already been explored and are open to the public.
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You can practice this extreme sport in the Departments of Alta Verapaz and Baja Verapaz, important places with relevant Mayan traces.
El Jaguar cave, located in Chisec, Alta Verapaz, is considered a sacred site by the Mayans, who believe it is the entrance to Xibalbá, also known as the underworld.
Another considered sacred by the Q’echís is Lanquín, the source of the Cahabón River; the Mayans consider it the Heart of Heaven and ensure its interior holds many secrets.
Mayan ceremonies
You can also explore the Yaxlik, Chitu, Rey San Marcos, and Chirrepeco caves in Alta Verapaz or Chicoy in Baja Verapaz, known for their Mayan ceremonies.
In Kanba, accompanied by a Q’echi guide, the caves are lit with candles. The guide will tell you about the mysticism surrounding it. While in the caves of Seamay, several Mayan altars were discovered. Guatemala awaits you!
