Reviving the Land with the ‘Restoring Nature’ Reforestation Campaign

The “Restoring Nature” Reforestation Campaign was a collaborative effort led by local travel agencies authorized to operate the Inca Trail, alongside private entities and municipal authorities. The goal was to rehabilitate an area devastated by a wildfire, using native, high-altitude and temperature-resistant plants such as Chachacoma and Queuña (Polylepis).

Through fundraising efforts, 1,500 saplings were purchased, and an additional 500 were donated by the Municipality of Ollantaytambo, bringing the total to 2,000 saplings planted. This initiative plays a crucial role in restoring the natural ecosystem, supporting local wildlife, and increasing oxygen production for future generations.

The Impact of the Forest Fire: Devastation and Loss

In 2024, during the dry season, a catastrophic wildfire erupted at Kilometer 82 of the Classic Inca Trail, near the Verónica Mountain. The fire, spreading across a steep 60-80° incline at an altitude of 3,200 meters, wreaked havoc on the ecosystem.

Consequences of the Fire:

• Destruction of native forests, leading to a loss of biodiversity.
• Deaths of local wildlife, including animals, insects, and endemic plants.
• Severe economic impact on local farmers, who lost their crops and land fertility. Increased risk of soil erosion and environmental imbalance due to deforestation.

This tragedy underscored the urgency of environmental conservation efforts, leading to the launch of the Reforestation Campaign: Restoring Nature.

Objectives of the Reforestation Campaign: Restoring Nature and Balance

The primary goal of this reforestation campaign is to rehabilitate the damaged ecosystem and ensure long-term environmental sustainability.

Key Objectives:

1. Restore native forests by planting endemic, climate-resilient trees.
2. Raise awareness among local communities about forest conservation and responsible agricultural practices.
3. Prevent further deforestation by discouraging the indiscriminate cutting of trees.
4. Enhance biodiversity, ensuring a balanced and thriving wildlife ecosystem.
5. Engage local communities and businesses in sustainable environmental initiatives.

By taking proactive steps toward conservation, the campaign aims to promote long-term ecological sustainability and inspire future generations to protect their natural heritage.

Stages of the Reforestation Process

Stage 1: Land Preparation and Transporting Saplings

November 28, 2024 – Transport and Land Preparation

Under the expert guidance of SERNANP (National Service of Natural Protected Areas), led by Biologist Jorge and Technician Balvino Suta, the reforestation campaign began with logistical preparations.

• Native saplings of Queuña and Chachacoma were transported from Sacred Valley storage centers to the affected reforestation site.
• The transportation was managed by Allyn Pacha Peru Tours, Raymi Travel, Gregory Tours, and View Peru (5 participants).
• Local workers were hired to dig 200 planting holes in the designated reforestation area.

Stage 2: Planting the Trees – A Community Effort

November 29, 2024 – Tree Planting Day

The planting process was a collaborative effort, with local travel agencies, volunteers, and conservation experts participating.

Participating Organizations:

• Raymi Peru Travel
• Allyn Pacha Peru Tours
• Inca Wonder Travel
• Machu Picchu Travel Adventure
• Sun Gate Tours
• Kondor Paths Tours
• Machu Picchu Reservations
• Cecis Travel
• Operador de Aventura Superior
• Peru by Locals
• Peru Travel Co
• Enigma
• Gregory’s Tours
• Inversiones Turísticas Kintu
• Ausangate Travel
• Hotel Sonesta

Before planting, SERNANP experts provided training sessions to ensure proper tree placement and care. Despite unpredictable weather, the event was a great success, marking the completion of the first stage.

Stage 3: Completion and Cleanup Efforts

December 8, 2024 – Final Tree Planting and Site Cleanup

Volunteers and travel agencies returned to complete the second stage of reforestation.

Final Tasks:

• Completing additional tree planting.
• Removing inorganic waste from the initial phase.

Volunteering Agencies for Final Phase:

• Allyn Pacha Peru Tours
• Raymi Peru Travel
• Andes Travel KL
• Top Peru Trips

With the arrival of rainy season, the newly planted saplings received natural irrigation, improving survival rates and ensuring healthy growth.

Allyn Pacha Peru Tours: Leading the Reforestation Efforts

The Reforestation Campaign: Restoring Nature offers significant environmental benefits, including:

• Preserving wildlife habitats and enhancing biodiversity.
• Preventing landslides by stabilizing soil with deep-rooted trees.
• Boosting moisture retention, which improves the local hydrological cycle.
• Mitigating climate change effects by absorbing CO₂ and increasing oxygen production.

This initiative was possible due to the joint efforts of travel agencies, local communities, and municipal contributors, including:

• SERNANP (National Protected Areas Service)
• Municipality of Ollantaytambo
• Municipality of San Sebastián
• Hotel Sonesta
• Super Market Sol

A special thanks goes to Biologist Jorge, who played a key role in guiding and executing the campaign.

Through community donations and fundraising, the project secured 1,500 saplings, with an additional 500 saplings donated, reaching a total of 2,000 trees planted.

A Greener Future: The Lasting Impact of Reforestation

The 2024 reforestation initiative marks a significant step toward preserving Peru’s natural environment. Taking action now ensures a healthier, greener future for generations to come.

Reforestation is not just about planting trees—it’s about securing a sustainable future for our planet. By taking action today, we can protect nature, wildlife, and local communities while inspiring future generations to care for the environment.

💚 Join Us in This Green Movement!
Support the Reforestation Campaign: Restoring Nature and help us expand this initiative globally.

📢 Spread Awareness | Volunteer | Donate

Together, we can create a healthier planet for all! 🌎🌱