Yanesha Communal Reserve | Pasco

The Yanesha Communal Reserve is located in the central region of Peru, specifically in the province of Oxapampa, in the department of Pasco. This protected area covers a significant part of the central Peruvian jungle and is home to the Yanesha indigenous community, whose presence and ancestral culture are fundamental to the management and conservation of this reserve.

This reserve plays a crucial role in the conservation of the Peruvian Amazon, hosting a great variety of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to the region.

Biodiversity of the Yanesha Communal Reserve | Pasco

The Yanesha Communal Reserve harbors remarkable biodiversity due to its location in the Amazon region of Peru. This protected area is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to the region. Among the highlights of its biodiversity are:

Flora: The reserve boasts an impressive diversity of plant species, including towering trees, medicinal plants, orchids, bromeliads, and a wide range of species typical of tropical rainforests.

Fauna: Wildlife in the Yanesha Communal Reserve is abundant and varied. Numerous mammal species can be found, such as monkeys, jaguars, tapirs, sloths, among others. Additionally, the reserve is rich in birdlife, with a plethora of parrot species, toucans, macaws, and a diversity of raptors and waterbirds. It also harbors a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and insects.

Endangered Species: The reserve serves as a refuge for several endangered species, including the spectacled bear, jaguar, yellow-tailed woolly monkey, and giant otter, among others.

Conservation of this biodiversity is crucial not only for the ecological balance of the region but also for the subsistence of the Yanesha indigenous community, which depends on the natural resources of the reserve for their food, medicine, and building materials, among other traditional uses.

What can be done in the Yanesha communal reserve?

In the Yanesha Communal Reserve, visitors can engage in a variety of activities, many of which are designed to allow them to experience the natural beauty and unique culture of the region while promoting environmental conservation and supporting the local community. Some of these activities include:

Hiking and Trekking: Explore diverse habitats, enjoy panoramic views, waterfalls, and rivers along the reserve’s network of trails.

Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing: Observe various bird species, mammals, reptiles, and wildlife in their natural habitat.

Cultural Visits: Learn about Yanesha culture through community visits, ceremonies, and purchasing traditional crafts.

Experiential Tourism: Stay in community-managed accommodations, engage in local activities, and immerse in Yanesha lifestyle.

Environmental Education: Join educational programs on biodiversity conservation and Amazonian ecosystem protection.

These actuvities are conducted sustainably to preserve the ecosystem and support the region’s development.

How to get to Yanesha Communal Reserve?

To reach the Yanesha Communal Reserve, you typically follow a route that involves traveling to the central region of Peru and then making the final leg by land. Here’s a general overview of how to get there:

Travel to Lima: If you’re traveling from outside of Peru, you’ll likely first arrive in Lima, the capital city. Lima is home to a major international airport, Jorge Chávez International Airport, which receives flights from around the world.
Travel to the central region of Peru: From Lima, you can take a domestic flight to the nearest city to the Yanesha Communal Reserve, which is the city of Huancayo. Huancayo has Francisco Carle Airport, which receives flights from Lima and other Peruvian cities.
Transfer to Oxapampa: Once in Huancayo, you can take a bus or arrange for private transportation to travel to the city of Oxapampa, which is the closest town to the reserve. The road journey from Huancayo to Oxapampa usually takes several hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Final stretch to the reserve: From Oxapampa, transportation to the reserve is typically organized through local tour agencies or directly with the Yanesha community. The final journey to the reserve may involve traveling by vehicle on rural roads and then continuing on foot along trails in the jungle, depending on the specific location within the reserve you wish to visit.

It’s important to check the availability of transportation and coordinate the details of your journey in advance, especially if you plan to visit the reserve as part of an organized tour or if you need guide services and accommodation in the area.

reserva comunal de yanesha

Recommendations for visiting the Yanesha Communal Reserve

hen visiting the Yanesha Communal Reserve, here are some recommendations for a safe and rewarding experience:

Plan in advance: Research transportation, accommodation, and available activities in the reserve before your visit. Coordinate any guide services or accommodations ahead of time, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
Pack appropriately: Bring comfortable clothing suitable for the jungle, including long pants, long-sleeved shirts, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat or cap, sturdy walking boots, and a lightweight jacket for cool evenings.
Respect nature: Follow the established rules and regulations for visiting the reserve. Do not litter or disturb the flora and fauna. Remember that you are in a delicate and protected natural environment.
Be mindful of local culture: If interacting with the Yanesha community, show respect for their traditions, beliefs, and way of life. Ask before taking photographs and respect any privacy requests.
Stay safe: Follow the instructions of local guides and avoid venturing on your own in unfamiliar areas. Be cautious when walking on trails and near bodies of water, as the jungle can be unpredictable and some areas may be hazardous.
Enjoy the experience: Take your time to appreciate the natural beauty and biodiversity of the reserve. Observe birds and wildlife, explore trails, participate in cultural activities, and learn about the importance of environmental conservation.

By following these recommendations, you can make the most of your visit to the Yanesha Communal Reserve while contributing to its preservation and supporting the local community.