Lake Atitlan: Mayan Ceremony at the Sacred Caves
Visit the most sacred and holy locations around Lake Atitlan. Shaman priest perform Fire ceremony at sacred caves for healing, protection, safe travels, and for centering their energy. This is a once in a lifetime experience! You will experience an ancient Mayan custom at a fire cleansing and protection ceremony at the Sacred Caves of Lake Atitlan. The modern day Fire Ceremony is how the Mayan of today connect with the old wisdom known as the Mayan Cosmovision. Immerse yourself in the mysticism of a holy place, and learn why the highland tribes travel for hours to connect with the spirits. Your guide will explain why the ceremonies are performed, and teach you about the ritual and unique meanings of the Mayan calendar. You will witness shamans performing ceremony on most days, although this is can not be guaranteed.
Options
Sacred Caves visit, no shaman
What's included in Lake Atitlan: Mayan Ceremony at the Sacred Caves
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Experience an important ceremony of the Maya people of Guatemala at the most sacred and holy location on Lake Atitlan.
Transfer to the trail-head from Panajachel. Then, walk to the 1st cave (a maximum 20-minute hike). Named “Nimajay”, “San Simon”, “Enchanted” and “Colorado”, the 4 caves have been used by the Mayans for centuries for their Fire Cleansing and Protection Ceremony. The highland tribes travel for hours to visit the holy caves, and you will feel the energy and power as soon as you approach the cave entrance.
Watch the shamans perform the ceremony (not guaranteed, but available on most days) and experience an authentic part of the living Mayan culture of the Guatemala highlands. Your guide will explain why the ceremonies are performed and teach you about the ritual and unique meanings of the Mayan calendar.
Located 1,200 feet above Lake Atitlan, the caves offer panoramic views of the lake and caldera. Stand on top of Eagle Rock and marvel at how the earth drops hundreds of feet around you. Feel your spirit soar like a bird as you stand with nothing but air on all sides.
You can also visit the shrine of San Simon/Maximon, the colonial church and a 200 feet waterfall.
Things to know
Inclusions
- Local guide
- Gratuities
- Materials for your own ceremony are available for an additional fee
- Service animals allowed
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
You will make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting / End Points
- Xocomil Tour office, Calle Embarcadero, Panajachel
