2-Day Adventure Itinerary for Semuc Champey

How to Get to Semuc Champey

Getting to Semuc Champey isn’t just a journey—it’s a full-on adventure through the Guatemalan highlands into the heart of the jungle. There’s no airport nearby, no easy road signs, and the last part of the trip feels like a scene out of Indiana Jones. But once you arrive? Totally worth it. The turquoise limestone pools, jungle waterfalls, and peaceful atmosphere will make you forget the bumps along the way.

Shared Shuttle (Recommended for Most Travellers)

This is the most popular option for backpackers and travellers without a car.

• From Antigua or Flores: ~8–10 hours

• From Guatemala City: ~10–12 hours

• Cost: ~$40 USD

Pros:

• Direct service to Lanquín, the nearest town to Semuc Champey

• More comfortable than a chicken bus

• Easier than organising multiple connections

Cons:

• The last 2 hours are incredibly bumpy—the road turns from paved into rough dirt quickly.

Once you arrive in Lanquín, you’ll usually transfer to a 4x4 pickup truck-style shuttle arranged by your hostel or hotel. The last 30–45 minutes is on a wild, rocky downhill trail through dense jungle. Hold on tight—it’s all part of the experience!

Private Car or Taxi (More Comfort, More Cost)

• Cost: ~$200+ one-way (can split between passengers)

• Best For: Families, groups, or travelers who want comfort and flexibility

Pros:

• Door-to-door convenience

• You control the pace and stops

• More comfortable ride than a shared van

Cons:

• The road conditions are extremely poor, especially the final leg to Semuc.

• Not recommended unless you’re confident with off-road driving

Alternative: You can hire a private driver with a 4WD vehicle, especially from Antigua or Guatemala City, to make the ride smoother.

🚌 Chicken Bus (For the Truly Adventurous)

• Duration: 10–12+ hours (can be longer depending on connections)

• Cost: ~$15 USD total

• Route: Multiple transfers usually required (e.g., Antigua → Cobán → Lanquín)

Pros:

• Cheapest way to travel

• A cultural experience you’ll never forget

• Meet lots of locals and fellow adventurous travellers

Cons:

• No A/C, packed with people, frequent stops

• Easy to get lost in the connections

• You’ll need patience and a strong sense of humour

On my first trip to Semuc, I went the chicken bus route. After a long series of buses and transfers, we finally jumped into the back of a pickup truck for the final 45-minute jungle descent. Fifteen of us crammed in, backpacks on laps, holding onto the rails as we bounced through steep, muddy switchbacks and dodged tree branches. It was chaotic, a little terrifying, and absolutely unforgettable. And when we saw the river glowing in the late-afternoon light? All worth it.

Where to Stay: Zephyr Lodge – The Ultimate Backpacker Hangout

🌟 Our Stay: Zephyr Lodge (Lanquín) 🌟

If you’re a backpacker chasing good vibes, jungle views, and unforgettable sunsets, Zephyr Lodge is the place to be. Perched on a hill overlooking the lush green valleys of Lanquín, this is where adventure meets a party hostel energy—with a side of stunning scenery.

🏨 What Makes Zephyr Lodge So Special?

Infinity Pool Overlooking the Jungle

This is the crown jewel of the lodge. Picture this: you’re floating in an infinity pool, cocktail in hand, the jungle stretching out endlessly in front of you, and the sky glowing pink and gold as the sun sets behind the mountains. It’s beyond magical—easily one of the best sunset spots in all of Guatemala.

Social Atmosphere

Whether you're traveling solo or with friends, Zephyr makes it super easy to meet people. Chill in the common area, swap stories over a beer, or join one of the many group tours to Semuc Champey that depart daily. By night, things heat up with games, music, and a lively backpacker bar scene.

Good Food & Late-Night Bar

The on-site restaurant serves generous portions—think big breakfasts, juicy burgers, and solid veggie options. The bar stays open late, and there’s always something happening, from themed parties to trivia nights.

Fun, Youthful Vibes

Drinking games, pool parties, fire pits—Zephyr is the kind of place where one night turns into three (or more). But don’t worry, you can still find quiet corners to relax if you need a break from the fun.

Book early! Zephyr is popular and can fill up days or even weeks in advance—especially dorms and the private rooms with jungle views. If this place is high on your list, plan ahead.

Alternative Stay Options (If Zephyr is full or not your vibe):

Greengo’s Hotel (Near Semuc Champey)

Want to wake up just steps from the famous pools? Greengo’s is located right by Semuc Champey, meaning you can beat the crowds in the morning. The setting is gorgeous—jungle bungalows, hammocks, and a great chill-out area. A bit quieter, but still social.

El Retiro Lodge (Lanquín)

A peaceful eco-lodge set by the river. Think bamboo cabins, candlelit dinners, and a relaxed backpacker scene. Great for couples or travellers who want a slower pace without being totally off the grid.

Day 1: Arriving & Relaxing at Zephyr Lodge

After a long and bumpy ride through the Guatemalan mountains and jungle roads, Day 1 is all about taking it slow and settling into paradise.

Afternoon: Pool Time & Sunset at Zephyr Lodge

You made it—now it’s time to treat yourself. Drop your bags, throw on a swimsuit, and head straight to the infinity pool.

• Sip a cocktail while the sky turns pink over the jungle valley.

• Soak in the epic 180° views from the terrace—lush hills, golden sunlight, and the sound of tropical birds.

• Chill out after the travel day—you earned this.

Evening: Group Dinner & Good Vibes

As the sun goes down, Zephyr comes alive. Grab a seat at the communal tables, dig into a hearty dinner, and start meeting fellow travelers from all over the world.

Order the nachos. Seriously—they're next-level, stacked high, smothered in cheese, and perfect for sharing (or not, no judgment).

Day 1 is about letting the stress of the journey melt away while you settle into the jungle rhythm. Tomorrow, the real adventure begins.

Day 2: The Ultimate Semuc Champey Experience

Today is the big one—a wild mix of underground exploration, jungle hikes, natural pools, and lazy river floats. It’s the kind of day you’ll never forget.

Morning: K’anba Cave Tour – A Wild Underground Adventure

This was easily one of the craziest things I’ve ever done. Imagine wading into a pitch-black cave with only a candle for light—and that’s just the beginning.

What to Expect on the K’anba Cave Tour:

• Swimming through chest-deep underground pools with a candle in one hand.

• Climbing up slippery waterfalls using ropes.

• Crawling through narrow crevices and sliding down natural rock chutes.

• Taking blind jumps into cold, inky-black water.

At one point, we had to squeeze through a tiny hole in the rock. On the other side? A hidden plunge pool we couldn’t see. Our guide grinned and told us to just jump. My heart was pounding—but I jumped. Total adrenaline rush, and absolutely worth it.

🕒 Duration: ~2 hours
💰 Cost: Usually included in hostel day tours (or ~£10 if booked separately)

Afternoon: Semuc Champey Pools & El Mirador Hike

After the chaos of the caves, it’s time to take in the natural beauty of Semuc Champey itself.

El Mirador Viewpoint:

• ~40-minute steep jungle hike (prepare to sweat!)

• Reaches a stunning platform overlooking the bright turquoise limestone pools

• One of the best views in Guatemala—seriously breathtaking.

Swimming in the Pools:

• Slide from pool to pool like a natural waterpark.

• Water is crisp, clear, and insanely blue.

• Perfect for cooling off after the sweaty hike.

Tip: The rocks are very slippery—go barefoot or bring water shoes with grip!

Late Afternoon: River Tubing & Jungle Beers

Time to end the day in the most relaxing way possible: floating down the Cahabón River with a cold beer in hand.

• Grab an inner tube and let the current carry you through jungle landscapes.

• Locals in kayaks will paddle up to you selling cold beers (yes, really!).

• Chill, soak it all in, and relive the wild day with your new travel friends.

Our group got separated in some mild rapids and ended up drifting way past the pickup point. We were laughing hysterically, trying to paddle back upstream, until a local pulled us in with a rope. Total chaos—but so much fun.

Final Travel Tips for Semuc Champey

Getting prepared can make or break your experience—here’s exactly what to bring:

Must-Haves:

• Waterproof Bag – Everything will get soaked, especially during the cave tour and tubing.

• Headlamp – Candles blow out easily inside the cave, and a hands-free light makes all the difference.

• Bug Spray – You’re in the jungle… and the mosquitoes know it.

• Swimwear & Quick-Dry Clothes – You’ll be wet most of the day, and damp cotton is no fun.

• Sturdy Sandals or Water Shoes – Essential for hiking, cave exploring, and slippery river rocks.

What to Avoid & Important Tips

• Avoid Public Transport at Night – Roads are rough, lighting is poor, and it’s just not safe after dark.

• Bring Enough Cash – ATMs in Lanquín are unreliable or empty, and many places don’t take cards.

• Don’t Drink the Tap Water – Always opt for bottled water, or use a filtered water bottle to stay safe.

• Pack some snacks for the day tour—you’ll be burning calories nonstop and lunch is usually late. Protein bars or trail mix are clutch!