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Patuca National Park

The Patuca National Park which is located in the east of Honduras covers 2,200 km2. One of the newest National Parks in Honduras. Patuca National Park, Rio Platano Biosphere and The Tawanka Reserve form the largest tropical rain forest remaining intact in Central America it extends from northern Honduras into Nicaragua, covering an area of about 12,000km2 comparable to ¼ the size of Switzerland.

The Central American land bridge, although representing a mere 1% of the earth's surface, harbours 10% of the plant and animal species known to man today. Migrating flora and fauna from both the northern and the southern hemispheres contributed to this rich biodiversity found in the region.

Patuca National Park mostly consists of tropical rainforest. Tropical rainforests are broadleaf forests situated in the tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Tropical rainforests are highly endangered habitats all over the world.Tropical rainforests have the highest biodiversity of all habitats on earth, being home to millions of different and many still undiscovered species. The genetic pool is one of the most important natural resources present on earth, winning more value every day due to the advancing biotechnology. Scientists have found on one hectare of rainforest some 200 different tree and shrub species. On one big rainforest tree biologists counted 54 species of ants, more than in the whole of England.

One of the secrets of the biodiversity of tropical rainforests is the appearance of a vertical organization of species. Up to five different levels of plants, including the forest canopy, are found. Each level is formed by specific species, and is populated by different animals
Patuca National Park is of great importance for many endangered species with wide-ranging territorial needs such as the tapir, the jaguar and the giant anteater. Here is one of the last strong holds in Honduras of these species and many more. This area is going to play an important part in there survival in the region. Toucans, red and green macaws, pink herons and other exotic and beautiful birds such as the king vulture and the harpy eagle also enrich this rich forest.

Visiting the Rio Patuca area is an unforgetable experience. The park is very remote and hard to access. It can be visited independantly, but the best obition is to travel with a tour operator. At the moment Mesoamerica Travel is the only tour operator running tours into this wonderful area.

The natural resources of the Patuca National Park are under pressure, from logging of the areas valueable timber, from settlers using slash and burn agriculture and the expansion of cattle farming in the region. Also as the local populations grow, more and more alternative, sustanible sources of income are needed. Eco Tourism is such an alternative. By visiting the national park you are contributing to the local economy, this is very important.

By visiting this area you play an important role, you are helping to protect and save this unique and beatiuful area and all the species that live here.

For tours check out our private tours.