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The Biotopo Mario Dary Rivera Nature reserve, known locally simply
as the
Biotopo del Quetzal, is a sanctuary for Guatemala´s national bird, the Quetzal.
If you are lucky, you may see one - especially from February through
September. In addition to the possibility of seeing a Quetzal, the
preserve has well-maintained trails that wind through this beautiful, lush cloud
forest where you may be able to spot many other birds, as well as monkeys.
 The
National bird of Guatemala, El Quetzal.(courtesy
of INGUAT)
Getting
here: The Biotopo del Quetzal is just east of the
village of Purulhā. Traveling along the main highway, you will see the
Biotopo about 34 kilometers beyond the turnoff for Salamā. HOURS: The Nature reserve is open from 6
am to 4 pm. There is a picnic area, restrooms and a campsite. For more
information contact CECON, a conservation organization in Guatemala City at
Reforma Ave 0-63, Zone 10.
 Partial
view of the Biotopo by Majatza
AVAILABLE
TOURS: Click here for tours information.
HOW TO GET HERE:
There
are first class buses you can take easily from Guatemala City, at 8 Ave 15-16 Zone
1, with Transportes Monja Blanca or Transportes Escobar (both recommended). It is a
3 hour ride. Ask the driver to drop you off at the Biotopo, otherwise they won't
stop. Click here for
bus transportation schedules around the country.
AIRLINES:
See listing in
Guatemala city.
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Hotel
from $0 to $15 Double room: Hospedaje los Ranchos, wooden huts,
located a couple of yards from the reserve. If the hotel is full, your other
choice is to go to the village of Purulhá, which is 1
mile away. The Farmacia has basic rooms for rent.
Hotel from $30 to $40 Double
room: Two miles from the reserve there is a fancier hotel
called Posada Montaņa
del Quetzal. It has a restaurant, a bar, and very comfortable rooms with
fireplaces; recommended.
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