Salto Chilasco Waterfall

Known as the tallest waterfall in Central America, this beauty is hidden in the mountains and forest of Baja Verapaz, at north of Guatemala.

Around km 142 a road to the left takes you up to Chilasco. The parking gives welcome to the visitors in summer, the most visited season. From there you can sometimes hire a horse ride getting you as close as possible to waterfall, then a nice walk and done, you are there.

The trek is quite nice between the fresh trees. There is a wide view at the beginning that won't last for long, soon you are mostly between the forest and reaching tricky trails. Then the sound of the water falling from high up says -you are almost there-.

Try no to cross the waterfall as the big stones that seem safe are in fact really slippery.

What to expect at Chilasco?

  • A great trek among the trees. Fresh air and nature all around.
  • Depending on the season it can be quite sunny and hot, or cold and humid in the winter.
  • There are no hotels or places to stay at this side, consider staying at Salama, center of Baja Verapaz or at any of the hotels right ahead on the way north, heading to Alta Verapaz.

How to get to Chilasco

From Guatemala City, follow the CA1 mostly known as -road to Coban-, this road takes you to Baja Verapaz first. Just around km 142 you will see the turn to your right with a sign -Chilasco-. You are right there. It's about 3 hours drive from Guatemala City.

* Picture of Chilasco courtesy by traveler: Pedro Alejandro. Take a visit to his Photoblog
Related notes

SalamaSalama

23/02/2011
It's the center of Baja Verapaz, at north of Guatemala City. Both Alta Verapaz and Baja Verapaz where once in the past the same territory -Verapaz-. Salama is a peaceful place with fresh weather most  [ más ]

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