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National Park · Petén

Laguna del Tigre National Park

Laguna del Tigre National Park is Guatemala's largest national park, renowned for its vast wetlands, tropical rainforest, and rich biodiversity, offering outstanding opportunities for wildlife viewing and remote jungle exploration.

National Park336,000

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

336,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Laguna del Tigre National Park

Laguna del Tigre National Park is Guatemala's largest national park, renowned for its vast wetlands, tropical rainforest, and rich biodiversity, offering outstanding opportunities for wildlife viewing and remote jungle exploration.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in the northern department of Petén, Laguna del Tigre National Park encompasses over 336,000 acres of tropical wetland and lowland rainforest, making it the largest protected area in Guatemala. The park is named after its centerpiece, Laguna del Tigre, a large shallow lake that serves as vital habitat for numerous aquatic species and migratory birds. It lies within the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, supporting a diverse ecosystem that includes endangered species such as the jaguar, Baird’s tapir, and various primates. The park’s flooded forests and swamps form a complex mosaic of environments that sustain vibrant wildlife populations and numerous plant species. Historically, the area has seen Maya civilization influences, with archaeological sites scattered within its boundaries, though the park is primarily prized for its natural heritage. Visitors can experience remote, off-the-beaten-path adventures such as guided birdwatching tours focusing on rare tropical birds and waterways exploration by canoe or boat. Due to the park's remote location, infrastructure is minimal, giving a true wilderness experience. Laguna del Tigre is also an important refuge for traditional indigenous fishing communities. Its vast wilderness and rich biodiversity make it an invaluable conservation site and an exceptional destination for intrepid adventurers and nature scientists alike.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Laguna del Tigre National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Candelaria Caves: Guatemala's Underground Wonderland★ 8.9⌖ 31 miCaving
Candelaria Caves

Candelaria Caves: Guatemala's Underground Wonderland

Candelaria Caves in Alta Verapaz, Guatemala offer extensive caving and tubing opportunities beneath stunning stalactites. Best visited in dry season; bring sturdy shoes and a flashlight. Quiet yet rich in natural beauty and Maya cultural significance.

Island of Flores: Gateway to the Past★ 8.5⌖ 43 miBoating
Island of Flores

Island of Flores: Gateway to the Past

Explore the Island of Flores, a stunning location with historic charm in Guatemala. Ideal for boating and hiking, enjoy the views of Lake Petén Itzá and nearby Tikal National Park. Best visited during dry season.

Cave Adventures at Parque Nacional Grutas de Lanquín★ 8.5⌖ 51 miSpelunking
Parque Nacional Grutas de Lanquín

Cave Adventures at Parque Nacional Grutas de Lanquín

Explore the limestone caves of Parque Nacional Grutas de Lanquín near Cobán. Known for its unique spelunking opportunities, the park also offers tubing on the Lanquín River and bird watching. The caves hold cultural significance for the Q’eqchi’ Maya.

SpelunkingView Details→
Serene Beauty of Lachuá Lake★ 8.8⌖ 53 miSwimming
Lachuá Lake

Serene Beauty of Lachuá Lake

Visit Lachuá Lake for stunning turquoise waters in the Guatemalan jungle. Enjoy a 4 km scenic hike to the lake and swim in mineral-rich waters. Great for wildlife watching. Best in the dry season.

Cascading Elegance: Semuc Champey★ 8.7⌖ 54 miSwimming
Semuc Champey

Cascading Elegance: Semuc Champey

Explore Semuc Champey, a natural wonder in Guatemala with vibrant pools and lush jungle views. Moderate hike to El Mirador offers stunning vistas. Enjoy swimming and tubing in this remote area. Accessible year-round, best in dry season.

Ancient Wonders of TIKAL National Park★ 8.5⌖ 59 miTemple Climbing
TIKAL National Park

Ancient Wonders of TIKAL National Park

Explore TIKAL National Park, a historical landmark in Guatemala with towering Mayan temples and lush surroundings. Climb Temple I for jungle views and trek the rainforest with local wildlife like howler monkeys. Best visited in the dry season for an unforgettable experience.

Temple ClimbingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Laguna del Tigre wetland complex offering exceptional aquatic wildlife viewing✦ Habitat of the elusive jaguar and endangered Baird’s tapir✦ Remote canoe and boat tours through flooded forests and swamps✦ Adjacent archaeological sites linked to ancient Maya civilization
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Laguna del Tigre National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Laguna del Tigre National Park
Park Recreation

Birdwatching

Available in Laguna del Tigre National Park
Park Recreation

Canoeing / Kayaking

Available in Laguna del Tigre National Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Laguna del Tigre National Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Laguna del Tigre National Park
Park Recreation

Jungle Exploration

Available in Laguna del Tigre National Park
Park Recreation

Cultural and Archaeological Tours

Available in Laguna del Tigre National Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Laguna del Tigre National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Access regulated by CONAP (National Council of Protected Areas); permits required, typically arranged through local guides or NGOs

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Laguna del Tigre National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Sayaxché
⌖ 19.21 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sayaxché, Petén

A gateway town nestled along the banks of the Pasión River, offering rich jungle adventures and river expeditions in the heart of the Maya Biosphere Reserve.

November to AprilExplore Town
La Libertad
⌖ 33.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

La Libertad, Guatemala

A quiet, rural town set in the volcanic highlands of Guatemala offering authentic outdoor experiences amidst stunning natural landscapes.

November to AprilExplore Town
Poptún
⌖ 38.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Poptún, Petén

A gateway town to the vast tropical wilderness of northern Guatemala, offering access to jungle exploration, archaeological sites, and water adventures in the Petén region.

November to April (dry season)Explore Town
Flores
⌖ 42.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Flores, Guatemala

A charming lakeside town set on an island, offering gateway access to rainforest trekking, ancient ruins, and vibrant river and lake adventures.

December to AprilExplore Town
Flores
⌖ 42.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Flores, Petén

A vibrant gateway to ancient history and lush jungles, perfect for explorers seeking uncharted archeological treasures and tropical outdoor adventures.

Dry Season (November to April)Explore Town
San Andrés
⌖ 45.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

San Andrés, Guatemala

A peaceful highland town nestled within a rich archaeological zone offering a mix of hiking, cultural exploration, and nature immersion in Guatemala’s volcanic landscape.

November to AprilExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Laguna del Tigre National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Semuc Champey and K'anba Caves Day Trip from Cobán: Swim Turquoise Pools & Explore Mayan CavernsCobán, Alta Verapaz · 43.17 mi away
All Adventures· Guat2do Travel Experiences

Semuc Champey and K'anba Caves Day Trip from Cobán: Swim Turquoise Pools & Explore Mayan Caverns

A full‑day outing from Cobán brings you to Semuc Champey's stepped turquoise pools and into the water‑carved K'anba Caves. Expect a mix of short hikes, swims, and cave passages guided by locals—perfect for travelers with moderate fitness who want a single‑day nature immersion.

10–11 hours

Check dates & book

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.