5 animal shelters showcasing Peru's wildlife diversity: Discover them here

Each of these places invites visitors to appreciate Peru's natural treasures while raising awareness about the importance of protecting them.

Peru is a global leader in biodiversity and, according to renowned researcher and physical anthropologist Russel Mittermeier, ranks among the 17 most megadiverse countries in the world. To safeguard its native species and their habitats, the country is home to numerous natural refuges, many of which play a vital role in wildlife conservation.

Here, we highlight five animal refuges where you can explore Peru's incredible biodiversity in greater depth. From the coastal regions of Lambayeque and Tumbes to the Andean highlands of Pasco and the lush Amazon rainforest of Madre de Dios, Peru boasts a unique and rich variety of flora and fauna across its vast territory.

Source: MINCETUR

Yanachaga Chemillen National Park

Located in the heart of Peru's central Amazon, this National Park spans the districts of Oxapampa, Huancabamba, Pozuzo, and Villa Rica in the province of Oxapampa, Pasco department. It is a biodiversity hotspot, home to an impressive 878 species, including 119 mammals, 94 fish, 31 amphibians, 97 insects, 473 birds, and 14 reptiles.

The diverse climate of Yanachaga Chemillen National Park creates a wide range of ecological formations, contributing to its remarkable biological diversity. This park is dedicated to preserving these rich ecosystems, which are home to an incredible variety of wildlife, as detailed below.

This area is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the capybara (ronsoco), white lizard, ravine lizard, jaguar, puma, and monkeys such as the choro and majaz. Other notable species include the spectacled bear, sachacabra, ocelot, and jaguarundi, as well as animals native to the puna region like the gray deer, Andean fox, and skunk. Among the bird species, the toucan, the iconic Andean cock-of-the-rock (tunqui), and various guans stand out.

Source: PROMPERU

Laquipampa Wildlife Refuge

Located in the district of Incahuasi, in the province of Ferreñafe, Lambayeque region, Laquipampa Wildlife Refuge is dedicated to protecting endangered species such as the white-winged guan, an iconic bird of the northern forests. The refuge is also home to mammals like the spectacled bear (or Andean bear), white-tailed deer, anteater, and white-naped squirrel.

The refuge is also home to species such as the Piura pitajo, capuchirrufo leaf-breaker, cuellirrufo leaf-cleaner, pechigris flycatcher, blue semillero, and the Andean condor. In total, Laquipampa shelters 375 species, including 6 types of mammals, 7 insect species, 184 birds, and 178 plant species.

Source: PROMPERU

Villa Marshes

Located in the Chorrillos district of Lima, these marshes are a vital coastal wetland ecosystem spanning around 2,000 hectares. This natural area serves as a sanctuary for nearly 210 bird species, both resident and migratory, including flamingos, herons, and ducks. It is also home to 13 species of fish, 5 species of amphibians and reptiles, and many other species.

The Villa Marshes are essential for preserving biodiversity amidst Lima's urban expansion. Declared a Protected Natural Area, this site also serves as a hub for ecotourism and environmental education.

Source: PROMPERU

Bahuaja Sonene National Park

Located in the southwestern Amazon rainforest ecoregion, specifically in the provinces of Tambopata, Carabaya, and Sandia, within the departments of Madre de Dios and Puno, this park is renowned for its diverse range of habitats, from savannas to tropical rainforests.

Bahuaja Sonene National Park is home to unique species and ecosystems, including the tropical rainforest, macaws, roseate spoonbills, giant otters, marsh deer, and maned wolves—two iconic species found nowhere else in the country. The park hosts a total of 1,706 species, including 127 mammals, 62 fish, 19 insects, 510 birds, and 988 plant species.

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Udima Cloud Forests

Located in the Catache district, in the province of Santa Cruz, within the departments of Cajamarca and Lambayeque, the Udima Cloud Forests are home to a remarkable diversity of orchids and bird species.

A notable feature of these ecosystems is that, as remnants of forest unique and isolated in this part of the Andes, they serve as a refuge for rare and restricted species of flora and fauna. This includes some newly discovered species, such as certain amphibians and lepidopterans, that have yet to be officially registered.

With a total of 455 species, including 26 mammals, 12 insects, 31 birds, and 386 plant species, part of the Udima Cloud Forests has been designated as an Important Bird Conservation Area (IBA). This recognition is due to the presence of notable bird species such as the black guan, black-breasted fruiteater, brown or bearded guan, little starling, grey-headed antbird, and rufous-necked leaf-cleaner, among others.

Source: Leonel Ortiz / PROMPERU

Bonus: Tumbes Mangrove National Reserve

These mangroves, located in northern Peru, serve as a sanctuary for aquatic birds, crustaceans, and fish. They also act as a breeding ground for marine species and a natural barrier against coastal erosion.

The sanctuary is home to a rich biological diversity and also encourages recreation while promoting tourism in the surrounding areas. It hosts a total of 302 species, including 5 types of mammals, 87 fish, 156 birds, and 54 plant species.

Among the mammals, the shellfish dog, northwestern otter, and mangrove bear are notable residents of the sanctuary. Additionally, 33 species of gastropods (snails), 34 species of crustaceans (prawns, crabs), 24 species of bivalves (mollusks with shells), and 9 species of reptiles have been reported. Special mention goes to the American or Tumbes crocodile, whose absence from the protected area highlights its status as one of the most endangered species.

Finally, these refuges play a crucial role in conserving endangered species and contribute to scientific research, tourism, and the well-being of local communities. It is important to remember that each protected area serves as a reminder of Peru's rich natural heritage and the urgent need to preserve it for a more sustainable future.