The Lomas de Atiquipa, located along the southern coast of the country, are recognized as the largest and most diverse coastal lomas in Peru. Covering more than 19,000 hectares, they host unique species of flora and fauna, with the tara tree (Caesalpinia spinosa) as their emblematic species due to its key role in capturing water from fog. The conservation of the lomas is vital for their ecosystem functions: they stabilize soils, purify the air, offer spaces for recreation and ecotourism, safeguard archaeological and cultural heritage, and serve as a source of water and scientific research. 

In this context, representatives from the Private Conservation Area (PCA) Lomas de Atiquipa participated in an exchange program at the Lachay National Reserve, with the aim of strengthening their skills in sustainable tourism, monitoring and control, and natural resource conservation. This activity was organized by the National Service of Natural Protected Areas by the State (SERNANP) as part of the project “30x30 Goal: Marine-Coastal and Andean Ecosystems”, which seeks to contribute to the global target of protecting at least 30% of marine and terrestrial ecosystems by 2030. 

During the visit, participants explored the reserve’s trails, learned about its visitor facilities, and reviewed its monitoring and management strategies—valuable tools to ensure responsible tourism and the conservation of flora and fauna. They also exchanged experiences with local enterprises linked to nature-based tourism and sustainable products, such as native honey production. 

The visit concluded with an agreement to continue joint work. The Atiquipa community expressed its interest in applying what was learned to improve signage for tourist routes and to promote sustainable tourism initiatives, while SERNANP reaffirmed its commitment to provide technical support in tourism planning, fog catcher management, and the strengthening of community-based monitoring and control. 

“This exchange reinforces the commitment of SERNANP and the Atiquipa community to the conservation of coastal lomas, promoting sustainable development and the active participation of local communities in managing their territories. In doing so, we consolidate a collaborative effort that helps preserve one of the country’s most unique and valuable ecosystems for present and future generations,” said Olwer Huanca, specialist at SERNANP’s Subdirectorate of Policy, Foresight, and Physical Base. 

Within the framework of the 30x30 Goal, WWF Peru contributes to its achievement through the Moore Project, which provides technical support to SERNANP, strengthens community capacities, and facilitates coordination with local actors—thus promoting concrete actions for the conservation of fragile ecosystems such as the coastal lomas.