Monterrico Sights

  1. Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii

    Sometimes called the Reserva Natural Monterrico, Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii is administered by Cecon (Centro de Estudios Conservacionistas de la Universidad de San Carlos)and is Monterrico's biggest attraction. This 20km-long nature reserve of coast and coastal mangrove swamps is bursting with avian and aquatic life. Its most famous denizens are the endangered leatherback and ridley turtles, who lay their eggs on the beach in many places along the coast.

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  2. Parque Hawaii

    Parque Hawaii, a nature reserve operated by Arcas (Asociación de Rescate y Conservación de Vida Silvestre, Wildlife Rescue & Conservation Association; www.arcasguatemala.com) comprises a sea-turtle hatchery with some caimans 8km east along the beach from Monterrico. It is separate from and rivals Cecon's work in the same field. Volunteers are welcome year-round, but the real sea turtle nesting season is from June to November, with August and September being the peak months.

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  3. Tortugario Monterrico

    The Tortugario Monterrico, run by Cecon (Centro de Estudios Conservacionistas de la Universidad de San Carlos), is just a short walk east down the beach from the end of Calle Principal and then a block inland. Several endangered species of animals are raised here, including leatherback, olive ridley and green sea turtles, caimans and iguanas. The staff offer lagoon trips in the Biotopo Monterrico-Hawaii, and will accept volunteers.

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