Laguna Lachuá

About this place

Laguna Lachuá is a nearly round karst lake in the middle of a national park of tropical rainforest, northwest of Cobán. It is known for its clear turquoise water, its isolation and the wildlife around it, and it is among Guatemala's least visited sites for its beauty, drawing nature lovers and campers. An area of 145 square kilometres around the lake became a national park in 1976 and a Ramsar site in 2006. It is probably a cenote or doline. Its name comes from Q'eqchi' words meaning «the fetid water», as the water has a slight smell of sulphur. White calcite quickly coats fallen branches, and the area holds 120 mammal species and 177 bird species. You reach the water along a forest path, then the view opens onto a broad surface mirroring the sky, ringed by thick green with no sign of building. On the shore are a jetty, a simple timber shelter and white rocks coated in calcite. Black howler monkeys live in the forest, and jaguars and tapirs have been recorded, though they are rarely seen, while birds are plentiful. It is 59 km in a straight line from Cobán and the road is long, so staying overnight is best. There are basic camping facilities, so book and ask ahead, and bring a sleeping bag, mosquito repellent and food. Follow park rules on swimming, and leave no rubbish in the water. Bring clean water, as this sulphurous water is not for drinking.