Cerros de Amotape National ParkAbout Cerros de Amotape National Park
Cerros de Amotape National Park is a protected area in the Department of Piura in northwestern Peru, created to conserve tropical dry-forest and foothill habitats. It covers low mountain ridges and semi-arid forest on the western slopes of the Andes and forms part of a larger coastal-Andean transition zone.
Trails and rugged ridgelines provide opportunities for hiking and birdwatching across different dry-forest habitats. The park supports species adapted to seasonally dry conditions and is used for conservation and scientific study as well as low-impact recreation.
The park was established by the Peruvian state in the 20th century to protect threatened forest habitats and the wildlife that depends on them. Over time boundaries and management have aimed to balance local use with biodiversity conservation.
Geographically it sits between the coastal plain and the western Andean foothills in northwest Peru, within the administrative Department of Piura. Access is by road from regional towns and cities in the Piura/Tumbes area.
- Ecosystems: The park protects remnants of tropical dry forest and Andean foothill ecosystems, important for regional biodiversity.
- Best season for visiting: The dry season generally runs from about May to October, which is the most suitable time for trails and wildlife watching.
Best Time to Visit Cerros de Amotape National Park
May-November (dry season) is generally the best time to visit for trails and wildlife spotting.
Weather & Climate near Cerros de Amotape National Park
Cerros de Amotape National Park's climate is classified as Hot Semi-Arid - Hot Semi-Arid climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 14°C to 26°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 16° - 26° | 21° | 69 mm | - | - | 2.7 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 17° - 26° | 22° | 112 mm | - | - | 2.3 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 17° - 26° | 22° | 185 mm | - | - | 2.4 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 17° - 27° | 22° | 84 mm | - | - | 2.6 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 16° - 26° | 21° | 23 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 14° - 25° | 20° | 0 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 14° - 25° | 20° | 0 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 14° - 25° | 20° | 0 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 14° - 26° | 20° | 1 mm | - | - | 3.4 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 14° - 26° | 20° | 2 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 14° - 26° | 20° | 1 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 15° - 27° | 21° | 14 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Cerros de Amotape National Park
Approaches are from the Piura-Tumbes corridor. The park’s main access points are reached by regional roads from Piura or Tumbes; coordinate with the Servicio Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas (SERNANP) office for exact trailheads and transport recommendations.
Tips for Visiting Cerros de Amotape National Park
- Coordinate with the regional park office in Piura or Tumbes for park maps and access information; some sectors are managed with community rangers.
- Explore the Lomas and dry‑forests in the early morning when wildlife is most active.
- Combine a visit with the nearby Bosque de Pomac or coastal reserves to see a broader range of dry‑forest biodiversity.