Guatemala /Mar 04, 2026
Nestled in the cool, misty mountains of central Guatemala, the Biotopo del Quetzal is a breathtaking sanctuary where nature thrives in its purest form.
Officially known as the Biotopo Mario Dary Rivera, this protected cloud forest was established in 1976 to preserve the fragile habitat of Guatemala’s national bird, the resplendent quetzal. Today, it remains one of the country’s most rewarding destinations for eco-travellers and bird enthusiasts alike.
Located near the town of Purulhá, the reserve covers more than 1,000 hectares of mountainous terrain. At elevations ranging from approximately 1,500 to 2,300 meters above sea level, the forest is often wrapped in a mystical veil of fog.
Moss drapes from ancient trees, orchids cling to branches, and the air feels cool and fresh year-round. This unique ecosystem supports an incredible variety of wildlife, from colourful toucans and hummingbirds to monkeys, wild cats and countless amphibians.
The biotope features well-maintained hiking trails that allow visitors to explore its lush landscape at their own pace. Gentle paths wind through dense vegetation, leading to scenic viewpoints, rushing streams and small waterfalls.
The Sendero Los Helechos (Fern Trail) is 1800 metres long while the Sendero Los Musgos (Moss Trail) is 3600 metres in length.
Also worth seeking out is the famous iXiu Gua Li Che (Grandfather Tree), which is over 450 years old.
While the reserve is indeed home to the quetzal, please note that sightings of these shy birds are still rare. To improve your chances, it is best to try to visit the Biotopo del Quetzal between January and June.
This partly coincides with the best time of year to visit Guatemala in general, broadly speaking from November through April.
Early mornings offer the best chance to glimpse the elusive quetzal gliding silently between the trees; a truly unforgettable sight for the lucky ones.
The visitor centre includes a small shop serving drinks and snacks as well as loos.
In terms of accommodation, our recommended hotel for clients is the nearby Hotel Ram Tzul. The hotel is, itself, a private nature reserve covering some 200 hectares of forest and part of the cloud forest corridor.
With regards to visiting the reserve, Beyond The Ordinary specialise in private tours of Guatemala with experienced, English-speaking Driver / Guides.
All our Guatemala itineraries are tailor made to clients’ personal requirements and, as such, there are countless ways in which clients can include the Biotopo del Quetzal in their holiday.
This classic Guatemala itinerary starts in the Highland region, taking in Antigua, Chichicastenango & Lake Atitlan amongst others before heading north via Quirigua, Livingston & Rio Dulce to the vast flatlands of Peten, home to the great Mayan cities of Tikal & Yaxha.
This brief itinerary around the highlands of Guatemala takes in the key destinations of Antigua, Chichicastenango & Lake Atitlan together with some lesser known ones such as the Mayan ruins of Iximche and the city of Quetzaltenango.
This brief, one week private tour includes many of the highlights of any holiday to Guatemala - colonial Antigua, Mt Pacaya volcano, Iximche Mayan ruins, beautiful Lake Atitlan and colourful Chichicastenango market.
The Quetzal is part of the Trogon family and is the national bird of Guatemala. It is found both on the country’s flag and coat of arms as well as lending its name to the national currency.
Ixpanpajul Natural Park is less than 30 minutes’ drive from Flores and is probably best described as an eco-adventure park.
The Atitlan Nature Reserve (Reserva Natural Atitlan) tucked into the lush highlands of Guatemala near the shores…
When making your travel arrangements, we understand just how important peace-of-mind is. Beyond The Ordinary hold both ATOL & ABTOT bonds so whether you book your flights through us, or independently, any money you pay us is 100% protected. More detailed information on Financial Protection can be found by clicking here.
Whichever of our featured countries you wish to visit, we've been there several times. So, if you're after something beyond the ordinary to Cuba, Nicaragua, Guatemala or the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, we'd love to hear from you.
