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| They are designated to protect a species
or an animal or plant community by declaring it intangible,
and to preserve natural formations that are of scientific
or scenic interest. At present, six national sanctuaries
protect 0.11% of Peru's land. |
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Manglares de Tumbes
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Located on the northernmost tip of Peru's
coastal strip, the Tumbes mangroves are the southern
limit for many animal and plant wildlife species related
to this unique ecosystem. The sanctuary was created
in 1988 on 2,972 hectares to protect the largest mangrove
forests of Peru and particularly the large and varied
animal community that they sustain. Invertebrates stand
out here, in particular the wide variety of mollusks
-including black clams, 34 species of crustaceans, 33
types of snails and over 100 kinds of fish. Additionally,
the sanctuary is a key spot for breeding marine species
with commercial value like lobster. Both migratory and
resident birds, the endangered American alligator as
well as the mangrove raccoon are some of the Reserve's
most interesting residents.
Climate:
Tropical and sunny most of the year with yearly average
temperatures of around 25 ºC. Sporadic downpours
from December to March become more intense with the
arrival of the El Niño weather oscillation.
Access and Services:
From Tumbes, which can be reached on regular flights,
or by the North Pan-American Highway. The sanctuary
lies 24 kilometers from the city down the road to the
Ecuadorian border. Boats take visitors on guided tours.
Sunblock and repellent are recommended, as well as information
about tide schedules, especially if camping is planned.
Length of Stay:
One full day. The park can be easily reached from the
city of Tumbes.
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Ampay
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Established in 1987 on 3,635 hectares
to protect the intimpa forests of the Peruvian Sierra.
Intimpa is Peru's only native conifer and thrives in
dense forests that provide shelter for unique and diverse
animal wildlife, made up principally by bird species.
A number of glaciered lakes and crystal-clear streams
flow down Ampay, a snow-capped peak that towers over
the region and gives its name to the protected area.
Climate: Sunny
and dry from May to October, though nights are extremely
cold (when frosts and -5 ºC temperatures are not
unusual). Rainy from December to March.
Access and Services:
The sanctuary can be reached by taking one of many horse
trails that leave the village of Tamburco, on the outskirts
of the city of Abancay, which in turn is reached by
road from Cuzco (six hours away) or from Andahuaylas
(a three-hour trip).
No accommodation for tourists is available. For this
reason, travelers are strongly encouraged to hire a
local tourist guide and buy water and food in Abancay.
Length of Stay:
At least a three-day stay to camp out by the Sanctuary's
lakes is recommended.
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