Most of the top things to do in Semuc Champey are based around the river, which is the primary tourist attraction. As such, the locals have done a great job of adding attractions to keep tourists and travellers busy during their stay.
Semuc Champey is a super quiet, natural monument located in the hills of central Guatemala. It is a long bumpy journey to Semuc, which is best suited to 4x4s. There are a few jungle hostels in the area as well as local restaurants. It is worth getting yourself booked into a good hostel as you will most likely eat and spend the days here for the majority of your stay. I stayed at Greengos which was great fun.
Here are my 5 top things to do in Semuc Champey…
Do The Viewpoint Hike
The first on your list of things to do in Semuc Champney should be the viewpoint hike. This is signposted up ahead and on your left after the entrance to Semuc Champey. It’s best to get this gruelling yet rewarding 45-minute hike done early in the morning. The hike is mainly up steps consisting of stone and tree roots. Be sure to take lots of water and appropriate footwear!
There is plenty of wildlife to see during the hike, a few vendors selling coconuts and fruits and many nice places to stop, catch your breath and ring your t-shirt of sweat. The view at the end is one to die for, and 100% worth seeing.
Swim In The Pools
The hike path leads back down to the pools which gives you a great opportunity to cool down and enjoy the sunshine in the pristine, fresh water pools. This is a truly magical experience and you can easily spend the day bobbing about in the turquoise water. There is even a natural waterslide if you dare!
Go Tubing
A super fun activity to do whilst visiting Semuc Champey. Many of the tours recommend bringing some beers to enjoy whilst you float down the rapids, you can of course do it sober! Maybe you’ll be able to stay in your tube that way!
Tubing usually lasts for a few hours, you’ll have a few drink spots with the chance to go swimming in the more calm parts of the river whilst admiring the scenic views. Personally, I think tubing is a great way to explore the local area whilst having fun with fellow travellers, it definitely earns its place on my list of top things to do in Semuc Champney.
Explore The Caves
There are many caves lining the banks of the river, which host all sorts of weird and wonderful wildlife. Many of the tubing operators offer full-day tours, where you can join a big group to explore! But, a little word of warning, the caves are deep in the mountain and pretty cold. So, you should be prepared! I spent most of the day submerged in cold, flowing water and dark caves, so I was pretty chilly by the end of it.
Hope I sold it to you!
Go on the Rope Swing
We all love a rope swing! Lucky for us, we found one just by the entrance to Semuc Champey. The water is deep and the swing is fairly safe… by Central American standards anyway! Better yet, the locals have some serious tricks up their sleeves, so get them to show you the ropes.
Looking for more tips on Guatemala? Read my things to do in Antigua or El Paredon.
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