Peru has a total of 14 national parks. These protected areas showcase the country’s diverse landscapes, ranging from the Andean highlands to the Amazon rainforest, and play a vital role in conserving Peru’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
About Peru National Parks National Parks
Peru’s national parks are a testament to the country’s incredible biodiversity and stunning natural landscapes. With 14 national parks spanning diverse ecosystems, from the Andean highlands to the Amazon rainforest, Peru offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Each national park boasts unique features, including towering peaks, dense forests, pristine rivers, and abundant wildlife. From the iconic Machu Picchu Sanctuary in the Andes to the remote Manu National Park in the Amazon Basin, these protected areas play a vital role in conserving Peru’s natural heritage and cultural legacy.
Visitors can explore ancient ruins, trek through lush jungles, observe rare wildlife species, and immerse themselves in the rich cultural traditions of indigenous communities. Peru’s national parks offer unforgettable experiences and opportunities for adventure, education, and conservation in some of the most biodiverse regions on Earth.
Peru National Parks's National Parks
Huascaran National Park
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Manu National Park
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1. How many national parks are there in Peru?
2. What is the largest national park in Peru?
The largest national park in Peru is the Alto Purús National Park (Parque Nacional Alto Purús). Located in the departments of Ucayali and Madre de Dios in the eastern part of Peru, near the border with Brazil, Alto Purús National Park covers an area of approximately 2,808,000 hectares (about 10,837 square miles).
Established in 2004, Alto Purús National Park is part of the Amazon rainforest and is one of the largest protected areas in the world. It is characterized by its vast expanse of pristine wilderness, including tropical rainforest, rivers, oxbow lakes, and diverse ecosystems that are home to a rich variety of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic or endangered.
Alto Purús National Park is recognized for its ecological importance and biodiversity, and it serves as a crucial habitat for iconic Amazonian wildlife, including jaguars, giant otters, macaws, and anacondas. It is also home to indigenous communities that rely on the forest for their livelihoods and cultural practices.
3. What is the smallest national parks in Peru?
The smallest national park in Peru is the Tingo María National Park (Parque Nacional Tingo María). Located in the Huanuco Region in central Peru, Tingo María National Park covers an area of approximately 4,777 hectares (about 18.4 square miles).
Established in 1965, Tingo María National Park is known for its striking landscapes, including the iconic Tingo María Mountain and the mysterious “Cueva de las Lechuzas” (Owl Cave). The park is characterized by its rugged terrain, limestone cliffs, lush vegetation, and numerous caves and waterfalls, making it a popular destination for hiking, birdwatching, and ecotourism.
Despite its relatively small size compared to other national parks in Peru, Tingo María National Park is of great ecological and recreational value, attracting visitors with its natural beauty, biodiversity, and cultural heritage. It serves as an important protected area for conserving Peru’s diverse flora and fauna and promoting sustainable tourism in the region.
4. What was the first national park in Peru?
The first national park in Peru is the Huascarán National Park (Parque Nacional Huascarán). Established on July 1, 1975, Huascarán National Park is located in the Ancash Region of central Peru, encompassing portions of the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Huayhuash mountain ranges.
Huascarán National Park covers an area of approximately 340,000 hectares (about 1,313 square miles) and is known for its stunning alpine landscapes, towering peaks, glaciers, and high-altitude ecosystems. The park is home to Huascarán, Peru’s highest mountain, as well as numerous other peaks over 6,000 meters (19,685 feet) in elevation.
As the first national park in Peru, Huascarán National Park holds significant cultural, ecological, and recreational importance. It protects important habitats for Andean wildlife, including endangered species such as the Andean condor and the spectacled bear. The park also serves as a popular destination for mountaineering, trekking, and adventure tourism, attracting visitors from around the world to experience its breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures.