Discover Domitila Private Wildlife Reserve

Tropical dry forests are rapidly disappearing in Central America and are considered to be highly endangered ecosystems. Domitila Private Wildlife Reserve, located in the heart of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor, is one of the two remaining dry tropical forests in Nicaragua. Biologically there is as much flora and fauna to discover in a tropical dry forest as there is in a tropical rain forest, and new species are still being discovered all the time in this fragile ecosystem.

Due to the vegetation of a dry tropical forest being less dense than a rain forest, it is generally easy to spot birds and animals, as well as the huge variety of butterflies that are present in the Domitila Private Wildlife Reserve. Tours with the emphasis on low-impact ecotourism take visitors, on foot or on horseback, deep into this piece of paradise where they can expect to see a large number of the more than 65 species of mammals, 125 species of tropical birds, as well as reptiles, butterflies and insects.

Lake Cocibolca, otherwise known as Lake Nicaragua, borders a portion of the reserve and attracts numerous migratory birds, to the delight of the many bird-watchers who visit Domitila. Animals that visitors may encounter include howler monkeys and wild cats. Bird species include numerous hummingbirds, cuckoos, trogons, vultures, hawks, falcons, egrets, herons, parrots, woodpeckers, flycatchers, jays, robins, doves, storks and bitterns. From November through to January each year the Domitila Private Wildlife Reserve celebrates the Butterfly Festival, where Guided tours by renowned entomologists assist visitors to appreciate the beauty and diversity of these fragile insects.

The clean and comfortable accommodation for visitors at Domitila Private Wildlife Reserve is in keeping with their mission to make as little impact as possible on the environment. The thatched-roof, wood and stone buildings have been constructed by local workers using local materials, and the water is heated by means of solar energy. Experienced cooks create traditional meals for the enjoyment of visitors, giving them a true taste of Nicaragua.

Ongoing scientific research and environmental education, supported by Domitila Private Wildlife Reserve, aims to promote sustainable development in the communities around the wildlife reserve. It is hoped that this in turn will create awareness for the necessity to preserve this precious tropical dry forest area in Nicaragua.