Rio Los Esclaves

Location: Santa Rosa Region, Southern Guatemala

Rio Los Esclavos is located in Guatemala’s southern Santa Rosa region or “department.” Whitewater trips on the Los Esclavos River are an easy excursion for visitors spending time in Guatemala’s capital, Guatemala City. Antigua is another popular destination near to the Los Esclavos. Many people visit Antigua to see the city’s elaborate Catholic rituals. The city’s Spanish colonial architecture helped it qualify as a UNESCO World Heritage site as well.

Level of Difficulty: Class III-IV+ / Intermediate

Class III-IV+ whitewater make river trips on the Los Esclavos River one of the more challenging in Guatemala. People with previous rafting experience will be well prepared for this level of whitewater, but athletic and adrenaline-loving first-timers can consider this trip as well.

Scenery: Steep Canyon with Waterfalls

Trips on Guatemala’s Rio Los Esclavos run through a canyon with dramatic sheer walls. A particularly interesting feature of Los Esclavos river trips are the spectacular waterfalls that spill high from the canyon walls and into the river below.

Season: June – October

Like many Guatemala river rafting trips, one day adventures on the Rio Los Esclavos are available during Central America’s rainy season, typically June into October.