Rio Dulce National Park, Natural reserve in Izabal Department, Guatemala
Rio Dulce National Park is a protected nature reserve along the Dulce River in Izabal, featuring thick tropical rainforest, mangrove swamps, and tall limestone rock faces. The park spreads across both river and forest environments, creating varied ecosystems where water and land habitats meet.
The area served as a colonial defense point where the fortress Castillo de San Felipe de Lara was built to protect shipping lanes from pirate attacks. This fortification played a strategic role in safeguarding trade in the Caribbean during the colonial period.
Local Q'eqchi' Maya communities continue to use traditional dugout canoes for daily transportation across the river and lake waters. These wooden boats remain a common sight as fishermen and residents go about their routines on the water.
The best way to explore the area is by boat, since the river and water passages form the main routes through the park's different landscapes. The dry season from November to April offers better conditions for outdoor activities and easier navigation.
A unique section called El Golfete functions as a natural lake within the park where manatees live in protected waters. This area was set aside specifically to safeguard these rare aquatic mammals and offers one of the few chances to see them in their natural habitat.
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