Cotahuasi Subbasin Landscape Reserve

The Cotahuasi Subbasin Reserve protects a landscape in Arequipa that contains deep canyons, mountain ridges, and high grasslands. The terrain includes multiple zones at different elevations, each supporting different types of terrain and ecosystems.

The Peruvian government created this protected area in 2005 to preserve the landscape and its natural features. The decision aimed to safeguard multiple ecosystem types found across the region.

Local people farm terraced fields with native crops like quinoa and corn, keeping methods that connect them directly to the land. Walking through the reserve, you see how these agricultural practices shape the way communities live here.

The reserve sits far from main roads, so visitors need flexible travel plans and plenty of time to reach it. Preparation with local information helps you manage the long journey and the different elevations you will encounter.

Lake Wansuqucha sits at high elevation and feeds the Cotahuasi River with water from its waters. This mountain lake plays a key role in how water flows through the entire region.

Location: Arequipa Department

Inception: 2005

Operator: SERNAMP

Website: https://sernanp.gob.pe/sub-cuenca-del-cotahuasi

GPS coordinates: -15.05100,-72.92000

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:06