Machu Picchu Flora and Fauna

Established by the Peruvian government on January 8, 1981, the Historic Sanctuary is located in the Machu Picchu district of the Urubamba province, in the Cusco department. Covering an area of 32,592 hectares, it is one of the protected regions with high genetic, biological, and ecological diversity in the world.

The historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, influenced by several key factors:

• The Peruvian Andes, whose foothills descend into the Amazon jungle.
• The climatic stability across its various slopes.
• The Vilcabamba batholith, a rock massif that covers a large portion of Machu Picchu.
• The snow-capped mountains surrounding this stunning sanctuary.
• The rivers that meander through the lower regions and carve deep canyons in the upper areas, including the Torontoy, which serves as an entrance to the sanctuary.
• Machu Picchu encompasses 14 natural life zones and distinct plant formations, contributing to its rich biodiversity.

Flora in Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu boasts a remarkable variety of flora, categorized into different ecological levels throughout the entire sanctuary. Floral diversity is estimated to range from approximately 2,350 to 3,400 species, with orchids standing out due to their whimsical and beautiful shapes.

In Peru, there are around 1,625 species of orchids, and approximately 600 species have been recorded within the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu. This enchanting location provides an ideal environment for these extraordinary plants.

Fauna in Machu Picchu

In the vast area of the historic sanctuary of Machu Picchu, you can discover a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, mammals, reptiles, and more. Thanks to the Peruvian government, these species are protected within this expansive area.

Here are some notable statistics about the wildlife in Machu Picchu:

• Mammals: Approximately 70 species.
• Birds: 423 species.
• Reptiles: 23 species.
• Amphibians: 15 species.
• Fish: 8 species
• Butterflies: 377 species.

This rich biodiversity highlights the importance of preserving the natural environment of Machu Picchu.

Discover the flora and fauna in Machu Picchu!