Iguana Research & Breeding Station

Utila


Up the hill from the town center, this great place studies and protects the highly endangered Utila iguana (Ctenosaura bakeri), which is known locally as 'the swamper.' Visitors get to see plenty of these fascinating, spiny-tailed critters. Four excellent naturalist-themed tours (L240 to L400) to bat caves and beyond are offered; there are volunteer opportunities available as well.

Be sure to check out Swampy, the station's first and oldest male in a large enclosure at the back of the center, whose penis fell off from mating with too many females. Thanks to him the scientists know to take it easier on future breeders so that they don't encounter the same stubby fate.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Utila attractions

1. Whale Shark & Oceanic Research Center

0.42 MILES

This center studies whale sharks and monitors the coral reef. It offers regular snorkeling trips to track down whale sharks and spear invasive lion fish…

2. Bando Beach

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Utila Town's privately run beach is a small strip of white sand, a few lounge chairs, some shady palms and a lively bar. You can take a dip here, but the…

3. Parque Swinford

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Parque Swinford is a lush, tropical botanical oasis in the heart of La Ceiba, complete with a restored train carriage from the area’s railway heyday.

4. Catedral de San Isidro

23.14 MILES

The city's most recognizable building, this imposing structure on the Parque Central dates from the early 20th century.

5. Carambola Botanical Gardens

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These wonderful botanical gardens have well-maintained trails through 40 acres of protected forest, extending up a hillside known as Carambola Mountain…

6. Cascada Zacate

29.7 MILES

The park’s first trail is still a favorite, with a moderately difficult three-hour hike to Cascada Zacate. You’ll hear the falls before you see them; they…