The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, with the oilbird (Steatornis caripensis) being its most famous resident, nesting in the cave systems. Other notable species include the spectacled bear, mountain tapir, white-tailed deer, and various species of monkeys including the yellow-tailed woolly monkey. The park hosts over 130 bird species, including the Andean condor, mountain caracara, and various hummingbird species. Several endangered amphibians and reptiles also find refuge in the park's protected ecosystems.
Cutervo National Park protects significant portions of tropical mountain forest and cloud forest ecosystems. The vegetation includes diverse species of orchids, bromeliads, and ferns, with many endemic species. Notable tree species include various types of podocarpus (Peru's only native conifer), cedar, and numerous species of laurel. The park's cloud forests are particularly rich in epiphytes, mosses, and lichens, which thrive in the consistently humid conditions. Many medicinal plants used by local communities are also found within the park boundaries.
The park's geological formation consists primarily of limestone mountains from the Cretaceous period, which have given rise to numerous caves and underground systems. The most notable geological features are the extensive karst formations, including the famous Gruta de los Guácharos (Oilbird Cave). The terrain is characterized by steep mountain slopes, deep valleys, and numerous waterfalls, with elevations ranging from 1,550 to 2,900 meters above sea level. The limestone composition has created a complex underground drainage system that feeds numerous springs and streams.
Established in 1961, Cutervo National Park holds the distinction of being Peru's first national park. The area has been inhabited since pre-Columbian times, with evidence of both Cajamarca and Inca cultures. The park was created primarily to protect the unique cave systems and their resident populations of oilbirds (guácharos), as well as to preserve the region's cloud forests. Local communities have traditionally used the area for agriculture and livestock grazing, which influenced the park's establishment as a protected area to balance conservation with sustainable local use.
The most prominent attraction is the Gruta de los Guácharos (Oilbird Cave), which houses a significant colony of oilbirds and features impressive limestone formations. The park also contains numerous waterfalls, including the San Andrés waterfall, and several scenic viewpoints offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The Cordillera de Tarros provides excellent hiking opportunities, with trails varying in difficulty. Traditional communities living in the buffer zone offer insights into local culture and sustainable farming practices. The park's visitor center provides educational exhibits about the area's ecology and conservation efforts.
Cutervo National Park experiences a typical highland tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Average temperatures range from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F), with cooler temperatures at higher elevations. The rainy season occurs between October and April, with heaviest precipitation in March. The park's unique location in the Cordillera de Tarros creates frequent fog and mist, particularly in the morning hours, which contributes to its cloud forest ecosystem. The driest months are June through September, making this the most favorable period for visiting.
Peru
-6.2500°, -78.7500°
1961
82
Cutervo National Park is Peru's first national park, protecting important cloud forest ecosystems. The park is known for its extensive cave systems and diverse bird species. It plays a crucial role in protecting water resources for surrounding communities.