Whatsapp
Inca Trail Machu
Enjoy the best Inca Trails to Machu Picchu
+51 997 434 941

Chaparri: White-winged Guan and the Spectacled Bear

Home / Travel Blog / Chaparri: White-winged Guan and the Spectacled Bear
Chaparri: White-winged Guan and the Spectacled Bear

Chaparri is the first Private Conservation Area in Peru and is led by the Muchik Santa Catalina de Chongoyape Peasant Community. It is the best place in Peru to get up close to spectacled bears (a portion of its population in Chaparrí lives in semi-captivity) and also white-winged guans. Here you can see foxes, rodents, hummingbirds and even condors. Take the interpretive path inside the forest and don't miss the opportunity to visit the adobe pyramids near the area and the petroglyphs of Cerro Mulato.

 

Useful data

  • Location: Lambayeque
  • Altitude: 209 masl
  • Environment: Dry forest
  • Suggested stay: 2 days
  • Suggested clothing: Coat and light clothing, raincoat, hat, long sleeves
  • Ideal season: May to December

Tourism in the Chaparri Ecological Reserve

Its main objective is the rehabilitation and reintroduction of endangered wildlife species and the protection of dry forests and existing wildlife species (such as auquénidos such as llamas and guanacos, the white-winged guan, bears and deer).

 

There are also a total of 223 birds, among the most preferred by observers are the pitajo de tumbes, the bandurria, emerald parrot, white-winged guan, hummingbird, chico, chilala, etc.

 

The reserve owes its name to the spectacular mountain called Cerro Chaparrí that dominates the landscape and was considered sacred by the Mochica Culture and still is for shamans throughout Peru.

 

In this area you can walk the route of the guans, the huachuma and the spectacled bear; only scholars or scientists who want to know the reproduction of this species have access to the turkey route.

 

Route of the Huachuma (also known as the San Pedro cactus): during the tour, the conservation of the medicinal properties of the flora of the place is motivated. There are 122 varieties among which the palosanto, the huatalco and the pasallo stand out.

 

Ruta de las Vavas y del Oso: in addition to seeing specimens of both species, you can also observe the coastal fox. On this route there are endemic species in danger of extinction such as the white-headed scrub, the Tumbes woodpecker, the gray and white fly, the red-headed parakeet, the brown-browed wren, the white-tailed magpie and hummingbirds.

 

You can enter the private conservation area of Chaparrí, through the Tocmoche detour, Tierras Blancas sector, which is located entering Chongoyape.

 

Discover the charm of the Chaparri Reserve

In the Chongoyape district, 60 kilometers east of the Chiclayo province, Lambayeque department, is the Chaparri Reserve, a destination rich in natural resources where you will also have the chance to see some of the most amazing animals that inhabit this region of Peru.

 

This place became a protected area, after the constant exploitation of natural resources by the locals. For this reason, the rural community of Santa Catalina de Chongoyape made the decision to donate part of its land, which included Chaparri, for its conservation. Due to this, in 2001, the State recognized it as a Private Conservation Area.

 

Since then, the Chaparri Reserve has been in charge of protecting the valuable natural resources that this area possesses. In addition, it seeks to protect the different threatened species that live in this territory such as the spectacled bear, the white-winged guan and the Andean condor. Likewise, it has a wide variety of medicinal plants, dry forests and other species that embellish this magical territory.

 

It is said that this reserve is also a sacred territory because it was a center of worship for the Mochica culture. Currently, this ancestral land continues to be the place chosen by shamans for their rites.

 

So if you are looking for a place to clear your mind, enjoying the landscapes of the Lambayeque department and receiving the benefits of nature, this destination is for you. Go ahead and visit it and contribute to its conservation!

 

What to do in the Chaparri Reserve?

The Chaparri reserve is a suitable destination to disconnect from the stress of the city, and enjoy the natural and cultural wealth of this region. Therefore, it is possible to carry out different plans associated with ecotourism.

 

One of the most popular and beneficial activities for mental and physical health that you can do in the Chaparri Reserve is hiking. In this space there are several routes that will allow you to discover the natural wealth of the territory, and enjoy a pleasant walk.

 

To start, you can take the Ruta de la Huachuma, also known as the Cactus San Pedro. This trail aims to show visitors the importance of conserving this ecosystem. Likewise, within the tour, the guides will be in charge of showing some of the medicinal plants found in this vast territory. So if you want to learn about these plants and their uses, be sure to take this productive route.

 

The second circuit, which is known as the Route of turkeys and bears, is the one that leads to observe several specimens of these two species, which attract attention for their unparalleled beauty. In addition, within this route it is possible to meet other outstanding species such as deer and coastal foxes.

 

For its part, as mentioned above, the Chaparri Reserve is a destination that aims to preserve endangered species such as the spectacled or Andean bear and the white-winged guan. For this reason, it has a rescue center for these animals, a place where they rehabilitate bears from illegal captivity.

 

Undoubtedly, this visit will allow you to learn about the care of these animals, which are struggling to survive despite the deterioration of their habitat and indiscriminate hunting.

 

Connect with nature in the Chaparri Reserve

In addition to relaxing walks, you have the possibility of doing other activities such as bike rides, where you can enjoy nature. However, for this plan it is recommended to take special care with nature. Also, if you like to take this activity to the extreme, you can do mountain biking to overcome those difficult roads, and feel how the adrenaline invades your body.

 

Likewise, this is an ideal space to observe other charming species such as butterflies and hummingbirds. The latter can be seen in the morning drinking water from a spring.

 

On the other hand, if you want to live a different experience and connect with Mother Earth, you can take part in one of the mystical and esoteric rituals that take place in this ancient land. These ceremonies are in charge of the shamans, who will be in charge of recharging you with the best energy.

 

Finally, in the Chaparri Reserve you can take the opportunity to take artistic photographs of the natural wonders that you will see in this place. Also, you can participate in the many cultural and research activities that take place in the reserve. Do not think twice and go ahead and visit this charming natural destination!

 

How to get to the Chaparri Reserve?

To visit this charming destination, you can first arrive in Chiclayo. To do this, you can take a direct route from Lima. Then, you must take another bus to Chongoyape, which is approximately 2 hours away. From this point, you must coordinate with a guide the transfer to the reserve. There are 16 kilometers of road to reach this wonderful natural space.

 

As for lodging, you have the option of camping in one of the areas set up for camping. This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the starry sky and a relaxing environment, perfect for resting. But, if you prefer more comfort, you can stay in one of the cabins that has all the services.

 

Facts about the Chaparri Reserve

  • During your visit to this reserve, be sure to see the adobe pyramids near the area and the petroglyphs of Cerro Mulato.
  • Visiting hours are between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. and 5 p.m.
  • To visit the Chaparri Reserve, you must be accompanied by a local guide. Ticket money goes to the community.
  • This destination is ideal to visit at any time of the year. However, keep in mind that the rainy season is from October to April.

 

Recommendations:

  • Bring repellent and sunscreen, preferably environmentally friendly.
  • Wear fresh and comfortable clothes for the tours.
  • Contributes to the conservation of this territory, carrying out responsible tourism.
  • During the tour, follow the guide's instructions to avoid the deterioration of this place.
  • Do not bother the animals and be respectful of the peasant communities.
  • If you go camping, do not leave garbage, avoid campfires and make responsible use of natural resources.
  • Avoid carrying plastics or substances that could contaminate.
  • Do not feed the animals without authorization.
  • Bring some fruit or food to help you recover your energy.

 

Best Tours in Peru

 

If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book your Machu Picchu entrance tickets in advance, so you will enjoy your Vacation in Machu Picchu without any problem.

Request information



Date of travel:

Number of people:
How did you hear about us:


responsible people foundation
The Responsible People foundation is registered under the Peruvian Non-Profit Organization Act. With an annual contribution from Inca Trail Machu, we support our operating costs as well as a significant portion of project development costs.
Most Popular Trips
Home

Peru Destinations

Activities & Travel Styles

Responsible Travel

Before You Go

Travel Blog

Contact us

Why Inca Trail Machu?

Inca Trail Machu Booking Online

More information
Write a review

Write a review in Tripadvisor

Inca Trail Camping

Inca Trail Small Groups

Salkantay Trek Peru

facebook-classicincatrailmachu youtube-classicincatrailmachu incatrailmachu Inca Trail Machu travel blog