Adventure Collective
HomeProtected PlacesMirador-Rio Azul National Park
Mirador-Rio Azul National Park adventures

Mirador-Rio Azul National Park Adventures

Mirador-Rio Azul National Park is a vast and remote tropical rainforest park in northern Guatemala, renowned for its incredible Mayan archaeological sites and rich biodiversity, ideal for adventurous exploration and wildlife viewing.

826,000
Acres Protected
40+
Miles of Trails
2,000 (approximate, low due to remote access)
Annual Visitors
1990
Year Established

About Mirador-Rio Azul National Park

 

Mirador-Rio Azul National Park encompasses one of the largest and most biologically diverse tropical rainforests in Central America, located in the northern Petén region of Guatemala. Covering a significant portion of the Maya Biosphere Reserve, the park is a critical sanctuary for endangered flora and fauna, including jaguars, scarlet macaws, and several species of monkeys. Its dense jungle canopy hides some of the most impressive and least explored Mayan archaeological sites, such as the Preclassic city of El Mirador, famous for its immense pyramids including La Danta, one of the largest pyramids in the world by volume. The area also includes the Rio Azul National Park, which is home to pristine waterways and a network of natural trails for eco-tourists. Visitors to the park can experience off-the-beaten-path trekking through lush jungle, wildlife spotting, and guided cultural tours focused on ancient Maya civilization. Access is challenging due to the park’s remote location, which adds to its allure for intrepid explorers. The park plays a vital role in protecting the natural and cultural heritage of the region and offers a rare glimpse into a pristine tropical ecosystem alongside monumental archaeology. Visitor appeal lies in its raw wilderness experience, archaeological grandeur, and opportunities for immersive eco-adventure amidst rich biodiversity.

Highlights

Highlight

El Mirador archaeological site featuring La Danta pyramid, one of the largest pyramids by volume worldwide

Highlight

Pristine tropical rainforest ecosystem hosting jaguars, spider monkeys, and scarlet macaws

Highlight

Remote jungle trails offering challenging, immersive hikes through unspoiled wilderness

Highlight

Rio Azul’s crystal-clear rivers and waterfall spots ideal for eco-tourism and nature study

Notable Natural Features

La Danta Pyramid

An immense Preclassic Maya pyramid at El Mirador, considered one of the largest pyramids on Earth by volume, towering over the surrounding jungle.

El Mirador Archaeological Complex

A sprawling ancient Maya city with extensive plazas, temples, and causeways hidden beneath dense jungle canopy.

Rio Azul

A series of pristine rivers and streams flowing through the park’s rainforest, supporting diverse aquatic and terrestrial life.