Bocas del Polochic

The Polochic river enters Lake Izabal through a delta of channels, swamp forest, reedbeds and lagoons, and the reserve protecting it is one of the more important wetlands in the country. Boats from El Estor go into the channels, where howler monkeys are reliable in the trees along the water, and where more than three hundred bird species have been recorded, including herons, jacanas, kingfishers and the migrants that use the lake in the northern winter. West Indian manatees live in the lake and the river mouth, though they are seldom seen. Crocodiles are present. Trips run early in the morning, when the wildlife is active and the water is flat.

What you actually see

• Howler monkeys along the channels - troops in the trees over the water.
• Over three hundred bird species - the wetland list of the delta.
• Manatees in the river mouth - present but rarely seen.
• Channels through swamp forest - the boat routes into the delta.

When to go

November to April in the drier months; wintering birds are present from October to March. A day, going out at first light. Boats are arranged in El Estor.

Honest expectations

Manatee sightings are very rare. Boats must be arranged and prices negotiated. Mosquitoes are severe at dawn and dusk. The area around the lake has seen land disputes and it is worth asking locally about conditions before arranging a trip.

Nearby

El Estor is east; Lake Izabal spreads south-east.