5 Best Ways to get from Lanquín to Semuc Champey, Guatemala

You can get from Lanquin to Semuc Champey by a local pickup truck, shared shuttle + tour, private transfer, rental car, or a hike!

The cheapest way to travel from Lanquín to Semuc Champey is by a public pickup truck, which only costs USD 4. But you can also get there for free if you choose to hike!

The most popular option is also the public pickup truck or a taxi, as they offer the easiest alternative at an affordable price.

The fastest way to travel to Semuc Champey from Lanquín is by private transfer, taxi, or rental car, which takes about 40 minutes.

I’ve made Guatemala my second home, learning every quirk of its travel routes and the best ways to experience its wonders.

This guide will break down all the transport options from Lanquin to Semuc Champey, giving you precise details to ensure your journey is secure and a breeze.

Check out our guide for the best options for traveling from Lanquin to Semuc Champey.

Transportation Options from Lanquin to Semuc Champey

The following table outlines all transportation options from Lanquin to Semuc Champey:

Method	Time	Price
Transport + Tour from Lanquin to Semuc Champey	40 min	–
Lanquin to Semuc Champey Local Pickup Truck	45 min	$4
Lanquin to Semuc Champey Private Transfer/Taxi	40 min	~$20
Rental Car	40 min	–
Walk	2.5 hrs	$0

How far is Semuc Champey from Lanquin?

The distance from Lanquin to Semuc Champey is 6.2 miles or 10 kilometers. It takes around 30 minutes to get there by vehicle or about a 2-hour and 30-minute hike!

Getting to Semuc Champey from Lanquin

1. Transport + Tour from Lanquin to Semuc Champey

Journey Duration: 40 minutes

A tour to Semuc Champey is popular for tourists traveling from Lanquin!

Rather than trying to organize everything yourself, it is probably better to book a tour to explore the caves, go river tubing, and have everything organized! 

By booking a tour to Semuc Champey, you get transportation to the natural site and a guided tour provided by a professional!

Having a guide with you while exploring the pools is especially helpful, as they can point out safe areas for swimming and diving.

Many tour agencies offer packages that include visits to Semuc Champey and the caves and sometimes even river tubing.

You can take a tour that includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, a tour of the caves, cliff jumping, and a guided hike to the lookout for USD 25 per person without including the entrance fee to the caves. 

Guided tours are a great way to visit Semuc Champey from Lanquin, and you won’t be disappointed with the reasonable offers!

These tours change regularly, so you must speak with your travel agency when you arrive or book a tour online in advance!

2. Local Pickup Truck from Lanquin to Semuc Champey

Journey Duration: 45 minutes

Using the local transport on a self-guided tour is the cheapest way to visit Semuc Champey.

While most people who visit Semuc Champey book a tour that includes activities through their hostel, independent travel is often easier and cheaper.

The main advantage of traveling there without a group is the freedom to swim and explore the area without being herded around or reliant on others.

The main form of local transport in Lanquin is the truck, which most people pile into the back. In Lanquin, the ride to Semuc Champey costs roughly USD 1, but you are not a local, so don’t expect to pay that. Instead, be prepared to spend about USD 4.

There is squishing, bumping, and discomfort throughout the 45-minute journey, but traveling this way is quite an adventure! Overall, it’s a very cheap and exciting way to get around!

Lanquin’s local transportation leaves from the crossroads in the town center. Their schedule varies, but they run frequently.

3. Private Transfer/Taxi from Lanquin to Semuc Champey

Journey Duration: 40 minutes

If you want a comfortable trip, get a couple of friends together and an entire vehicle for about USD 18 that will get you from Lanquin to Semuc Champey! 

The trip is far more comfortable than public transport, and you will arrive at Semuc Champey in about 40 minutes, depending on traffic.

You can organize this vehicle on the main street in Lanquin with any driver or reliable taxi company you choose. If you’re unsure where to look, ask for help at your hotel or hostel for directions or recommendations.

And also, make sure you negotiate a reasonable price so you don’t get ripped off!

4. Driving with a Rental Car from Lanquin to Semuc Champey

Journey Duration: 40 minutes

If you want independence and a comfortable vehicle, rent a car in Lanquin and drive to Semuc Champey!

Even though the roads in this area are winding and mountainous, the scenery is breathtaking, and you have complete freedom to plan your trip!

However, when renting a car, pick something appropriate since the road to Semuc Champey is rough terrain, where you should travel with a 4×4 vehicle. 

The trip only takes 40 minutes, and there are numerous vehicles you can choose from, all at meager prices!

5. Hiking from Lanquin to Semuc Champey

Journey Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

And finally, the last option is to hike the 10-kilometer trail from Lanquin to Semuc Champey!

You can walk from Lanquin to Semuc Champey if you’re up for it. The walk is magnificent and lasts for about 2 hours and 30 minutes.

If you’re worried about finding your way, you shouldn’t be concerned! Fortunately, the trail is safe and well-marked, making it simple for you to climb up.

You can always take the local bus to get back if you don’t want to walk both ways.

During your visit, ask for details at your hotel or with locals about this since the trail can become dangerous due to weather changes.

And lastly, make sure you come prepared. Bring hiking shoes and appropriate gear so you don’t encounter trouble.

Best day tours in Semuc Champey

Get Your Guide helps you find the best tours wherever you are heading. It’s usually the first website I check when I plan a trip to a new place.

Here, you can find some of the best tours in Semuc Champey.

Frequently Asked Questions