Rio Cahabon

Location: Eastern Guatemala

Guatemala is divided into several regions or “departments.” The Rio Cahabon flows through the Alta Verapaz department in the eastern part of the country, between Lake Izabal and the capital city of Coban. Coban was founded by Dominican Friars in 1543, and today reflects the influence of Catholicism and the German coffee plantations established in the 19th century. Many travelers visit the Dusseldorf coffee plantation today.

Level of Difficulty: Class III-IV / Intermediate

The class III-IV rapids encountered on Rio Cahabon whitewater rafting trips will challenge beginner paddlers and provide ample excitement for experienced rafters as well. Adventurous families with teenagers can consider this trip.

Scenery: Tropical Jungle and Vibrant Colors

The Cahabon River flows through a tropical jungle alive with splashy toucans and green iguanas. A special feature of the canyon is the “el Paqueno Paraiso” thermal hot spring. The emerald waters of Rio Cahabon rafting trips also take paddlers past a limestone cavern and the Mayan ruins of Quirigua. Quirigua houses the largest “stelae” (commemorative or territorial markers) in the Mayan world!

Season: Year-round

The Cahabon is one of Guatemala’s few rivers that has guided whitewater rafting trips all year long. Paddlers can book trips ranging from one to five days.