Biosphere Reserves in South America

The Serra do Espinhaço mountain range represents Brazil's largest and most continuous Precambrian orogenic belt. The Espinhaço Range Biosphere Reserve includes 16 protected areas: National Parks, State Parks, State Ecological Stations, and Municipal Natural Parks.

Nestled along the northern coast of Colombia, the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta National Natural Park stands as a testament to the country's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Colombia's second oldest national park encompasses diverse ecosystems, from pristine beaches to snow-capped mountain peaks. Complementing this protected area is the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta Biosphere Reserve, a vast expanse of natural wonder that overlooks the Caribbean coast.

Sumaco Napo-Galeras National Park is a protected area and Biosphere Reserve in northeastern Ecuador. It is situated in the provinces of Napo, Orellana, and Sucumbíos in two sectors: the Sumaco volcano and its adjacent areas and the Cordillera de Galeras.

The Bosques de Paz Transboundary Biosphere Reserve straddles the border of Ecuador and Peru. It is a natural treasure and showcases the collaborative efforts of these two nations to protect a globally significant ecosystem. The reserve spans four regions in the two countries. It was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2018, following the countries' commitment to strengthening their ties and cooperation after a long-standing border dispute that ended in 1998.

The Cerrado Biosphere Reserve, spanning across the Brazilian states of Goiás, Tocantins, Maranhão, Piauí, and the Federal District, encompasses the vast and diverse Cerrado biome. Covering a quarter of Brazil's land area, this reserve is a testament to the country's rich natural heritage and ecological significance. Designated by UNESCO, it is one of several Brazilian Biosphere Reserves alongside the Atlantic Forest, Pantanal, Caatinga, and the Central Amazon.

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Venezuela, the Delta del Orinoco Biosphere Reserve and its associated national parks form a vast and diverse ecosystem of immense ecological and cultural significance. Designated as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 2009, this region represents a unique confluence of terrestrial, aquatic, and marine environments, harboring an extraordinary array of flora and fauna.

Nestled in the heart of South America, the Pantanal Biosphere Reserve stands as a testament to Brazil's incredible natural wonders. This expansive protected area, spanning the states of Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, and a small portion of Goiás, encompasses one of the world's most extensive wetland complexes. It is a dynamic and diverse ecosystem that has captivated ecologists, conservationists, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Along Argentina's Atlantic coast, in the southern reaches of the Río de la Plata estuary, lies the Parque Costero del Sur Biosphere Reserve – a verdant oasis showcasing the nation's rich natural and cultural heritage. This sprawling protected area, comprising fertile pampas grasslands, swamps, wetlands, and dry forests, is a true celebration of biodiversity, where the unique ecosystems of the river and the pampas converge.

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.

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.