Guatemala has some of the richest diversity in bird species in the world. The highlands around Lake Atitlan are home to many exotic varieties of birds. Probably the best place to see a huge array of birds, not to mention unspoiled wilderness, is at Los Tarrales Reserve (located on the Pacific slope of Toliman Volcano) http://www.tarrales.com .

The reserve covers an immense area ranging from 2460 to 11,483 feet above sea level. To date, more than 330 bird species have been recorded in the reserve, including the Horned Guan, King Vulture and a wide variety of tropical bird species such as Toucans, Parakeets, etc.

A day trip to the reserve can be organized in a private shuttle at a cost of approximately $100.00 for the roundtrip transportation (approximately one hour fifteen minutes), plus the cost to hire a very knowledgeable bird guide. It is important to get an early start to see the greatest number of birds. I recommend leaving the
house no later than 7:00a.m.