Biotopo Protegido Chocón Machacas: A Sanctuary for Manatees
Discover the natural beauty of Guatemala at Biotopo Protegido Chocón Machacas, a vital sanctuary for the endangered manatee and diverse wildlife.
The Biotopo Protegido Chocón Machacas is a protected area in Livingston, Izabal, Guatemala, established in 1989 to safeguard the endangered manatee and the region's diverse flora and fauna. This tropical wetland encompasses rivers, lakes, and channels, offering a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Guatemala's diverse ecosystems.
A brief summary to Biotopo Protegido Chocón Machacas
- CA13, GT
- +50273310904
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best chances of spotting wildlife and enjoying cooler temperatures.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water for exploring the trails.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your experience and learn more about the flora and fauna.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the biotope is home to a wide variety of bird species.
Getting There
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Boat
From Livingston, head to the main dock near the central park. Look for local boats offering services to destinations along Río Dulce. Inquire about boats heading specifically to Biotopo Chocón Machacas, as not all boats go directly there. Negotiate the fare and confirm the departure time. The boat ride takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on water conditions. Expect to pay around Q150-Q250 for a round trip, but prices may vary depending on the boat and negotiation.
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Hiking
After arriving at the nearest dock to Biotopo Chocón Machacas, follow the signs for the hiking trail leading into the biotope. The entrance is marked, and it's advisable to hire a local guide for the best experience. The trail is well-maintained and offers views of the surrounding wildlife. It takes about 1-2 hours to reach the main attractions within the biotope, depending on your pace. There may be a small entrance fee of Q8-Q24.
Discover more about Biotopo Protegido Chocón Machacas
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tenamit Maya
3.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and nature at Tenamit Maya, an eco-friendly hotel and restaurant in the heart of Izabal, Guatemala.
Finca Tatin Hotel
5.3 km
Discover the enchanting Finca Tatin Hotel in Livingston, a perfect blend of eco-friendly accommodations and breathtaking natural beauty.
Hotelito Perdido
5.4 km
Experience the serene beauty of Hotelito Perdido, a tranquil hotel along the enchanting Rio Dulce in Guatemala, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
The Round House Hotel
6.2 km
Discover tranquility and warm hospitality at The Round House Hotel, your perfect base for exploring the vibrant culture of Livingston, Guatemala.
Rio Dulce
8.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of Rio Dulce, a captivating river that connects Lake Izabal to the Caribbean Sea in Guatemala.
Nirvana Resort
11.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Nirvana Resort, a tropical sanctuary in Livingston, Guatemala, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Casa De La Iguana
11.1 km
Experience authentic Caribbean hospitality at Casa De La Iguana, the budget-friendly hotel and hostel in Livingston, Guatemala.
Hotel Casa Rosada
11.2 km
Discover the serene charm of Hotel Casa Rosada, your perfect getaway in Livingston, Guatemala, blending comfort with vibrant local culture.
Rasta Mesa
11.2 km
Discover the rich culinary heritage of Guatemala at Rasta Mesa, a must-visit restaurant in the heart of Livingston, offering delicious local dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.
Hotel and Restaurant Casa Nostra
11.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Guatemala at Hotel and Restaurant Casa Nostra, where local cuisine meets warm hospitality in the heart of Livingston.
Livingston Resort Hotel
11.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Livingston Resort Hotel, nestled on Playa Paris in Guatemala's beautiful Caribbean coast.
Buga Mama
11.6 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Livingston at Buga Mama, a culinary gem with a diverse menu and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Happy Fish Travel
11.6 km
Discover the beauty of Guatemala with Happy Fish Travel, your local travel agency in Livingston offering personalized tours and expert guidance.
Hotel Villa Caribe
11.7 km
Discover the charm and beauty of Hotel Villa Caribe in Livingston, Guatemala, a serene escape with stunning Caribbean views and rich local culture.
Labuga Beauty Salon
11.8 km
Discover the essence of relaxation at Labuga Beauty Salon in Livingston, where beauty meets local charm for an unforgettable pampering experience.
Unmissable attractions to see
Playa Blanca
8.8 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Playa Blanca, a hidden gem in Guatemala's Caribbean coastline, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Siete Altares
10.2 km
Discover Siete Altares near Livingston: a stunning series of jungle waterfalls and natural pools perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Nacional Rio Dulce National Park
19.8 km
Discover the enchanting beauty and wildlife of Nacional Rio Dulce National Park in Guatemala, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Monkey Bay Marina / Rio Dulce / Izabal / Guatemala
20.1 km
A secluded marina on the Rio Dulce, Guatemala, offering tranquility, security, and a strong sense of community for boaters and nature lovers.
Parque Nacional El Relleno
21.4 km
Discover the natural beauty of Río Dulce at El Relleno National Park, a gateway to Guatemala's aquatic ecosystems and lush landscapes.
Puente de Río Dulce
21.4 km
Explore the stunning Puente de Río Dulce, an architectural marvel in Guatemala that offers breathtaking views and rich cultural experiences.
Monumento Al Pescador, Rio Dulce
21.4 km
A tribute to the heart of Rio Dulce, honoring the local fishermen and their vital connection to this vibrant waterway.
Punta de Palma
22.3 km
Discover Punta de Palma: A beautiful white-sand beach near Puerto Barrios with calm waters, perfect for families, relaxation, and stunning sunsets.
Castillo de San Felipe de Lara
22.5 km
Explore Castillo de San Felipe de Lara, a historic castle on the banks of Río Dulce, where history meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Sendero de bosque tropical Las Escobas
24.6 km
Explore the lush beauty of Sendero de Bosque Tropical Las Escobas, a tranquil tropical forest trail in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala, perfect for nature lovers.
Ensenada Verde
25.5 km
Discover Ensenada Verde, a hidden Caribbean treasure in Guatemala, where tropical rainforest meets the sea, offering kayaking, hiking, and serene beauty.
La Piedrona
26.1 km
Hike to La Piedrona for stunning panoramic views of Puerto Barrios and Santo Tomás de Castilla. A challenging climb with a rewarding vista.
Grutas el Encanto
26.8 km
Explore the enchanting depths of Grutas El Encanto, a subterranean adventure in Río Dulce, Guatemala.
Muelle Municipal
27.0 km
Experience the vibrant Garifuna culture and stunning Caribbean views at Puerto Barrios' bustling waterfront pier.
Parque Reina Barrios
27.7 km
Experience tranquility in the heart of Puerto Barrios at Parque Reina Barrios, a green oasis for relaxation and local culture.
Essential places to dine
Rest. La isla escondida
2.3 km
Discover Rest. La Isla Escondida in Livingston - where authentic Guatemalan flavors meet Caribbean charm in a vibrant dining atmosphere.
Tapados
2.8 km
Discover Tapados: A Culinary Gem in Guatemala Serving Authentic Traditional Dishes That Delight Every Palate.
Paréntesis
3.0 km
Discover exquisite local cuisine amidst stunning lakeside views at Paréntesis in Lake El Golfete, Guatemala.
Mini Mike's Juke joint restaurant
3.1 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan flavors at Mini Mike's Juke Joint Restaurant in El Higuerito – where food meets vibrant local culture.
Restaurante Cañón Del Río
3.5 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at Restaurante Cañón Del Río in Livingston.
Restaurante El Viajero
5.4 km
Discover the authentic taste of Guatemala at Restaurante El Viajero in Livingston – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante El pelicano
10.5 km
Discover authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Restaurante El Pelicano - where fresh seafood meets breathtaking views.
Restaurante and Suites Bahia Azul Playa
10.5 km
Experience the flavors of Guatemala at Restaurante and Suites Bahia Azul Playa on stunning Playa Quehueche - where culinary delight meets breathtaking views.
Hotel Salvador Gaviota
10.5 km
Discover comfort and local flavor at Hotel Salvador Gaviota – your perfect beachfront getaway in Lívingston, Guatemala.
Hotel y Restaurant Happy Fish
10.9 km
Discover authentic Guatemalan cuisine at Hotel y Restaurant Happy Fish, where stunning sea views meet delicious local flavors in Livingston.
Restaurante Casa Rosada
11.2 km
Experience the essence of Guatemalan cuisine at Restaurante Casa Rosada in Livingston - where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante y Churrasqueria Chusin
11.4 km
Discover exquisite Guatemalan barbecue and fresh seafood at Restaurante y Churrasqueria Chusin in scenic Rio Dulce.
restaurant Gaby
11.4 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan flavors at Restaurant Gaby in Livingston – where every meal tells a story.
Tierra Morena
11.5 km
Discover authentic Guatemalan flavors at Tierra Morena in Livingston - a must-visit restaurant for every traveler seeking culinary delight.
Mama Norma's Rice and Beans
11.6 km
Experience authentic Guatemalan flavors at Mama Norma's Rice and Beans in Livingston - a culinary gem for every traveler.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Venta de artesanías Bombil Pec'
6.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of Guatemalan craftsmanship at Venta de Artesanías Bombil Pec', a unique store in Livingston offering authentic handmade treasures.
Variedades Moniquita
6.9 km
Explore Variedades Moniquita in Livingston for unique local crafts and authentic Guatemalan products that reflect the region's vibrant culture.
Multiventas Tienda Maria Comcepcion
8.4 km
Explore authentic Guatemalan culture and find unique souvenirs at Multiventas Tienda Maria Concepcion in Livingston.
Vuelve mujer
9.4 km
Experience the warm ambiance and delightful local flavors at Vuelve Mujer, the perfect coffee shop in Livingston, Guatemala.
Multi negocios LA
10.3 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Guatemala at Multi Negocios LA, a cozy coffee shop in Livingston offering local treats and warm hospitality.
Tienda Esmeralda
10.5 km
Experience local flavors at Tienda Esmeralda, a charming grocery store in Livingston, Guatemala, offering fresh produce and unique local products.
Comercial Melissa, livigston, izabal
10.7 km
Discover unique local goods and vibrant culture at Comercial Melissa in Livingston, the heart of Izabal, Guatemala.
Tienda Las Fuentes
11.2 km
Experience local culture and delicious empanadas at Tienda Las Fuentes, the charming general store in Livingston.
El toque
11.4 km
Discover a unique blend of organic products and local crafts at El Toque, your go-to natural goods store in Livingston, Guatemala.
Tienda y Variedades Bellos Horizontes
11.4 km
Explore Tienda y Variedades Bellos Horizontes in Livingston for local crafts, unique souvenirs, and a taste of authentic Guatemalan culture.
Mejor tapado
11.4 km
Experience the essence of Guatemalan coffee culture at Mejor Tapado, a cozy coffee shop in the heart of Livingston, perfect for relaxation and local flavors.
Maestro del saber
11.4 km
Discover exquisite linens at Maestro del Saber, where vibrant designs meet local craftsmanship in the heart of Livingston, Guatemala.
Super 24 Rio Dulce
11.4 km
Experience the essence of Guatemala at Super 24 Rio Dulce, where local flavors and international products come together for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Tienda Felix
11.4 km
Discover the essence of Guatemalan craftsmanship at Tienda Felix in Livingston, where every item tells a story and connects you to the local culture.
Ferreteria Moderna
11.4 km
Explore Ferreteria Moderna in Livingston for all your hardware needs, offering a vast selection of tools and materials for every project.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bahía azul, playa quehueche
10.5 km
Experience the stunning beauty and tranquility of Bahía Azul, Playa Quehueche, a perfect beachside escape in Livingston, Guatemala.
BAR TERAPIA
11.1 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at Bar Terapia, Livingston's premier bar for relaxation and socializing.
Bar & Ref. Ak- Alessitho
11.4 km
Discover the lively spirit of Livingston at Bar & Ref. Ak- Alessitho, where refreshing drinks and vibrant culture meet.
Bar La Primavera
11.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Livingston at Bar La Primavera, a local gem offering refreshing drinks and lively entertainment.
Donde Látigo
11.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Livingston at Donde Látigo, a lively bar known for its local drinks and welcoming atmosphere.
Chillout
11.7 km
Discover tranquility at Chillout, a cozy bar in Livingston offering refreshing drinks and local flavors for an unforgettable experience.
X-Tasis, La Playa
11.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of X-Tasis in Livingston: a beach bar offering stunning views, refreshing cocktails, and a taste of local culture.
Bar Beluba Neruba
11.9 km
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Livingston at Bar Beluba Neruba, where refreshing drinks and local culture come alive.
Hotel Catamaran
19.8 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and nature at Hotel Catamaran, your serene escape on the enchanting shores of Río Dulce.
Mar Marine Yacht Club
21.3 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Mar Marine Yacht Club, nestled along the beautiful Rio Dulce in Guatemala.
Hotel y Restaurante Backpackers
21.3 km
Explore the beauty of Río Dulce at Hotel y Restaurante Backpackers, a perfect blend of comfort, cuisine, and local culture.
Cabaña
21.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cabaña in Río Dulce, where refreshing drinks and stunning views create unforgettable moments.
Discoteca Dulce Club
21.5 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Río Dulce at Discoteca Dulce Club, where music and fun come together to create unforgettable experiences.
Seafood Don Elia's
21.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Seafood Don Elia's, the ultimate bar experience in Río Dulce, featuring fresh seafood and local culture.
La consentida
23.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local charm of La Consentida, a must-visit bar in the heart of Río Dulce offering creative cocktails and stunning views.
