Set along the rugged west face of the Ola section at Cerro Quemado, Sala de Maternidad offers an inviting introduction to the granite cliffs of Guatemala. This 60-foot sport route unfolds gently, tracing the leftmost edge of the wall with hand and footholds that welcome novices stepping into the vertical world. The rock, while generally sound, shows occasional flaky patches—reminding climbers to stay alert to subtle shifts underfoot but never dampening the route's accessible character.

Approaching the climb means embracing a little adventure before the action begins. To rig a top rope, you’ll need to navigate behind the wall, either rappelling down with a partner or scrambling through a nearby opening on the left, where a sturdy tree waits ready for your webbing. These approaches offer a quiet ritual that puts climbers in tune with their surroundings—quiet forest smells, the rock’s cool texture, and the sharp echo of clipped draws.

Unlike more demanding neighbors to the right, Sala de Maternidad keeps the technical challenges light but present. Its 5.6 rating makes it a fitting warm-up route, particularly for those aiming to take on steeper, more complex climbs in the area. The well-spaced bolts ease protection anxieties, and a rack of 10 to 12 quickdraws will serve well. The presence of a tree for webbing adds reassurance to top-ropers, creating a safe and steady anchor above.

The approach trail is crisp underfoot, winding with cautious steps along the crag's base. Look for marked routes etched near the foot of the wall; they guide your way to more difficult climbs, visible but comfortably distant when your goal is to build confidence. The area’s latitude and longitude, 14.8025 and -91.5030 respectively, place this climb amid Guatemala's soaring highlands, where the air carries a subtle trace of the cloud forest and the distant rhythm of rushing streams.

Locals advise timing your climb for early mornings when the west face greets the sun just right, illuminating holds without baking the rock. Afternoon shadows offer cool reprieve but can hide flaky patches. Footwear with solid edging and a flexible sole will help maintain precision, while hydration—often overlooked on shorter climbs—keeps focus sharp and muscles ready.

After the climb, descending requires rappelling or carefully retracing your steps through the scramble path. This dual exit approach ensures a smooth transition off the wall and back into the forest’s pulse.

Sala de Maternidad’s charm lies in its balance: a route straightforward enough for those new to sport climbing yet with just enough texture and risk to feel like a meaningful climb. It acts as a gateway, a place to get acquainted with Cerro Quemado’s granite faces and prepare for the more demanding routes nearby. Whether you’re tying in for the first time or looking for a reliable warm-up, this route promises steady holds, open lines, and the quiet encouragement of a mountain ready to test your resolve gently but surely.