Bosque de Pómac – Dry Forest and Sicán Pyramids in Lambayeque

Bosque de Pómac at a glance

The Bosque de Pómac is located in the Pítipo district, in the province of Ferreñafe. The 5,887.38-hectare Historical Sanctuary protects an extraordinary part of the equatorial dry forest and, at the same time, one of the most important archaeological complexes of the Sicán culture.

There are 36 Sicán pyramids in the area. The La Leche River crosses the landscape, while algarrobo groves, viewpoints, historic trails, and archaeological facilities define the character of the protected area.

Photo gallery

Why Bosque de Pómac is special

The protected area preserves a particularly dense formation of algarrobo trees and, with it, a type of landscape characteristic of Peru’s dry northern coast. At the same time, the forest protects the habitats of numerous bird species, including several endemic ones.

Its connection with the Sicán complex is exceptional. Monumental adobe pyramids stand between the dry forest and the river landscape, making nature and cultural history seamlessly intertwined.

Routes and points of interest in Bosque de Pómac

17-kilometer cycling route

The official cycling route leads through the dry forest and connects several key points of the protected area. These include the Millennium Tree, Casa Karl Weiss, Huaca La Merced, viewpoints, as well as areas near Huaca El Oro and Huaca Las Ventanas.

Huaca El Oro and Huaca Las Ventanas

These monumental facilities are among the most important archaeological destinations in the protected area. The tomb of the Lord of Sicán was discovered at Huaca El Oro in 1995.

Millennium Tree and Casa Karl Weiss

The Millennium Tree is a particularly old algarrobo. Its age is estimated at approximately 200 to 400 years. Casa Karl Weiss is located several kilometers from the interpretation center.

Mirador Las Salinas

From this viewpoint, there is a view over the dry forest, the La Leche River, and the archaeological landscape. It is here that the connection between the natural area and the Sicán pyramids becomes particularly clear.

Sicán pyramids and archaeological highlights

There are 36 pyramids of the Sicán culture in the Bosque de Pómac. Among the best-known facilities are Huaca El Oro and Huaca Las Ventanas. These adobe structures, along with smaller features, form a vast cultural landscape.

Huaca El Oro gained particular significance through the discovery of the Lord of Sicán in 1995. Those wishing to delve deeper into the finds and history of the Sicán culture can combine their visit with the National Sicán Museum in Ferreñafe.

Wildlife in the Bosque de Pómac

The dry forest is an important habitat for more than a hundred bird species. Among them are several species with a very small distribution range within the Tumbes endemism center. The cooler morning hours are particularly suitable for birdwatching.

In addition to birdlife, reptiles, small mammals, and vegetation adapted to drought are part of the ecosystem. The algarrobo groves are a defining element of the landscape.

Admission and visiting

SERNANP publishes different rates for Bosque de Pómac based on visitor groups. Current rates mentioned include, among others, S/ 30 for general or foreign visitors, S/ 11 for Peruvian adults, and S/ 5 for Peruvian minors. Lower rates apply to local visitors.

Regarding published visiting hours, there are inconsistent details between official SERNANP information. Therefore, opening hours, open trails, and any regulations should be checked immediately before arrival.

Best time to visit and weather

SERNANP states that Bosque de Pómac is generally visitable year-round. The drier period from approximately May to November is usually more pleasant for longer trails and cycling tours because terrain conditions are more predictable.

The probability of rain increases from December to March. At the same time, temperatures can rise significantly above 30 degrees Celsius. Sun protection and sufficient drinking water are therefore important regardless of the time of year.

Visitor guidelines and protection

Visitors should use only designated trails and follow the instructions of the rangers. Pets are not allowed in the protected area. Archaeological structures must not be entered or damaged, and plants or artifacts must remain in the area.

A master plan for the period 2025 to 2030 is in effect for the protected area. It combines nature conservation, visitor management, and the preservation of the archaeological landscape. Large areas of the dry forest have been restored in recent years.

How demanding is the visit?

The classic points of interest are mostly easy to reach technically. The actual challenge arises from heat, intense sun exposure, and the long distances between individual destinations.

Shorter segments can be chosen for families. Anyone wishing to use the 17-kilometer cycling route, visit several pyramids, or specifically observe birds should plan for half a day and bring sufficient water.

What to pack?

• sufficient drinking water for several hours
• sun protection and a hat
• light, comfortable footwear with good support
• binoculars for birdwatching
• mosquito repellent depending on the season
• charged battery or power bank