Sierra de Agalta National Park

Sierra de Agalta covers a long range in Olancho and holds what is generally considered the largest surviving block of cloud forest in the country, running up to La Picucha at around 2,354 metres. The gradient means the forest changes as you climb, from pine and oak through wet broadleaf to a dwarf elfin forest on the summit ridge where the trees are stunted and everything is covered in moss. The walk to the top takes several days and sees very few people in a year.

What you actually see

• The elfin forest - stunted moss-covered trees on the summit ridge, quite unlike the forest below.
• La Picucha - the high point at around 2,354 metres, reached over several days.
• The forest gradient - pine and oak giving way to wet broadleaf as you climb.
• The wildlife - tapir, jaguar and spider monkey present, though rarely seen.

When to go

December to April is the drier season and the only practical window. The upper forest is wet in every month. Nights on the ridge are cold and the camps are exposed.

Honest expectations

This is an expedition: several days, camping, river crossings and a guide and porters arranged in advance. There are no facilities on the mountain. Leeches, mud and near-permanent damp are part of it, and the summit is often in cloud when you get there.

Nearby

Catacamas is the gateway town, and the Talgua caves are on the same side of the valley.