Crater azul

Nestled in the dense tropical forests of El Peten in northern Guatemala, Crater Azul is a marine blue lagoon with incredibly clear water, often likened to a natural swimming pool. Rich in biodiversity, this alluring paradise captivates its visitors with its majestic beauty and tranquility.

History

Crater Azul, meaning “Blue Crater”, got its name from the deep blue crystal clear water. Formed as a result of natural hydrological processes, this natural pool is part of the Refugio de Vida Silvestre El Pucte nature reserve, designated to protect and preserve the area’s unique ecosystem.

How to Get There

Reaching Crater Azul can be quite an adventure. The town closest to Crater Azul is Sayaxche in Peten. From Guatemala City, take a bus to Sayaxche. Once in Sayaxche, you can hire a local boat, called lancha, which will take you on a three-hour journey along La Pasion River to get to Crater Azul.

List of Attractions

Crater Azul offers mesmerizing features and activities:

• The freshwater spring with stunning crystal clear, turquoise water.
• Diverse flora and fauna, including a variety of fish species, turtles, and birds.
• Swimming, snorkeling, and floating on ring tubes in the natural pool.
• Hiking along the forest trails around Crater Azul for bird watching and to explore the diverse vegetation.

Ticket Information

There’s no official admission fee to visit Crater Azul. However, visitors might be required to pay for the boat ride from Sayaxche, and the cost can vary. Always bring cash as there are no card services available.

Tips for Visiting

1. Plan the visit during the dry season, typically from November to April, when the water is at its clearest.
2. Be prepared with essentials like water, food, and sunscreen, as there are no facilities at the site.
3. Visitors should be strong swimmers, and children need to be supervised at all times.
4. Respect the natural environment and keep noise levels down to enjoy the tranquility and not disturb wildlife.
5. Bring your own snorkeling equipement to discover the underwater world of the lagoon.