The Global Meaningful Travel Map
ARCAS
OUR EXPERIENCES
The ARCAS Biodiversity Education Center (CEBIO), located on the shore of Lake Petén Itza, is an extension of the ARCAS Wild Animal Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. It includes an exhibition hall (with interactive displays), interpretive trails, and outdoor animal enclosures surrounded by forest. Visitors explore the site independently with a typical visit expected to take 1-2 hours. The site is accessed by boat from the town of Flores (10-15 minute journey). Volunteer placements are also available at the wildlife rescue centre for periods of one or more weeks.
ABOUT US
ARCAS is a non-profit Guatemalan Civil Association formed in 1989 to protect the country’s precious natural heritage. The wildlife centre at Peten rescues wild animals primarily from the illegal pet trade. Most are rehabilitated and released to the wild, but some that are permanently damaged (physically or behaviourally) are housed permanently at the biodiversity education centre. The site also breeds some particularly rare species to supplement wild populations and conducts local on-the-ground conservation activities. We also have sites for environmental education, research and conservation in Guatemala City and on the south coast at El Hawaii.
OUR IMPACT
The ARCAS Wildlife Rescue Center is accredited by the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries as having met the highest standard in humane animal care. In 2022 we rescued 268 animals (across all sites) and released 94 animals to the wild, while the biodiversity education centre received over 15,000 visitors.
DETAILS
To learn more, contact: info@arcasguatemala.org
What are your minimum and maximum group sizes?
Visitor center: groups over 20 (or requiring guided tour) should contact at least one week in advance
Do you require visitors to pre-book?
Visitor center: no (except 20+ pax); Volunteering: yes.
Do you have group rates?
No
Do you pay commissions to travel advisors?
No
What languages do you offer your services in?
Spanish & English
When are you open?
Every day; Visitor center: 9am-4pm
What accommodations do you make for people living with disabilities?
None as standard; note that access is by boat only (over lake)