Adventure Collective
HomeProtected PlacesSelva Lacandona
Selva Lacandona adventures

Selva Lacandona Adventures

Selva Lacandona is the largest tropical rainforest in Mexico, renowned for its dense biodiversity and cultural heritage, offering extraordinary opportunities for wildlife viewing and eco-tourism.

1,880,000
Acres Protected
Varies regionally; approximately 100+ miles of marked hiking and research trails
Miles of Trails
Estimated 15,000–20,000 (primarily eco-tourists and researchers)
Annual Visitors
Designated protected areas since 1998
Year Established

About Selva Lacandona

 

Located in the eastern region of Chiapas, Mexico, the Selva Lacandona spans over 1.8 million acres of primary tropical rainforest, one of the most biologically rich areas in North America. This dense jungle is home to an astonishing variety of flora and fauna, including several endangered species such as jaguars, scarlet macaws, and tapirs. The geography of the Selva Lacandona includes lowland tropical forest transitioning into montane rainforest with rivers, streams, and rugged hills punctuating the landscape. The region is also culturally important, inhabited by indigenous communities like the Lacandon Maya, who maintain traditional lifestyles connected deeply to the forest.

Historically, the Selva Lacandona has been a refuge for native peoples during the period of Spanish conquest and through ongoing territorial disputes. The area contains significant archaeological sites, including the ruins of Bonampak and Yaxchilan, featuring spectacular Mayan murals and pyramids hidden within the jungle canopy. Outdoor enthusiasts and conservationists alike are drawn to the Selva Lacandona for its unparalleled biodiversity, birdwatching, primate spotting, and hiking opportunities through pristine, verdant trails. River excursions and guided canopy tours provide visitors with unique perspectives on this vast rainforest ecosystem. The Selva Lacandona's vastness and relatively low visitation compared to other prominent rainforests offer a remote and immersive adventure experience for environmentally conscious travelers.

Highlights

Highlight

The ancient Mayan archaeological sites of Bonampak with stunning preserved murals

Highlight

Rare wildlife including elusive jaguars, howler monkeys, and resplendent quetzals

Highlight

The Lacandon River, offering scenic boat excursions through lush rainforest

Highlight

Remote jungle treks deep into pristine tropical forest with low human impact

Notable Natural Features

Bonampak Ruins

An important Mayan archaeological site famous for its vivid murals depicting ancient court life.

Yaxchilan

A majestic riverside Mayan city with towering temples and intricately carved stelae hidden in the jungle.

Lacandon River

A vital waterway flowing through the forest, supporting diverse aquatic and terrestrial habitats.