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The extensive grounds of the Jardin Botanico de Lancetilla (Mon-Fri 7.30am-3pm, Sat & Sun 8am-3pm; US$5), 5km south of Tela, started life in 1925 as a United Fruit species research and testing station. Now managed by COHDEFOR, the reserve has grown into one of the largest collections of fruit and flowering trees, palms, hardwoods and tropical plants in Latin America. Within Lancetilla's boundaries are an arboretum, a still-functioning research station and a biological reserve - the last covers two-thirds of the total grounds and contains one of the only remaining stretches of virgin tropical wet forest on the Atlantic coast. The stability of the environment has also encouraged numerous species of birds to make their home here. To get to Lancetilla, take the San Pedro highway for a couple of kilometres to the signposted turn-off south, from where it's a further 3km. Guided tours of the arboretum are available, and visitors are also free to wander at will along the marked trails; maps are available at the visitor centre. You need a whole day to visit the arboretum and then cross the reserves, through bamboo groves, to some small swimming holes on the Rio Lancetilla. There's a comedor and a small hostel (US$4 per bunk) at the visitor centre; beds should be reserved through Prolansate in Tela.
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