The Best Things to do in Cobán, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala

Río Cahabón offers the best opportunity for whitewater rafting in Guatemala. The river rapids cover a variety of difficulty levels, ranging from class I to IV – all but the most difficult rapids. Much of this 7.5-mile (12 km) route has class III and IV rapids.

Rappelling is an adventure activity offered in the community of Bombilpek, where visitors descend 80 meters by rope to reach a cave with ancient rock paintings, all with specialized equipment and guides. Departure from Cobán is at 8:00 a.m., with an approximate return at 4:00 p.m. A minimum of four people is required for group tours.

This is a private reserve of great historical and archaeological significance, once a pilgrimage site for the Ancient Maya. Today, it features a museum displaying replicas of local archaeological artifacts, along with areas for activities such as zip-lining, birdwatching, and sport fishing. Departure is at 8:00 a.m. from Cobán, returning at 3:00 p.m. The tour includes round-trip transportation, entry, activities (horseback riding, zip line, river tubing), and access to facilities like the swimming pool. A minimum of four people is required for group tours.

The Candelaria Caves National Park is a vast complex of karst caves stretching approximately 35 kilometers, with sections accessible through the community of Mucbilha 1. Visitors can choose between two guided routes designed to showcase this natural wonder. The tour departs from Cobán at 8:00 a.m., with an approximate return at 3:00 p.m.

The quetzal, like other birds, has specific habits, with its peak activity starting at dawn and ending around 9 a.m. To observe this beautiful bird, we visit the private Ranchitos del Quetzal Reserve and the Mario Dari Rivera Biotopo del Quetzal. We depart from Cobán at 5 a.m., arriving at Ranchitos del Quetzal at 6 a.m. Afterward, we head to the Biotopo del Quetzal, finishing the tour by 11 a.m. The tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cobán, a bird species checklist, binoculars, entry to both sites, and a guide. A minimum of two people is required for group tours.

King Marcos cave is best known for its enormous natural formations. Some of its stalagmites and stalactites are so sculptural that they have earned nicknames – one large formation is called "the Tower of Pisa.”

The Pacaya Volcano, one of Guatemala’s most active volcanoes, offers an unforgettable adventure. On this tour, you’ll hike or ride horseback up the majestic 8,373-foot (2,552-m) volcano, taking in breathtaking views of both the volcano and the surrounding landscapes. Located just an hour’s drive from Antigua, Pacaya makes for a perfect day trip. Known for its frequent activity, you may witness anything from gentle steam emissions to dramatic ash and lava eruptions. As you ascend, the 2.5-hour hike leads you through cornfields, forests, and ancient lava flows. Along the way, you'll catch glimpses of Pacaya's main vent, as well as stunning views of the Acatenango and Fuego volcanoes, with one lookout providing a sweeping panorama of Guatemala City. This exhilarating tour promises a thrilling encounter with one of nature’s most powerful forces.

This is a private family-owned reserve, operating since 1978. The ecotourism project began in 2014, offering guided tours along trails and rivers on the property, birdwatching, a restaurant, and comfortable rest areas where visitors can relax under the trees or by the creek. It’s the perfect place to connect with nature and feel as if time stands still—a true paradise. The tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cobán, entry, and a guide. Departure is at 8:00 a.m. For group tours, a minimum of four people is required.

Acatenango is a twin-peaked stratovolcano. The volcano erupted between 1924 and 1927 and again in 1972. Volcanic ash from these explosions traveled as far as 15 miles (25 km) away. Larger eruptions also occurred some 2,000 and 5,000 years ago. These days, the volcano is dormant. The hike to the summit offers travelers a incredible look at the Guatemalan landscape. From the top, you’ll enjoy great views of the nearby Fuego Volcano, which has seen increased activity since 1999.

Río Cahabón offers the best opportunity for whitewater rafting in Guatemala. The river rapids cover a variety of difficulty levels, ranging from class I to IV – all but the most difficult rapids. Much of this 7.5-mile (12 km) route has class III and IV rapids.

Río Cahabón offers the best opportunity for whitewater rafting in Guatemala. The river rapids cover a variety of difficulty levels, ranging from class I to IV – all but the most difficult rapids. Much of this 7.5-mile (12 km) route has class III and IV rapids.

On this tour, you’ll get to take an informative hike around the Chicoj coffee plantation. Your guide will explain the process of growing and selling Guatemalan coffee beans.

Orquigonia consists of a small park with a trail that’s about half a mile (1 km) long. It’s not a very large park, but it sprouts a large variety of orchids and plants. Orchids are some of the most highly-prized species of flowers in the world, and they come in a variety of colors and delicate shapes.

El Parque Nacional Semuc Champey, un impresionante puente natural de piedra caliza en Guatemala, está conformado por el Río Cahabón y el Río Semuc Champey, este último fluye sobre pozas de aguas cristalinas. Situado a 65 km de Cobán, los últimos 20 km son de terracería. Ofrecemos un tour de día completo desde Cobán. Visitamos Semuc Champey y las Cuevas de Kamba, con opción a las Cuevas de Lanquín, secas y accesibles, para los menos aventureros.