Laguna del Tigre National Park covers 337,899 hectares, making it not only the largest Core Zone in the Maya Biosphere Reserve (MBR) but also the largest national park in Guatemala. Located in the northwest of the MBR, this park encompasses 13 of the 16 ecosystems represented within the reserve. Its extensive wetlands earned it Ramsar Site designation in 1990, recognizing it as the largest freshwater wetland in Mesoamerica and a crucial area for the conservation of iconic and endangered species such as the Scarlet Macaw (Ara macao cyanoptera), which nests in key areas like El Perú and Peñón de Buena Vista.
A Hub of Biodiversity
Laguna del Tigre is a core of biodiversity within the MBR, with ecosystems that range from tall forests and floodable savannas to Guatemala’s largest freshwater wetland complex. The park is home to over 278 plant species, including the timbal (Bambusa longifolia) in the savannas and oak remnants (Quercus oleoides) in the southeastern region. The park’s diverse fauna includes 219 bird species, 120 mammal species—including jaguars (Panthera onca) and Baird's tapir (Tapirus bairdii)—along with 20 amphibian and 38 reptile species. The Morelet's crocodile (Crocodylus moreletii) can be found in its waters, along with a rich variety of fish species, further underscoring the park’s ecological value.
Cultural Importance of El Perú
El Perú is not only a vital nesting ground for the Scarlet Macaw and the Central American river turtle (Dermatemys mawii) but also hosts the archaeological site Perú-Waka’, an ancient Maya city from the Classic period. Its strategic position along a river network once linked western Petén with the Usumacinta River, making Perú-Waka’ a central player in the power struggles between the Maya kingdoms of Tikal and Calakmul, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.
Conservation Challenges
Despite its significance, Laguna del Tigre National Park faces critical conservation challenges. Deforestation, wildfires, the expansion of extensive cattle ranching, and unregulated oil activities have accelerated forest loss. Road construction driven by oil exploration has further facilitated the entry of new families and the establishment of settlements, particularly in the park’s central region, where rapid changes in forest cover are evident.
Since the 1970s, the park has experienced increased human settlement, largely driven by agricultural and cattle-raising activities. While cooperation agreements with local communities have been signed to stabilize agricultural frontiers, illegal occupation remains a persistent challenge, especially in the central areas of the park and in surrounding zones like Paso Caballos and Santa Amelia. This population growth and the expansion of cattle ranching have resulted in significant deforestation and habitat degradation.
Despite these challenges, Laguna del Tigre remains a critical ecosystem within the Maya Biosphere Reserve (MBR), valued for both its biodiversity and cultural significance. The implementation of state policies aimed at relocating large-scale illegal settlers and providing sustainable alternatives for the most vulnerable communities will be essential to securing the park's future. With proper protection and steadfast commitment, Laguna del Tigre has the potential to restore its ecosystems and safeguard its invaluable natural and cultural heritage for future generations.