Izabal has plenty of lovely spots to enjoy at any time of year. One of the most natural and special is Seven Altars. This collection of pools, small waterfalls and tropical vegetation is located in Livingston, near the Guatemalan Caribbean coast. Knowing just this much makes us want to visit it at least once in our lives.
Do you like your trips or holidays to offer a variety of opportunities to walk, cool off and connect with a landscape that’s different from what the country’s interior has to offer? Then the Seven Altars will give you all that and more. It makes for an unforgettable visit that you should definitely consider.
Seven Altars: what it is and why it is one of Izabal’s natural paradises
It's a natural wonder featuring waterfalls and pools of cool water, all surrounded by lush vegetation. It’s a simple place, and that’s part of its charm. The water is crystal clear, the trails are short and, of course, the atmosphere is peaceful, allowing you to unwind for as long as you like or need. Although it isn’t huge, that’s precisely what works, because its beauty is concentrated within a smaller setting.
Do you know why it’s called that? Because the name refers to its main waterfalls. Some local sources also recall that this place was once known as ‘Los Altares’ because it was associated with Garifuna ceremonies.
Where is Seven Altars?
Seven Altars islocated in the municipality of Livingston, in the department of Izabal. It's about 3 kilometres from the town centre, very close to Amatique Bay.
As if it weren’t charming enough already, the location adds to its appeal. This area has a different atmosphere to what we usually find in Guatemala. That’s why Seven Altars is the perfect, natural getaway – one that’s easy to fit into any itinerary worth its salt.
What’s more, the area is part of a humid, tropical landscape. So you can already sense that the experience is going to be a truly natural one. Along the way, the paths and the vegetation will be your best companions.
How do you get to the Seven Altars from Livingston and other nearby areas?
The usual way to get to Seven Altars is from Livingston. You can either take a boat or walk along the coast. Of course, this will always depend on how much time you have available. If you’re travelling from Río Dulce or Puerto Barrios, you’ll first need to get to Livingston by boat.
Getting to the Seven Altars by boat from Livingston
Without a doubt, the boat is the most comfortable way to visit the Seven Altars. Why? Because the journey is short, it saves you the effort of walking in the heat, and it allows you to enjoy the coastal scenery from the water. This is a very practical option whether you’re travelling with children, are short on time, or want to combine the visit with a trip to Playa Blanca.
Walk along the coast and along the footpaths to Seven Altars
Fancy a nice walk along the coast? Well, the good news is that you can walk to the Seven Altars from Livingston. It’s about 3 kilometres, and it certainly makes for a short hike, weather permitting.
We always hope that’s the case, because the walk is truly charming – but it’s best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. You can stroll along the coast and soak up the atmosphere until you reach the natural pools. Do remember to wear comfortable footwear and check the condition of the path beforehand. During the rainy season, there may be mud and slippery sections. Any doubts? Then it’s best to take the boat.
What Seven Altars is like: waterfalls, pools and rainforest
Seven Altars combines freshwater and tropical forest. The trail winds its way past several natural pools, all of which are connected by small waterfalls, creating the perfect spot for both swimming and relaxing.
The truth is that this place doesn’t always look the same, as the water flow depends on the season. After the rains, there’s usually more water and the waterfalls look livelier, as you’d expect. Of course, during the dry season, some of the pools may be shallower, but even so, the beauty of the place is always unique.
The seven pools of crystal-clear water and their small waterfalls
If you look for an image of this place, it will always be its turquoise pools. They’re formed by water flowing through the rocks. Some of them are perfect for swimming, but others are simply ideal for cooling off or even taking a photo.
These pools vary in size, and their depths are not the same across the board. For this reason, it’s best to proceed with caution. You should take a good look before entering and avoid going in too far if you can’t see the bottom clearly.
As the weather can get really hot, the water will be perfect for cooling off. The water is usually cool. Are you planning to walk from Livingston? If so, the best reward would be a dip after the walk.
Flora and fauna in Seven Altars: crabs, butterflies and tropical forest
The Seven Altars area is notable for its dense vegetation and the presence of small wildlife. Thanks to the humidity and the pools, we can see butterflies, crabs and various fish. Furthermore, the area is designated as a protected area. This is very important because it reminds us that this is not just a lovely place to swim, but a natural environment that requires the utmost care.
Adventures in Seven Altars: nature and outdoor activities
Seven Altars offers a truly comprehensive outdoor experience, and that’s something that really appeals to us. You can go for a swim and a stroll, as well as enjoy the little waterfalls. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to get out into nature without having to tackle a particularly challenging route. The truth is, it’s a simple place, yes, but a truly beautiful one.
An easy hike past natural pools and viewing points
Hiking in Seven Altars is easy, although the terrain can be uneven in some areas. As we’ve mentioned, there are rocky sections and damp patches. So, it’s no surprise if you come across a few slippery stretches. It’s best to walk slowly, enjoying the surroundings but also keeping an eye on the ground and, of course, wearing the right footwear. The route between the pools offers plenty of opportunities to stop. You can look at the water, find good angles for photos or simply listen to the sound of the little waterfalls.
Swimming, jumping into the water and having a picnic at Seven Altars
If you like swimming, you’re in luck. Because it’s one of the main activities in Seven Altars. The pools are a great way to cool off and have a good time, especially if you arrive during the hottest part of the day. Once again, it’s important to remember that the water level varies with the seasons, and a pool that looks deep might not actually be.
After a swim, there’s nothing like sitting down for a bite to eat. The area is perfect for a picnic. But remember to take all your rubbish away with you. Also, please avoid leaving food scraps near the water.
- We invite you to read our article about the sunrise in Tikal
How to include the Seven Altars in your tour of the Guatemalan Caribbean
Seven Altars fits perfectly into a tour of Livingston and the Guatemalan Caribbean. It doesn’t even take a whole day to visit. That said, it certainly deserves a few hours so you can take your time and enjoy it properly.
The most practical thing you can do is use Livingston as a base. From there, you can organise trips to Playa Blanca, or take a stroll through the village, try some Garifuna food and set aside a morning for the natural pools.
Combine Seven Altars, Playa Blanca and Livingston in 1–2 days
Do you only have one day to spend in Livingston? Then you could visit Seven Altars in the morning and spend the afternoon exploring the village. That way, you’ll get to enjoy nature, a swim and a bit of local culture all in a single day. Of course, if you have two days, then the plan can be improved considerably. That way, you can spend one day at Seven Altars and in Livingston, and another at Playa Blanca or on a boat trip around the area. A combination like this always works because it mixes up different landscapes.
- The pools provide fresh water and jungle scenery
- Playa Blanca boasts white sand and the Caribbean Sea
- Livingston combines Garifuna culture with a coastal atmosphere.
Other stops near Seven Altars: Amatique Bay and Río Dulce
Of course, as well as Seven Altars, you can also include Amatique Bay and Río Dulce in your itinerary. The bay offers a taste of Livingston’s seaside atmosphere, whilst Río Dulce boasts one of Guatemala’s best-known river tours. These areas are also renowned for their stunning scenery, featuring lakes, rivers and lush vegetation.
- We invite you to read our article about the history and culture of the Garífunas in Guatemala
Practical tips for visiting Seven Altars
We’ve already seen that visiting Seven Altars is straightforward. Of course, it’s always a good idea to be well prepared. You need to take the weather into account and consider what the terrain will be like for walking. But also:
- Go in the morning to avoid the heat.
- Also check the sea conditions before setting out in a boat.
- Don’t jump into the pools without checking the depth first.
- Bring insect repellent, sun cream and water.
- Wear waterproof footwear or trainers with good grip.
- Please pick up all your rubbish before you leave.
Best time to visit and recommended opening hours
The best time to visit Seven Altars is usually in the morning. It’s cooler then, so you’ll have more energy for walking and plenty of time to return to Livingston or carry on to your next stop. Bear in mind that the rainy season means the pools have more water, but the path may be a bit trickier. Whereas in the dry season, access is easier but the landscape has less water. It’s up to each traveller to decide.
If you’d prefer a quieter visit, avoid weekends and public holidays. As it’s a day trip from Livingston, it tends to attract more local visitors on days off.
What to bring: waterproof footwear, insect repellent and sun cream
Although open-toed sandals may be comfortable, they aren’t always the safest option on wet rocks. So, it’s best to opt for footwear that can actually be worn in the water, such as the well-known water shoes. Both insect repellent to keep bugs at bay and sun cream to prevent sunburn are two of the essential basics.
- We invite you to read our article about guide to visit the San Felipe Castle in Guatemala
Frequently Asked Questions about Seven Altars and visiting it from Livingston
How much does it cost to visit Seven Altars?
Entry to Seven Altars costs Q20 per person. However, it's advisable to check the price on arrival.
How long does it take to visit Seven Altars?
Ideally, you should set aside between 2 and 4 hours, give or take.
Can you walk there from Livingston?
Yes. Seven Altars is about 3 kilometres from the centre of Livingston.
Is it better to go to Seven Altars by boat or on foot?
It always depends on the plan. The boat is both more comfortable and faster. But walking is cheaper and lets you experience the surroundings better.
