Actún Can Caves
Hidden in limestone bedrock beneath the sacred ruins of Petén are the cavernous Ak'tun Kan Cave, which is Mayan for “Cave of the Serpent.” Inside the serpentine subterranean complex is an underground waterfall and plenty of impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and unusually-shapedxa0rock formations.
The Basics
Touring the caves is an excellent way to spend a couple of hours, especially as a welcome escape from the heat. Wander through the rock formations, and spot the ones given names based on their odd shape; there’s the Thinker, Elephant Foot, Stone Rose, Whale’s Tail, God of the Rain, and Virgin of the Grotto., among others.xa0 Ask at the entrance about having a guide show you around Jobitzinaj Caves, which are connected to Ak'tun Kan, but less developed for tourism.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is a small entry fee.
- A sign at the entrance assures visitors there are no snakes on the premises.
- Note that while the cave has been wired for lighting, it may not be working properly.
- Bring a flashlight.
- The caves are not wheelchair-accessible.
Trip ideas
How to Get There
The Ak'tun Kan Caves are located outside the town of Santa Elena, just over one mile (two kilometers) from Flores, and are easily accessible by car or tuk-tuk. Expect about 10 minutes on the road.
When to Get There
The Ak'tun Kan Caves are located outside the town of Santa Elena, just over one mile (two kilometers) from Flores, and are easily accessible by car or tuk-tuk. Expect about 10 minutes on the road.
Lake Petén Itza
Near the caves in Flores is Guatemala’s second largest lake. This sparkling body of water is in the center of the hot, humid Petén Basin where some 27 archaeological sites are sprinkled throughout the jungle. Walk along the malecón on the north shore, enjoy a lakeside meal on the west coast, or rent a small motorized boat to visit nearby ruins and villages, the Petencito Zoo, and the Cerro Cahuí Nature Reserve.
- Petencito Zoo
- Ixpanpajul Natural Park (Parque Natural Ixpanpajul)
- Lake Peten Itza (Lago Petén Itzá)
- Petén Forest
- Tikal National Park (Parque Nacional Tikal)
- Uaxactún
- Seibal (Ceibal)
- Yaxhá
- Maya Biosphere Reserve (Reserva de la Biosfera Maya)
- Sayaxché
- Aguateca Archaeological Site
- Pasión River (Rio La Pasión)
- Estación Biológica las Guacamayas (EBG)