How to visit the Río Negro and Hidroeléctrica Chixoy community?

Your browser does not support audio elements

Beta listen to the note

The Mayan community of Río Negrolocated in Baja Verapazallows guided tours through the area of Chixoy River under a system of prior authorization managed by the INDE and the community itself. This destination, surrounded by mountains and turquoise waters, can be visited throughout the year, as long as the established requirements are met and coordinated with local guides.

So you can take a tour of the Río Negro community in Baja Verapaz

Black River It is known for its mountains, the reflection of the landscape on the water and the sulfur water springs that spring up at different points in the area. The turquoise color of the river stands out among the vegetation and creates scenes that attract attention from the first moment. At night, the clear sky allows you to observe stars and constellations without light pollution.

The area is maintained with little human intervention due to entry controls. The only major infrastructure nearby is Chixoy Hydroelectric Plantbuilt in 1985. Beyond that, the environment preserves its natural essence. For those looking to walk, take photos, or explore Guatemala, this is a space worth considering.

Photo description for the visually impaired: person with a Guatemalan flag in front of a river surrounded by mountains. (Credit: Rodrigo Pop)

The Mayan community of Río Negro It is in charge of protecting the treasures of this place, who suffered a massacre due to the construction of the hydroelectric plant. On the tour it is possible to visit commemorative sites that remember the history of the place and the memory of its inhabitants. There are also spaces considered sacred and points that, according to stories, are mentioned in the Popol Vuh.

During the visit you can see waterfalls, sulfur water springs and some archaeological sites. In addition, there is an informative museum where the history of the community and its relationship with the territory is explained. The tour includes a viewpoint and a cabin for visitors. Everything is done with the accompaniment of a local guide who shares data and context about each point.

Río Negro and Chixoy Hydroelectric Tour
Photo description for the visually impaired: river in the middle of high mountains covered with vegetation. (Credit: Exploring the Verapaces)

Black River It has lodging houses managed by the community. These have bathrooms, showers and ventilation. The experience is not only about the landscape, it also involves living with local people, trying local food and learning first-hand about their way of life.

Entry is mandatory with a guide and with permission from both the community and the INDE. To coordinate prices and details of the visit you can call 5907-8161. Guide is also available Cupertino at 4818-2644. If you prefer someone to manage the entire process, the Destinos Chileros Guate agency organizes the trips and processes the necessary permits.

Keep reading:

He Visit permit to Río Chixoy It is a mandatory requirement due to the controls established in the area. There are clear rules: drinking alcoholic beverages, hunting or fishing is not allowed. The authorization is processed through a letter addressed to the Plant Manager. In it you must include the license plate of the vehicle, the number of people who will attend, the number of days of the visit and the contact information of the person carrying out the procedure. It is important to submit the request at least two days in advance.

Black River It is not a common destiny. It is a space where nature and memory coexist, and where each visitor assumes the commitment to take care of what they find. If you like places with history, open landscapes and community experiences, this corner of Baja Verapaz It may be your next stop.

Be part of our WhatsApp channel! Find positive news from Guatemala, inspiring stories, events, tourism recommendations, restaurants, sports, history and more. To not miss anything, you can join here: Guatemala.com WhatsApp channel.


#visit #Río #Negro #Hidroeléctrica #Chixoy #community