Rainforests in Southern Mexico: The Lacandon Jungle

Yes: Southern Mexico Hosts the Lacandon Rainforest

Southern Mexico is home to the Lacandon Rainforest (Selva Lacandona), one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in North America. Located primarily in the state of Chiapas, this tropical rainforest covers approximately 1,000 square kilometers (though historical extent was far greater).

Ecological Significance

• Biodiversity Hotspot: Contains ~20% of Mexico's species diversity in <1% of its territory
• Canopy Height: Trees reach 40-60 meters; emergent individuals exceed 60 meters
• Endemism: Numerous plant and animal species found nowhere else
• Corridor Function: Connects with Guatemala's Maya Biosphere Reserve, forming the largest tropical forest north of the Amazon

Iconic Wildlife

Conservation Status

• Montes Azules Biosphere Reserve: Core protected area (331,200 ha), UNESCO Man and Biosphere Programme
• Lacandon Community: Indigenous Lacandon Maya hold communal land title, practice traditional stewardship
• Threats: Illegal logging, cattle ranching expansion, oil palm plantations, hydroelectric projects, migration pressures

Other Southern Mexican Forests

Beyond Lacandon, southern Mexico includes:

• Chimalapas (Oaxaca/Chiapas border): Cloud forests and tropical evergreen forests
• Los Tuxtlas (Veracruz): Volcanic tropical rainforest, northernmost in Americas
• Calakmul (Campeche): Seasonal tropical forest, major Maya archaeological zone

Visiting Responsibly

Ecotourism supports conservation. Access typically requires guides from Lacandon communities (e.g., Nahá, Metzabok) or authorized operators from Palenque or San Cristóbal de las Casas.