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La Muralla (daily 8am-4pm; free) takes its name from the appearance of the reserve when viewed from a distance - "the wall" of a high massif densely covered with leafy forest, forming an island of incredible biological diversity amid the surrounding low-level mountain ranges. Cocooned in the centre of the reserve is an extensive stretch of virgin cloudforest which, despite its remoteness, is more accessible to visitors than the Sierra de Agalta. The park's dazzling array of bird life and its well-planned visitor facilities make a visit here very rewarding. Forest cover in La Muralla ranges from pine woods at the level of the entrance (1400m) through to cloudforest from around 1800m. The mountains slope steeply, rising to the peak of Las Parras , at 2064m the highest point. For bird-watchers, quetzals, hummingbirds, kites and toucanets are among the species likely to be spotted; the aguacatillo tree in front of the visitor centre is a major food source for quetzals and, if you're lucky, they can be seen feeding there in the early mornings. More evasive are the white-tailed deer, jaguars, pumas, grey foxes and howler monkeys that inhabit the park. It's possible to visit La Muralla as a day-trip from La Union, although since bird-spotting is best done in the very early morning, it's wise to plan on spending the night here. The shortest trail , El Pizote, swings from the visitor centre in a two-hour loop up through the damp hush of the cloudforest and back down again. Though steep, wet and slippy, this can be done unguided and benches are provided at the best points for birdwatching; guides are recommended, however, for greater understanding of what you're seeing. Longer trails run across the reserve to the Cascada de Mucupina (8hr return) and to Monte Escondido , a two-day hike. Access to La Muralla is via the visitor centre at the southwest end of the reserve, about 15km north of La Union on the road to El Dictamo village. Here you can pick up trail maps and information on wildlife; there are also dorm beds (reservations through COHDEFOR in Tegucigalpa: tel 223 7703) and camping space , with two more camping spots further into the reserve. Bring plenty of food and water and some warm clothes.
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