Lake Atitlan: Mayan Ceremony at the Sacred Caves
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
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.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Local guide
Gratuities
Materials for your own ceremony are available for an additional fee
What To Expect
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.
Options
Sacred Caves visit, no shaman
Mayan ceremony with Shaman
Your personal Shaman
Reviews
42 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Alex was an excellent...
SARAH L,
Apr 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00Alex was an excellent guide. He imparted so much wisdom and knowledge. I truly appreciate that he openly shared his culture and customs with us. It was truly a spiritual experience. Although, not for the faint of heart. The cave was very hot, ashy, smike filled, etc. All that aside, it was worth it to leave with a full heart and inside experience in Mayan culture. Also it was very cool to take the chicken bus. Alex went above and beyond helping get Mayan calendars and lunch at the local market in Panajachel. This was an amazing, authentic cultural and spiritual experience. Do it. Worth every cent.
This was a very beautiful...
Amy J,
Apr 1, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was a very beautiful experience. Our guide was very knowledgeable and open to questions. It was very helpful that he emphasized being open to the experience and personalizing it, while also keeping us very aware of the beliefs and history behind what we were doing.
Mystical
Ludwiga T,
Mar 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00It can be very hot. Do it as early as possible. The trek down to the cave is not easy. A walking stick can be helpful. I wish the guide had cold bottled water ready. We didn’t bring any bec it was provided on our previous tours.
Spirit Shifting
Kizzy R,
Dec 14, 2024
- Viator
5.00My guide (Alex) was welcoming, interesting and knowledgeable. The experience of the cleansing was purifying. This is not a tourist experience. It should not be done without purpose and intention. I am forever grateful to the people and my Shaman for allowing me access to such a sacred space.
The Gift of Shared Ritual
Elizabeth H,
Aug 1, 2024
- Viator
5.00This was an incredible experience. My guide was Alex and his understanding and willingness to share his Mayan tradition was a true gift.
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Operated by Los Elementos Adventure Center & Day Spa