Pucacuro National Reserve Adventures
Pucacuro National Reserve is a vast protected area in the Peruvian Amazon known for its rich biodiversity, pristine rainforests, and vital role in safeguarding endangered species and indigenous habitats.
About Pucacuro National Reserve
Pucacuro National Reserve is located in the Loreto region of northeastern Peru, encompassing over 637,000 acres of pristine Amazon rainforest, wetlands, and river systems. Established in 2010, the reserve plays a crucial role in conserving one of the most biologically diverse and ecologically important regions of the Amazon Basin. The reserve's landscape includes dense tropical forests, flooded areas (várzea), and numerous tributaries of the Amazon River, which provide critical habitat for many species. The area is home to endangered mammals such as the giant river otter, jaguar, and the critically endangered white-bellied spider monkey, as well as diverse birdlife including macaws, toucans, and harpy eagles. The reserve also supports several indigenous communities who rely on the forest for subsistence and cultural heritage. Visitors to Pucacuro National Reserve can experience insightful wildlife viewing and birdwatching, river excursions by canoe, and guided forest hikes to explore the rich flora and fauna. Given its remote location and limited infrastructure, the reserve appeals primarily to adventurous eco-tourists and researchers seeking an immersive Amazon experience. The Pucacuro River is a notable landmark, offering serene paddle trips and access to some of the reserve’s most intact habitats. Its vastness and relative isolation make Pucacuro a critical refuge against deforestation pressures in the region while maintaining important ecosystem services like carbon storage and freshwater regulation.
Highlights
Pucacuro River – crystal-clear waterway rich in aquatic biodiversity and scenic landscapes
Intact floodplain várzea forests supporting diverse wildlife, including rare primates
Critical habitat for the endangered giant river otter and white-bellied spider monkey
Opportunity to visit traditional indigenous communities preserving ancestral customs
Notable Natural Features
Várzea Floodplain Forests
Seasonally flooded forests hosting diverse plant and animal species adapted to dynamic water regimes.
Giant River Otter Habitat
One of the few protected areas where the elusive giant river otter thrives in relative safety.
Indigenous Communities
Settlements of Cocama and other indigenous peoples who maintain sustainable forest traditions.