Biosphere Reserves in South America

The Mbaracayú Forest Natural Reserve and the Bosque Mbaracayú Biosphere Reserve protect a hotspot of biodiversity in the Mata Atlántica biologic corridor. It is a tropical humid forest ecosystem, which includes low and medium-altitude Atlantic semi-deciduous forests and savannas.

Located in Argentina's Mendoza province, the Ñacuñan Biosphere Reserve is a unique protected area at the foothills of the Andes. It showcases nature's resilience and the deep connection between indigenous communities and their environment. The reserve spans semi-arid upland grasslands, shrubby steppes, and herbaceous woodlands, offering a glimpse into thriving biodiversity in this seemingly harsh terrain.

The Oxapampa-Ashaninka-Yanesha Biosphere Reserve and Yanachaga-Chemillen National Park in central Peru comprise the last undisturbed ecosystems in the central jungle. Its location between the Amazon forest lowland and montane cloud forest results in a high diversity of flora and fauna.

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Chubut Province in Argentine Patagonia, the Patagonia Azul Biosphere Reserve stands as a testament to this region's incredible beauty and biodiversity. Recognized by UNESCO as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, this vast protected area covers an impressive area, making it the largest in Argentina. With its pristine landscapes, unique geological formations, and rich flora and fauna, the Patagonia Azul Biosphere Reserve is a true natural wonder.

Nestled between the municipalities of La Plata and Berazategui, along the banks of the majestic Río de la Plata, lies the Pereyra Iraola Provincial Park and Biosphere Reserve. This urban oasis is the largest provincial park in Argentina's Buenos Aires Province and a rich center of biodiversity, offering a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and city dwellers alike.

The Pilón-Lajas Biosphere Reserve is located on the far eastern spur of the Andes. It comprises mixed mountain and highland ecosystems. The Bolivian government has designated the reserve as a territory and Native Community Land of the indigenous groups living in the Pilón-Lajas region.

The Podocarpus-El Condor Biosphere Reserve covers an area of over 1,050,000 ha (2,600,000 acres) in southern Ecuador. This area, including Podocarpus and Yacurí National Parks, is considered one of the world's most important sites for biodiversity.

Situated in the Pacific Ocean about 600 miles from the South American continent, the protected areas of the Galápagos Islands include the Galápagos National Park, the Galápagos Marine Reserve, and the Galápagos Biosphere Reserve.

The Riacho Teuquito Biosphere Reserve is located in the Province of Formosa, within the Chaco region in northeastern Argentina. The environment protected by the Biosphere Reserve is primarily the woody ecosystems of the semi-arid Chaco, which has been weakly represented among protected areas in South America.

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.