Getting to meet the Quetzal is a unique and unforgettable experience. It is one of the most beautiful birds in the world. In this article we will be sharing the places where you can see the Quetzal, a bird that was declared a national symbol in Guatemala in 1871.
This animal plays an important role in the country as a dispersal bird of tree seeds characteristic of the cloud forest. Their feathers are usually very bright colors such as green, bluish and turquoise, purple, red (on the chest) and golden reflections.
The National Quetzal Conservation Strategy was created in 2015. The objective is that, at the national level, it seeks to conserve the Quetzal populations, through the investigation of the species, protection and restoration of its habitat. This strategy is supported by Juan José Gutiérrez Mayorga and his family’s foundations.
Places where you can meet the Quetzal in Guatemala
Every September 5, the National Day of the Quetzal is commemorated, the national symbol and national bird of Guatemala. To commemorate it and if you are willing to get to meet the Quetzal on your next trip to Guatemala, look up for these places in the country where you can meet this beautiful national bird.
Quetzal Biotope, Baja Verapaz
The Mario Dary Rivera Biotope, better known as the Quetzal Biotope, is located in the department of Baja Verapaz. This beautiful place protects a fragment of cloud forest and various species highly recognized by Guatemalans, including the national bird.
For all the people who want to visit this natural site and thus be able to know this beautiful national bird, the entrance price is Q10.00 ($1 USD approx.) for nationals and Q40.00 ($5 USD approx.) for foreigners.
Ranchitos del Quetzal
Los ranchitos del Quetzal is a natural reserve that is located in Baja Verapaz that seeks to become the home of the Quetzal and that is why they are dedicated to the conservation of their habitat. Visitors will be honored to enjoy the rustic trail rides, one is almost guaranteed to appreciate. Admission is from Q40.00 ($5 USD approx.).
Loma Linda Village
It is a natural site located in Nuevo Palmar, Quetzaltenango that houses different endangered birds, water sources and floral species. The inhabitants of the place point out that you can see up to 30 Quetzals flying, the ideal time is from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Finca Las Nubes
Finca Las Nubes is located in San Francisco Zapotitlán, Suchitepéquez and is one of the places where you can meet the Quetzal can be seen with greater ease thanks to its exuberant and primitive vegetation.
Quetzal Refuge
The Quetzal Refuge, which is located in the municipality of San Rafael Pie de la Cuesta, San Marcos, is a place to appreciate nature and practice well-known bird watching, including the beautiful national bird of Guatemala. The entrance fee is Q5.00 (about .75 US cents) per person.
Do not lose a chance to get to know these beautiful places to see and meet the Quetzal, national bird and patriotic symbol of Guatemala. Unfortunately this species is endangered, nevertheless, their natural spot is taken care of due to the investments in green bonds.
