RETALHULEU, MUNICIPALITY OF EL ASINTAL

© Photo:Takalik Maya Lodge

Description: This natural reserve is situated over terrace 9, where the ancient Maya city Tak’alik Ab’aj was located, and has an area of 111 acres of Subtropical Humid Forest biome. Inside the reserve you will find Takalik Maya Lodge, a hotel that is certified by Green Deal. The Tak’alik Ab’aj Archaeological National Park covers an area of 46 acres; it covers the central acropolis and other archaeological monuments of Maya and Olmeca culture. Both places have promoted birdwatching training for local guides.

Services: Lodging (make reservations), restaurant and restrooms; transportation from the Park to the hotel (1.2 miles) in an adapted tractor for passengers.

Access: From Guatemala City take the CA-2 highway for 123 miles on a paved road. As you get to the junction on Km180, turn to the left towards the road that leads to Coatepeque (border with Mexico). On the right you will have to turn at Km190.5, where you will drive for another 1.2 miles on a dirt road until you reach the Archaeological Park.

Tourist facilities: Two trails of 0.6 and 0.9 miles, each one inside the reserve, and a third trail through the coffee, macadamia and rubber plantations (1.8 miles long), as well as a sightseeing post.

Fees and schedules: US$ 6 per person, including a local guide.

Other features: The Archaeological Park is an important attraction; the reserve offers coffee, macadamia and rubber plantation tours. It is also near Manchón-Guamuchal wetland.

Some Species: Sharp-shinned Hawk, Yellow-naped Parrot, Berylline Hummingbird, Red-legged Honeycreeper, Blue-crowned Motmot, Masked Tytira, Bushy-crested Jay, White-winged Tanager.

| Bar-winged Oriole
(Icterus maculialatus)

Contact: Telephones (502) 2369 7206 / 7,
Mobile phone: 5651 1097;
info@takalik.com / reservaciones@takalik.com; http://www.takalik.com