Rafting and Kayaking - Activity Info. - Guatemala

There's adventure at every turn on Guatemala's vast waterways. Tour companies offer single and multi-day outings in the highland, Pacific coast, Verapaz and El Petén regions for everyone from the first-timer to the seasoned veteran–rapids run from Class II to VI. Navigating volcanic lakes, mangroves and rivers calm and raging gives you the opportunity to see diverse wildlife, and brings you face to face with magnificent natural wonders, including caves, hot springs, waterfalls, lush jungle vegetation, and Mayan ruins.

Many rafting trips are limited to the rainy season (June through October), but excursions are possible year-round in the Petén region and near Maya sites like Tikal, Ceibal and Aguateca.

Río Cahabón (Class III-IV), located in the Alta Verapaz region near Lanquín, is thought to have the best whitewater rafting in the country. It is famed for its rigorous rapids (Class IV), grottoes, waterfalls, hot springs, and a variety of birds. Mellow Río Coyolate (Class II-III rapids) in the lowland tropics–home to herons, hawks and falcons; family friendly Río Nahualate (Class III-IV), and challenging Ríos Naranjo and Los Esclavos (Class III-IV) are all within easy reach of Antigua and Guatemala City.

Kayaking highlights include paddling through a gorge along the Río Dulce to Lívingston on the Caribbean coast, birdwatching in the maze of mangroves in Monterrico on the Pacific coast, visiting tiny villages and coves on Lake Atitlán, and floating through the caves along Río Candelaria. Check out the thriving wildlife during a relaxed outing on Lake Petén Itzá, and explore the canals near Punta de Manabique.

Activity Info.