Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas

Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas is a protected area in Peru.

Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas at a Glance

Location
Central Andes & Amazon Foothills, Peru, Central & South America
Coordinates
-12.108113, -75.860985
IUCN Category
V
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry season) for Amazon and Andean wildlife.

Getting to Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas

Nearest airport: Aeropuerto Francisco Carlé de Jauja (JAU), 56 km away.

Weather & Climate in Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas

The warmest temperatures in Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas occur in February, averaging 4.0°C (up to 9.3°C). The coolest conditions are in June at 2.8°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 9.2mm. Average humidity: 54.8%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 3.6°C (rainfall: 245.6mm)
  • February: 4.0°C (rainfall: 230.4mm)
  • March: 3.9°C (rainfall: 245.8mm)
  • April: 3.6°C (rainfall: 103.9mm)
  • May: 3.2°C (rainfall: 55.3mm)
  • June: 2.8°C (rainfall: 13.7mm)
  • July: 3.3°C (rainfall: 9.2mm)
  • August: 3.8°C (rainfall: 21.5mm)
  • September: 3.8°C (rainfall: 70.0mm)
  • October: 3.6°C (rainfall: 131.7mm)
  • November: 3.9°C (rainfall: 150.8mm)
  • December: 3.8°C (rainfall: 224.6mm)

Best Time to Visit Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas

The best months to visit Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas are June, July, April, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 3.65°C, rainfall 245.6mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 85.3%
  • February: Poor, temperature 3.95°C, rainfall 230.4mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 85.4%
  • March: Poor, temperature 3.85°C, rainfall 245.8mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 86.9%
  • April: Good, temperature 3.57°C, rainfall 103.9mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 81%
  • May: Good, temperature 3.18°C, rainfall 55.3mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 76.2%
  • June: Great, temperature 2.81°C, rainfall 13.7mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 63.6%
  • July: Great, temperature 3.27°C, rainfall 9.2mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 54.8%
  • August: Good, temperature 3.77°C, rainfall 21.5mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 56.5%
  • September: Good, temperature 3.8°C, rainfall 70mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 71.5%
  • October: Good, temperature 3.65°C, rainfall 131.7mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 76.8%
  • November: Poor, temperature 3.88°C, rainfall 150.8mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 75.7%
  • December: Poor, temperature 3.82°C, rainfall 224.6mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 83.5%

Wildlife in Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas

Home to 4 recorded species including 2 birds of prey, 1 waterbirds, 1 iconic birds.

Recommended Packing List for Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas

Based on average temperature of 3.6°C, typical conditions, humidity 75%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 4°C require warm insulation
  • Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas

25 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Central Andes & Amazon Foothills

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Peru

Travel advisory for Peru

Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas for the best weather and outdoor activities?

The dry season, from May to October, offers the most favorable conditions with clear skies and less rainfall, ideal for trekking and enjoying the vibrant turquoise lagoons. While temperatures can be cool, especially at night, this period ensures better road access and visibility of the stunning Andean landscapes.

What kind of unique experiences and activities can I expect in Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas, distinguishing it from a traditional wildlife safari?

This protected landscape focuses on breathtaking high-Andean scenery, including turquoise lagoons, cascading waterfalls, and ancient terraced fields. Visitors typically engage in trekking, exploring picturesque villages, and observing the unique flora and fauna adapted to this altitude, rather than vehicle-based game drives.

What specific types of wildlife can visitors hope to encounter in the high-altitude environment of Nor Yauyos-Cochas?

The reserve is home to iconic Andean species such as vicuñas, vizcachas, and various high-altitude birds, including the majestic Andean condor soaring above the peaks. Keep an eye out for diverse waterfowl around the lagoons and unique plant life adapted to the extreme conditions.

What specific health and safety precautions should travelers take when visiting the high-altitude Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas?

Due to the significant altitude, travelers should be prepared for potential altitude sickness (soroche) by acclimatizing gradually and staying hydrated. Strong sun protection, warm layering clothing, and sturdy hiking boots are essential for comfortable and safe exploration of the rugged terrain.

How challenging is it to access Reserva Paisajística Nor Yauyos-Cochas, and what are the recommended travel logistics for independent visitors?

Access typically involves a multi-hour drive from Lima, often requiring a 4x4 vehicle, especially during the wet season, due to unpaved and winding mountain roads. It's advisable to plan for basic accommodation in local villages or designated campsites and consider hiring a local guide for navigation and cultural insights.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.