Cordillera Azul National Park

Cordillera Azul National Park is a large protected area in northeastern Peru within the Department of Loreto and adjacent regions, created to conserve stretches of Amazonian lowland and montane forest. It protects a high level of biodiversity across rugged, forested terrain and river systems.

Key attractions are extensive primary rainforest, riverine habitats and opportunities for wildlife observation of species typical of the western Amazon. The park is remote; travel into the protected area normally requires river transport, small aircraft or extended overland travel and is used primarily by researchers and experienced ecotour groups.

The park was created as part of Peru’s efforts to protect intact Amazon ecosystems and has been managed to reduce threats from logging, mining and agricultural expansion. Management emphasizes biological research and the involvement of local communities.

Geographically it occupies a portion of northeastern Peru in the Amazon basin, spanning upland ridges known as the Cordillera Azul and the surrounding lowlands; access points are several hours by river or road from regional towns.

• Size and purpose: One of Peru's larger national parks, established to protect Amazonian lowland and montane forests and a high diversity of wildlife including big cats and intact river systems.
• Access considerations: Much of the park is remote and accessed by river or small aircraft; visitors should plan logistics around long travel times and limited facilities.