Biosphere Reserves in South America

The Riacho Teuquito Biosphere Reserve, nestled in the Province of Formosa in northeastern Argentina, is a vital conservation area within the Chaco region. This reserve is dedicated to preserving the semi-arid Chaco's unique woody ecosystems, which have faced significant deforestation and environmental pressures. The reserve's strategic zoning allows for effective conservation, sustainable development, and promoting harmonious human-nature interactions.

Spanning northeastern Paraguay, the Bosque Mbaracayú Biosphere Reserve is a vital stronghold for biodiversity and sustainable development. Located in the upper Jejuí River basin near the Brazilian border, this UNESCO-designated reserve protects a mosaic of ecosystems, including the endangered Upper Paraná Atlantic Forest, Chaco savannahs, and dry forests. At the heart of this biosphere reserve lies the Mbaracayú Forest Natural Reserve, a pristine area that safeguards one of the last remnants of Paraguay's Atlantic Forest.

Nestled within the rugged folds of Argentina's San Juan Province, the San Guillermo National Park and Biosphere Reserve stand as a testament to the remarkable biodiversity and cultural heritage of the high Andes. This vast protected area encompasses a mosaic of mountain systems, highland grasslands, and arid landscapes, offering a unique glimpse into the delicate balance between nature and human communities.

The Serra do Espinhaço is a mountain range that stands as a natural marvel in Brazil, stretching through Minas Gerais and Bahia. Known for its rich mineral deposits and unique ecosystems, the Serra do Espinhaço plays a vital role in the country's environmental and cultural fabric. Known for its rich mineral deposits and unique ecosystems, the range's significance is underscored by its designation as a Biosphere Reserve, which highlights its importance in preserving Brazil's natural heritage.

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, located in northeastern Ecuador, is a remarkable protected area known for its diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity. Situated southeast of Quito, the park encompasses a unique blend of volcanic peaks, lush forests, and pristine river basins. The park is a national treasure and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, reflecting its global ecological significance.

The Alto Orinoco-Casiquiare Biosphere Reserve is an expansive protected area located in the Venezuelan Amazon, encompassing three national parks—Duida-Marahuaca National Park, Serranía de la Neblina National Park, and Parima Tapirapecó National Park—each contributing to the ecological and cultural importance of the region. The reserve is characterized by its rich biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and the presence of Indigenous communities, particularly the Yanomami and Ye'kwana peoples.

Nestled in the northern region of Uruguay, the Bioma Pampa-Quebradas del Norte Biosphere Reserve is a unique sanctuary characterized by its rolling topography and subtropical grasslands. It serves as a vital refuge for an array of flora and fauna while preserving the cultural heritage of its inhabitants. The reserve's significance is amplified by its role in sustaining one of the planet's largest freshwater reserves, the Guaraní Aquifer.

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, Bahia, Minas Gerais, São Paulo, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, and the Federal District, encompasses the vast and diverse Cerrado biome, what scientists consider the world's most biodiverse savanna and one of Earth's oldest tropical ecosystems. This UNESCO-designated reserve covers nearly a quarter of Brazil's land area—making it one of the world's largest biosphere reserves and highlighting the country's extraordinary natural heritage and ecological significance.