If you’re looking for one of the most unique experiences in Guatemala for nature and adventure lovers, rappelling in Guatemala at Finca El Barretal is it. This is the kind of exciting, once in a lifetime experience that makes travel unforgettable. El Barretal is a Guatemalan hidden gem. It is not touristy, and it is not a place most visitors know about, mostly because it is still under the radar for many people traveling to Guatemala.
I was born in Guatemala, and we visit every year with my kids. Over the years, we have done many exciting and adventurous activities here, but for my son, this stands out as one of his favorite experiences.
My son had been wanting to rappel at El Barretal for a while, so we were all really excited about our visit. He loves indoor rock climbing and hiking, but this was his first time rappelling. Standing near the waterfall and realizing he would be going down almost 150 feet, with water rushing beside him, made it feel big and exciting in a way that is hard to describe. It was clear this was something he would never forget.
Then my dad decided to join him. He will be 80 in a couple of months, but he still has the heart of a kid and a deep love for adventure and nature. He is the reason I love to travel. Growing up, we went camping in places like Semuc Champey and Tikal, back when you could still camp there, and those trips were full of adventure. Many of my favorite childhood memories come from those hikes and camping trips.
Seeing him share this experience with my son meant a lot to me. Watching them walk toward the waterfall together, both excited in their own way, filled me with joy. I loved seeing them create this memory together, and I felt incredibly proud of both of them.
Rappelling in Guatemala at Finca El Barretal
Rappelling at Finca El Barretal is exciting in a very physical and focused way. You stand at the edge of a tall waterfall, hear the water rushing beside you, and feel the mist in the air before stepping off. The descent is about 45 meters, close to 150 feet, which gives you enough time to settle into the movement and enjoy the experience rather than rushing through it.
People are drawn to rappelling because it requires presence. You control your descent, place your feet carefully on the rock, and stay aware of your body and surroundings. The initial nerves usually fade within seconds, replaced by a mix of excitement and concentration that makes the experience feel both intense and fun.
There is also a viewpoint along the trail where you can clearly see the waterfall and watch people going down. It is one of the best spots in the finca to understand how impressive the rappel really is, even if you are not participating.
Two Descents and the Australian Rappel
Each participant completes two descents, both included in the experience. The second descent is optional, but most people choose to do it once they see how controlled and enjoyable the first rappel feels.
On the second descent, you can choose to do an Australian rappel, which means going down facing the rock instead of leaning back. This changes the experience completely and gives you a new perspective of the waterfall and the surroundings. Many people enjoy trying both styles during the same visit.
Safety and Experience Level
You do not need any previous experience with rappelling to participate. The system is designed for people who have never done this before.
Before the activity begins, the guides provide a clear training session. They explain the technique, the equipment, and all safety measures in detail. The descent starts from a metal platform, which makes stepping into the rappel more comfortable and secure.
The safety system uses two ropes:
- One rope allows the participant to control their descent
- A second rope, connected to a full harness, serves as a safety line controlled by the guides
This setup allows the guides to assist, stop, or control the descent at any moment if needed. Throughout the experience, the guides remain fully in control of the system. Both my son, who was rappelling for the first time, and my dad felt safe and confident from start to finish, thanks to the guides’ experience and calm presence.
Age Guidelines and Physical Considerations
Children from about 8 years old can do the rappel, but this depends on the child. Parents know their children best, and the final decision is made together with the guides, based on comfort level and ability to follow instructions. This is also a great experience for active seniors, like my dad.
Once you reach the bottom of the waterfall, there is a hike back up to the viewpoint. This section of the trail is steeper than the walk to the top of the waterfall and does require a decent level of physical condition. You do not need to be an athlete, but you should feel comfortable walking uphill.
My dad was able to hike back up without any issues. Even though he wanted to do a second descent, he decided not to because the climb back up to the viewpoint is more demanding. It is helpful to know this ahead of time when planning your day.
Schedule, Pricing, and Reservations for Rappeling at Finca El Barretal
Rappelling is available on weekends, weather permitting.
Schedule
- Saturdays and Sundays
- Sessions at 8:00 am and 10:00 am
Pricing
- Rappel experience: Q350 per person, approximately 45 US dollars, Day pass only: Q50
- Rappel experience includes training, equipment, experienced guides, two descents, digital photography, and the day pass
Reservations
- Limited spots available
- A 50 percent deposit per person is required
- Private rappelling can be arranged for groups, with a minimum of six people to keep the same price
- Make your reservations via Whatsapp here.
Note that beause there is a restaurant on site there is no outside food allowed at Finca el Barretal.
What Else Can You Do at Finca El Barretal?
Finca el Barretal is the perfect family getaway if you love nature and there are lots of activities to enjoy there, beyond rappeling.
Hike the Trails
There are a few hiking trails that take you through coffee fields and forested patches and to the waaterfall. Along these trails you can also do some birding or nature watching, especially in the morning when many birds are more active.
Relax at the Pool
There is a pool area where you can take a break, cool off, and relax after walking or watching the rappelling. If you go early in the day or later in the afternoon, the light makes the surroundings feel especially peaceful.
Enjoy Delicious Food
The restaurant on site has delicious fresh options for both breakfast and lunch. In the morning we had coffee and hot chocolate (Guatemalan chocolate caliente), along with fried plantains before heading to the trails. After hiking and rappeling we came back for lunch and had the lomito grilled steak and the hamburguesa vaquera, a burger with bacon and BBQ sauce that was really good. They also serve hearty breakfast options and classic casual meals like great steaks and burgers, which feels fitting after a day outside. Check oout their full menu here.
For people who want to spend more than a day, there are accommodations on site with cabins that let you stay overnight. This is a great option if you want to really immerse yourself in nature. What could be better than waking up to the sounds birds and taking an early morning hike to the waterfall with no one else around.
Visiting Finca El Barretal: Schedule and Day Pass Pricing
Finca El Barretal is easy to visit on your own and works well as a half day or full day trip from Antigua.
Opening Hours
- Monday to Thursday: 7:00 am to 4:00 pm
- Friday to Sunday: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm
Day Pass Pricing
- Day pass: Q50 per person (about $6.50 USD) Applies to adults and children ages 5 and up
- Pet friendly fee: Q15 per pet (about $2 USD)
The day pass includes access to the finca grounds, hiking trails, viewpoints, natural areas, and the on site restaurant and pool area. It is a great option even if you are not doing the rappel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rappelling in
Guatemala at Finca El Barretal
Do you need rappelling experience to do this?
No. You do not need any previous experience. The rappel system is designed for beginners, and the guides provide training and control the safety system throughout the activity.
Is rappelling at Finca El Barretal safe?
Yes. The experience uses a double rope system and a full harness, and the guides remain in control at all times. Both first time participants and older adults in our group felt safe and well supported.
How long does the rappelling experience take?
Plan for a few hours in total. This includes training, walking to the waterfall, completing two descents, and hiking back up to the viewpoint.
Can children do the rappel?
Children from around 8 years old can participate, but this depends on the child. Parents and guides decide together based on comfort level and ability to follow instructions.
Is Finca El Barretal good if not everyone wants to rappel?
Yes. There are hiking trails, a viewpoint, a pool, and a restaurant, so people who are not rappelling can still enjoy the day.
Is this a good day trip from Antigua?
Yes. Finca El Barretal is about 45 minutes from Antigua and works very well as a half day or full day trip.
What should I wear and bring for rappelling at Finca El Barretal?
Wear clothes that dry easily and bring a change of clothes, since you will get wet during the rappel. Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers work best for the walk to and from the waterfall. It’s a good idea to pack sunblock, bug spray, a hat and water. And if you plan to take advantage of the pool be sure to pack a swmisuit and bring a towel. There are changing rooms and showers there for you to change.
Night Rappelling: An Amazing Once In A Lifetime Experince
El Barretal also offers the only night rappeling experience in Guatemala. After rappeling during the day and having so much fun doing it, my son can’t wait to go back for the night rappel. Goind down the waterfall in the dark, with lights and the sound of the water all around you, is a completely different experience.
The night rappel is only done a few times a year so be sure to check out El Barretal’s Facebook and Instagram pages as they announce the night rappeld dates there. You can also call ahead to find out when the next night rappel will take place. The price for the night rappel is Q450 or about $60 dollars. We’re planning to go back and stay the night there so we don’t have to drive back after the rappel.
For more information check out El Barretal’s website and follow El Barretal on Instagram and on Facebook for night rappel dates and other special events and offers.
More Unique Nature and Adventure Experiences in Guatemala
If you enjoy outdoor adventures and discovering lesser known places in Guatemala, these guides are a great next read. They focus on nature, hiking, caves, and destinations that go beyond the typical tourist stops.
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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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