Ecoregions of Peru

The Central Andean wet puna ecoregion, a gem in the southern high Andean Mountains of Peru and eastern Bolivia, reveals itself as a high-elevation, moist, montane grassland. Marked by snow-capped peaks, mountain pastures, high lakes, plateaus, and valleys, this region extends beyond the tree line, forming a distinctive composition of landscapes.

The Eastern Cordillera Real Montane Forests in Ecuador, Peru, and Colombia are a unique and vital ecoregion in the Andes Mountains known for its high biodiversity and diverse microclimates. It is part of the larger Tropical Andes biodiversity hotspot and faces conservation challenges due to human activities and climate change, making it a focal point for preservation efforts.

The Peruvian Yungas ecoregion, nestled along the eastern slopes and central valleys of the Peruvian Andes, is a biological treasure trove, encompassing a vast expanse from northernmost to southernmost Peru. This subtropical montane region, characterized by its deciduous and evergreen forests, contributes significantly to the rich biodiversity of the Neotropics.

The Southwest Amazon moist forests represent one of the world's most biologically rich and ecologically significant regions. Encompassing vast tracts of intact tropical rainforest in the upper Amazon Basin, this ecoregion spans parts of Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia. Known for its exceptional biodiversity and relatively undisturbed landscapes, the Southwest Amazon moist forests are crucial for the conservation of numerous species and ecosystems.

Nestled high amidst the jagged, snow-covered peaks of the Southern Andes lies the Central Andean Puna - a land of rugged resilience crafted from pristine pampas and awe-inspiring altiplano plains. This high-altitude montane grassland stretches across the southern regions of Peru, traversing the rugged Bolivian Altiplano and dipping into the northern corners of Argentina.

Nestled within the heart of the Andes, straddling the borders of Bolivia and Peru, lies the Cordillera Central páramo ecoregion, a high-altitude expanse that captivates with its rugged beauty and ecological significance. This unique ecosystem, situated between the treeline and the permanent snowline, stands as a living testament to the resilience of nature in the face of extreme conditions.

The Marañón dry forests, situated in the upper Marañón River valley and its tributaries in northwestern Peru, represent a biologically rich and distinct ecoregion. This region, spanning the central and northern Andes, features a unique climate and diverse habitats, supporting many endemic species. The Marañón dry forests' ecological significance and challenges underscore the importance of conservation efforts in this remarkable region.

The Napo Moist Forests ecoregion, a lush and diverse expanse of tropical rainforest, is located in the western Amazon Basin, primarily within Ecuador and Peru, extending into southern Colombia. This ecoregion, known for its unparalleled biodiversity, encompasses a variety of habitats, from lowland rainforests to montane forests, supporting an incredible array of flora and fauna. The region's ecological significance and cultural heritage make research and protection vital.

Peru is a country with diverse landscapes and natural wonders. It has two contrasting yet equally captivating deserts along its western coastline—the Sechura and Nazca Deserts. The relentless forces of nature have shaped these arid expanses and stand as testaments to the resilience of life in extreme environments. They offer a unique blend of geological marvels and biodiversity.

The Tumbes-Piura dry forests ecoregion is nestled along the Pacific coast of northwestern Peru and southwestern Ecuador. This unique and remarkable ecosystem is part of the larger Tumbes-Chocó-Magdalena biodiversity hotspot. This ecoregion, often overshadowed by the more well-known tropical rainforests of the Amazon basin, is a biodiversity hotspot in its own right, harboring an exceptional concentration of endemic species and facing significant conservation challenges.