La Paya Natural National Park, National park in Puerto Leguízamo, Colombia.
La Paya Natural National Park is a protected rainforest area in the Putumayo department covering extensive tropical woodlands with mountainous terrain, river systems, and wetland zones. The park preserves these interconnected forest environments in their natural state without significant human modification.
The Cofán, Siona, and Secoya indigenous nations had deep roots in this territory and maintained strong ties to the Amazon rainforest over centuries. Their presence and stewardship shaped how the forest exists today as part of a broader regional ecosystem.
Indigenous peoples who live in this region have their own ways of using the land and managing its resources according to their traditions. Visitors can learn about these practices firsthand through guided experiences and observe how communities interact with the rainforest environment.
Visitors must arrange access through authorized tour operators because the park sits in a remote location. Bringing insect protection and taking precautions against tropical diseases are essential, along with lightweight and moisture-resistant clothing for the humid climate.
Laguna La Paya within the park supports nesting populations of endangered charapa turtles alongside numerous other Amazon wildlife species in undisturbed forest. This lake serves as a critical breeding site where these rare reptiles return seasonally.
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