Cueva de las Lechuzas
Huánuco
Cueva de las Lechuzas, located at 673 meters above sea level within Tingo María National Park in Peru's Huánuco region, is a remarkable natural cave famous for its large population of oilbirds (guácharos) and bats. The cave's entrance is impressively large, measuring approximately 20 meters high and 25 meters wide, nestled in the Bella Durmiente mountain range. This montane forest environment is characterized by humid conditions with abundant epiphytes, mosses, and orchids, supporting diverse flora including notable tree species like cedro colorado and palo blanco. The cave and surrounding park are vital habitats for numerous mammals and birds, including the South American tapir, ocelot, and the Andean cock-of-the-rock. Visitors to the area can enjoy birdwatching, hiking, and ecotourism activities while experiencing the unique ecosystem shaped by calcareous soils and underground river systems. The cave's ecological importance and natural beauty make it a key attraction within the 4,777-hectare protected area established in 1965, highlighting Peru's commitment to conserving its rich biodiversity.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Cueva de las Lechuzas and Tingo María National Park is during the dry season, from May to September, as the rainy season (October to April) can limit access due to weather conditions. It is recommended to arrange guided tours and purchase tickets in advance through the official park website to ensure entry and gain expert insight. Visitors should prepare for hiking in steep and mountainous terrain and respect park regulations to protect the sensitive wildlife, including the nesting oilbirds. Discounts may be available for students and seniors, so inquire ahead. Bringing binoculars enhances birdwatching experiences, especially for spotting oilbirds and other rare species.
Faits intéressants
- •The cave is home to oilbirds, nocturnal birds that use echolocation to navigate in the dark.
- •The entrance to Cueva de las Lechuzas is about 20 meters high and 25 meters wide, making it a large natural cave opening.
- •Tingo María National Park, where the cave is located, includes the distinctive mountain massif known as La Bella Durmiente (Sleeping Beauty).
- •The park's montane forest is often covered with mist and hosts a rich diversity of orchids, including some threatened species like Phragmipedium besseae.
- •Several underground rivers flow through the calcareous rock formations in the park, shaping caves such as Cueva de las Lechuzas.
Histoire
The area around Cueva de las Lechuzas was first protected in 1950 as the Cueva de las Lechuzas National Reserve during the government of Manuel A.
Odría.
Later, on May 14, 1965, the broader Tingo María National Park was established by law, incorporating the cave, the Bella Durmiente massif, and adjacent forests.
Initially, the park boundaries were undefined, but in 2000, the protected area was officially fixed at approximately 4,778 hectares.
This history reflects the gradual recognition and conservation efforts to preserve the unique montane forest ecosystem and its remarkable cave habitats.
Guide du lieu
Cueva de las Lechuzas Entrance
The grand entrance of the cave, measuring 20 meters in height and 25 meters in width, serves as the gateway to the oilbirds' nesting grounds and bat colonies.
Oilbird Colonies
Inside the cave, vast colonies of oilbirds (guácharos) nest and roost. These birds are notable for their nocturnal habits and use of echolocation, unique among birds.
Bella Durmiente Mountain Range
The cave is situated within the Bella Durmiente massif, a prominent mountain formation whose silhouette resembles a sleeping woman, lending cultural and visual significance to the park.
Contact
Téléphone: (01) 7311134