The great rivers of Guatemala

The rivers of Guatemala are a special part of its landscape, providing important niches for the country’s vast array of fish, animal and bird life.

The country’s geography has carved out hundreds of waterways which are home to many rare animals, while also providing exciting experiences and beautiful scenery for visitors.

Rivers of Guatemala flow to two oceans

Guatemala straddles Central America, with coasts on the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, and several large mountain ranges dominate its central region.

These mountains have created a complex system of rivers, stretching from the central highlands out to both the coasts.

Generally speaking, the rivers which flow towards the Pacific are shallower and slower than those which flow towards the Caribbean.

Guatemala’s longest river

The Motagua River is the longest of the rivers of Guatemala, flowing east and the north to empty into the Gulf of Honduras on the Caribbean.

It flows for around 250 miles from near the town of Chichicastenango in the highlands. Its valley was a major part of the extensive plantations created by the United Fruit Company in 1904, and it is still an important area for growing coffee, bananas and other fruits.

Deposits of gold and unusual blue jadeite have been found in and near the river.

River adventures: rafting and rappelling

The rivers of Guatemala offer plenty of opportunity for white-water rafting, including some fun but challenging rapids on the Cahabon, Los Esclaves, Nahualate and Naranjo.

Rafting is a great way to enjoy the striking beauty of the Guatemalan rivers, and visit some of its historical treasures.

Rafting on the Motagua offers access to Mixco Viejo, while the Nahualate, Coyolate and Naranjo rivers can be combined with the sites of La Democracia, El Baul, and Abaj Takalik.

Another river option for the more adventurous is the chance to rappel down the 35-meter Los Amates waterfall in Santa Rosa. This stunning site is well worth a visit, although the only way to get there is overland.

Nature on the rivers

Guatemala’s rivers and their valleys are home to some of the country’s most interesting animals, birds and reptiles, including species which are increasingly rare.

The Central American river turtle is a critically endangered species because it has been hunted extensively for its meat, but small numbers still live in the large rivers and lakes of Peten in Guatemala.

The relatively minor Yul Witz River in western Guatemala is central to the Sleeping Child Reserve, which provides a refuge for 10 different endangered species of amphibians.

River sightseeing

Many trips around Guatemala include the opportunity to travel by river, either cruising on small boats or using kayaks, just to enjoy the scenery.

Perhaps the most well-known is the Rio Dulce, which means Sweet River” Spanish. This beautifully clear river runs from Lake Izabal to the Caribbean through the imposing canyon walls of El Canyon.

You may also get the chance to travel by river through parts of the Maya Biosphere Reserve if you take guided tours.

Guatemala’s mountainous central region and dense jungles have created some beautiful river environments, full of diverse wildlife and stunning scenery. From coast to coast these rivers of Guatemala are a national treasure which are well worth exploring.