Located in the department of Apurimac, covering an area of 3,635 hectares, the national sanctuary of Ampay protects the largest forests of intimpa trees in the Peruvian highlands. The intimpa is Peru's only native only conifer species, and the dense forests shelter many species of wildlife, largely birds.
The national sanctuary of Ampay also features a series of glacial lakes and crystal-clear streams flowing down from the majestic snow-capped peak of Mount Ampay, which dominates the region and lends its name to this protected area.
Climate:
Sunny and dry during winter (from May to October), although nights can be cold (frost and temperatures below 5° C). Rainy from December to March.
Access:
The sanctuary is reached by several dirt roads from Tamburco, on the outskirts of the city of Abancay, which is reached overland from Cuzco (6 hours) or from Andahuaylas (3 hours).
Services:
Tourist infrastructure is non-existent.
Visitors are advised to spend at least three days here, camping by the lakes in the sanctuary, as well as hiring a local guide and stocking up on food and water in Abancay.
