Reserva Biológica Cerro Plateado, Nature reserve in Palanda, Ecuador.
Reserva Biológica Cerro Plateado covers a large mountainous area in the Cordillera del Cóndor, with elevation varying from about 800 to over 3,000 meters. The terrain is densely forested and crossed by several rivers that bring water and life throughout the system.
The Ecuadorian government established this protected area in 2010 through a ministerial agreement and integrated it into the national network of protected spaces. This recognition meant the ecosystem came under formal protection to preserve its biodiversity.
The Shuar communities named the Numpatakaime River, which means dark river in their language and originates within the reserve. Hearing this name while exploring connects visitors to the local identity and history of the place.
Access requires permission from environmental authorities and should be arranged with local guides, as the area is remote and lacks standard infrastructure. It is best to bring all necessary supplies and equipment from outside and prepare for challenging conditions.
The area harbors several rare tree species like cedar and guayacan that occur here in large populations. These timber species are hard to find elsewhere and make the reserve an important location for their conservation.
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