Vicuñas, the fluffy, slim, and lovely Peruvian camelids live in the Andes of South America. However, in the Peruvian Andes, there’s a place popular to be “the haven for Vicuñas.” We’re talking about Pampa Galeras Barbara D’Achille National Reserve. Join us as we explore the fascinating history, importance, and traditions that this natural reserve offers.
What Exactly is this Reserve?
This national reserve was created in 1967, and its main purpose is to protect vicuña, a Peruvian endemic species. Along with the vicuña, the guanaco, another Peruvian camelid inhabits this national reserve. You can find Pampa Galeras in the Ayacucho department, in central Peru, located around 3,000 to 3,500 meters above sea level.
The protected zone counts 6,500 hectares, while the total area may reach around 60,00 hectares, Pampa Galeras is the perfect combination of a beautiful Andean landscape where wildlife bursts quietly. The weather is cold, the average temperature is 6 C, while in winter the temperature reaches -5 C.
Most of the landscape is covered with “pajonales,” a type of plant that absorbs rainwater and moisture from the environment and filters it into lower lands. There are also “queñua” remaining forests, a species that thrives in the tropical Andes at elevations above 3000 meters.
Story and Creation
In the 50’s and 60’s the vicuña was on the edge of extinction due to the poaching. So, in 1967 this reserve was established to protect this beautiful camelid. Later, in 1993 was renamed Barbara D’Achille Pampa de Galeras, thanks to the Latvian-Peruvian journalist and conservationist.
She was a pioneer in protecting threatened areas, and lots of people say that she was ahead of her time. She was committed to ecology and the conservation of nature in Peru. Unfortunately, she was killed by the Shining Path, a terrorist group that wreaked havoc in the 80’s.In the present day, her legacy is still alive, and thanks to her efforts Pampa de Galeras changed its name.
Flora and Fauna
The 6,500 hectares house over 6,000 vicuñas. These amazing wild animals thrive in the cold andes, Also to vicuñas, Pampa Galeras is a habitat for many other species, such as Andean foxes, Andean cats, vizcachas, and the majestic condor.
This area also supports around 20 different bird species, such as the parihuana and the Andean partridge. In the watery spots, keep an eye out for the jergo duck and the sutro duck.
On the other side, Pampa Galeras is rich in wild plants and features dry forests. It boasts around eighty local plant species, including the impressive Puya Raymondi, one of the tallest flower spikes in the world. You can also see the relic forests of queñua and quishuar in the rocky valleys.
The main type of vegetation here is pajonal, or grassland, where ichu plays a key role. This grass includes various species from the Poaceae family, such as Festuca, Stipa ichu, and Calamagrostis. You’ll find these plants growing in lush clusters throughout the area, alongside a delightful mix of upright shrubs and subshrubs like tola and Senecio.
The Iconic Vicuña and Its Luxurious Wool
The vicuña is a charming and elegant animal that thrives in the high Andes. As a cousin to llamas and alpacas, vicuñas are beloved symbols of the Peruvian Andes, cherished for many generations. Their stunning, golden-brown fur is not only eye-catching but also produces one of the finest and priciest types of wool in the world.
Vicuña wool has been valued since the days of the Inca Empire. Back then, only royalty could wear clothing made from this special fiber, which is light, warm, and incredibly soft. The wool is so delicate that it can only be harvested once every two or three years, making it a rare and precious resource.
The Chaccu Tradition
The “chaccu” or “chaco” comes from the Quechua language, which means “to catch”. This practice dates back a long time ago even before the Inca Empire. Although there are around 14 “chaccu” yearly, the main day is June 24th, the farmer’s day.
But what exactly is chaccu? This ancient Inca practice involves gathering the vicuñas, shearing them, and then releasing them back into the wild. At each event, many people gather around the vicuñas in a gentle circle.
When the animals are safely captured, they are carefully sheared to collect their precious fiber, known for being one of the finest in the world.
A kilo of vicuña wool can sell for up to $500 on the international market, bringing important income to local communities. This sustainable approach has helped the species thrive while also supporting the economic growth of families in the high Andes.
Enjoying tourism in Pampa Galeras.
For travelers, Pampa Galeras offers a unique chance to experience Peru’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The reserve is a popular eco-tourism spot. It attracts visitors eager to explore its stunning landscapes, learn about its history, and see its wildlife up close.
Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Travel
One of the highlights of Pampa Galeras is the chance to see vicuñas in their natural habitat. These shy animals are rarely seen in most parts of the Andes, but in the reserve, they roam freely and are easier to spot. Watching a group of vicuñas against the majestic Andes is truly unforgettable.
Eco-tourism in Pampa Galeras aims to protect the environment while allowing people to enjoy its wonders. Visitors can join guided tours to see wild vicuñas, witness the Chaccu ceremony, or hike the puna grasslands to find ancient cave paintings.
Supporting Local Communities
Tourism in Pampa Galeras also helps local communities, where many residents guide tours sharing their knowledge of the area’s history and wildlife. They also engage in the sustainable harvesting of vicuña wool. By visiting the reserve, tourists support conservation efforts and help improve the lives of the people who live in this region.
Pampa Galeras is more than just a beautiful place—it represents Peru’s dedication to preserving its natural and cultural heritage. The reserve protects vicuñas and their wool, and eco-tourism, ensuring that future generations can enjoy and learn from this amazing part of the Andes.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a curious traveler, Pampa Galeras has something special for you. It’s a place where the past and present blend. It creates an unforgettable experience for visitors. So, get ready for an adventure filled with history, wildlife, and the breathtaking beauty of the Peruvian Andes at Pampa Galeras!
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