Protected Area

Nestled amidst the towering Andes of northern Chile, the Alto Loa National Reserve is a true testament to the resilience of life in one of the world's most extreme environments. From the imposing Aucanquilcha volcano, a dormant giant that dominates the landscape, to the shimmering salt flats that stretch as far as the eye can see, the Alto Loa Reserve is a captivating tapestry of volcanic grandeur, desert vistas, and a delicate ecology that has adapted to thrive against all odds.

Amacayacu National Natural Park is a remarkable protected area in Colombia, nestled along the Amazon River in the southern Amazonas Department. It stands out as the only protected area in the country that conserves the unique flooded forests of the Amazon River, playing a crucial role in preserving this extraordinary region's biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Amazonia National Park is the oldest national park in the Amazon Rainforest. Spanning over a million hectares along the Tapajós River in Brazil, it safeguards a highly biodiverse habitat featuring dense lowland rainforests and white-sand grasslands. The park is a transition area between the Amazon Rainforest in the south and the Brazilian Cerrado in the north.

Amboró National Park, situated in the western part of Bolivia's Santa Cruz Department, is a natural treasure trove of biodiversity and ecological significance. Located at the "Elbow of the Andes," this park is a crucial preservation site for many unique species and habitats. Recognized for its ecological richness and scenic beauty, Amboró National Park serves as a vital sanctuary for flora and fauna and a focal point for scientific research and conservation efforts.

The Andino Norpatagónica Biosphere Reserve, located in the northwestern region of Patagonia, spans a vast area, covering parts of the Argentine provinces of Chubut, Río Negro, and Neuquén. This extraordinary reserve protects diverse ecosystems, from temperate forests to Patagonian steppe and snow-covered peaks, making it a haven for biodiversity. The reserve includes five national parks and several provincial and municipal protected areas, all of which contribute to the conservation of the unique landscapes and species of the Patagonian Andes.

Angel Falls, known as Salto Ángel, is the world's tallest uninterrupted waterfall, plunging from the towering Auyán-tepui in the Canaima National Park, Venezuela. The falls create a dramatic spectacle as they spill into the deep Cañon del Diablo. This natural marvel, combined with the remarkable landscape of Canaima National Park, offers an unparalleled glimpse into Venezuela's unique geology, biodiversity, and indigenous cultures. Recognized by UNESCO, Angel Falls and Canaima National Park showcase the stunning natural beauty and ecological significance of the Guayanan Highlands.

The Apaneca-Ilamatepec Biosphere Reserve is in western El Salvador, forming part of the Central America Volcanic Arc. Spanning a region rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage, the reserve protects critical ecosystems that support species conservation and the livelihoods of local communities. With its unique volcanic landscape, cloud forests, and diverse wildlife, the biosphere reserve serves as a vital ecological corridor and a symbol of the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

In the southwestern part of Tocantins, Brazil, lies Bananal Island, the largest fluvial island in the world. Formed by the bifurcation of the Araguaia River, this unique landscape is a haven for biodiversity and cultural heritage. Sharing this remarkable environment is Araguaia National Park, a protected area that showcases the region's rich flora and fauna. Exploring their natural beauty, ecological significance, and cultural importance reveals the actual value of these extraordinary areas.

Nestled in the northeastern corner of the sun-kissed island of Aruba, Arikok National Park showcases the island's diverse flora and fauna against a backdrop of captivating geological wonders. This natural haven encompasses nearly 20% of Aruba's total land area and is dedicated to preserving its rich biodiversity, geology, and historical heritage.

The Avireri-Vraem Biosphere Reserve is a testament to Peru's commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage. Its unique landscape, which rises from lowland rainforests to towering Andean peaks, harbors an astonishing array of ecosystems, species, and human communities. In addition to safeguarding Peru's extraordinary biodiversity, this vast reserve also preserves the traditional lifestyles and cultural heritage of the Indigenous people who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries.