If you love dramatic landscapes, rare wildlife, and pristine wilderness, these national parks in Peru, Ecuador nature reserves, and Costa Rica protected areas belong on your travel bucket list . From the Amazon’s depths to Andean peaks and Pacific coasts, here are the must-visit parks that deliver epic adventure and support the latest eco-tourism trends .
Peru: Majestic Mountains and Amazonian Rainforest
Peru offers some of the most diverse national parks in South America. From the towering Andes to the lush Amazon basin, each park opens a window into the country’s wild heart. Visitors can experience solitude in high mountain valleys, paddle remote jungle rivers, or camp beneath star-filled skies. These parks combine raw natural beauty with rich cultural heritage, making them perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the ordinary.
Huascarán National Park
Located in the heart of the Cordillera Blanca, Huascarán National Park is home to Peru’s highest peak and more than 600 glaciers. Visitors can trek through a landscape of turquoise lakes, jagged cliffs, and snow-capped mountains. The popular Laguna 69 trail rewards hikers with breathtaking views, while multi-day circuits like the Santa Cruz Trek offer immersive alpine experiences. This region belongs on any serious bucket list.
Manu National Park
Manu is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Covering tropical lowlands, cloud forest, and Andean grasslands, the park shelters thousands of species, including jaguars, giant river otters, and over 1,000 bird species. Most travelers access Manu through guided multi-day jungle tours, staying in remote eco-lodges and traveling by canoe along the Madre de Dios River. It’s one of the top regions highlighted in sustainable Amazon lodging, a growing part of global eco-tourism trends.
Cordillera Blanca Region
Beyond Huascarán, the Cordillera Blanca is ideal for day hikes and cultural visits to Quechua villages. Trails pass ancient terraces, glacial lakes, and traditional farms where alpacas roam. This is a fantastic option for adventurous travelers planning an active nature-first itinerary.
Cordillera del Condor
This lesser-known park sits on the border with Ecuador and features waterfalls, deep canyons, and rare Andean bird species. With few crowds and vast open spaces, it’s perfect for those seeking an off-the-grid wilderness experience.
Ecuador: Compact Reserves with Big Biodiversity
Ecuador is a small country packed with natural wonders. In just a few days, you can stand on a volcano, explore the Amazon rainforest, and snorkel around island reserves. Its national parks and reserves are ideal for travelers looking to experience variety and intensity in one compact destination. Whether you’re hiking past lava fields or paddling through flooded forests, Ecuador delivers unforgettable encounters with nature.
Cotopaxi National Park
Cotopaxi is one of the world’s highest active volcanoes and a favorite for hikers and photographers. Trails wind through high-altitude plains, home to wild horses and condors. This is one of the stops we feature in our best full-day trips from Quito.
Cajas National Park
Cajas offers a dreamlike setting of alpine lakes, fog-shrouded hills, and mossy forests. Its trails are popular with birdwatchers and hikers seeking tranquility and sweeping views. Located near Cuenca, it’s easy to pair with cultural day trips or relaxing detours through Ecuador’s highlands.
Yasuni National Park
Yasuni is among the most biodiverse areas on the planet. Canoe through flooded forests, hike among giant kapok trees, and visit Kichwa communities preserving traditional knowledge. The immersive nature experience here mirrors the kind of wildlife adventure that makes Ecuador so unique.
Galápagos National Park
This iconic park needs no introduction. Hike lava fields, snorkel with sea turtles, and stand next to giant tortoises. Every visit supports conservation while offering a rare look at evolution in action. It’s a destination no adventure traveler should miss.
Costa Rica: Coastal Parks and Rainforest Sanctuaries
Costa Rica’s national parks are world-class examples of how conservation and tourism can coexist. With over a quarter of its land protected, it’s easy to find pristine nature wherever you go. Each park has well-maintained trails, visitor centers, and local guides trained in sustainability. These are dream destinations for hikers, surfers, wildlife photographers, and eco-conscious travelers.
Corcovado National Park
Corcovado is a biological treasure chest. You’ll hike through dense jungle to remote beaches, spotting tapirs, monkeys, and possibly pumas. Many of the best-protected areas in Costa Rica are located nearby, making the Osa Peninsula a top choice for wild adventures.
Manuel Antonio National Park
This park offers an easy-to-access mix of lush trails, quiet beaches, and abundant wildlife. It’s a favorite for travelers short on time but big on curiosity. Toucans, sloths, and monkeys are often spotted just minutes into the trail.
Tortuguero National Park
Tortuguero is one of Costa Rica’s most unique parks. Boat and canoe are the main modes of travel as you explore the canal networks through the rainforest. During nesting season, you can witness turtles arriving under moonlight to lay eggs, a rare and moving experience that supports local conservation.
Arenal Volcano National Park
With steaming fumaroles, hot springs, and suspension bridges, Arenal delivers a full adventure experience. It’s the kind of park that balances excitement and wellness, offering everything from zip-lining and waterfall hikes to relaxing soaks in natural hot springs.
Ready to Explore the Wild?
The national parks of Peru, Ecuador, and Costa Rica connect you to the heart of Latin America’s wildest landscapes. From glacial peaks and Amazon rivers to volcanic trails and coastal sanctuaries, these protected areas are gateways to meaningful, memorable travel. Whether you’re drawn to biodiversity, adventure, or quiet moments in nature, these parks belong at the top of your itinerary.
Let us help you create a custom expedition that fits your pace, your interests, and your sense of wonder. Book your adventure today and get ready to experience the best national parks in Latin America.
