Step into the heart of one of Peru’s most extraordinary ecosystems with this 48-hour journey through Chaparrí, the country’s first private conservation area. Nestled within the arid yet surprisingly lush dry forests of Lambayeque, Chaparrí is a sanctuary for rare and endangered wildlife, including the elusive spectacled bear, the white-winged guan, and over 280 bird species. Walk alongside expert guides and local conservationists through a landscape shaped by resilience — where life thrives in a place that can go years without a single drop of rain.
Your adventure begins and ends in Chiclayo, but the true magic happens within Chaparrí’s protected forest trails, where pumas, peccaries, deer, and vibrant birdlife roam freely. You’ll visit a wildlife rescue center, a cultural interpretation site, and take part in day and night hikes that reveal the secrets of this remarkable dry forest ecosystem. Comfortable lodge accommodations, delicious local meals, and the option for expert English interpretation make this a rare and immersive experience in conservation-based tourism. Learn more about the famous spectacled bears of Chaparrí in our blog — including the heartwarming story of two rescued residents captured in an unforgettable video.
Price Includes
What to Bring
Your journey begins with a private transfer from Chiclayo to the Chaparrí Reserve, where the dry forest stretches across the horizon like a resilient miracle of nature. After settling into the peaceful lodge — free from noise and artificial light — your guide will take you on a gentle yet insightful introductory hike.
Along this route, you’ll explore several key sites: the interpretation center; the herpetarium, where the role of reptiles, amphibians and insects is demystified; the House of the Moon, which shares local legends and Mochica beliefs surrounding the sacred Apu Chaparrí; and the renowned spectacled bear rescue center, home to individuals rescued from captivity. Your guide will help you spot native species like white-winged guans, foxes, deer and squirrels that often remain hidden to the untrained eye.
After dinner, you’ll head back out for a short night walk to discover nocturnal life — from tarantulas and owls to geckos and frogs — under a star-studded sky.
Awaken to the calls of the forest and a hearty breakfast before setting out on your main exploration. Today, you’ll choose between two unforgettable experiences:
Unless you’re an avid birdwatcher, we recommend the first option – it’s the most varied, emblematic and complete activity.
Whichever path you take, your guide will help you interpret tracks, calls, and behaviors, making this a deeply enriching wildlife experience. In the afternoon, relax at the lodge’s pool or hammock area and enjoy the serenity of Chaparrí’s wild beauty.
After breakfast, you’ll have time for one last quiet moment in nature before heading back to Chiclayo by private transfer and continue your journey. Transfer time back to Chiclayo can be arranged at your convenience.
Expert tip: visit Lambayeque’s museum of the “Señor de Sipán”; one of the worlds most know museums! For an additional fee the transfer can also drop you off there.
This tour directly supports one of Peru’s most inspiring conservation success stories. Chaparrí is the country’s first private conservation area, protecting over 34,000 hectares of threatened dry forest and its remarkable biodiversity — including endangered species like the spectacled bear and the white-winged guan. By visiting, you contribute to ongoing rescue, rehabilitation and habitat protection efforts.
Your stay also generates sustainable income for the local Muchik community of Santa Catalina de Chongoyape and the family behind Chaparrí Lodge, who together manage and protect this unique ecosystem. The tour employs local guides, cooks, artisans and transport providers, while preserving cultural heritage and ancestral knowledge tied to the sacred Apu Chaparrí. Choosing this journey means choosing responsible travel that actively nurtures people and planet.
At the heart of Chaparrí’s conservation story is the Plenge Pardo family — a close-knit family whose love for nature inspired the creation of one of Peru’s most important private conservation areas. The project began with Heinz Plenge, a celebrated wildlife photographer whose striking images brought global awareness to Peru’s dry forests and their threatened species. His deep bond with the landscape led him to protect a piece of it — and to invite others to experience it with the same awe and respect.
Today, while Heinz still spends time in Chaparrí, sharing stories and his passion for conservation, the day-to-day management of the lodge is in the hands of his son, who works closely with local guides and community members. Together, they continue the family’s mission: to preserve Chaparrí’s natural and cultural heritage through sustainable ecotourism and meaningful wildlife protection.
My experience at Chaparri was unforgettable and paradisal. Myself and my two friends felt looked after from the moment we were picked up from our hotel in Chiclayo. We arrived mid-afternoon but were still given lunch. Our vegetarian diets were accommodated (a lot of rice and not much protein – probably my one criticism, but certainly the food was tasty). Our wildlife guide was incredible at spotting and identifying birds, and leading us carefully when we visited a waterhole and had the once-in-a-lifetime experience of seeing a wild bear come to drink with her cub. We also appreciated seeing the bears in the rehabilitation enclosures and learning more about their care. The lodge itself was wonderfully comfortable. The central area has many resting spots, perfect for watching birds and relaxing in the heat of the day. I slept well both nights on a great bed and pillow. You can’t charge devices in the bedrooms (there’s a central charging point in the main area, plus wifi) but there is solar-powered light for when it gets dark. All the staff were welcoming and friendly. That includes the peccaries who like to hang around the place… I would go back if I could!
By Chantal L on Dec 09, 2025
The reserve is accessible year-round, but the dry season — from May to December — offers the best conditions for hiking and wildlife viewing. The rainy season, especially from January to April, can bring limited access due to high river levels, particularly during isolated heavy rain events. If access is restricted for safety reasons, we will inform you as early as possible.
Chaparrí is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including spectacled bears, white-winged guans, foxes, deer, pumas, and over 280 species of birds. While sightings are never guaranteed, the combination of expert guides and the reserve’s thriving ecosystem gives visitors excellent chances to encounter many of these species in their natural habitat.
Yes. If you’d like to extend your stay, you are welcome to do so directly with the lodge. Additional nights, meals, and guiding services can be arranged on site for an extra cost. However, previous reservation is always recommended.
If your group speaks Spanish, you can opt out of having an English-speaking translator and receive a $160 discount on the total price. If you’re not fluent, we highly recommend the translator to ensure a richer, more connected experience.
The trails in Chaparrí involve uneven and rugged terrain, with moderate inclines and natural obstacles. Unfortunately, the infrastructure is not fully equipped for wheelchairs or visitors with significant mobility challenges. However, travelers with moderate mobility and a good sense of balance should be able to enjoy the hikes at a relaxed pace.
Electricity is available but limited, as the lodge prioritizes sustainability and operates off-grid. Charging devices is possible during the day in designated areas. If you require continuous electricity for medical equipment overnight, please let us know in advance — special arrangements can be made to ensure your needs are met.
While the standard check-in time begins at 2:00 p.m., guests are welcome to arrive at any time. If your room isn’t ready upon arrival, you’re invited to relax in the shared common areas until it becomes available. If your room is already prepared, you may check in immediately.
We kindly suggest arriving before 5:00 p.m., as visibility decreases and access to the lodge becomes more challenging after sunset.
Official check-out time is 11:00 a.m., but if you need to head back to Chiclayo earlier that is of course also possible. However, if you’d like to extend your stay and enjoy the lodge into the afternoon, you’re welcome to do so. You may safely store your belongings and request additional lunch service at $12 USD per person. Please let us know by leaving us a note during the booking process, so we can make the necessary arrangements. Also payable directly at the lodge.
For questions about booking a tour, prices, preparation for your trip, health and safety or other themes, please check our Frequently Asked Questions page. If you can’t find your question & answer, email us and we’ll add it!
