National Sanctuary

Delight in a unique event, enjoy the sunset at this sanctuary and observe thousands of shorebirds, divers and slender ducks that hover over swamps, mud flats and sandy beaches.

This sanctuary is one of the few stops along the entire Peruvian coast for migratory birds from other continents on their journey from north to south, where it is possible to find up to 211 species of birds, such as the blue heron, the white-breasted heron, and the grey-headed gull.

It is in the estuary of the Tambo River in the sanctuary where we will always have the opportunity to observe a large number of birds, and in greater abundance during the summer, when Franklin’s gulls (Larus pipixcan) arrive, after their long trip from North America; to the Black skimmer (Rinchops niger), which come from the jungle and various species of terns such as the elegant tern (Sterna elegans), the common tern (Sterna hirundo), and the black-footed tern (Sterna sandvicensis).

Years ago, during February, when the sanctuary staff went to monitor the birds at the mouth of the river, when they arrived, they were surprised: it was incredible to see the large number of birds that were in this place. According to the narrative, more than 45,000 birds, including seagulls, terns, pelicans, black skimmers, and shorebirds were counted. You can imagine the moment and excitement they felt when seeing such a population of birds.

Plan your visit to Lagunas de Mejía (Mejía Lagoons) National Sanctuary, here.