Northern Guatemala offers the ideal setting for a unique form of active tourism, directly linked to the natural environment and the country’s own ethnographic heritage. There, within the catchment area of Chisec – a northern municipality where Q’eqchi’ is still spoken more widely than Spanish – lie the Bombil Pek caves (or B’omb’il Pek, to use the more accurate name).
Where is Bombil Pek?
Visitors pass through Alta Verapaz, in most cases drawn by the area’s reputation as a destination for hiking or abseiling. The whole region is striking for its breathtaking natural beauty, the splendour of its landscapes and the charm of its villages. And, of course, caving. The cave paintings in the area add the final touch to the appeal of this very special spot. For those who enjoy ecotourism with a touch of adrenaline, it is one of the most well-rounded destinations in the country.
How to get there
A journey of around 290 kilometres by road separates the country’s capital from the municipality of Chisec. Taking the CA-9, the journey takes between four and five hours. From there, the distance to Bombil Pek is about two kilometres, along the road towards Raxruhá. A public bus service runs from Guatemala City to Cobán: the journey can take between eight and ten hours.
There is also a local transport service to Chisec. The Chisec Tourism Trade Association organises trips to the caves from a guide centre situated right by the side of the road.
In fact, the distance from the municipal capital of Chisec to the caves is just two kilometres along a tarmac road, making the destination easily accessible for those already in Chisec. The car park at the Visitor Centre allows tourists to leave their vehicles whilst they go on the walk, and the entrance fee is paid here before setting off on the tour.
Best in summer
The Bombil Pek caves are usually open to visitors from Monday to Sunday, between 8.00 am and 5.00 pm. To confirm prices and opening hours, it is advisable to contact the local association in advance. That said, it’s best to enjoy the experience in summer: winter weather conditions can make the path a little more treacherous.
The visit to Bombil Pek
To reach the Bombil Pek caves, you need to complete a walk that can take anywhere from half an hour to an hour, depending on your pace. The route follows a very scenic green path, passing through woodland and farmland, until you reach the point where you begin the descent into the caves. Once there, guides usually provide a helmet and a torch. The full tour of the caves, including additional activities such as abseiling, can take around four hours.
For all these reasons, it is advisable to arrive at your destination early, so that you can allow yourself plenty of time for the visit. Firstly, to organise the experience properly with the local guides. And secondly, to ensure you can explore the main caves to your satisfaction. Afterwards, you can always take part in the complementary sporting activities on offer in the area, ranging from abseiling to tubing.
- We invite you to read our articles about the Grutas del Rey Marcos and the Lanquín Caves near Semuc Champey.
Bombil Pek: A legacy of the Classic Maya period
A labyrinth of narrow passages and corridors, along with various rock formations, characterise the exploration of the caves, which feature a large main chamber where the Mayan cave paintings are located. The site, in fact, also holds significant archaeological value, with pottery and other artefacts discovered by researchers in the area.
Cave paintings
The Bombil Pek caves were discovered in 1972 by the French explorer Daniel Draw. However, it was not until 2002 that they were opened to tourists. It was not until 2002 that they decided to open the caves to the public. The site is home to the first cave paintings ever discovered in Guatemala, featuring depictions of animals such as the jaguar and the monkey. They are considered to be representative of art from the Classic Maya period.
Natural mineral pigments were used for the paintings: red from haematite, black from charcoal and white from kaolin. The artists applied these to the rock using impasto and drying techniques. The fact that they have survived for centuries is a clear testament to the artistic mastery and wisdom of the ancient Maya.
A name steeped in history
In Q’eqchi’, ‘Bombil Pek’ means ‘painted stone’ or ‘painted cave’, a direct reference to the cave paintings found inside the cavities. The translation is not merely descriptive; it reveals the importance these spaces held for ancient Mayan communities. In their cosmogony, the caves were regarded as truly sacred places, where the earth and art came together.
The Q’eqchi’ community comprises more than 900,000 speakers in Guatemala, most of whom are concentrated in Alta Verapaz. The language belongs to the Quichean branch of the Mayan language family. Etymologically speaking, ‘Q’eq’ means ‘darkness’ or ‘black’, whilst ‘chi’ means ‘word’. This connection between darkness, word and ancestral origin suggests a meaning that refers to ‘those who existed before the first sunrise’. In other words, before creation itself.
Bombil Pek thus embodies the mystery of origins and the message conveyed in the cave paintings. The caves hold great symbolic value for the local population, and possess all the charm of a site that has only relatively recently been opened up to tourism – and, in any case, in a controlled manner.
- This page about the Candelaria Cenotes may interest you.
Things to do in Bombil Pek
At Bombil Pek, you can try extreme abseiling, one of the destination’s most popular and thrilling activities. With a free fall of approximately 75 metres, this is considered the highest abseil in Guatemala. The price of the abseil includes a full set of safety equipment (ropes, helmets, harnesses) and a specialist guide.
Another option for visitors is river tubing, which complements the caving experience. The cost of the tubing trip includes safety equipment (helmets, life jackets) and a guide.
What’s more, there’s always the option of going for a walk. In fact, the 60-minute walk to the first cave, and a further 15 to 20 minutes to the second cave, is an integral part of the experience.
It is certainly well worth taking the time to observe the local flora and fauna. Birds, insects and small animals bring the trail to life, as does the flora typical of the tropical rainforest.
How to prepare for a visit to the caves
As the paths and access routes require a fair amount of effort and the ground may be muddy in places, it is advisable to wear comfortable, hard-wearing yet breathable clothing. It is essential to wear hiking boots when visiting the caves.
As is usually the case with this sort of activity, it’s important not to forget to pack water in your rucksack, as well as some nuts or snacks to help combat any fatigue. And, yes, it’s a good idea to pack a change of dry clothes for the end of the trip. Sun cream is also essential. Mosquito repellent is recommended.
You must always follow the safety instructions provided by the guides. The sale of food is not permitted within the park.
Useful tips
It is essential to know what to expect when visiting the Bombil Pek caves. Obviously, this is not the best experience for people who suffer from claustrophobia, a fear of the dark, vertigo, are significantly overweight or have significant anxiety, as navigating the interior of the caves can be overwhelming under these circumstances. Also, the entrance to the caves is through a very narrow opening.
It is advisable to get in touch before you go, as the site is not always open to the public for drop-in visits.
Park restrictions and rules
- Pets are not permitted in the park, so as not to disturb the local wildlife. For the same reason, drones are also not allowed.
- The park closes at 6.00 pm, after which time visitors are no longer permitted.
- It is essential to keep the area clean and to respect nature. It is important to pick up any rubbish and dispose of it in the designated bins.
Chisec: Profile and services
The town of Chisec was officially founded in 1883. It was originally called ‘Espíritu Santo’ before adopting its Q’eqchi’ name. It has a population of around 70,000, spread across more than a hundred villages and hamlets. In addition to Q’eqchi’, Poqomchi’ and Spanish are also spoken.
The municipality of Chisec is popularly known in Guatemala as the gateway to the Mayan world. It is also regarded as a true land of promise, thanks to the beauty and uniqueness of its landscapes, lagoons and caves.
Where to eat in Bombil Pek
The restaurant at the Hotel Bombil Pek, located at the entrance to the caves, offers good value for money and serves local cuisine, including popular dishes such as roast beef or pork. It is open every day from 6.30 pm to 8.30 pm. Free parking is available and cards are accepted.
Other options in Chisec include the B' Ak' Tun restaurant, which is also close to the caves and is noted for its pleasant, relaxed atmosphere, good coffee and eye-catching desserts. Alternatively, there is the Onane Restaurant, located in the Barrio el Centro neighbourhood (opposite Parque Central) in Chisec.
Typical regional dishes include Caldo de Chunto and Kaq ik, served with boj (a drink made from whipped cocoa).
Where to stay in Chisec
As well as the Hotel Bombil Pek, which offers a range of bungalows and family accommodation, the Hotel Casa Vieja, situated on the outskirts of Chisec (on the road to Raxruhá), is also well-remembered by local travellers. That said, it is advisable to contact the hotel in advance, as it is often fully booked.
Also on the outskirts of Chisec is the Hotel Estancia de la Virgen, which is another option recommended by the local community itself.
In the municipality of Chisec, you can find hotels and small guesthouses at affordable prices. These include the Hotel Casa Semuc, Las Flores Comfort Hotel, Hotel Casa Semuc and the more budget-friendly Hostal Portal de Champey.
More things to do in Chisec
For a more comprehensive visit, it is well worth combining a trip to Bombil Pek with other attractions in Alta Verapaz, such as caves, rivers and interesting community-based tourism sites.
A picturesque spot to round off your visit to the municipality of Chisec is the Sepalau Lagoons. This is a group of three crystal-clear lagoons with turquoise water, the perfect place to enjoy picnics and leisurely walks. The place is, of course, a real treat for photography enthusiasts, thanks to the breathtaking natural surroundings and the views that can be enjoyed from there.
The lagoons are just nine kilometres away from Bombil Pek. It takes twenty minutes to get there.
A little further afield lie the Candelaria Mucbilhá Caves: a cave system that also offers trails to explore. You can also go river tubing there and admire the striking natural formations created by the stalactites and stalagmites.
- We invite you to read our article about the Las Verapaces Nature Reserve.
Frequently asked questions about the Bombil Pek caves
What is the weather like in the Alta Verapaz region?
Temperatures usually range between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius. That said, it is a region where it can rain all year round.
Is there a campsite in Bombil Pek?
Bombil Pek has camping areas near the park, where visitors can camp on the shores of the lagoon or in designated areas within the park. The standard fees must be paid.
What activities can you do at Bombil Pek?
As well as caving, you can enjoy activities such as hiking, abseiling and tubing. You can also explore dry caves and take part in community-based tourism. The abseil is 85 metres long, with approximately 75 metres of free fall: it is considered the highest abseil in Guatemala.
What is Q’eqchi’?
Q’eqchi’ (also spelled k’ekchi’, quekchí or kekchí) is a Mayan language belonging to the Quichean branch, spoken mainly by the Q’eqchi’ people in Alta Verapaz.
