Huimeki Communal Reserve

The Huimeki Communal Reserve is a protected area in Peru's Loreto region covering around 141,000 hectares along the northeastern border. It consists of dense rainforest cut through by numerous rivers and streams that form the backbone of its ecosystem.

The reserve was officially established on 25 October 2012 by the Peruvian government as a protected natural area. This creation was part of a trilateral conservation initiative between Peru, Ecuador, and Colombia to protect the region's ecosystems.

The reserve's name reflects the three ethnic groups living there: the Huitoto, Mestizos, and Kichwa del Putumayo, each with their own customs and ways of using the forest. Walking through inhabited areas, you see how these communities continue their traditional ways of living alongside the land.

Access is mainly by river from the city of Iquitos, with boats serving as the primary way to get around in the protected area. It is best to arrange visits through local guides or community organizations who know the terrain and can ensure your safety.

The reserve forms part of a critical ecological corridor linked to Colombia's La Paya National Park, connecting conservation efforts across borders. This makes it a crucial stopover zone for migratory birds traveling between different South American regions.