Protected Areas in South America

The Tribugá-Cupica-Baudó Biosphere Reserve in Colombia protects the Gulf of Tribugá region's biodiversity, cultural heritage, and habitats like mangroves, rainforests, and coral reefs. It promotes sustainable development, scientific research, and community engagement while tackling challenges such as illegal fishing and deforestation.

Deep within the vast expanse of the Amazon Rainforest, nestled along the borders of Brazil, French Guiana, and Suriname, lies Tumucumaque Mountains National Park – a true treasure trove of biodiversity and an untamed wilderness that has remained largely untouched by human influence. This park is a testament to nature's incredible richness and resilience, offering a unique window into one of the world's most precious ecosystems.

Nestled in the lofty elevations of Bolivia, the Ulla-Ulla Biosphere Reserve stands as a testament to the diverse wonders that thrive in the Central Andean wet puna ecoregion. This reserve is a mosaic of ecological marvels, encompassing the expansive high plateau, pristine tundra, towering Cordillera, majestic mountains, serene lakes, the origins of rivers, and a perpetual snow zone.

The Serra Geral, an imposing escarpment nestled within the interior of southern Brazil, is a testament to the region's geological complexity and ecological richness. From its eastern reaches in Rio Grande do Sul to its northern extent in São Paulo, this mountain range is a pivotal component of the Serra do Mar system. Within this landscape lies the Serra Geral National Park, established to preserve the region's natural heritage and encompass iconic landmarks such as the Malacara, Churriado, and Fortaleza canyons.

Nestled along Colombia's Pacific coast, Utría National Natural Park is a true gem. Here, lush, mountainous rainforests meet the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. This protected area in the Pacific/Chocó Natural Region of Colombia encompasses a vast expanse of marine and terrestrial environments. Situated within the Tumbes-Chocó-Magdalena Hotspot, it is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Valdés Peninsula in Patagonia features significant biodiversity, including highly fragile terrestrial and marine ecosystems. The dynamic coastal zone features rocky cliffs, shallow bays, coastal lagoons, and small islands. It is both a Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site.

Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park, Chile's first, is named in honor of Vicente Pérez Rosales, a revered Chilean politician and diplomat. It encompasses an expansive area within the Lakes Region of the Chilean Andes and is renowned for its breathtaking and diverse landscapes. It hosts the iconic Lake Todos Los Santos and the Petrohué Waterfalls, surrounded by Valdivian temperate rainforests, a sanctuary for numerous plant and animal species.

Villarrica National Park is in the Chilean Andes, in Chile's La Araucanía and Los Ríos regions. The National Park protects the Valdivian temperate rainforest habitat. A popular hiking destination, highlights are the volcanoes: Villarrica, Quetrupillán, and Lanín.

The Yabotí Biosphere Reserve is located in the Misiones province of northeastern Argentina. The reserve is part of the Misiones Rainforest Corridor, within the Amazon rainforest region, home to some of the most traditional villages of the Guaraní people.

Yacurí National Park is located in Ecuador, bordering the provinces of Loja and Zamora Chinchipe. The protected area contains a variety of ecosystems, over 46 high-altitude lakes, many endangered species, archaeological ruins, and petroglyphs.