Maya Biosphere Reserve

The Maya Biosphere Reserve spreads across much of northern Petén and includes dense rainforest, wetlands, rivers, and lakes. The landscape shows a mix of tall trees, vines, and palms, crisscrossed by waterways and open clearings.

Guatemala established this reserve in 1990 to protect the rainforest and the archaeological sites within it. The decision followed international efforts to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of Central America.

The inhabitants gather chicle from sapodilla trees and harvest timber according to rules that protect the forest from damage. These practices connect families to the land across generations and help prevent the rainforest from disappearing.

The reserve divides into core zones without human settlement and buffer zones where limited use is allowed. Visitors reach different sections by road and trail, with conditions varying depending on the season.

Researchers discovered around 60,000 previously unknown Maya structures beneath the forest canopy using lidar technology in 2018. The findings show the region was once more densely populated than previously thought.