Cancuén archaeological site

The journey to Cancuén begins by taking the path to the Atlantic, to Coban. The newcomer will take the crossing to the left that leads to Chisec and from there the journey has not lost to northern Petén.

To Chisec be about 5 and a half hours by car and from there to something like Cancuén including the stretch by boat.

Cancuén known as the "nest of snakes or place" and is located in the municipality of Rio Sayaxché in the Passion.

As we commented, the snakes are abundant in the place and often that archaeologists encounter them constantly during their studies in the area. It is a damp, warm and remote.

Quite frankly, the place is beautiful but has a cost: clouds of mosquitoes will cover you if you do not properly using the repellent.

Stucco Palace

Most structures are buried and restoration work.

Stucco Palace, next to the square and ball field were at the time of the visit of the most elaborate.

This building had finishes and stucco reliefs of human figures believed to represent the members of the dynasty that ruled Cancuén. The interior walls were decorated with colorful murals.

However Cancuén has been subjected to extensive looting and parts (known his whereabouts) are not in Guatemala but in museums around the world and "collections" private.

Remote archaeological site

The drive ends in the community, where you must walk to the pier and from there boating.

The archaeological remains show that Cancuén was occupied for 300 to 950 AD.

Tah Chaan Ak is the Maya king who turned in a dominant city Cancuén in the area. It is known that more than military power, Cancuén stood out for its importance in trade and alliances with other cities.

Managers and guides stand out for their kindness, guiding the groups small. As we indicated in the case of a large group, you can notify the community to a group of cooks prepare traditional dishes.




The archaeological works are usually carried out in summer only.

The guest book Cancuén not many records. The Lugarno is as visited as we wanted because of the remoteness of it. However, the trip worthwhile.

The trails are very different from those found in other sitiosarqueológicos and have a unique style with an almost arrow.

These commemorative pieces were also subject to predation also sit flat.

Looters, using undisclosed methods, cut the sides sculptured steles not have to carry the full weight of the piece.

Thus leaving behind the silhouette they hold the best of the structure: the engraving.

Therefore, many archaeological sites contain complex historical mystery, since it is impossible to read the stories that will record in their wakes Maya originally.

Cancuén handcrafts

In the administrative offices can buy replicas of Maya glyphs recorded.

These retain the originality and art Cancuén own.


The archaeological site has areas for camping but you must bring your own equipment. It is recommended to wear good mosquito repellent, enough food and water rations, as there is more infrastructure in the vicinity than in the town near the pier where the boat is taken to Cancuén.