description Maya Biosphere Reserve Overview
The Maya Biosphere Reserve, established in 1990, is Guatemala's largest protected area, covering over 2 million hectares in the Petén region of northern Guatemala. It forms part of the larger Maya Forest shared with Mexico and Belize, protecting extensive lowland tropical rainforest and seasonal wetlands. The reserve contains major Classic-period Maya archaeological sites including Tikal, El Mirador, Nakbe, and Uaxactún. It is divided into core zones (national parks and biotopes), multiple-use zones for sustainable forestry, and buffer zones.
help Maya Biosphere Reserve FAQ
How large is the Maya Biosphere Reserve?
Established in 1990, the reserve covers over 2 million hectares in the Petén region of northern Guatemala. It is the largest protected area in the country and forms a crucial part of the tri-national Maya Forest.
What ancient ruins are found in the Maya Biosphere Reserve?
The reserve contains some of the most significant archaeological sites of the ancient Maya civilization, including the sprawling ancient city of Tikal. Other major ruins located within the park boundaries include El Mirador, Uaxactun, and Nakbe.
What countries does the larger Maya Forest span?
The larger Maya Forest ecosystem, of which the reserve is a part, stretches across Guatemala, Mexico, and Belize. This interconnected rainforest represents one of the largest remaining tropical forests in the Americas.
What are the main threats to the Maya Biosphere Reserve?
The park faces severe ongoing threats from illegal cattle ranching, logging, and agricultural expansion driven by human settlement. In response, Guatemalan authorities have implemented community forest concessions that allow local residents to manage and protect designated areas.
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