Northern Pacific Coast (Tumbes & Piura), Peru
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Parque Nacional Cerros de Amotape

    Located in the dry forest ecosystem of northern Peru, this park protects unique flora and fauna adapted to arid conditions. Key species include the endangered white-winged guan, spectacled bear, and American crocodile, offering a distinct wildlife experience compared to the Amazon.

    Best timeMay to October (dry season) for Amazon and Andean wildlife.
    Species
    19
    Big Five
    0/5
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Parque Nacional Cerros de Amotape Map

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    Recent sightings at Parque Nacional Cerros de Amotape

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    19 species recorded in Parque Nacional Cerros de Amotape3 threatened

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    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Parque Nacional Cerros de Amotape

    Peru offers a dual safari experience, blending the unparalleled biodiversity of the Amazon with the dramatic landscapes of the Andes. For the Amazonian jewels of Manu National Park and Tambopata...

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, heavy afternoon downpours, though mornings are often clear. Humidity is high, making it feel very warm.

    The rainforest is lush and vibrant. Birding is excellent with resident species at their most active. River levels are high, allowing access to more remote areas.

    We love the sheer abundance of life during this green season, especially the incredible birding opportunities in Tambopata.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    February

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with persistent rain and high humidity. Trails can be muddy and some areas may be inaccessible.

    Despite the rain, wildlife remains active. Look for jaguar sightings as they may be more visible near riverbanks. Amphibian and reptile activity is high.

    If you don't mind the rain, February offers a truly wild and uncrowded experience in the Amazon.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season transitioning to Dry Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still common. Humidity starts to drop slightly, offering more comfortable conditions.

    As river levels recede, wildlife congregates more around remaining water sources, making sightings potentially easier. Macaw activity at clay licks is consistent.

    We find March to be a sweet spot, with fewer crowds and wildlife becoming more concentrated.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather becomes significantly drier with less humidity and fewer rain showers. Mornings are cool and pleasant, with warm afternoons.

    This is prime time for spotting giant otters and caimans along the rivers. The drier conditions make for excellent trekking and wildlife viewing.

    We highly recommend April for its comfortable weather and excellent opportunities to see riverine wildlife in Manu and Tambopata.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry and sunny days are the norm, with cool mornings and evenings. This is one of the most pleasant months weather-wise.

    Wildlife viewing is superb. Jaguar sightings are often reported. The cooler temperatures make exploring the Andes for condors and vicuñas very rewarding.

    May is perfect for combining Amazonian wildlife with Andean discoveries; we love the crisp air in the highlands.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park
    +1

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    Cooler temperatures prevail, especially in the Andes. The Amazon remains dry and sunny, with minimal rainfall.

    This is peak season for wildlife viewing in the Amazon. Birds are active, and mammals are easier to spot against the drier vegetation. Condor sightings are excellent in the Andes.

    We adore June for its reliably dry weather and abundant wildlife; it's ideal for first-time visitors.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Santuario Nacional de Ampay
    +1

    July

    peak

    Dry Season

    The driest and coolest month. Expect clear skies and pleasant temperatures, though nights can be chilly, especially in the Andes.

    Excellent conditions for spotting mammals along riverbanks. Macaw clay licks are particularly active. Andean wildlife viewing, including spectacled bears, is at its best.

    July is sensational for wildlife encounters across the board; we recommend booking well in advance.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Santuario Nacional de Ampay
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and sunny, with temperatures warming up slightly compared to June and July. Nights remain cool.

    Prime time for jaguar and giant otter sightings. The dry season concentrates animals near water sources. Birding remains strong, with many resident species.

    We find August offers a fantastic combination of dry weather and predictable wildlife sightings; it's hard to beat.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    September

    high

    Dry Season transitioning to Green Season

    The weather remains largely dry, but the first hints of the upcoming rains may appear. Temperatures are warm and pleasant.

    Wildlife viewing continues to be excellent. The transition period can sometimes lead to increased animal activity as they prepare for the changing season.

    September is a great month to visit before the heaviest rains return; we love the vibrant energy of the rainforest.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    October

    moderate

    Green Season

    Rainfall increases, especially in the afternoons. Humidity rises, and temperatures become warmer.

    The rainforest becomes incredibly lush. Birding is exceptional, with many migratory species arriving. River levels start to rise, opening up new areas.

    We enjoy October for the dramatic green landscapes and the incredible birdlife that thrives in the early rains.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    November

    low

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, often heavy, tropical downpours. Humidity is high, and temperatures are warm.

    The forest is alive with sound and activity. This is a good time for amphibian and reptile spotting. Macaw clay licks are still active.

    For those who embrace the rain, November offers a truly immersive and less crowded Amazonian experience.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    December

    low

    Green Season

    Heavy rains are common, particularly in the afternoons. The environment is very humid and warm.

    The rainforest is at its most verdant. Wildlife is abundant, though sightings might require more patience due to dense foliage. Excellent for spotting insects and amphibians.

    We recommend December for its raw, untamed beauty and the incredible biodiversity that flourishes in the wet season.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, heavy afternoon downpours, though mornings are often clear. Humidity is high, making it feel very warm.

    The rainforest is lush and vibrant. Birding is excellent with resident species at their most active. River levels are high, allowing access to more remote areas.

    We love the sheer abundance of life during this green season, especially the incredible birding opportunities in Tambopata.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    February

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with persistent rain and high humidity. Trails can be muddy and some areas may be inaccessible.

    Despite the rain, wildlife remains active. Look for jaguar sightings as they may be more visible near riverbanks. Amphibian and reptile activity is high.

    If you don't mind the rain, February offers a truly wild and uncrowded experience in the Amazon.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season transitioning to Dry Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still common. Humidity starts to drop slightly, offering more comfortable conditions.

    As river levels recede, wildlife congregates more around remaining water sources, making sightings potentially easier. Macaw activity at clay licks is consistent.

    We find March to be a sweet spot, with fewer crowds and wildlife becoming more concentrated.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather becomes significantly drier with less humidity and fewer rain showers. Mornings are cool and pleasant, with warm afternoons.

    This is prime time for spotting giant otters and caimans along the rivers. The drier conditions make for excellent trekking and wildlife viewing.

    We highly recommend April for its comfortable weather and excellent opportunities to see riverine wildlife in Manu and Tambopata.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry and sunny days are the norm, with cool mornings and evenings. This is one of the most pleasant months weather-wise.

    Wildlife viewing is superb. Jaguar sightings are often reported. The cooler temperatures make exploring the Andes for condors and vicuñas very rewarding.

    May is perfect for combining Amazonian wildlife with Andean discoveries; we love the crisp air in the highlands.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park
    +1

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    Cooler temperatures prevail, especially in the Andes. The Amazon remains dry and sunny, with minimal rainfall.

    This is peak season for wildlife viewing in the Amazon. Birds are active, and mammals are easier to spot against the drier vegetation. Condor sightings are excellent in the Andes.

    We adore June for its reliably dry weather and abundant wildlife; it's ideal for first-time visitors.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Santuario Nacional de Ampay
    +1

    July

    peak

    Dry Season

    The driest and coolest month. Expect clear skies and pleasant temperatures, though nights can be chilly, especially in the Andes.

    Excellent conditions for spotting mammals along riverbanks. Macaw clay licks are particularly active. Andean wildlife viewing, including spectacled bears, is at its best.

    July is sensational for wildlife encounters across the board; we recommend booking well in advance.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Santuario Nacional de Ampay
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and sunny, with temperatures warming up slightly compared to June and July. Nights remain cool.

    Prime time for jaguar and giant otter sightings. The dry season concentrates animals near water sources. Birding remains strong, with many resident species.

    We find August offers a fantastic combination of dry weather and predictable wildlife sightings; it's hard to beat.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    September

    high

    Dry Season transitioning to Green Season

    The weather remains largely dry, but the first hints of the upcoming rains may appear. Temperatures are warm and pleasant.

    Wildlife viewing continues to be excellent. The transition period can sometimes lead to increased animal activity as they prepare for the changing season.

    September is a great month to visit before the heaviest rains return; we love the vibrant energy of the rainforest.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    October

    moderate

    Green Season

    Rainfall increases, especially in the afternoons. Humidity rises, and temperatures become warmer.

    The rainforest becomes incredibly lush. Birding is exceptional, with many migratory species arriving. River levels start to rise, opening up new areas.

    We enjoy October for the dramatic green landscapes and the incredible birdlife that thrives in the early rains.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    November

    low

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, often heavy, tropical downpours. Humidity is high, and temperatures are warm.

    The forest is alive with sound and activity. This is a good time for amphibian and reptile spotting. Macaw clay licks are still active.

    For those who embrace the rain, November offers a truly immersive and less crowded Amazonian experience.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    December

    low

    Green Season

    Heavy rains are common, particularly in the afternoons. The environment is very humid and warm.

    The rainforest is at its most verdant. Wildlife is abundant, though sightings might require more patience due to dense foliage. Excellent for spotting insects and amphibians.

    We recommend December for its raw, untamed beauty and the incredible biodiversity that flourishes in the wet season.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, heavy afternoon downpours, though mornings are often clear. Humidity is high, making it feel very warm.

    The rainforest is lush and vibrant. Birding is excellent with resident species at their most active. River levels are high, allowing access to more remote areas.

    We love the sheer abundance of life during this green season, especially the incredible birding opportunities in Tambopata.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    February

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with persistent rain and high humidity. Trails can be muddy and some areas may be inaccessible.

    Despite the rain, wildlife remains active. Look for jaguar sightings as they may be more visible near riverbanks. Amphibian and reptile activity is high.

    If you don't mind the rain, February offers a truly wild and uncrowded experience in the Amazon.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    March

    low

    Green Season transitioning to Dry Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still common. Humidity starts to drop slightly, offering more comfortable conditions.

    As river levels recede, wildlife congregates more around remaining water sources, making sightings potentially easier. Macaw activity at clay licks is consistent.

    We find March to be a sweet spot, with fewer crowds and wildlife becoming more concentrated.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather becomes significantly drier with less humidity and fewer rain showers. Mornings are cool and pleasant, with warm afternoons.

    This is prime time for spotting giant otters and caimans along the rivers. The drier conditions make for excellent trekking and wildlife viewing.

    We highly recommend April for its comfortable weather and excellent opportunities to see riverine wildlife in Manu and Tambopata.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Dry and sunny days are the norm, with cool mornings and evenings. This is one of the most pleasant months weather-wise.

    Wildlife viewing is superb. Jaguar sightings are often reported. The cooler temperatures make exploring the Andes for condors and vicuñas very rewarding.

    May is perfect for combining Amazonian wildlife with Andean discoveries; we love the crisp air in the highlands.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park
    +1

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    Cooler temperatures prevail, especially in the Andes. The Amazon remains dry and sunny, with minimal rainfall.

    This is peak season for wildlife viewing in the Amazon. Birds are active, and mammals are easier to spot against the drier vegetation. Condor sightings are excellent in the Andes.

    We adore June for its reliably dry weather and abundant wildlife; it's ideal for first-time visitors.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Santuario Nacional de Ampay
    +1

    July

    peak

    Dry Season

    The driest and coolest month. Expect clear skies and pleasant temperatures, though nights can be chilly, especially in the Andes.

    Excellent conditions for spotting mammals along riverbanks. Macaw clay licks are particularly active. Andean wildlife viewing, including spectacled bears, is at its best.

    July is sensational for wildlife encounters across the board; we recommend booking well in advance.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Santuario Nacional de Ampay
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Still very dry and sunny, with temperatures warming up slightly compared to June and July. Nights remain cool.

    Prime time for jaguar and giant otter sightings. The dry season concentrates animals near water sources. Birding remains strong, with many resident species.

    We find August offers a fantastic combination of dry weather and predictable wildlife sightings; it's hard to beat.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    September

    high

    Dry Season transitioning to Green Season

    The weather remains largely dry, but the first hints of the upcoming rains may appear. Temperatures are warm and pleasant.

    Wildlife viewing continues to be excellent. The transition period can sometimes lead to increased animal activity as they prepare for the changing season.

    September is a great month to visit before the heaviest rains return; we love the vibrant energy of the rainforest.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Bahuaja Sonene National Park

    October

    moderate

    Green Season

    Rainfall increases, especially in the afternoons. Humidity rises, and temperatures become warmer.

    The rainforest becomes incredibly lush. Birding is exceptional, with many migratory species arriving. River levels start to rise, opening up new areas.

    We enjoy October for the dramatic green landscapes and the incredible birdlife that thrives in the early rains.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    November

    low

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, often heavy, tropical downpours. Humidity is high, and temperatures are warm.

    The forest is alive with sound and activity. This is a good time for amphibian and reptile spotting. Macaw clay licks are still active.

    For those who embrace the rain, November offers a truly immersive and less crowded Amazonian experience.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve

    December

    low

    Green Season

    Heavy rains are common, particularly in the afternoons. The environment is very humid and warm.

    The rainforest is at its most verdant. Wildlife is abundant, though sightings might require more patience due to dense foliage. Excellent for spotting insects and amphibians.

    We recommend December for its raw, untamed beauty and the incredible biodiversity that flourishes in the wet season.

    Manu National Park
    Tambopata National Reserve
    Planning & reference

    We love Cerros de Amotape for its unparalleled dry forest ecosystem, a truly unique habitat in Peru. It's one of the few places where you can reliably spot the endangered Tumbes crocodile and a remarkable array of endemic birds, all within an incredibly uncrowded and pristine setting. The sense of discovery here is profound.

    Gate Times

    We recommend checking with SERNANP or your tour operator for the most up-to-date gate times, as these can vary seasonally and for specific sectors of the park. Generally, access is permitted from sunrise to sunset. Permits are mandatory and should be secured in advance, especially if you plan multi-day treks or specific research activities.

    Tipping

    Tipping is a thoughtful gesture for guides and support staff who enhance your experience. For a full-day guide, we suggest around 20-30 soles per person. If you are on a multi-day trek with porters or cooks, a collective tip of 50-70 soles per person for the team is appropriate. Always tip in local currency and discreetly.

    Dress Code

    We advise lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colours-khaki, olive, or muted greens-to blend with the environment and avoid attracting insects. Long sleeves and trousers are essential for sun protection and mosquito bite prevention, especially at dawn and dusk. Layers are key; mornings can be cool, but midday temperatures rise significantly. A wide-brimmed hat and sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are non-negotiable.

    Photography

    Photography is encouraged, but always respect wildlife and fellow visitors. We recommend a telephoto lens for capturing the park's unique dry forest species without disturbance. Drones are generally prohibited within national parks in Peru unless you have specific permits from SERNANP, which are rarely granted for recreational use. Always ask your guide before taking photos of local communities or individuals.

    Etiquette

    Maintaining a respectful silence is paramount to appreciating the park's subtle beauty and not disturbing wildlife. If you're in a vehicle, remain inside unless your guide explicitly instructs otherwise. On walks, follow your guide's instructions precisely. We advocate for leaving no trace-pack out everything you pack in. Remember, this is the animals' home; observe from a distance and never attempt to feed or approach them.

    What to Bring

    Sunscreen (high SPF)
    Insect repellent (with DEET or picaridin)
    A wide-brimmed hat
    Reusable water bottle
    Binoculars
    A good camera with extra batteries
    Comfortable hiking boots
    Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and trousers
    A light waterproof jacket
    A personal first-aid kit
    A headlamp or flashlight
    Sufficient local currency for tips and small purchases

    Temperature

    23.99°C

    75°F · Range: 19.61–30.54°C

    Rainfall

    82.8 mm

    Moderate rain · 17.8 rainy days

    Humidity

    72.4%

    Sunshine

    9.4 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    3.81 m/s

    13.7 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Parque Nacional Cerros de Amotape Reviews