Purús Communal Reserve

The Purús Communal Reserve is a protected nature area covering about 202,000 hectares of tropical forest along the Purus River in Peru. It contains cedar and mahogany forests with numerous waterways running through the landscape.

The reserve was established by the Peruvian government in 2004 to combat illegal logging and wildlife poaching in the Amazon region. The creation responded to increasing threats facing the forest and its inhabitants.

Eight indigenous groups live within the reserve and practice traditional hunting and gathering methods passed down through generations. Some communities deliberately choose to remain isolated from modern contact and maintain their own distinct ways.

Access to the area is managed by the National Service of Natural Protected Areas through control posts staffed by trained indigenous park rangers. Visitors should plan ahead since the location is remote and requires special arrangements.

The reserve hosts one of the world's largest populations of pink river dolphins living in the waterways of the area. These rare dolphin species are difficult to spot but unforgettable for those lucky enough to see them.

Location: Ucayali Department

Location: Madre de Dios Department

Inception: November 18, 2004

Operator: SERNANP

Website: https://sernanp.gob.pe/purus

GPS coordinates: -10.18349,-71.07139

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:24