The Maya Biosphere Reserve is a significant protected area in northern Guatemala, covering over 2.1 million hectares, which makes it one of the largest ecological reserves in the world. Established in 1990, the reserve spans across several departments including Petén, Alta Verapaz, and Izabal, and it is part of the larger Maya Forest Corridor which also includes parts of Mexico and Belize.
The idea for the reserve was born from the need to conserve the vast biodiversity and cultural heritage of the region, which includes remnants of the Maya Civilization. The establishment of the reserve was also influenced by international conservation efforts and the recognition of the ecological importance of the area. It was legally created through Government Agreement No. 755-90, aiming to protect the last large expanse of tropical forest in Central America.
The reserve encompasses several distinct ecosystems, from the lowland rainforests to wetlands and pine savannahs. It is home to a wide array of species, including:
The area is also crucial for the survival of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, providing a continuous habitat for wildlife and facilitating species migration.
The Maya Biosphere Reserve is not only an ecological treasure but also a cultural one, containing numerous archaeological sites that reflect the historical presence of the Maya Civilization. Notable sites within or near the reserve include:
Conservation within the reserve involves:
The reserve is managed by the Consejo Nacional de Áreas Protegidas (CONAP) with support from various NGOs, international organizations, and local communities.
Despite its protected status, the Maya Biosphere Reserve faces several threats: