Parallel to the Pacific lies the Sierra Madre mountain range, with peaks that rise to an elevation of up to 12,000 feet. 33 volcanoes dominate the landscape, and these, coupled with the lush tropical rain forests to the north, the fertile plains of the south and east, the beautiful lakes, and the wonderful rivers, make this a land of varied contrasts. Guatemala is the northernmost country in Central America. Most plants typical of tropical areas are found in the Guatemalan lowlands. Deer, monkeys, and piglike mammals called peccaries are common in the sparsely populated lowlands.
Bird life is extremely rich.
Guatemala's primary natural resource is the rich soil of its highland valleys and coastal plains, but it also has some petroleum, as well as nickel, lead, zinc, iron, and small quantities of gold, silver, and jade. Forests and woodlands offer valuable timber, fine woods, and other products. This department is the largest, and least populated, and developed in Guatemala. Principal agricultural products include corn, black beans and rice. Principle industries include Low-impact tourism, oil, precious woods, palm fronds, chicle and wood ornaments.