Mayan Fire ceremony with Shaman / Curandero

This one-of-a-kind experience with a Mayan shaman (curandero) will immerse you in the ancient ritual of fire cleansing. This tradition goes back centuries. Modern-day shamans perform this ritual for protection, healing, and cleansing as a way of maintaining their spiritual life. The ceremony is held in the most sacred location around Lake Atitlan, the caves of San Jorge. You'll feel the energy and power as soon as you enter the caves. Mayans from the highland tribes frequently travel here to perform holistic healthcare rituals on behalf of the indigenous poor, and it's likely locals will come to pray in the caves whilst you are there. With the help of your local guide, you will learn also about the 5000-year-old Mayan calendar, how it relates to the ceremony, and how it influences daily life for the Maya of Guatemala.

This is a completely unique opportunity for cultural sharing that we honor with respect. Your local guide will explain the tradition and what you can expect, then introduce you to the Mayan Shaman (curandero) who leads the ceremony. You will have five options to guide the ceremony: healing, protection, safe travels, cleansing of bad energy, or insight into challenges in your life. This guides the purpose of the ritual and the prayers made by the Shaman. Meet in Panajachel to take the infamous "chicken bus" into the mountains. Once there, we have a 20-minute hike through the protected area to reach the sacred caves. Meet the shaman and discuss your intentions for the ceremony before commencing the hour-long ritual. The shaman will set-up and light the fire whilst chanting prayers based on your intentions. After the ceremony ends, we hike back to the village then ride the chicken bus back to Panajachel where the tour ends.