The season for watching cetaceans such as porpoise whales and dolphins, as well as sea turtles, is in force.
Observing the migratory journey of these species is a unique experience. Therefore, the Guatemalan Tourism Institute (Inguat) invites you to be part of it in the waters of the Pacific.
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This season is timely to encourage tourism in a combination of nature and a call for the conservation of species.
Among the most common cetaceans to see this season are humpback whales and dolphins. The conditions offered by Central American waters are suitable at this time for cetaceans and turtles to mate, feed and give birth to their babies.
As a result of various investigations, 33 species of cetaceans, 4 of sea turtles and around 25 of seabirds have been identified in Guatemala. Although whales, dolphins and porpoises have a wide distribution, they are endangered species. Likewise, they are essential for the balance of marine ecosystems and, therefore, for the existence of humans.
sustainable tourism
In fact, in Guatemala there are regulations so that these practices are not aggressive against animals. One of them is the Regulation for the Observation of Cetaceans in Guatemalan Waters and Tourist and Recreational Activities. This tool is put into practice by Inguat in conjunction with the National Council of Protected Areas (Conap).
Close encounters with marine biodiversity must be responsible. For this reason, these rules were formulated for peaceful coexistence and non-interruption of the migratory route of these species. In addition, they ensure the integrity of the crews by establishing physical limits for approaches.
Boats should keep approaching from the sides or behind the group’s path, not in front of it. In addition, they must stop 100 meters away from the group and with the engine in neutral, and at 150 meters if they are smaller cetaceans. In addition to this, there can only be three boats at a time, among other measures. [Tomado de AGN]
