El Retiro Lanquin

The rooms are spacious and very clean, and the views are stunning. We had delicious food and drinks at the restaurant bar beside the pool and river, with wonderful service. Tali even remembered our morning order, which made us feel looked after. We took the bat cave tour, which was fascinating, then the next day Otto showed us Semuc Champey in a spectacular way. Highly recommend staying here.

I liked the atmosphere at el retiro. It calls itself a party hostel, but during my stay there wasn't much of a party, which suited me. There was loud music and more of a social bar feel. Maybe it changes with the season or crowd, but I enjoyed it. I did tubing on my first day and the semuc champey tour the next. Otto was a great guide, and I recommend booking through el retiro. Lunch was included, with a burrito or sandwich you could customize. The restaurant and bar had a decent menu at reasonable prices. They also do pizza on Wednesdays and Saturdays, though it wasn't the best. The beds weren't the comfiest, but I was tired enough to sleep fine. I didn't see much of lanquin or the other party hostels, but I was happy with my stay. Watch your plate, though, one little puppy likes to help itself to food.

I don't really understand why they call this a party hostel, since my experience was very chilled. It's social without feeling forced, and the cave and Semuc Champey tour was amazing. I also recommend the cave tour, it was exciting, a great way to bond with other guests, and the group size felt right. The hostel has a beautiful view, good facilities, and welcoming staff. Most of the food is western-style, which isn't really my thing, but it was decent. Local dishes are available in Lanquin center, about a 10-minute walk away. Look beyond Zephyr / Greengos and come here.

We stayed four days and never got tired of the food, with so many options and meals around 40-65Q. On a group visit to another hostel, we found their prices were twice as high, and town food cost more too. There's also a market in town, though I think it's only open Sundays and Thursdays. The place has some liveliness, but plenty of room if you want quiet; you can always take a TukTuk to another hostel. They run a river trip daily and an incredible Semuc Champey tour, both highly recommended, plus happy hour deals every day. All the staff were kind and helpful. Some people wished they'd booked at the other popular hostels, but by the end we all felt this one was best. If I return to Lanquin, I'll stay here again without looking elsewhere.