Santuario Nacional de Ampay

This small but important sanctuary near Abancay protects the last remaining patches of Intimpa (Podocarpus glomeratus) forest, a unique Andean conifer....

Santuario Nacional de Ampay at a Glance

Location
Southern Andes & Altiplano, Peru, Central & South America
Coordinates
-13.583879, -72.893380
IUCN Category
III
Crowds
Moderate
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
May to October (dry season) for Amazon and Andean wildlife.

Getting to Santuario Nacional de Ampay

Nearest airport: Aeródromo de Abancay, 8 km away.

Weather & Climate in Santuario Nacional de Ampay

The warmest temperatures in Santuario Nacional de Ampay occur in November, averaging 7.7°C (up to 13.7°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 6.1°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 10.3mm. Average humidity: 61.1%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 6.9°C (rainfall: 197.5mm)
  • February: 7.0°C (rainfall: 149.5mm)
  • March: 6.7°C (rainfall: 164.4mm)
  • April: 6.8°C (rainfall: 69.6mm)
  • May: 6.6°C (rainfall: 32.8mm)
  • June: 6.2°C (rainfall: 13.4mm)
  • July: 6.1°C (rainfall: 10.3mm)
  • August: 6.2°C (rainfall: 24.9mm)
  • September: 6.7°C (rainfall: 45.6mm)
  • October: 7.5°C (rainfall: 72.9mm)
  • November: 7.7°C (rainfall: 112.3mm)
  • December: 7.3°C (rainfall: 158.2mm)

Best Time to Visit Santuario Nacional de Ampay

The best months to visit Santuario Nacional de Ampay are June, July, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature 6.87°C, rainfall 197.5mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 81.1%
  • February: Good, temperature 6.98°C, rainfall 149.5mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 81%
  • March: Poor, temperature 6.68°C, rainfall 164.4mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 83%
  • April: Good, temperature 6.84°C, rainfall 69.6mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 77.2%
  • May: Good, temperature 6.64°C, rainfall 32.8mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 69.2%
  • June: Great, temperature 6.15°C, rainfall 13.4mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 61.9%
  • July: Great, temperature 6.1°C, rainfall 10.3mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 61.1%
  • August: Good, temperature 6.23°C, rainfall 24.9mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 66.1%
  • September: Good, temperature 6.71°C, rainfall 45.6mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 71.6%
  • October: Good, temperature 7.47°C, rainfall 72.9mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 71.9%
  • November: Good, temperature 7.71°C, rainfall 112.3mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 72.9%
  • December: Poor, temperature 7.25°C, rainfall 158.2mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 78%

Wildlife in Santuario Nacional de Ampay

Home to 25 recorded species including 8 iconic birds, 7 birds of prey, 5 waterbirds, 4 tropical birds, 1 predators.

Recommended Packing List for Santuario Nacional de Ampay

Based on average temperature of 6.8°C, typical conditions, humidity 73%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 7°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 Santuario Nacional de Ampay

50 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Southern Andes & Altiplano

Visitor Tips - Santuario Nacional de Ampay

Santuario Nacional de Ampay is a true hidden gem, offering a unique blend of high-altitude Andean forest and stunning glacial lakes, all crowned by the majestic Ampay mountain. We love the chance to spot the rare Ampay magnolia and the elusive Andean bear, making it a profoundly rewarding experience for those seeking authentic Peruvian nature away from the crowds.

Gate Times

We recommend checking the official SERNANP website or contacting the sanctuary directly for the most up-to-date information, but typically, gates open around 7:00 AM and close at 5:00 PM. Permits are essential and should ideally be secured in advance, especially during the peak dry season from May to October. We always advise arriving early to maximize your time for wildlife viewing and hiking.

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated and a customary way to acknowledge excellent service in Peru. For a full-day guide, we suggest around 50-70 soles per person. If you have porters or other support staff for longer treks, 20-30 soles per person per day is appropriate. Always tip in local currency and discreetly, preferably at the end of your service.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Peru

Travel advisory for Peru

Santuario Nacional de Ampay FAQs

What unique wildlife and plant species can I expect to encounter while hiking in Santuario Nacional de Ampay?

Beyond the iconic Intimpa (Podocarpus glomeratus) forest, the sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, offering chances to spot endemic species like the Ampay Tapaculo and various high-Andean hummingbirds. While large mammals are rare, you might also encounter vizcachas or Andean foxes amidst the distinct high-Andean flora.

What are the main hiking options and their difficulty levels within Santuario Nacional de Ampay?

The sanctuary offers several well-marked trails, ranging from easy walks around the lower forest areas to more challenging ascents towards Laguna Uspaccocha, which can take several hours. Most trails provide excellent opportunities to immerse yourself in the unique Intimpa forest and enjoy panoramic views.

What are the practical details for visiting Santuario Nacional de Ampay, such as transportation from Abancay and typical entrance costs?

Santuario Nacional de Ampay is easily accessible from Abancay, typically by taxi or a short combi ride to the park entrance, which takes about 30-45 minutes. Entrance fees are usually a modest amount for foreign visitors, contributing to the sanctuary's conservation efforts, and it's generally open during daylight hours.

When is the optimal time to visit Santuario Nacional de Ampay for birdwatching and pleasant hiking conditions?

The dry season, roughly from May to October, is generally considered the best time to visit, offering clearer skies and more comfortable hiking temperatures. This period also tends to be excellent for birdwatching, as species are more active and visible.

What specific health and safety precautions should I consider for a visit to Santuario Nacional de Ampay, especially regarding its high-Andean environment and moderate malaria risk?

While the sanctuary is at a higher altitude, it's prudent to consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis due to the moderate risk, especially if you plan to visit lower elevation areas nearby. Additionally, be prepared for varying high-Andean weather by packing layers, and stay hydrated to mitigate potential altitude effects.

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.