Reserva Forestal

Reserva Forestal is a protected area in Peru.

Reserva Forestal at a Glance

Location
Central & Southern Pacific Coast, Peru, Central & South America
Coordinates
-7.949863, -79.026590
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry season) for Amazon and Andean wildlife.

Getting to Reserva Forestal

Nearest airport: Pampa Hermosa Airport (SPPH), 420 km away.

Weather & Climate in Reserva Forestal

The warmest temperatures in Reserva Forestal occur in March, averaging 22.8°C (up to 25.9°C). The coolest conditions are in August at 17.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 0.3mm. Average humidity: 77.6%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 21.3°C (rainfall: 14.5mm)
  • February: 22.6°C (rainfall: 13.7mm)
  • March: 22.8°C (rainfall: 29.1mm)
  • April: 21.4°C (rainfall: 12.3mm)
  • May: 19.5°C (rainfall: 4.0mm)
  • June: 18.1°C (rainfall: 0.5mm)
  • July: 17.4°C (rainfall: 0.3mm)
  • August: 17.0°C (rainfall: 0.4mm)
  • September: 17.1°C (rainfall: 0.7mm)
  • October: 17.6°C (rainfall: 8.5mm)
  • November: 18.0°C (rainfall: 3.9mm)
  • December: 19.8°C (rainfall: 14.8mm)

Best Time to Visit Reserva Forestal

The best months to visit Reserva Forestal are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 21.34°C, rainfall 14.5mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 79.3%
  • February: Great, temperature 22.57°C, rainfall 13.7mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 76.3%
  • March: Great, temperature 22.84°C, rainfall 29.1mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 76.5%
  • April: Great, temperature 21.43°C, rainfall 12.3mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 78.2%
  • May: Great, temperature 19.47°C, rainfall 4mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 78.7%
  • June: Great, temperature 18.05°C, rainfall 0.5mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 77.3%
  • July: Great, temperature 17.35°C, rainfall 0.3mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 77.6%
  • August: Great, temperature 17°C, rainfall 0.4mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 77.8%
  • September: Great, temperature 17.07°C, rainfall 0.7mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 78.2%
  • October: Great, temperature 17.63°C, rainfall 8.5mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 78.9%
  • November: Great, temperature 18°C, rainfall 3.9mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 78.3%
  • December: Great, temperature 19.76°C, rainfall 14.8mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 79.9%

Wildlife in Reserva Forestal

Home to 17 recorded species including 6 birds of prey, 6 waterbirds, 2 tropical birds, 2 iconic birds, 1 reptiles.

Recommended Packing List for Reserva Forestal

Based on average temperature of 19.4°C, typical conditions, humidity 78%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 19°C weather
  • 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 Forestal

49 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Central & Southern Pacific Coast

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Peru

Travel advisory for Peru

Reserva Forestal FAQs

What are the optimal months to visit Reserva Forestal for wildlife viewing and comfortable trekking conditions?

The dry season, typically from May to October, offers the best conditions for exploring Reserva Forestal. During these months, rainfall is lower, making trails more accessible and increasing the chances of spotting wildlife near water sources.

Beyond common Amazonian species, what unique wildlife encounters can I anticipate at Reserva Forestal?

Reserva Forestal is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, offering opportunities to spot unique Peruvian wildlife such as the elusive Spectacled Bear in higher elevations or various endemic bird species. Keep an eye out for rare primates and a wide array of colorful insects and amphibians specific to this protected area.

What specific preparations, beyond standard vaccinations, are recommended for a visit to Reserva Forestal's unique environment?

Given the varied terrain and potential for humidity, it's crucial to pack lightweight, quick-drying clothing, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, and reliable insect repellent. Additionally, consider bringing a good quality pair of binoculars for wildlife spotting and a waterproof daypack to protect your essentials.

What is the typical cost range for a multi-day safari package at Reserva Forestal, and what services are generally included?

A multi-day safari package at Reserva Forestal typically ranges from $800 to $1500 USD per person, depending on the duration and level of accommodation. These packages usually include guided excursions, all meals, park entrance fees, and transfers from a designated meeting point.

Given Reserva Forestal's low crowding level, what kind of intimate wilderness experience can visitors expect compared to more frequented Peruvian parks?

With a crowding level of 2/5, visitors to Reserva Forestal can anticipate a remarkably intimate and personal wilderness experience. You'll often have wildlife sightings to yourselves, allowing for unhurried observation and a deeper connection with nature, guided by knowledgeable local experts.

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.