Biotopo del Quetzal: A Cloud Forest Sanctuary
Discover Guatemala's cloud forest at Biotopo del Quetzal, a sanctuary for the Resplendent Quetzal and diverse wildlife.
Biotopo del Quetzal, officially named Biotopo Mario Dary Rivera, is a protected nature reserve in Guatemala's Baja Verapaz region. Established in 1976, it safeguards the cloud forest habitat of the Resplendent Quetzal, Guatemala's national bird, along with a rich array of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails, discover waterfalls, and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of this ecological treasure.
A brief summary to Biotopo del Quetzal
- CA14 kilometro 160, Purulha, GT
- +50253336947
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best chance to spot the Resplendent Quetzal.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking on potentially steep and uneven trails.
- Bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be prevalent.
- Carry cash for entrance fees and any purchases at the visitor center.
- Pack a swimsuit to enjoy a refreshing dip in the waterfall along the trails.
Getting There
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Bus
From Guatemala City or Cobán, take a bus along Highway CA14. Buses from Guatemala City to Cobán, operated by Transportes Monja Blanca, pass by the Biotopo del Quetzal. From Cobán, buses towards Guatemala City will also stop at the Biotopo. The journey from Cobán takes approximately 1 hour. From the bus stop on the highway, the entrance to Biotopo del Quetzal is a short walk. Typical bus fare from Cobán to Biotopo del Quetzal is approximately Q15-Q20.
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Car
Biotopo del Quetzal is located directly on Highway CA14, approximately 160 kilometers from Guatemala City. The drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. From Cobán, the Biotopo is about an hour's drive. Parking is available at the entrance to the reserve, right off the highway. Note: There may be a small parking fee.
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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ramtzul Resort
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Posada Montaña Del Quetzal
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Pilón las verapaces
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Balneario Las Azufradas
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Infantil Park
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La Granja
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Chijul, Guatemala
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Hotel y Restaurante Ecocentro Holanda, Santa Cruz A.V.
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Verapaseando
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Tierra colorada "el muro"
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Distribuidora Agrícola Las Verapaces
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Muqb'ilb'e Spanish School
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Casa Duranta
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La Abadia
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Departamentos las verapaces
33.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ranchitos del Quetzal
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Cueva de Chicoy
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Salto de Chilascó
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Salama "Miguel Ángel Asturias" Central Park
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Regional Museum Trapiche
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Eco Centro Las Hortensias
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Grutas del Rey Marcos
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Reserva Chelemhá
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San Juan Chamelco Central Park
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Tulán Santa Cruz Verapaz Park
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Balneario El Manantial
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Parque Central Carcha
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El Petencito
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Orquigonia
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Parque Central La Paz Cobán
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Essential places to dine
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La Terraza de Pacha
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Casa Mokcar
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La Casa de los Caldos
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Parrillada Casa Benítez
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Restaurante y Pizzería Doña Naty
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El Caldazo
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Manakanaw
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Restaurante La Cabaña de Don Pedro
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Trattoria di NICOLA
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Hotel Panisté
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Restaurante Artesa Cobán A. V.
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THE VAGÓN
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Hacienda Don Rafa
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Casa D'Acuna
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Variedades Crysthel
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TIENDA ARLETH
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Centro Gran Carchá
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EL PORTAL D'ALVAREZ BOUTIQUE COBÁN
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Supermercado La Torre Guastatoya
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Antho's Store
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El cevichito de Rocla
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Dónde Aquellos beer club.
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Club Cervecero O´ndel Tequila
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La Casa Del Mojito
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TITANIC, COBAN
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Dogs Singles Bar y Restaurante
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MAL TRAGO
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La Curva del Gordo
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Bar El Gran Brandy
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La Tasca Resto Bar
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