If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Guatemala, let me tell you about a truly magical experience—tubing in the Candelaria Caves. Located in the Alta Verapaz department, the Cuevas de Candelaria offer an unforgettable adventure that combines natural beauty with deep cultural significance. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this mystical hidden gem.
The Candelaria Caves are renowned for their stunning geological formations, including awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites that have been shaped over millennia. But what truly sets these caves apart is their profound archaeological and cultural significance. The caves hold ancient Mayan artifacts and petroglyphs, connecting visitors to the mystical heritage of the Guatemalan Mayan people. This blend of natural splendor and historical richness makes the Candelaria Caves a truly unique destination.
For a truly immersive experience, I recommend planning an overnight trip. The nearby Candelaria Lodge provides a comfortable base, and don’t miss the chance to tube along the river that winds through the caves. Floating through these magical formations is an experience like no other, adding an extra layer of wonder to your visit. Whether you’re drawn by the stunning scenery or the rich cultural history, the Candelaria Caves promise an unforgettable adventure. Keep reading for everything you need to know before you go to the Candelaria Caves (Cuevas de Candelaria) in Guatemala!
How to get to the Candelaria Caves in Guatemala
To visit the Candelaria Caves, head to the town of Raxruhá in Alta Verapaz, Guatemala. From Cobán, it’s about a 3-hour drive, covering roughly 100 kilometers. The roads are in good shape, making it a smooth journey by car. While guided tours are available from Cobán, I recommend starting your trip early in the morning. Spend the day exploring the caves and then stay overnight at Candelaria Lodge. This way, you can enjoy a leisurely visit and then continue to other nearby spots like Las Conchas or Hun Nal Ye the next day.
What Makes the Candelaria Caves a Must-See Destination in Guatemala
The Candelaria Caves are an extraordinary natural wonder nestled in the limestone mountains of northern Alta Verapaz, Guatemala. Located in the National Park Candelaria Caves Mucbilhá, which means “Hidden River”, this extensive cave system stretches across 14 miles (22 km) and comprises seven interconnected caves. The winding Río Candelaria links all of the caves. As one of Central America’s largest cave networks, the Candelaria Caves boast ceilings that soar up to 200 feet (60 meters) high, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring underground landscape.
What sets the Candelaria Caves apart is not just their sheer size but their fascinating geological and cultural background. The Río Candelaria’s persistent flow sculpted the caves over time, which has carved out vast chambers and stunning formations. Inside, the caves range from 60 to 100 feet (20 to 30 meters) wide and from 30 to 200 feet (10 to 60 meters) tall, with occasional skylights allowing shafts of light to pierce the darkness.
For an adventurous twist, you can explore these caves either on foot or by floating through them in inflatable rafts, offering a unique perspective on this underground marvel. This combination of impressive scale and accessible exploration makes the Candelaria Caves a truly unique and memorable destination.
History of the Cuevas de Candelaria
The Candelaria Caves were a significant spot along the Mayan Great Western Trade Route, which connected highland and lowland areas, bringing valuable goods like jade and obsidian. Explored in the 1960s by Daniel Dreux and these caves revealed ceramics spanning the Classic period.
The cave system, stretching along the Río Candelaria, includes seven major caves and many smaller ones. Rituals were conducted on natural ledges, with evidence of ceremonial activities like incense burning and the presence of ceremonial items like obsidian blades. The caves also served as settlements, with two significant sites discovered: Muqb’ilha’ Viejo, an Early Classic settlement, and La Lima, a Late Classic village. Surface collections revealed different ceramic styles at each site.
The Candelaria Caves are part of the National Park that was declared a “cultural heritage of the nation” in 1999 and are now under the care of the community.
Daniel Dreux’s Legacy
Daniel Dreux, a pioneering explorer with an unyielding passion for nature and history, left an indelible mark on Guatemala’s landscape through his discovery and preservation efforts of the Candelaria Caves. It was Dreux’s keen sense of adventure and his deep reverence for the environment that led him to stumble upon these hidden wonders nestled in the heart of Guatemala. With unwavering determination, he embarked on a mission to protect and showcase the beauty of the caves for generations to come.
Discovering the Candelaria Caves was just the beginning of Daniel Dreux’s journey. Recognizing the importance of preserving this natural treasure, he advocated for its conservation. Through his tireless efforts, Dreux successfully lobbied for the establishment of protective measures to safeguard the caves from exploitation and environmental degradation. His commitment to preserving the integrity of the caves earned him admiration and respect from both locals and visitors alike.
Beyond his conservation efforts, Daniel Dreux was a visionary entrepreneur who saw the potential of the Candelaria Caves as a tourist destination. In the late 1990s, I had the privilege of visiting his first hotel. Then in 2013, Dreux and his Guatemalan business partner Sergio Sierra founded Candelaria Lodge on private property near the caves, further solidifying his legacy as a champion of eco-tourism in Guatemala.
Daniel Dreux passed away recently. His legacy, however, lives on in the hearts of those who were touched by his passion for exploration, conservation, and hospitality. The Candelaria Caves stand today as a testament to his vision and dedication, offering a glimpse into the natural wonders he worked tirelessly to protect. As a Guatemalan I am so thankful for Daniel’s work and passion for protecting the Candelaria Caves!
The Cuevas de Candelaria’s Significance in Mayan Mythology
The caves hold deep historical and cultural importance, especially in Mayan mythology. For the ancient Maya, the Candelaria Caves were considered the very entrance to Xibalbá, the underworld or the abode of the dead. It was here that the twins Hunahpú and Ixbalanqué descended to confront and defeat the gods, eventually becoming the sun and the moon, according to the Popol Vuh, the sacred book of the K’iche’ Mayan people.
Local indigenous communities still consider the Cuevas de Candelaria sacred. Local Maya priests still perform rituals and ceremonies at the caves to honor their ancestors and seek spiritual guidance. The underground river flowing through the caves holds spiritual significance and is believed to possess healing properties.
What to Expect: Is Visiting the Candelaria Caves Worth It?
The Candelaria Caves are truly magical and awe-inspiring. I’ve always felt they were special, and it’s clear why the ancient Maya held them in such reverence. Discovered by French filmmaker and speleologist Daniel Dreux in the 1980s, these caves are celebrated for their stunning natural beauty and cultural significance. Walking through the vast chambers, with their intricate limestone formations and the underground river winding through, feels like entering another world. I love seeing the light beams filtering through the cave’s openings, casting beautiful patterns and illuminating the vibrant jungle greenery outside.
My first visit to the Candelaria Caves was back in the 90s when there were hardly any visitors, and even many locals didn’t know about this hidden treasure. Recently, I went back with my teenage son and my dad during his spring break. Though the caves are now visited by more people, however they remain a hidden gem in Guatemala. When we stayed at Candelaria Lodge we had the lodge and the caves almost to ourselves, which made for an amazing experience. The tubing tour from Candelaria Lodge was a highlight of our trip to Guatemala, offering a unique view of this mystical place. You can book different tours to visit the Cuevas de Candelaria through Candelaria Lodge here.
If you love adventure and nature and are looking for a Guatemalan destination off the beaten track, the Candelaria Caves are for you! This is a place where you can still enjoy the natural beauty of Guatemala without lots of tourists. And the Caves have the added bonus of being very significant in Mayan history and mythology making them an interesting destination for those interested in culture and hisitory.
Tubing Tour at Candelaria Caves in Guatemala
Embarking on the tubing tour at the Candelaria Caves through Candelaria Lodge is an adventure like no other. This is a great activity for anyone who enjoys adventure and I loved that even though this is a unique and exciting tour it’s great for the entire family. I visited with my teen son and my 75 year old dad and we all had a fantastic time.
The experience begins with a serene 15-minute walk through the lush park, where vibrant toucans and a multitude of other birds can be spotted, adding an enchanting prelude to the main event. Upon reaching the riverbank, you embark on a journey through the most preserved and secret sections of the caves. After putting on a headlight, you settle into your inner tube and you’re gently carried by the slow current of the Candelaria River through the stunning caves of Candelaria Mucbilhá.
One of the highlights of this tour is the opportunity to relax and marvel at the breathtaking natural formations that decorate the cave walls. As you float silently through the caverns, the mysterious light filtering through the foliage above illuminates fantastic mineral formations, giving the caves an otherworldly glow. The tranquil journey through these sacred waters, coupled with the occasional visit to crystalline-adorned chambers, makes for a truly magical experience. Along the way your stop to explore one of the chambers where you can find Mayan ceramic just as they where discovered in the caves. You can also see where the Mayan people carry ceremonies to this day.
The tubing tour through the Cuevas de Candelaria is one of the most exciting things to do in Guatemala, and one of the best things to do in the Verapacesbest things to do in the Verapaces.
Where to Stay: Candelaria Lodge
Candelaria Lodge, established by Daniel Dreux and his business partner Sergio, offers a unique and comfortable stay with easy access to the nearby Candelaria Caves. Upon arriving, you’ll be greeted by the lodge’s stunning gardens, which extend beyond the main hotel buildings, creating a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. The lodge features eight rooms, each individually named after flowers and decorated with traditional Guatemalan furniture, art, and fabrics. The Junior Suite, Orquidea, stands out for its spaciousness and beautiful forest views from the bathroom.
Staying at Candelaria Lodge is without a doubt your best option in the area. The property is truly enchanting, with sprawling gardens filled with wildlife. You wake up to the soothing sounds of birds each morning and the air is filled with the sweet scent from the ylang ylang plantation. The rooms are large and comfortable, featuring beautiful Guatemalan textiles and art, which made our stay even more special.
The lodge’s restaurant offers a delightful dining experience, featuring excellent French cuisine. It feels a bit surreal to find such a fantastic restaurant in such a rural area. The crepes were particularly memorable, rivaling some of the best I’ve ever had. This is not surprising, given that Daniel Dreux, a French filmmaker and surveyor who discovered the caves, established the lodge. The tubing tour through the caves, starting with a hike through lush jungle, was an unforgettable experience. The knowledgeable guides and serene setting made the tour feel both magical and spiritual, especially for those with a connection to Mayan heritage.
The lodge is cash-only and doesn’t have air conditioning, but fans are provided. I was truly blown away by the warm hospitality and the beautiful gardens, which really make you feel a connection to nature.
Tips When Visiting the Candelaria Caves in Guatemala
- Rather than visiting for the day, spending at least one night in the area will let you truly enjoy the beauty of the caves. Staying at Candelaria Lodge, is the best option in the area. You can book directly on their website here.
- For an unforgettable experience, book a tubing tour through the caves. I suggest booking with Candelaria Lodge as their tour is exceptional. Their knowledgeable guides not only explain the caves’ significance but also take you to areas where you can see ancient artifacts.
- It’s best to start your tour around noon or in the afternoon to catch the magical light beams filtering through the cave ceilings.
- Since only cash is accepted, make sure to bring enough for your stay, food, entrance fees, and any local purchases.
- A GoPro or a waterproof cover for your phone is useful for capturing the tubing experience.
- Wear sturdy water shoes or hiking shoes that can handle wet and rocky conditions, and don’t forget sunblock, a wide-brimmed hat, and mosquito repellent for the short jungle hike to the caves.
- The cooler months following the rainy season are ideal for visiting.
Paula studied architecture and now makes a living as a freelance writer,traveler and amateur photographer.She started her writing & publishing career as the editor of Bebé y Mamá, the first parenting magazine in Guatemala.She is the founder of www.GrowingUpBilingual.com and www.365thingsswfl.com and writes articles in Spanish and English for both magazines and the web on travel,food and bicultural and bilingual parenting .
When she is not on a plane or road trip she likes to create recipes inspired in the flavors of her native Guatemala.
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