Manchón Guamuchal Wetlands - Other Activity Tilapa & Tilapita - Guatemala

The wetlands encompasses 13,500 hectares of different eco-systems including swamps, mangroves, rivers and volcanic sand beaches. It is also a protected site according to Ramsar. The best time to visit is from October or November to March as the most migratory birds arrive then to stay during the winter. At all times of year it is possible to see pelicans, herons, egrets, ducks, sparrow hawks, buzzards and falcons. Crocodiles do live here but they are rarely spotted. The mangroves act as a nursery for juvenile fish and other aquatic creatures. One of the mudskippers is called “boca de oro,” or mouth of gold, because it looks like he has a piece of gold in his mouth.

Tourism in the wetlands is largely undeveloped. Reuxtreme can organize kayaking trips which, if you have the energy, is the best way to explore the area because it is much easier to get closer to nature and the birds.

Otherwise lancha trips can be arranged from $6.25 for a short visit to $38 for three hours. For the most part, the guides are new to this so you may need to be quite explicit about what you want. The drivers take poles so it is possible to glide down the waters in silence for a while, which is considerably more atmospheric and less disturbing to the wildlife.

Location:
Tilapa & Tilapita, Guatemala

Other Activity Types:
Wildlife refuge, National park (flora)

Getting There
If going by yourself, then arrange a trip once you arrive in Tilapa or Tilapita. Otherwise tour operators will usually pick-up and return you to Retalhuleu.

Travel Tips: Cover up your arms and legs, wear mosquito repellent and bring water and a snack with you if you have not arranged any alternatives. The earlier in the morning that you venture out, the more birds you are likely to see.

Price Description: The cost varies considerably depending on how long you want to go for and who you are going with. Keep in mind that you get what you pay for! Quetzals is the preferred currency for payment unless going with a tour operator.

Relative price: Mid-Range

Travel Skills: None

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By Kathryn
Independent and optimistic, I believe in following your dreams and have been doing just that, traveling the world for the last 9 years. British by...

Updated: 10 Feb 2010