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Large lake where boat tours are available. Popular among birdwatchers who come to see all the ducks, geese, and other waterfowl who migrate to Mexico where they can enjoy warm weather and zesty food. Migratory birds usually arrive around November and leave around April.
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Isla de Monos
Island in Lake Catemaco populated by various types of new world primates, including mantled howler monkeys and spider monkeys.
The winding mangrove swamps of Laguna de Sontecomapan offer a birdwatcher the opportunity to spot many aquatic bird species as well as parrots, toucans, and crocodiles. The village of Sontecomapan lies along a paved road from Catemaco and kayaks and tour guides offering boat tours can be hired there. The mouth of the lagoon, where it drains into the Gulf of Mexico is called La Barra. Mixtos (shared truck transportation) from Catemaco go to both locations. Laguna de Sontecomapan is a Ramsar wetland covering an area of almost 9,000 hectares.
The 800-meter high summit of the extinct volcano has scenic overlooks with panoramic vistas of the town of Santiago Tuxtla below.
One of the most hiked volcano in the reserve, it rises to a height of 1,650 meters. Hiking trails to the summit crater ascend through dense cloud forests where trails can be slippery. The trails are somewhat difficult and require good physical conditioning. The volcano is an active shield volcano that last erupted in 1793.
The reserve's second highest peak rises to an elevation of 1,660 meters. A 9-km hike to the summit will take about 9 hours. It is a rugged, steep trail that is physically demanding but offers a chance to see virgin rain forest and a wide assortment of tropical birds.