RETALHULEU, MUNICIPALITY OF CHAMPERICO; SAN MARCOS, MUNICIPALITY OF OCÓS

© CONAP photographic stock

Description: Manchón-Guamuchal is a wetland of international relevance under the Ramsar Convention. In this area you can observe numerous aquatic, marine and migratory bird species, being an important nesting site for Herons and other aquatic birds. With an extension of almost 33360 acres, you can find such different habitats as mangroves, dry forest, beaches, lagoons and estuaries, all of which contribute to the existence of a broad biodiversity. On the Tilapa, Naranjo and Suchiate rivers you may also observe several bird species.

Services: Lodging options in the cities of Tilapa or Retalhuleu.

Access: Taking the CA-2 highway to Retalhuleu until you reach Km180, where you take the road that leads to Tilapa. Here you will find a pier where you can rent a boat to Manchón-Guamuchal Special Protected Area. During the rainy season the access is somewhat difficult, and it is recommended to check the Tide Calendar (http://www.insivumeh.gob.gt).

Tourist facilities: Aquatic trails to visit the mangroves (you need to previously reserve a boat) and a terrestrial trail through the mangroves (Sendero Cinco Sentidos). It is recommended that you contact a local tour operator to coordinate the services at the place.

Fees and schedule: There is no entrance fee, but always check with the administrator.

Other features: Near by you can visit Xocomil and Xetulul (IRTRA) Parks, and Finca Patrocinio.

Information and contact: Consejo Nacional de Areas Protegidas (CONAP, National Council for Protected Areas), Regional Costa Sur (Regional Pacific Coast) telephone: (502) 7771 3181.

Some Species: Great Blue Heron, Little Blue Heron, Great Egret, White Ibis, Roseate Spoonbill, Jabiru, Black-bellied Whistling Duck.

| Yellow-winged Cacique
(Cacicus melanicterus)