Located in El Remate on the lakeshore road, 2 km from La Casa De Don David, is the Biotopo Cerro Cahui natural reserve.  Established for scientific studies by CECON (Centro de Estudios Conservacionistas) of the Universidad de San Carlos, Guatemala, the tropical rainforest reserve covers 650 hectares. Visitors often see howler and spider monkeys, many varieties of birds, exotic insects and butterflies. There are two lookout points or "miradores" with spectacular views of Lake Peten Itza and the neighboring lakes of Macanché and Sal Petén. The park has two well-maintained trails: the shorter is Sac o' ox, with a length of 4.4 km (2.75 mi) and estimated walking time of 1 hr 30 min. The longer and better trail is Los Escobos, with a length of 6 km (3.75 mi) and walking time 2 hrs 20 min. Los Escobos trail passes through pristine jungle, and it's best to take your time for a better chance of observing wildlife. Park hours are 6:30 am to 4:00 pm everyday. Entrance fee is $3.50. Professional birdwatching guides can be arranged for $40-75, just ask at the hotel.

The dock across from the park entrance is a popular swimming and picnic area. Park entrance fee is not charged for swimming and use of picnic area.

Keeping the rainforest of northern Guatemala protected and sustainable has been a difficult process over the years. Tikal National Park and the Biotopo Cerro Cahui are among some of the few successful efforts, along with other parks and reserves in various parts of Guatemala. The increase in tourism is providing an alternative to the ever-present slash-and-burn agriculture, with more and more tours and services operated by local residents, along with wood carving efforts in El Remate.

Cahuí means "giant crocodile" in Maya language. When looking at it across the lake, the mountain (cerro) gives the appearance of a crocodile swimming into the lake.

BIRDWATCHING

Cerro Cahui



Lake view from Cerro Cahuí




Toucanet



Aguti