Biosphere Reserves in South America

Nestled in the northern reaches of Paraguay, the El Chaco Biosphere Reserve is a testament to the country's rich natural heritage and ecological diversity. The reserve encompasses a remarkable range of permanent and temporary ecosystems, from dense forests and savannas to lacustrine and riparian systems. This vast expanse, covering a significant portion of the boreal El Chaco system, is a sanctuary for an array of flora and fauna, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth.

El Tuparro National Natural Park and Biosphere Reserve is located in the eastern plains of Colombia, a flat area bounded by four major rivers. The landscape undulates with a series of small valleys and streams. A few areas are permanently flooded during parts of the year.

Nestled along the northern coast of Peru lies the captivating Noroeste Amotapes-Manglares Biosphere Reserve, a mosaic of diverse habitats, includes Cerros de Amotape National Park, the Coto de Caza El Angolo, and the Manglares de Tumbes National Sanctuary. It was merged with the Bosque Seco Biosphere Reserve in Ecuador to form the Bosques de Paz Transboundary Biosphere Reserve, highlighting its regional importance in biodiversity conservation.

Nestled within the heart of Brazil, the Mata Atlântica Biosphere Reserve stands as a testament to the country's commitment to preserving its rich natural heritage. It proudly holds the distinction of being the pioneer among Brazilian biosphere reserves. This expansive reserve encompasses critical portions of the Atlantic Forest, including the entire coastal stretch from Ceará to Rio Grande do Sul.

The Fray Jorge Biosphere Reserve, a captivating blend of diverse ecosystems and natural wonders, is located in the Coquimbo Region, Limari Province, north of Santiago, Chile. With Bosque de Fray Jorge National Park serving as its core area, this reserve is a testament to Chile's rich biodiversity and commitment to conservation. From misty forests to sun-drenched coastal plains, the Fray Jorge Biosphere Reserve offers a glimpse into Chile's remarkable natural heritage and the delicate balance of life.

The Gran Pajatén Biosphere Reserve is nestled between the Peruvian Andes and Amazon plains and comprises a diversity of natural habitats, notably dry forests and Yungas. It has a rich cultural and historical heritage, linked to 40 archaeological sites dating from the pre-Columbian era.

The Gulf of Tribugá is an unspoiled paradise on Colombia's Pacific coast, offering stunning landscapes, diverse biodiversity, and traditional communities. The Tribugá-Cupica-Baudó Biosphere Reserve, created to conserve the region's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, fosters sustainable development and community involvement.

Situated in the Cordillera Blanca, Huascarán National Park and Biosphere Reserve protects the heart of the world's highest tropical mountain range in the central Peruvian Andes. The deep ravines, glacial lakes and variety of vegetation make it a site of spectacular beauty.

The Itaipu Biosphere Reserve covers an area of over 1,000,000 ha (2,500,000 acres) in eastern Paraguay. It comprises an area of semi-deciduous sub-tropical forest, also known as the Upper Paraná Atlantic Forest.

The Juan Fernández Archipelago is a sparsely inhabited group of islands in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of central Chile. The islands occur where the volcanic Juan Fernández Ridge protrudes above sea level. Protected areas include the islands of Robinson Crusoe, Alexander Selkirk, and Santa Clara.