Semuc Champey
| Semuc Champey Natural Monument | |
|---|---|
 Pools in the Cahabòn River | |
  Location within Guatemala | |
| Location |  Lanquín, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala |
| Coordinates | 15°32′0″N 89°57′41″W / 15.53333°N 89.96139°W |
| Area | 17.14 km2 (6.62 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 380 m (1,250 ft) |
| Established | 2005 |
| Operator | CONAP, Municipality of Languín |
Semuc Champey is a natural enclave in the department of Alta Verapaz, Guatemala, it consists of a natural 300-metre (980 ft) karst landbridge formed by travertine limestone deposits, beneath which the main flow of the Cahabón River plunges into a subterranean cave system via a natural sinkhole (known locally as El Sumidero). Located near the Q'eqchi' Maya town of Lanquín, the top of this limestone formation features a stepped series of natural, turquoise-green pools fed by mountain spring runoff, creating a unique freshwater ecosystem within the subtropical rainforest of the Petén-Verapaz region.
The name Semuc Champey is from the Qʼeqchiʼ language, meaning where the river hides under the earth.[1] The natural monument was established in 2005 by Decreto No. 025.
The best and most popular way to see Semuc Champey is from the "El Mirador" viewpoint. Though it is a roughly 45-minute hot, uphill jungle hike from the parking area, the views into the valley are unparalleled.[1]
Although it can be difficult to get to, Semuc is becoming more and more popular with travelers.[2]
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References
[edit]- 1 2 "Semuc Champey". The Travelers Within. Retrieved 8 July 2020.
- ↑ Maynard, Joice (14 September 2012). "In Guatemala, a Torturous Drive to a Remote Eden". The New York Times. Retrieved 16 September 2012.
External links
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