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Laguna LachuA Family Lagoon

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Laguna Lachuá is a nearly circular lake located within the lowland tropical rainforest of the Alta Verapaz department. It is protected by the Laguna Lachuá National Park, established in 1976, which is also recognized as part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The lake is distinguished by its extraordinary water clarity and high sulfur content, which inspired its name in the Q'eqchi' language, meaning 'smelly water.' Geologically, the lake is considered a water-filled sinkhole or cenote, reaching a depth of approximately 222 meters. The surrounding ecosystem supports a wide variety of fish species, while the dense forest provides a sanctuary for endangered mammals such as tapirs and jaguars. Due to its remote location and strict environmental regulations, the area remains a prime destination for sustainable ecotourism. The national park is essential for preserving primary tropical rainforest in northern Guatemala and serves as a vital site for limnological and biological research.

Location: Guatemala
Nearby: Iztapa (5 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	22	24	26	29	28	26	25	26	25	24	23	22
Rain mm	59	33	32	43	151	269	187	258	333	225	101	63

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Laguna Lachuá is a protected natural park that can be visited for a small fee. The lake and surrounding trails are freely accessible.

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Typical hours

Natural parks in Guatemala are typically open from morning until late afternoon. It's advisable to leave the park before sunset.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the park for personal use. Drone flights are usually not permitted to avoid disturbing wildlife.

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Time needed

Visiting the lake and walking the trails takes about two to three hours. Those wanting to swim or picnic should allow half a day.

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Combine with

The park is near the Río Dulce, where boat tours are available. The nearby town of Cobán is also worth a visit.

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Getting there

The park is accessible by car, but the road is partly unpaved. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially in the rainy season.

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Insider tip

Bring swimwear, as the clear lake water is inviting for a swim. Don't forget to take your trash with you to protect nature.

Geography

Coordinates

15.89000, -90.66700

Facts

The lake maintains a nearly perfect circular shape with a 2 km diameter.
At 222 meters deep, it is among the deepest lakes in Central America.
The Laguna Lachuá National Park was formally established in 1976.
The lake water contains high levels of dissolved calcium carbonate and sulfur.
The name Lachuá translates from the Q'eqchi' language as 'smelly water'.
The park covers a protected area of more than 14,500 hectares of forest.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Laguna Lachuá<1 km · SExplore →

Mixco Viejo1 km · EExplore →

Santiago Sacatepéquez2 km · SEExplore →

Cubulco4 km · NExplore →

Central Highlands4 km · SExplore →

Port of Seybaplaya6 km · SWExplore →

Cerro Cucurucho6 km · SExplore →

Mixco7 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Laguna LachuA Family Lagoon (1)

Lachuá Lake📍 landmark

A karst lake in the rainforest, surrounded by dense vegetation and home to many bird species.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is the lagoon special?

It is almost perfectly circular and has extremely clear water.

Do I have to hike there?

Yes, there is a path of about 4 km through the jungle from the park entrance.

Is swimming allowed in the lagoon?

Yes, swimming is allowed in designated areas.

Are there camping facilities?

Yes, there is an area for tents and a basic lodge.

What animals live there?

Fish, howler monkeys, toucans, and occasionally crocodiles.

Laguna LachuA Family Lagoon: where is it located?

Laguna LachuA Family Lagoon is located in Guatemala.

Laguna LachuA Family Lagoon: when is the best time to visit?