Biosphere Reserves in South America

The Bosques de Neblina—Selva Central Biosphere Reserve is a pristine expanse in the Amazon basin of central Peru, nestled in the transition zone between the eastern slopes of the Andes and the vast Amazon rainforest. Known as the Andean Amazon, this region is distinguished by its remarkable biodiversity and cultural richness, encompassing a variety of ecosystems and altitudes. It is a critical sanctuary for numerous endemic and endangered species and a hub for sustainable development and conservation efforts.

Nestled in the heart of northern Patagonia, the Valdés Peninsula is a testament to nature's power and beauty. This extraordinary landmass, jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean from the Chubut Province of Argentina, is a true ecological marvel, a sanctuary for an incredible array of marine and terrestrial life. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve, the Valdés Peninsula and its surrounding waters have been deemed a site of global significance for the conservation of marine mammals.

The Alto Orinoco-Casiquiare Biosphere Reserve is located in the Venezuelan Amazon. Duida-Marahuaca National Park, a national protected area that includes the Duida-Marahuaca Massif, lies within the Biosphere Reserve.

The Andino Norpatagónica Biosphere Reserve is located in Argentina's northwestern Patagonia. It comprises five National Parks and numerous other protected areas. The landscape is primarily mountainous, dominated by the Andes in the west, with sub-Andean plains and plateaus in the east.

The Avireri-Vraem Biosphere Reserve is located in the provinces of Satipo and La Convención of central Peru. It is one of the largest reserves in Central and South America, composed of two large coastal lagoon systems and a wide variety of natural ecosystems.

The Itaipu Biosphere Reserve, located in eastern Paraguay, is a striking example of the successful integration of biodiversity conservation and sustainable human development. This reserve encompasses the semi-deciduous subtropical Upper Paraná Atlantic Forest, a critical ecosystem. Managed by Itaipu Binacional, a bi-national entity established by Paraguay and Brazil, the Itaipu Biosphere Reserve showcases how collaboration, innovative management, and education can harmonize human activity with nature's preservation.

The Beni Biosphere Reserve is located in the Department of Beni in northeastern Bolivia. It is a unique area that combines three distinct biogeographical zones: the Amazon, the Chaco, and the Cerrado. The reserve comprises a savanna and rainforest and is one of Bolivia's oldest and most important protected areas. It is a haven for a wide variety of plant and animal species and a place with a rich cultural heritage.

In the heart of Peru's Central Andes lies the Bicentenario-Ayacucho Biosphere Reserve, surrounded by a breathtaking collage of mountains and valleys. This protected wilderness sanctuary is of tremendous ecological and cultural importance, enriched with historical, religious, and social values. It has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its unparalleled environmental and cultural significance.

The Bosque Seco Biosphere Reserve is a biodiverse haven with diverse landscapes, from mountains to plains, providing vital climate regulation and water services. Home to Ecuador's best-preserved dry forests, the reserve boasts rich flora and fauna. Collaborating with Peru, it became part of the Bosques de Paz Transboundary Biosphere Reserve, showcasing the nexus of nature and culture.

The Bosques Templados Lluviosos de Los Andes Australes Biosphere Reserve comprises eight national protected areas in southern Chile. It hosts extraordinary biodiversity and is classified as one of Earth's largest and most ecologically intact forest remnants.