Bahuaja-Sonene National Park

Bahuaja-Sonene National Park is a large protected area in southeastern Peru covering lowland Amazon rainforest and adjacent montane-foothill habitats in the departments that include Puno and Madre de Dios. The park combines two sectors and is designed to conserve a broad altitudinal gradient and diverse wildlife.

The protected area was created in the late 20th century to conserve Amazonian and Andean-foothill ecosystems and to protect species threatened by deforestation and hunting. Management plans emphasise connectivity between lowland and upland habitats and anti-poaching measures.

The park lies in southeastern Peru, spanning parts of the Puno and Madre de Dios regions, and occupies a remote area of Amazonian lowlands and rising foothills toward the Andes.

• Scale and habitats: The park comprises two named sectors and protects a wide altitudinal range from Amazon lowlands to Andean foothills, making it important for habitat connectivity and large mammal conservation.

What to See#

• Bahuaja sector: The Bahuaja sector, covering lowland Amazon forest and river systems that support typical Amazonian wildlife and floodplain habitats.
• Sonene sector: The Sonene sector, protecting transitional upland and Andean foothill environments that connect lowland rainforest to higher-elevation ecosystems.

Access generally requires river or overland travel arranged from Puerto Maldonado or other regional gateways. Coordinate with licensed guides and park authorities for permits and transport arrangements.

• Organize trips with accredited local operators who understand Amazonian logistics and the park's seasonal access rules.
• Expect humidity and heat; bring malaria prophylaxis if advised and appropriate insect protection.
• Plan wildlife observation early in the morning or near dusk when animals are most active.