Private Conservation Area Chaparrí, Conservation area in Lambayeque department, Peru
Private Conservation Area Chaparrí is a large reserve in northern Peru's mountains that combines dry forest and highland terrain. It protects a range of animals and plants adapted to this arid mountain environment.
The Santa Catalina de Chongoyape community created this reserve in 2001 as Peru's first privately managed protected area. This achievement opened a new path for local groups to protect nature in their own regions.
The mountain holds spiritual meaning for Peruvian shamans who practice traditions rooted in ancient Mochica beliefs. This sacred connection shapes how local people relate to the land and the wildlife that lives there.
Getting there involves roughly 90 minutes of driving from Chiclayo to Chongoyape, then a rough road into the reserve itself. Plan for challenging terrain and come prepared with sturdy footwear and water.
The reserve runs rehabilitation centers where endangered spectacled bears and white-winged guans recover in semi-natural conditions. This gives visitors a chance to see these rare animals up close while understanding conservation efforts.
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