Travel Guide Parque Nacional Laguna Lachuá

This national park, created in 1976, lies some 70 km west of Chisec. Its name, Lachuá, is derived from the words q'eqchi' li chu ha, meaning "foul water". The reason: the sulphuric odour emanating from the large circular lake at its center. It's also a complex water system, linked to the Chixoy river, with a maximum depth of 222 m.Covered by an impressive tropical forest, the 145 km² of land are home to an ecosystem of rare diversity, including tapirs, jaguars and pumas. In all, there are 220 plant species and 210 species of mammals and birds.As well as being protected, the area has been declared a Wetland of International Importance by the Ramsar Convention. A small paradise of rare beauty, whose crystal-clear waters are just one of the reasons to make a detour. Walking along the beautiful, peaceful paths, swimming, picnicking and observing the flora and fauna are just some of the activities on offer.