This is the capital of the Alta Verapaz department that, along with Antigua, produces some of the best coffee in Guatemala. Situated on the banks of the Cahabón River, the town’s colonial past is reflected in its architecture, such as that of the El Calvario church. It is also a center for the production of many fine silver handicrafts. Celebrations to mark the ancient Mayan feast of Paabanc are still held in Cobán and San Pedro Carchá to the east. Some of the region’s most colorful handwoven clothes can be seen in towns and villages such as Tactic, San Juan Chamelco and Lanquín.
One of the highlights of the region are the Semuc Champey Waterfalls, which are formed as the Cahabón River falls some 300m (985ft) across rocks and ledges. Around 10km (6 miles) further on, the river enters the Languin Caves, parts of which can be explored with a guide, either on foot or by boat. Some 200km (124 miles) from Cobán is the National Park of Lanchúa, which is a very humid, subtropical rainforest teeming with many species of mammals and amphibians. Visitors to the park will need a guide and full camping equipment. From the Lanchuá Lagoon, it is possible to take a boat to explore parts of the Caves of Candelaria. These ancient caves were considered sacred by the Maya and remnants of ceremonial altars and pots have been found here.