Tucked between the Andes and the Peruvian coast, within a forest that looks dry and silent from afar, lives a creature few travelers expect to find here: the Andean spectacled bear. Though made famous by the clumsy Paddington, this real-life bear is shy, solitary, and very rarely seen — except in one remarkable place.
In Chaparrí Private Conservation Area, Peru’s first private reserve, spectacled bears are not only protected — they’re thriving. For anyone hoping to encounter one of South America’s most iconic species, Chaparrí is without doubt one of the most promising and rewarding places to do so.
Spectacled Bears: The Real Story Behind Paddington
Many people first encounter the idea of a spectacled bear through Paddington, the marmalade-loving bear “from darkest Peru.” What fewer realize is that Paddington was inspired by the only bear species native to South America — the spectacled bear (Tremarctos ornatus), known for the pale rings or patches around its eyes that make each bear’s face look distinct.
But while Paddington was curious and clumsy, the real bears are cautious and quiet, spending much of their time in trees or moving through thick forest understory. Spectacled bears are highly adaptable: they eat mostly plants, are excellent climbers, and are able to live in a wide range of elevations. Yet they are also under threat. Habitat loss, fragmentation, and poaching have made the species vulnerable, and spotting one in the wild is rare across most of the Andes.
That’s what makes Chaparrí so extraordinary.
Chaparrí: A Dry Forest Sanctuary Like No Other
Chaparrí is located just two hours from Chiclayo, in the Lambayeque region of northern Peru. Its landscape may appear arid at first glance, but this seasonally dry tropical forest is bursting with life — from towering cacti and bromeliads that absorb moisture from the air, to foxes, condors, deer, and, of course, bears.
The reserve was born from a shared passion for this unique ecosystem. In the late 1990s, Heinz Plenge, a renowned Peruvian nature photographer from Lima, envisioned protecting this land not just for its beauty, but for its role as habitat to threatened species. He partnered with the local Muchik campesino community of Santa Catalina de Chongoyape, and together they established Peru’s first officially recognized private conservation area.
This joint effort — between a Lima-based conservationist and a local community — became a model for what grassroots, science-informed protection can look like. Today, it’s a living example of how conservation thrives when built on collaboration and shared stewardship.
Guaranteed Bear Encounters — and a Real Chance for Wild Sightings
One of Chaparrí’s most compelling features is its unique approach to bear conservation. Visitors can experience two types of sightings, both respectful and meaningful.
First, the reserve is home to a bear rescue center, where two spectacled bears — unable to return to the wild due to past trauma or captivity — live in very spacious, forested enclosures. Though protected by fencing for the safety of both animals and humans, these bears have freedom to move, climb, and forage in their natural habitat. It’s one of the best opportunities in Peru to observe spectacled bears up close, in a way that is educational and humane.
Second, and perhaps even more extraordinary, is the chance to see wild bears on a guided hike into the deeper areas of the reserve. Chaparrí is known for having one of the highest densities of wild spectacled bears in the country, and many travelers who take the full-day trek are rewarded with sightings. Some of these bears were raised or reintroduced in the area — and in a few remarkable cases, have returned with wild partners to settle back in the reserve.
This kind of conservation story — where bears choose to return — speaks volumes about the sanctuary Chaparrí has become.
A Remarkable Relationship: Amazona and Peruano
Among Chaparrí’s many rescued animals, the story of Amazona and Peruano stands out. Amazona was just a cub when she lost her mother to poachers. Too young to survive alone, she was brought to the reserve. Most didn’t expect her to make it.
But Peruano, a male bear born in Chaparrí and unusually calm around humans, did something extraordinary. He began caring for Amazona — guiding her, protecting her, and teaching her the survival behaviors she should have learned from her mother.
Their unlikely bond — rare, even among bears — has helped Amazona grow into a confident, thriving adult. Their story, captured on film, reflects the emotional intelligence and resilience of this species.
What Makes Chaparrí So Special
Chaparrí is more than a place to see wildlife. It’s a place where conservation is woven into daily life — where local knowledge, scientific expertise, and a long-term vision work together to preserve an entire ecosystem.
The reserve’s initiatives go far beyond bear protection. They include:
- Reforestation with native tree species
- Protection of critically endangered birds like the white-winged guan
- Community employment in guiding, cooking, and habitat monitoring
- Environmental education for local youth
- Promotion of responsible tourism as a conservation tool
For those who take the time to visit, the experience is profound. You walk through forests shaped by resilience. You learn from people who have lived in harmony with this land for generations. And if you’re lucky, you may lock eyes with a spectacled bear — and realize that conservation is not just about protecting animals, but about restoring balance.
Visiting Chaparrí With Impactful Travel
At Impactful Travel, we’re proud to offer a 48-hour experience at Chaparrí that allows you to fully immerse yourself in this powerful place. Our tour includes:
- Round-trip transport from Chiclayo
- Comfortable lodging at Chaparrí Lodge
- Guided visits to both the bear rescue center and surrounding trails
- All meals, filtered drinking water, and expert interpretation
More importantly, your journey supports the long-standing efforts of the people behind this project — people we’ve worked with for many years, and whose integrity and commitment continue to inspire us.
This is not a quick stop on a sightseeing tour. It’s an opportunity to understand, to witness, and to support real conservation in action.
Of course, this tour can also be included as part of your custom journey through Peru. We can tailor the experience entirely to your preferences — whether you’d like a shorter or longer stay, or wish to focus on specific activities. Just let our travel designers know that you’d like to include a visit to Chaparrí’s dry forest in your itinerary, and we’ll craft a trip that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
Travel not just to see. Travel to support, to connect, and to be changed.
Chaparrí is waiting — and it’s more than worth the journey.
