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Sierra del Lacandón National Park adventures

Sierra del Lacandón National Park Adventures

Sierra del Lacandón National Park is a vast tropical rainforest reserve known for its impressive biodiversity, ancient Maya ruins, and rugged landscapes offering adventurous trekking and wildlife viewing in northern Guatemala.

316,200
Acres Protected
Approx. 30
Miles of Trails
Under 5,000
Annual Visitors
1990
Year Established

About Sierra del Lacandón National Park

 

Sierra del Lacandón National Park, located in the Petén department of northern Guatemala, encompasses approximately 128,000 hectares of pristine tropical rainforest and mountainous terrain. It is part of the Maya Biosphere Reserve and one of the largest protected areas in Central America. The park's landscape includes dense, humid forests, rolling hills, limestone mountains, and numerous rivers and streams that feed into the Usumacinta River basin. Its remote setting sustains one of the most diverse ecosystems in the region, home to countless species of flora and fauna including jaguars, tapirs, spider monkeys, scarlet macaws, and various orchids and hardwood trees. Historically, the park holds great archaeological significance with several lesser-known ancient Maya sites such as Yolnabaj and La Puente, featuring impressive ruins and ceremonial centers rarely visited due to the park’s rugged access. Outdoor enthusiasts can engage in hiking through rarely trodden forest trails, wildlife watching guided by local rangers, birding excursions, and exploring waterways by canoe. The park’s remote location off the beaten path makes it ideal for adventurous visitors seeking deep jungle immersion and a connection to both natural and cultural heritage. Due to limited infrastructure, visits often require organized excursions from nearby towns like Sayaxché. Sierra del Lacandón offers an unparalleled blend of ecological richness, archaeological intrigue, and wilderness adventure for those venturing into Guatemala’s wild heart.

Highlights

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Yolnabaj Archaeological Site – an ancient Maya ceremonial center deep in the jungle

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Diverse tropical rainforest ecosystem with rare sightings of jaguar and tapir

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Canoe excursions along the Usumacinta River tributaries with abundant birdlife

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Remote hiking trails offering wilderness solitude and panoramic views from limestone ridges

Notable Natural Features

Yolnabaj Maya Ruins

An isolated ancient Maya ceremonial center featuring plazas, temples, and carved stelae, surrounded by dense rainforest.

Mesoamerican Jungle Habitat

One of the largest tracts of tropical forest in Guatemala, providing critical habitat to endangered species like jaguar and scarlet macaw.

Usumacinta River Basin

Rivers and streams flowing through the park offer canoe trips and support a rich aquatic ecosystem within this vast wilderness.